Is the NOOK the only option for you to test with? I have a funny feeling the NOOK version of Android may be to blame.
The APP is free to download, for both Apple and Android, which allows you to test its functionality with a loco or two and then once everything is going, you can make the purchase to get the APP's full functionality. No need to make a purchase and deal with credit card issues before you get everything tested. You can download the software on every mobile device/tablet your heart desires, I am sure more than a few will work.
I was a bit hard on WiFi in the beginning and still use my handheld primarily, but when guests and kids come over, WiFi is what they all love to use. I too must admit it is a bit fun and makes certain things, like building MU's, a breeze. Don't give up, it will work, just try another device if possible.
Let us know how that goes.
Hope this helps!
