Robert’s Ramblings

I must admit Apple is winning me over with its excellent software. The iPod Touch 2.0 upgrade is just unbelievable. As I mentioned on a previous blog entry, you can install applications on it and use them to do a multitude of useful and not so useful, but fun things. One such application is called, "Remote." With it, you can remotely control and iTunes installation. You have remote access to all your music and playlists from your iPod Touch or iPhone 3G. If you have your computer connected to a stereo or to very good speakers, you have the makings of an excellent juke box.

The Airport Express takes this a step further. This inexpensive device lets you stream music from any iTunes installation to a distant location in your home wirelessly. You can set these up in your living room and family room and iTunes will recognize them and allow you to send music to one or more of the devices. But the best part is that you can control the music from Remote on your iPod or iPhone.

I purchased two of these after I saw how useful the Remote application was. I did not have high expectations for the devices since I know how imperfect a wireless connection can be. I was pleasantly surprised. The devices are incredibly easy to set up. You plug one into the wall and you see that an LED flashes yellow. You insert the Apple CD into your wireless notebook and it automatically finds the device. You then tell the software wether you are setting up a new wireless network or integrating the device into an existing one. If it is an existing one, it allows you to pick which one from a list and to then enter the password for it. After this step is completed, you name the device. In my case, I called one, "Living Room" and the other one, "Family Room." The configuration is saved to the device and the LED begins to flash green. That’s it. You are done. You can now unplug it and put in the desired location and plug an audio cable from it to your stereo. iTunes will find the Airport Express and display it as a viable speaker set. You can also see it from Remote.

I wish all software and hardware combinations were this easy. It is truly remarkable.You can buy one hereat Amazon.

Robert Alonso
Alonso Consulting, Inc.