Extending Time Capsule wireless network with an Airport Extreme

I get this exact same thing. I'm using 2 time capsules (2nd gen 1TB and 4th gen 2TB) as access points, both hard-wired to the internet router, both backup separate macs. I create a wifi network on the 4th gen and the select to extend the network on the 2nd gen, they update and create the network, but it causes my internet to go down (IE: no internet for wired or wireless devices). If I change from extend network to create network (and give it the same SSID and WPA password) then the internet comes back. Although the 2nd gen never shows any connected clients. One is in the basement, the other up high on a shelf in the 2nd floor loft (technically a 3rd floor). So they should be plenty of distance apart. I can't figure out why they won't both 'host' a connected client as shown when you hover over the device in the Airport Utility.

Did you ever solve your problem of this happening?

Perhaps Bob can shed some light on this if he has time.

Also my 2nd gen only connects clients at 1Mb/s, no matter the device. The 4th gen connects most with at least 36Mb/s or higher. I'm guessing maybe something might be wrong with the 2nd gen TC, but I don't know of any diagnostic and the light is always a steady green when connected to my Ethernet.

Thanks,

Ryan

Go back and check the settings on each TC using AirPort Utility.

Both TCs must be set up to.....

Create a wireless network

Use the same wireless network name

Use the same wireless security setting (WPA2 Personal)

Use the same wireless network password

Use Automatic Channels or set the channels on each TC at least 4-5 channels apart

Use Bridge Mode

This is called a "roaming" network, but there is no setting or mention of this in AirPort Utility.

There is a wireless diagnostics application built in to OS X. You can search for it in the Finder or Alt+Click on the Airport icon in menu Bar. On the Main screen, enter Command+2 and you can analyze your WiFi network for RF and heat map, as necessary.

This sequence of AU 6.x screen shots have Bob's approval - http://imgur.com/a/KOZJx#0

Hi Bob,

I've been reading this thread, and your responses seem to be extremely helpful to those posting. Quick question. I currently have a gen 4 Time Capsule which is being extended by an Express A1264, but the signal is very weak in the garage, which is only 10 feet away from the express. Would an Airport Extreme have a stronger extension signal than my express? I'm looking to get either an A1354 or A1408 for this purpose. Or would a newer gen express do the trick?

Thanks in advance.

Derick