Wireless and Hard Drive Advice Needed

[reeshenator]

I'm about to go off to college, and I want to get all my computer stuff ready to go. Here's what I'm thinking: I will plug the ethernet in my dorm into an old airport express my friend gave me, I will plug my printer and external hard drive via usb into the airport. That way I'll have wireless internet and printing in and around my dorm as well as a way to use time capsule wirelessly. Would all that even work? Any hard drive suggestions? I was thinking a 500gb should do. Maybe this one: http://shop3.frys.com/product/5530040?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG

I have a $100 fry's gift card so I'd like to get it there.

 

[soberbrain]

The USB on an Airport Express can only be used for wireless printing. The new Airport Extreme supports AirDisk to wirelessly connect an external USB drive.

I got a WD external several months ago and am very happy with it.

Time Capsule is an airport (router) + built in hard drive. Time Machine is the app in Leopard that lets you back up files.

I used to plug in my PowerBook from time to time and run Time Machine. I had dropped my PowerBook and it can't keep a good charge now, so I only use it on my desk and keep the external plugged in and Time Machine backing up all the time.

 

[joe16]

First of all, check with your campus to see if you can even use Airport in your dorm. I know that my college only allows an internet connection to be "wired" to your computer (they say this prevents you from sharing the internet connection with guests in your room).

 

[Apple Ink]

Yes that will work! But how old is the Airport Extreme? TM only supports 802.11n as an AirDisk!

 

[RainForRent]

Yeah, it's a shame that the Express can't do wireless Time Machine. Just leave your external on the desk and plug it in from time to time, it will work out just fine.

 

[reeshenator]

Oh well, I guess I'll just get a hard drive and plug it in. You're probably right about wireless not being allowed. It sure would be nice though. Thanks for all your help!