This application note describes how we at Data Robotics share files wirelessly that are stored on a Drobo to Macs and PCs throughout the office. Apple’s new 2007 Airport Extreme provides wired and wireless connectivity to WiFi-capable computers using a USB2.0 port. This App Note tells you how we set up our Drobo and Airport Extreme.

Three Simple Steps:

1. Format Drobo for use with Airport Extreme
2. Set up your Airport Extreme
3. Activate file sharing on your computer(s)

Step 1: Formatting Drobo for use with Airport Extreme

You will need to format Drobo to be able to use it with an Airport by first connecting it to a Mac or PC.

A. Formatting Drobo Using a Mac
Connect Drobo’s USB cable to your your Mac.
Open Disk Utility (inside Applications>Utilities).Disk UtilityDisk Utility
Once Drobo mounts, select the item named 2.0 TB TRUSTED USB Ma… (see “a.” below).
Then select the “Erase” tab (see “b.” below).

Choose from the Volume Format drop down menu (see “c.”). Format Drobo using: Mac OS Extended Do not select Mac OS Extended (Journaled) or any other formatting option. Give a name to your Drobo (see d.); this will be seen by everyone on your local network). Then click the tab marked Erase in the lower right hand corner (see “e.”)

If you’ve completed the instructions above, skip to Step 2.
If you have a PC, see next section.