Airport Express for Travel

[GBXSport]

I just set up my airport express attaching it to my router at home. Now i've tried it at work and i can connect to it but the computer isn't getting an IP. I plan to use the airport express when i travel, and only plan on having my ipad with me. I'm getting nervous that i'll need a laptop to set this up in each new hotel i'm in. Am i missing something? Is there a particular setting that will allow it to work without issue anywhere i go?

Also, is there a setup app for the ipad or an ip i can browse to to setup??

Thanks everyone.

 

[IvanLasston]

There is no airport utility that I could find for the ipad. It runs on PCs and Macs so I don't think there is any way to configure your express from your ipad. One of the PITAs of not having a web based configuration tool.

In theory you should be able to setup your Airport as a standalone router - before you leave, then plug it in and it should just work after that. Basically you set the AE to create a wireless network. Share a public IP address. then setup NAT - ie put a number in like 254 so that NAT works.

What do you have the AE setup with at work and at home? At work I would be surprised if they let you attach any old device, usually they have some kind of filtering so that if you plug into an ethernet port - you can't get dhcp unless you are registered.

I would say your best bet is to bring a laptop the first trip and debug in a hotel room.

Also consider getting a mifi broadband access card if you do travel a lot. Unless you have some kind of pre-paid deal or you stay where access is free, then $60/month isn't too bad if you think about it. Most places charge $10-$15/night.