Chapter 4 Tips and Troubleshooting 17
Avoiding Interference
The following items can cause interference with Wi-Fi communication:
 Microwave ovens
 Direct Satellite Service (DSS) radio frequency leakage
 The original coaxial cable that may come with a satellite dish. Contact the device
manufacturer and get newer cables.
 Electrical devices such as power lines, electrical railroad tracks, and power stations.
 Cordless telephones that operate in the 2.4 GHz range. If you have problems with your
phone or AirPort communication, change the channel that your AirPort Express uses.
 Adjacent base stations using nearby channels. For example, if device A is set to channel
1, device B should be set to channel 6 or 11. For best results, use channel 1, 6, or 11 when
operating your device in the 2.4 GHz range.
The farther away the interference source, the less likely it is to cause a problem.
Problems and Solutions
If the AirPort Software Can’t Detect your AirPort Express
Make sure that the Mac you’re using has Wi-Fi. Use the Wi-Fi status menu on the menu bar to
make sure Wi-Fi is turned on.
If you’re using a Windows computer, make sure the wireless card or adapter is installed
correctly. To check the connection, see the documentation that came with your computer.
If You Can’t Play Music from iTunes on Your Stereo
 Make sure that your AirPort Express is plugged into a power outlet and is in range of your
computer or wireless device, and that you connected the appropriate cables. You may need
to join the AirPort Express network.
