While I’m without the KR1 I’ve worked out a new solution.  See, the bulk of the work I do is from my IBook.  The Windows system is “secondary”.  It’s used for mapping software, and a few other odds and ends.  While I could use the Windows for more, I have a preference toward my Mac.  I’m sure readers are shocked!  ;)

While I await the Wednesday arrival of the replacement KR1 I had a concern that I won’t get my Mac on the internet often.  Then I took a moment & thought.

  • The Windows laptop can get on the net with the Verizon Card.
  • I have an Airport Express WiFi device.
  • I’ve got some Cat 5 cable.
  • Therefore, I can rig up my own WiFi setup.

After 20 minutes of playing with the Windows networking setup (I used to be a Windows Admin you know), I was all set.  Windows laptop connects to Verizon via the Verizon card.  The card’s network connection is “shared” via the ethernet cable (Cat 5).  The ethernet cable is connected to my Airport Express.  And the Airport express provides WiFi coverage for my Mac.

So, with a little work, and the availability of 2 laptops, I’m off and running.  And I’ve found an extra use for my Windows laptop.  Emergency backup device for my KR1.

What are the drawbacks with this solution?  1 big one.  I need AC power to pull it off.  The Airport Express is AC powered.  While I have a small portable inverter, running 2 computers plus the WiFi device seems a little overkill on power consumption.  So in those situations I’d use the Windows machine strictly.

Want pictures or screen shots of this setup?  Let me know, and I’ll be happy to post some.  Instructions on sharing a Windows network.  Let me know and I’lll do that too!