Time Capsule to AirPort Express via Ethernet

So that I am clear on things, your Time Capsule is now providing a wireless network and you want the AirPort Express to provide additonal wireless coverage for the same wireless network as the Time Capsule. Is that correct?

Or, is it your goal to set up a new wireless network with a separate log on for the area at the back of the house?

Sure, you can check your settings for the AirPort Express using AirPort Utility - Manual Setup

Click the Base Station tab below the icons to make sure that you have named the device, established a device password, adjusted Time Zone settings, etc.

Click the Wireless tab next to the Base Station tab. Settings should look like this:

Wireless Mode = Create a wireless network

Wireless Network Name = Same name as your Time Capsule wireless network

Check mark not needed next to "Allow this network to be extended"

Radio Mode = 802.11 n (b/g compatible) a good choice for most applications

Channel = Automatic

Wireless Security = Same setting as your TC wireless network

Wireless Password = Same password as your TC wireless

Confirm Password

Click the Internet icon, then click the Internet Connection tab

Connect Using = Ethernet

Connection Sharing = Off (Bridge Mode)

Update to save any changes

It is important to power down and restart the entire network so that everything will be in the right sequence. Power off everything in any order you wish. Wait a moment, then start the modem first and let it run for a moment by itself. Then your TC the same way, then the Express, then devices, etc.

You should be able to "walk" your laptop from the area near the TC to the area near the AirPort Express and it will automatically switch to the access point with the strongest signal.

Wow. I've been struggling for weeks to figure out where I was going wrong going through the wizard. The connection sharing seems to have been the trick. I did not have to power things down. It just worked. Thanks Bob!