AirPort

AirPort definition - computer

A family of wireless products from Apple that conform to the 802.11 Wi-Fi standards. In 1999, along with the first iBook laptop, Apple introduced the AirPort 802.11b adapter and base station (access point and router). Four years later, AirPort Extreme increased speed with the 802.11g standard. Base stations include a USB port for attaching a printer, and some units include an analog dial-up modem. See 802.11 and wireless router.

AirPort Express - Media Hub and Bridge
Introduced in 2004, AirPort Express combines an AirPort Extreme base station with a digital media hub. Residing near and connected to a home stereo via analog or digital audio outputs, the AirPort Express "AirTunes" feature allows Apple's iTunes jukebox software to stream music wireless from a Mac or Windows PC to a home stereo. AirTunes supports protected AAC titles purchased form Apple's music store.

AirPort Express can serve as a wireless bridge, extending the range of an AirPort network to greater distances throughout the house. See digital media hub and iBook.


_AIRPORT.GIF


An AirPort Base Station

This was the first Airport base station, which provided 802.11b Wi-Fi connectivity. Like most Apple products, it did not resemble any other wireless access point. (Image courtesy of Apple Inc.)






Computer Desktop Encyclopedia THIS DEFINITION IS FOR PERSONAL USE ONLY
All other reproduction is strictly prohibited without permission from the publisher.
Copyright © 1981-2009 by Computer Language Company Inc. All rights reserved.

Comments
Improve this definition.
Do you have more to add? Share your linguistic knowledge or observation.
/Register to save your comments.