OpenSprinkler does not require an access point to run — in fact, initially itself is an access point, allowing your phone or laptop to connect to it to set configurations. If you plan to use it in access point mode, just make sure to use the opensprinkler mobile app, and the device’s ip address is 192.168.4.1. Almost all functions will work in ap mode, except (for obvious reasons) any internet-dependent features like weather-based adjustment and NTP time sync (you can set device time manually).