Using AirCastPro and an iPad with Cellular Data
Our recommendation is to use an external hotspot instead of built-in cellular data on your iPad. If you choose to use this configuration, we strongly recommend testing it well before your event.
If your iPad has built-in cellular data, you can print through the AirCastPro hotspot while continuing to use cellular data for internet access.
This setup is helpful when you need reliable local printing with AirCastPro while also using internet-based features such as text messaging, guest sharing, AI, uploads, or social media sharing.
Overview
By default, iOS may try to send internet traffic through the Wi-Fi network you are connected to. Since the AirCastPro hotspot is used for local printing and may not provide internet access, your iPad may show “No Internet Connection” while connected to AirCastPro.
To print locally and keep internet access through cellular data, you can manually configure the AirCastPro Wi-Fi connection and leave the Router field blank.
Leaving the Router field blank tells iOS not to use the AirCastPro Wi-Fi connection for internet access, while still allowing the iPad to communicate with AirCastPro for printing.
Step 1: Connect to the AirCastPro Hotspot
- Open Settings > Wi-Fi on your iPad.
- Select the AirCastPro hotspot.
- Wait for the iPad to connect.
You may see a message that says No Internet Connection. This is expected if AirCastPro is not connected to the internet.
Step 2: Open the AirCastPro Wi-Fi Details
- In Settings > Wi-Fi, tap the info (i) button next to the AirCastPro network.
- Locate the IP Address, Subnet Mask, and Router fields.
Before changing anything, write down or copy the current IP Address and Subnet Mask.
Step 3: Change Configure IP to Manual
- Tap Configure IP.
- Select Manual.
- Enter the same IP Address that was previously shown.
- Enter the same Subnet Mask that was previously shown.
- Leave the Router field blank.
- Tap Save.
Leaving the Router field blank allows your iPad to stay connected to AirCastPro for printing while using cellular data for internet access.
Example Settings
Your numbers may be different. Use the IP Address and Subnet Mask already shown on your iPad before switching to Manual.
- IP Address: Example only, 192.168.4.31
- Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
- Router: Leave blank
Step 4: Confirm Cellular Data Is Enabled
- Open Settings.
- Select Cellular Data or Cellular.
- Confirm cellular data is turned on.
Your iPad should now remain connected to AirCastPro for printing while using cellular data for internet access.
Step 5: Test Printing
- Open your photo booth app.
- Select the AirPrint option.
- Choose your AirCastPro printer.
- Print a test photo.
If the test print works, your iPad is properly configured for AirCastPro printing and cellular internet access.
Optional: Tethered Networking with Ethernet
If you are using a USB-C to Ethernet adapter to connect your iPad directly to AirCastPro, you can use a similar setup.
- Connect the USB-C to Ethernet adapter to your iPad.
- Connect an Ethernet cable between the adapter and AirCastPro.
- Open Settings > Ethernet.
- Select the Ethernet connection.
- Copy the current IP Address and Subnet Mask.
- Tap Configure IP.
- Select Manual.
- Enter the same IP Address and Subnet Mask.
- Leave the Router field blank.
- Tap Save.
Click here for more information about tethered networking:
Tethered Networking with AirCastPro
Best Practices
- Stay connected to the AirCastPro hotspot for printing.
- Confirm cellular data is active before your event begins.
- Copy your current IP Address and Subnet Mask before switching to Manual.
- Leave the Router field blank.
- Run a test print before guests arrive.
