Creating a personal wireless network with NodeScan

The idea of a running a server at home and creating a home network is not yet commonplace. However the number of homes with 2 or more computers is growing and so the market for home networking products is expanding. Typically networks have used a physical connection between computers however with the advent of the wireless ethernet protocol (more commonly refered to as WiFi, or technically as IEEE 802.11b), and the introduction of affordable devices such as Apple's Airport, home networks can now operate without any cables.

Apart from the shortage of network aware devices and appliances, another problem lies in the typical (perceived) difficulty in running and maintaining a server. NodeScan Server's graphical interface and 'run and forget it' operation help overcome this last barrier. Many people still think of a server as a large, expensive, machine however with NodeScan Server even an iMac or similar consumer level machine can be a powerful server.

Streaming via Airport.

An example of a practical application of a home network is to employ it as a media server. With the latest version of NodeScan it is possible to transmit and receive audio streams wirelessly. For example you can run NodeScan Server on a computer which is connected to an Airport hub and listen via the client from another room. You can even connect the client (i.e. a Powerbook or iBook) to your stereo in the living room and have audio files streamed from the computer in your office or bedroom through the stereo. The server becomes a virtual Jukebox and NodeScan client allows you to easily search for a particular song and to save your favorites in a playlist.

In the above diagram the only physical connection is between the computer which is acting as a server and the wireless hub. All clients require a wireless ethernet card which communicates via high frequency radio waves with the hub.

This kind of wireless network has applications outside the home as well, such as in an office or school.