setting up wireless network in adhoc mode

I am tryin to setup a wireless between two laptops in adhoc mode. I am able to scan the network and am able to get the other laptop on my nearby wire less list. I am not knowing how I will be able to connect to that network and start doing something on that machine. I try to ping for a static ip I setup for that machine, nothing happens. I am able to get the other network proper on my laptop, but thats it. Give me some ideas of how I can go about it.

Thanks and Regards,
-vijay