®
Instant Wireless Series
Dual-Band Wireless A+B
Notebook Adapter
Use this guide to install:
WPC51AB
User Guide
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Note: Combinations of power levels and antennas resulting in a radiated power level of
above 100 mW equivalent isotropic radiated power (EIRP) are considered as not com-
pliant with the above mentioned directive and are not allowed for use within the European
community and countries that have adopted the European R&TTE directive 1999/5/EC
and/or the CEPT recommendation Rec 70.03.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction
The Dual-Band Wireless A+B Notebook Adapter
Features
1
1
1
For more details on legal combinations of power levels and antennas, contact Linksys
Corporate Compliance.
•
Linksys Group vakuuttaa täten että Instant Wireless Dual-Band A+B Notebook
Adapter tyyppinen laite on direktiivin 1999/5/EY, direktiivin 89/336/EEC ja direktiivin
73/23/EEC oleellisten vaatimusten ja sitä koskevien näiden direktiivien muiden ehto-
jen mukainen.
Chapter 2: Planning Your Wireless Network
Network Topology
Ad-Hoc versus Infrastructure Mode
2
2
2
•
•
Linksys Group déclare que la Instant Wireless Dual-Band A+B Notebook Adapter est
conforme aux conditions essentielles et aux dispositions relatives à la directive
1999/5/EC, la directive 89/336/EEC, et à la directive 73/23/EEC.
Belgique B L'utilisation en extérieur est autorisé sur le canal 11 (2462 MHz), 12 (2467
MHz), et 13 (2472 MHz). Dans le cas d'une utilisation privée, à l'extérieur d'un bâti-
ment, au-dessus d'un espace public, aucun enregistrement n'est nécessaire pour
une distance de moins de 300m. Pour une distance supérieure à 300m un enreg-
istrement auprès de l'IBPT est requise. Pour une utilisation publique à l'extérieur de
bâtiments, une licence de l'IBPT est requise. Pour les enregistrements et licences,
veuillez contacter l'IBPT.
Chapter 3: Getting to Know the Dual-Band
Wireless A+B Notebook Adapter
The Adapter’s LEDs
4
4
Chapter 4: Software Installation and Configuration
for Windows 98, Me, and 2000
Overview
•
France F:
5
5
6
2.4 GHz Bande : les canaux 10, 11, 12, 13 (2457, 2462, 2467, et 2472 MHz respec-
tivement) sont complétement libres d'utilisation en France (en utilisation intérieur).
Pour ce qui est des autres canaux, ils peuvent être soumis à autorisation selon le
départment. L'utilisation en extérieur est soumis à autorisation préalable et très
restreint.
5 GHz Bande: Conformément aux décisions de la CEPT, l'utilisation des fréquences
de la bande 5150 MHz - 5350 MHz est autorisée à l'intérieur des bâtiments avec une
puissance maximale de 200 mW, et interdite en extérieur. La bande 5470 MHz - 5725
MHz n'est pas ouverte aujourd'hui.
Setup Wizard Instructions for Windows 98, Me, and 2000
Chapter 5: Hardware Installation
10
Chapter 6: Driver Installation and Configuration for
Windows XP
Overview
Driver Installation for Windows XP
Windows XP Wireless Zero Configuration
Vous pouvez contacter l'Autorité de Régulation des Télécommunications
11
11
11
13
2.4 GHz Band: only channels 10, 11, 12, 13 (2457, 2462, 2467, and 2472 MHz
respectively) may be used freely in France for indoor use. License required for out-
door installations.
5 GHz Band: frequencies in the 5150 MHz - 5350 MHz band may be used indoor
with maximum power of 200 mW. Their use is forbidden outdoors. The 5470 MHz -
5725 MHz band is not currently open.
Chapter 7: Using the WLAN Monitor for Windows
98, Me, and 2000
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15
16
18
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22
Overview
•
•
•
Deutschland D: Anmeldung im Outdoor-Bereich notwending, aber nicht genehmi-
gungspflichtig. Bitte mit Händler die Vorgehensweise abstimmen.
Germany D: License required for outdoor installations. Check with reseller for proce-
dure to follow.
Italia I: E' necessaria la concessione ministeriale anche per l'uso interno. Verificare
con i rivenditori la procedura da seguire. L'uso per installazione in esterni non e' per-
messa.
Italy I: License required for indoor use. Use with outdoor installations not allowed.
The Netherlands NL License required for outdoor installations. Check with reseller for
procedure to follow.
Accessing the WLAN Monitor
Link Information
Site Survey
Profiles
Creating a New Profile
•
•
•
Nederlands NL Licentie verplicht voor gebruik met buitenantennes. Neem contact op
met verkoper voor juiste procedure.
UG-WPC51AB-112202B JL
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Instant Wireless® Series
Dual-Band Wireless A+B Notebook Adapter
Chapter 1: Introduction
The Dual-Band Wireless A+B Notebook Adapter
The Linksys Dual-Band Wireless A+B Notebook Adapter lets your notebook
communicate with today’s wireless network standard and prepares you for the
future. With one PC Card, you can connect with the 2.4GHz, 802.11b wireless
networks so prevalent in homes, businesses and public “hotspots” already, and
also a growing number of 5GHz, 802.11a networks that are spreading across
the country.
Appendix A: Troubleshooting
Common Problems and Solutions
Frequently Asked Questions
30
30
31
Appendix B: Glossary
35
Appendix C: Specifications
40
It’s simple to use. Just pop it into a PC Card slot, and run the included Setup
Wizard, which will walk you through the configuration. To keep your commu-
nications secure, the PC Card supports up to 152-bit data encryption.
Environmental
41
Appendix D: Warranty Information
Appendix E: Contact Information
42
43
802.11b wireless networks are commonly found in corporate environments and
are used in homes for household Internet connectivity without the need for run-
ning cables. They’re also popping up all over the country in coffee shops, air-
ports, hotels, convention centers, and other public spaces offering “on-the-go”
connectivity to mobile users. The 802.11a standard is almost five times faster
than 802.11b, and operates in the less crowded 5GHz radio band, but it’s not as
common—yet. It is quickly being deployed wherever higher-speed connectivi-
ty is desired.
Join the wireless revolution. With the Linksys Dual-Band Wireless Notebook
Adapter, you’ll be ready to connect to either type of wireless network, wherev-
er you go, now and in the future.
Features
•
Connects to Either 802.11b (2.4GHz) or 802.11a (5GHz) Networks without
Changing Adapters
•
•
•
•
•
Up to 152-bit WEP Encryption
Easy-to-use Setup Wizard
Detailed Monitoring and Performance Utility
802.11b and 802.11a Compliant
Free Technical Support—24 Hours a Day, 7 Days a Week, Toll-Free US
Calls
•
1-Year Limited Warranty
1
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Instant Wireless® Series
Dual-Band Wireless A+B Notebook Adapter
If the wireless network is relatively small and needs to share resources only
with the other computers on the wireless network, then the ad-hoc mode can
be used. (See Figure 2-2.) Ad-hoc mode allows computers equipped with wire-
less transmitters and receivers to communicate directly with each other, elimi-
nating the need for an access point. The drawback of this mode is that, in Ad-
Hoc mode, wireless-equipped computers are not able to communicate with
computers on a wired network. And, of course, communication between the
wireless-equipped computers is limited by the distance and interference direct-
ly between them.
Chapter 2: Planning Your
Wireless Network
Network Topology
A wireless local area network (WLAN) is exactly like a regular local area net-
work (LAN), except that each computer in the WLAN uses a wireless device to
connect to the network. Computers in a WLAN share the same frequency
channel and SSID, which is an identification name for wireless devices.
Ad-Hoc versus Infrastructure Mode
Unlike wired networks, wireless networks have two different modes in which
they may be set up: infrastructure and ad-hoc. An infrastructure configura-
tion is a WLAN and wired LAN communicating to each other through an
access point. An ad-hoc configuration is wireless-equipped computers com-
municating directly with each other. Choosing between these two modes
depends on whether or not the wireless network needs to share data or periph-
erals with a wired network or not.
Figure 2-2
If the computers on the
wireless network need to
be accessed by a wired
network or need to share a
peripheral, such as a print-
er, with the wired network
computers, the wireless
network should be set up
in infrastructure mode.
(See Figure 2-1.) The
basis of infrastructure
mode centers around an
Figure 2-1
access point, which serves
as the main point of communications in a wireless network. Access points
transmit data to PCs equipped with wireless network cards, which can roam
within a certain radial range of the access point. Multiple access points can be
arranged to work in succession to extend the roaming range, and can be set up
to communicate with your Ethernet (wired) hardware as well.
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Instant Wireless® Series
Dual-Band Wireless A+B Notebook Adapter
Chapter 3: Getting to Know the
Dual-Band Wireless A+ B
Chapter 4: Software Installation
and Configuration for Windows
Notebook Adapter
98, Me, and 2000
Overview
The Adapter’s LEDs
The Dual-Band Wireless A+B Notebook Adapter Setup Wizard will guide you
through the installation procedure for Windows 98, Me, and 2000. The Setup
Wizard will install the WLAN Monitor and driver, as well as configure the
Adapter.
Important for Windows XP users: Do NOT run the Setup Wizard.
Proceed directly to “Chapter 5: Hardware Installation.”
Important for Windows 98, Me, and 2000 users: You must run the
Setup Wizard to install the software before installing the hardware.
Insert the Setup Wizard CD-ROM into your CD-ROM drive. The Setup
Wizard should run automatically, and Figure 4-1 should appear. If it does not,
click the Start button and choose Run. In the field that appears, enter
D:\setup.exe (if “D” is the letter of your CD-ROM drive).
Figure 3-1
Flash alternately
Green. The LEDs flash in alternate sequence, one after another, when the
Adapter is searching for an access point or wireless router.
Flash in unison
Green. The LEDs flash in unison when the Adapter is connected to an access
point or wireless router.
Figure 4-1
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Instant Wireless® Series
Setup Wizard Instructions for Windows 98, Me, and 2000
1. To install the Adapter, click the Next button on the Welcome screen.
Dual-Band Wireless A+B Notebook Adapter
3. The Setup Wizard will ask you to choose a wireless mode. Click the
Infrastructure Mode radio button if you want your wireless computers to
network with computers on your wired network using a wireless access
point. Click the Ad-Hoc Mode radio button if you want multiple wireless
computers to network directly with each other. Do not use the Ad-Hoc mode
if you want your wireless computers to communicate with computers on
your wired network.
2. After reading the License Agreement, click the Next button if you agree, or
click the Cancel button to end the installation.
In the SSID field, enter the SSID of your wireless network. The SSID must
be identical for all devices in the network. The default setting is linksys (all
lowercase). Click the Next button.
Figure 4-2
Figure 4-3
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Dual-Band Wireless A+B Notebook Adapter
4. If you chose Infrastructure Mode, go to Step 5 now. If you chose Ad-Hoc
Mode, select the type of network your notebook will connect to, 802.11a or
802.11b. Click the Next button, and go to Step 5. Click the Back button to
change any settings.
6. For Windows 2000, you may be informed that a digital signature has not
been found (see Figure 4-6). This is normal, and it has been verified that the
Adapter does work with Windows 2000. Click the Yes button to continue.
Figure 4-6
7. After the files have been successfully copied, the screen in Figure 4-7 will
Figure 4-4
appear. Click the Exit button.
5. The Setup Wizard will ask you to review your settings before it starts to copy
files. Click the Next button to save these settings, or click the Back button
to change any settings.
Figure 4-7
Proceed to “Chapter 5: Hardware Installation.”
Figure 4-5
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Instant Wireless® Series
Dual-Band Wireless A+B Notebook Adapter
Chapter 5: Hardware Installation
Chapter 6: Driver Installation and
Important for Windows 98, Me, and 2000 users: You must run the
Configuration for Windows XP
Setup Wizard to install the software before installing the hardware.
Overview
Important for Windows XP users: You must install the Adapter’s
hardware before installing the software.
After inserting the Adapter into your notebook, you will install the driver and
configure the Adapter.
1. Turn off your notebook PC.
Driver Installation for Windows XP
2. Locate an available PCMCIA slot on your notebook PC.
1. Windows XP will automatically detect the Adapter. Insert the Setup CD-
ROM into the CD-ROM drive. Click the radio button next to Install the soft-
ware automatically (Recommended). Then click the Next button.
3. With the Adapter’s
label facing up, as
shown in Figure 5-1,
slide the Adapter
completely into the
PCMCIA slot.
4. Restart your notebook
PC.
Figure 5-1
5. You may see several screens appear as the driver installation is finalized. For
Windows 2000, you may be informed that a digital signature has not been
found. This is normal, and it has been verified that the Adapter does work
with Windows 2000. Click the Yes button to continue.
Figure 6-1
6. Windows will begin copying the driver files to your computer. If Windows
asks you for the original Windows CD-ROM, insert the CD-ROM, and direct
Windows to its proper location (e.g., D:\).
If your PC is using Windows 98, Me, or 2000, proceed to the next section,
“Chapter 7: Using the WLAN Monitor for Windows 98, Me, and 2000.”
If your PC is using Windows XP, proceed to “Chapter 6: Driver
Installation and Configuration for Windows XP.”
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Dual-Band Wireless A+B Notebook Adapter
2. Windows will notify you that the driver has not passed Windows Logo test-
ing. This is normal, and it has been verified that the Adapter does work with
Windows XP. Click the Continue Anyway button.
Windows XP Wireless Zero Configuration
For Windows XP users: Windows XP has a built-in configuration tool.
Use Windows XP Wireless Zero Configuration (in the system tray at
the bottom of your screen) to configure the Adapter.
1. After installing the Adapter, the
Windows XP Wireless Zero
Configuration icon will appear in
your computer’s system tray (see
Figure 6-4). Double-click the icon.
Figure 6-4
2. The screen that appears will
show any available wireless
network. Select the network
you want.
Figure 6-2
3. When Windows has finished installing the driver, click the Finish button.
If this network has WEP
encryption enabled, go to
step 3. If this network does
not have WEP encryption
enabled, then the screen in
Figure 6-5 will appear.
Check the box next to Allow
me to connect to the select-
ed wireless network, even
though it is not secure. Then
click the Connect button
and go to step 4.
Figure 6-5
Note: In Steps 2 and 3, these are the instructions and screenshots for
Windows XP with Service Pack 1 installed. If you have not installed
Service Pack 1, select the network you want, and click the Connect
button. If the network has WEP encryption enabled, enter the WEP
key in the Network key field, and then click the Connect button.
Figure 6-3
You have now completed the driver installation for
the Adapter. To configure the Adapter, proceed to the next section,
“Windows XP Wireless Zero Configuration.”
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Dual-Band Wireless A+B Notebook Adapter
3. The screen in Figure 6-6 will appear. Enter the WEP key of your wireless
network in the Network key field, and re-enter it in the Confirm network key
field. Click the Connect button.
Chapter 7: Using the WLAN
Monitor for Windows 98, Me, and
Note: Wireless Zero Configuration does not support the use of a
passphrase. Enter the exact WEP key used by your access point.
2000
Overview
Use the WLAN Monitor to check the link information, search for available
wireless networks, or create profiles that hold different configuration settings.
Accessing the WLAN Monitor
After installing the Adapter, the Dual-Band Wireless A+B
Notebook Adapter WLAN Monitor icon will appear in your sys-
tem tray. Double-click the icon (see Figure 7-1).
Figure 7-1
The Link Information screen will appear. From this screen, you can find out
how strong the current wireless signal is and how good the connection’s quali-
ty is. You can also click the More Information button to view additional status
information about the current wireless connection. To search for available wire-
less networks, click the Site Survey tab. To perform configuration changes,
click the Profiles tab.
Figure 6-6
4. The screen in Figure 6-7 will
appear if your connection is
active.
Figure 6-7
For more information about WEP, refer to your access point’s documentation,
For more information about wireless networking on a Windows XP computer,
enter the keyword wireless in the Windows XP search engine.
Congratulations!
Your notebook is now connected to your wireless network.
Figure 7-2
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Link Information
The Link Information screen displays signal strength and link quality informa-
tion about the current connection and provides a button to click for additional
status information.
Figure 7-4
TCP/IP Setting
IP Address - The IP Address of the Adapter.
Subnet Mask - The Subnet Mask of the Adapter.
Default Gateway - The Default Gateway address of the Adapter.
DHCP - The status of the DHCP client.
DNS - The DNS address of the Adapter.
Figure 7-3
Ad-Hoc Mode or Infrastructure Mode - The screen indicates whether the
Adapter is currently working in ad-hoc or infrastructure mode.
Wireless Network Status
State - The status of the wireless network connection.
SSID - The unique name of the wireless network.
Signal Strength - The Signal Strength bar indicates signal strength, from 0 to
Wireless Mode - The mode of the wireless network currently in use.
Transfer Rate - The data transfer rate of the current connection.
Channel - The channel to which the wireless network devices are set.
WEP - The status of the WEP encryption security feature.
MAC - The MAC address of the wireless network’s access point.
100%.
Link Quality - The Link Quality bar indicates the quality of the wireless net-
work connection, from 0 to 100%.
Click the More Information button to view more information about the wire-
less network connection.
Signal Strength - The Signal Strength bar indicates signal strength, from 0 to
100%.
Click the X (Close) button in the upper right corner to exit the WLAN Monitor.
Link Quality - The Link Quality bar indicates the quality of the wireless net-
work connection, from 0 to 100%.
Click the Back button to return to the initial Link Information screen. Click the
X (Close) button in the upper right corner to exit the WLAN Monitor.
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Connect - To connect to one of the networks on the list, select the wireless net-
work, and click the Connect button. If the wireless network has WEP encryp-
tion enabled, you will see the screen shown in Figure 7-6.
Site Survey
The Site Survey screen displays a list of infrastructure and ad-hoc networks
available for connection.
Figure 7-6
In the WEP drop-down box, select the type of WEP encryption used by the
wireless network: 64-bit, 128-bit, or 152-bit WEP.
Figure 7-5
If the wireless network uses a passphrase, enter the passphrase in the
Passphrase field. If the wireless network uses a WEP key, enter the WEP key
in the Key 1 field.
SSID - The SSID or unique name of the wireless network.
Band - The type of wireless network. “A” represents 802.11a (5GHz), and “B”
represents 802.11b (2.4GHz).
Signal - The percentage of signal strength, from 0 to 100%.
Click the OK button to complete the network connection and return to the Site
Survey screen, or click the Cancel button to cancel the network connection and
return to the Site Survey screen.
Site Information
Wireless Mode - The mode of the wireless network currently in use.
Channel - The channel to which the wireless network devices are set.
WEP - The status of the WEP encryption security feature.
MAC - The MAC address of the wireless network’s access point.
Surveyed at - The time at which the wireless network was scanned.
On the Site Survey screen, click the X (Close) button in the upper right corner
to exit the WLAN Monitor.
Refresh - Click the Refresh button to perform a new search for wireless
devices.
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Import - Click the Import button to import a profile that has been saved in
another location. Select the appropriate file, and click the Open button.
Profiles
The Profiles screen lets you save different configuration profiles for different
network setups. You can also import or export profiles. The default profile
holds the initial configuration saved when you ran the Setup Wizard.
Figure 7-8
Export - To save the profile(s) in a different location, click the Export button.
Direct Windows to the appropriate folder, and click the Save button.
Figure 7-7
Profile - Name of the connection profile.
SSID - The wireless network’s unique name, as set in the connection profile.
Profile Information
Network Type - The mode of the wireless network currently in use.
Transfer Rate - The data transfer rate of the current connection. (In Auto
mode, the Adapter dynamically shifts to the fastest data transfer rate possible
at any given time.)
Channel - The channel to which the wireless network devices are set.
WEP - The status of the WEP encryption security feature.
Figure 7-9
Connect - To connect to a wireless network using a specific profile, select the
profile, and click the Connect button.
Note: If you have more than one profile, all profiles will be auto-
matically selected and exported to the same folder.
Edit - Select a profile, and click the Edit button to change an existing profile.
Delete - Click the Delete button to delete a profile.
New - Click the New button to create a new profile. See the next section,
“Creating a New Profile,” for detailed instructions.
Click the X (Close) button in the upper right corner to exit the WLAN Monitor.
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2. The Choose a wireless mode screen shows a choice of two wireless modes.
Click the Infrastructure Mode radio button if you want your wireless
computers to communicate with computers on your wired network via a
wireless access point. Click the Ad-Hoc Mode radio button if you want
multiple wireless computers to communicate directly with each other. Click
the Next button to continue or the Back button to return to the previous
screen.
Creating a New Profile
1. On the Profiles screen, click the New button to create a new profile.
Infrastructure Mode - This mode allows wireless and wired networks to
communicate through an access point.
Ad-Hoc Mode - This mode allows wireless-equipped computers to com-
municate directly with each other. No access point is used.
Figure 7-10
Figure 7-11
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3. The Basic Settings screen will appear. Complete the Profile Name and SSID
fields. The default SSID setting is linksys (all lowercase). Then select the
appropriate setting from the Network Type drop-down box. Click the Next
button to continue or the Back button to return to the previous screen.
4. The Network Setting screen will appear.
If your network has a DHCP server, click the radio button next to Obtain
an IP address automatically (DHCP). Click the Next button to continue,
or click the Back button to return to the previous screen. Then go to Step 6.
Profile Name - Give this new profile a name.
If your network does not have a DHCP server, click the radio button next to
Specify the IP address. Click the Next button to continue, or click the
Back button to return to the previous screen. Then go to Step 5.
SSID - The SSID is the unique name shared by all devices in a wireless net-
work. The SSID must be identical for all devices in the wireless network. It
is case-sensitive and must not exceed 32 characters (use any of the charac-
ters on the keyboard). Make sure this setting is the same for all devices in
your wireless network.
Network Type - For infrastructure networks, the Network Type is set to
Auto and cannot be changed. For ad-hoc networks, choose the appropriate
setting, 802.11a (5GHz) or 802.11b (2.4GHz).
Figure 7-13
Figure 7-12
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5. The Network Setting - Specify IP address screen will appear. Enter an IP
Address, Subnet Mask, Default Gateway, and DNS appropriate for your
network. Enter each address in this format: xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx (the x’s repre-
sent the numbers that make up each address). You must specify the IP
Address and Subnet Mask on this screen. If you are unsure about the
Default Gateway and DNS addresses, then leave these fields alone.
6. If you are configuring the Adapter for a 2.4GHz, 802.11b network, then go
to Step 7. If you are configuring the Adapter for a 2.4GHz, 802.11b net-
work, then go to Step 8.
7. The Security Settings screen will appear. Enable or disable Wired
Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption for your wireless network. If you
enable WEP, enter a Passphrase or WEP key. Click the Next button to con-
tinue or the Back button to return to the previous screen.
Click the Next button to continue or the Back button to return to the previ-
ous screen.
WEP (Disabled/64-bit WEP/128-bit WEP) - If you do not want to use
WEP encryption, choose Disabled. To use WEP encryption (recommended
to increase network security), select 64-bit or 128-bit WEP from the drop-
down menu, and enter either a Passphrase or WEP key.
IP Address - This IP Address must be unique to your network.
Subnet Mask - The Adapter’s Subnet Mask must be the same as your wired
network’s Subnet Mask.
Passphrase - Instead of manually entering WEP keys, you can enter a
Passphrase, so a WEP key is automatically generated. It is case-sensitive and
should not be longer than 16 alphanumeric characters. This passphrase must
match the passphrase of your wireless network and is compatible with
Linksys wireless products only. (If you have any non-Linksys wireless prod-
ucts, enter the WEP key(s) manually on those products.)
Default Gateway - Enter the IP address of your network’s Gateway here.
DNS - Enter the DNS addresses of your Ethernet (wired) network here.
Key 1 - This WEP key must match the WEP key of your wireless network.
If you are using 64-bit WEP encryption, then the key must consist of exact-
ly 10 hexadecimal characters. If you are using 128-bit WEP encryption,
then the key must consist of exactly 26 hexadecimal characters. Valid hexa-
decimal characters are “0” to “9” and “A” to “F”.
Figure 7-14
Figure 7-15
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8. The Security Settings screen will appear. Set the Wired Equivalent Privacy
(WEP) encryption for your wireless network by selecting a WEP configu-
ration method (recommended to increase network security). If you enable
WEP encryption, enter a WEP key in the Key 1 field. Click the Next but-
ton to continue or the Back button to return to the previous screen.
9. The Confirm New Settings screen will appear. To save the new settings,
click the Yes button. To cancel the settings and return to the Profiles screen,
click the No button. To edit the new settings, click the Back button.
WEP (Disabled/64-bit WEP/128-bit WEP/152-bit WEP) - If you do not
want to use WEP encryption, choose Disabled.
To use WEP encryption, select 64-bit, 128-bit WEP, or 152-bit WEP from
the drop-down menu. Then enter the WEP key of your wireless network in
the Key 1 field.
Key 1 - This WEP key must match the WEP key of your wireless network.
If you are using 64-bit WEP encryption, then the key must consist of exact-
ly 10 hexadecimal characters in length. If you are using 128-bit WEP
encryption, then the key must consist of exactly 26 hexadecimal characters
in length. Valid hexadecimal characters are “0” to “9” and “A” to “F”.
Figure 7-17
10. The Congratulations screen will appear next. Click Activate new settings
now to implement the new settings immediately and return to the Link
Information screen. Click Activate new settings later to keep the current
settings active and return to the Profiles screen.
Figure 7-16
Figure 7-18
You have successfully created a connection profile. Click the X (Close)
button in the upper right corner to exit the WLAN Monitor.
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3. I cannot communicate with a wired computer linked via an access point in the
infrastructure configuration.
• Make sure that the notebook PC is powered on.
• Make sure that the Adapter is configured with the same SSID and security
options as the other computers in the infrastructure configuration.
Appendix A: Troubleshooting
Common Problems and Solutions
This chapter provides solutions to problems that may occur during the installa-
tion and operation of the Dual-Band Wireless A+B Notebook Adapter. Read the
descriptions below to solve your problems. If you can’t find an answer here,
check the Linksys website at www.linksys.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run an application from a remote computer over the wireless network?
This will depend on whether or not the application is designed to be used over
a network. Consult the application’s user guide to determine if it supports oper-
ation over a network.
1. My computer does not recognize the Adapter.
• Make sure the Adapter is properly inserted into the PCMCIA slot. Note that
the Adapter can be inserted either way, but is correctly only when it is insert-
ed so that the “Instant Wireless” logo on the front of the Adapter cannot be
seen. If in doubt, try inserting the Adapter both ways. The Adapter will slide
in further when it is correct.
Can I play computer games with other members of the wireless network?
Yes, as long as the game supports multiple players over a LAN (local area net-
work). Refer to the game’s user guide for more information.
2. The Adapter does not work properly.
• Reinsert the Adapter into your notebook’s PCMCIA slot. A beep should be
heard if the Adapter is properly inserted.
• For non-Windows environments, make sure that a PCMCIA card service
driver is installed on your PC.
• Open the Control Panel and click the PC Card. Check whether it has a
PCMCIA card in one of the sockets or not. If you find the Adapter in one of
the sockets, it means that the Adapter has been detected properly. If you see
a yellow question mark, the resources are in conflict.
• Right-click My Computer and select Properties. Select Device Manager
and click the Network Adapter. You will find the Dual-Band Wireless A+B
Notebook Adapter if it is installed successfully. If you see the yellow excla-
mation mark, the resources are in conflict. Click PCMCIA card and then
click PCMCIA card service. You will see the status of the Adapter. If there
is a yellow question mark please check the following:
• Make sure that your notebook has a free IRQ.
• Make sure that you have inserted the right Adapter and installed the prop-
er driver.
What is the IEEE 802.11a standard?
It is one of the IEEE standards for wireless networks. The 802.11a standard
allows wireless networking hardware from different manufacturers to commu-
nicate, provided that the hardware complies with the 802.11a standard. The
802.11a standard states a maximum data transfer rate of 54Mbps and an oper-
ating frequency of 5GHz.
What is the IEEE 802.11b standard?
It is one of the IEEE standards for wireless networks. The 802.11b standard
allows wireless networking hardware from different manufacturers to commu-
nicate, provided that the hardware complies with the 802.11b standard. The
802.11b standard states a maximum data transfer rate of 11Mbps and an oper-
ating frequency of 2.4GHz.
What IEEE 802.11a features are supported?
The product supports the following IEEE 802.11a functions:
•
•
•
•
•
OFDM protocol
Multi-Channel Roaming
Automatic Rate Selection
RTS/CTS feature
If the Adapter does not function after attempting the above steps, remove the
Adapter and do the following:
• Uninstall the driver software from your PC.
• Restart your PC and repeat the hardware and software installation as spec-
ified in this User Guide.
Fragmentation
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As the user moves on, the end node’s RF transmitter regularly checks the sys-
tem to determine whether it is in touch with the original access point or whether
it should seek a new one. When a node no longer receives acknowledgment
from its original access point, it undertakes a new search. Upon finding a new
access point, it then re-registers, and the communication process continues.
What IEEE 802.11b features are supported?
The product supports the following IEEE 802.11b functions:
•
•
•
•
•
•
CSMA/CA plus Acknowledge protocol
Multi-Channel Roaming
Automatic Rate Selection
RTS/CTS feature
Fragmentation
Power Management
What is ISM band?
The FCC and their counterparts outside of the U.S. have set aside bandwidth
for unlicensed use in the ISM (Industrial, Scientific and Medical) band.
Spectrum in the vicinity of 2.4 GHz, in particular, is being made available
worldwide. This presents a truly revolutionary opportunity to place convenient
high-speed wireless capabilities in the hands of users around the globe.
What is ad-hoc mode?
When a wireless network is set to ad-hoc mode, the wireless-equipped com-
puters are configured to communicate directly with each other. The ad-hoc
wireless network will not communicate with any wired network.
What is Spread Spectrum?
Spread Spectrum technology is a wideband radio frequency technique devel-
oped by the military for use in reliable, secure, mission-critical communica-
tions systems. It is designed to trade off bandwidth efficiency for reliability,
integrity, and security. In other words, more bandwidth is consumed than in the
case of narrowband transmission, but the trade-off produces a signal that is, in
effect, louder and thus easier to detect, provided that the receiver knows the
parameters of the spread-spectrum signal being broadcast. If a receiver is not
tuned to the right frequency, a spread-spectrum signal looks like background
noise. There are two main alternatives, Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum
(DSSS) and Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS).
What is infrastructure mode?
When a wireless network is set to infrastructure mode, the wireless network is
configured to communicate with a wired network through a wireless access
point.
What is roaming?
Roaming is the ability of a portable computer user to communicate continu-
ously while moving freely throughout an area greater than that covered by a sin-
gle access point. Before using the roaming function, the workstation must make
sure that it is the same channel number with the access point of dedicated cov-
erage area.
What is DSSS? What is FHSS? And what are their differences?
To achieve true seamless connectivity, the wireless LAN must incorporate a
number of different functions. Each node and access point, for example, must
always acknowledge receipt of each message. Each node must maintain contact
with the wireless network even when not actually transmitting data. Achieving
these functions simultaneously requires a dynamic RF networking technology
that links access points and nodes. In such a system, the user’s end node under-
takes a search for the best possible access to the system. First, it evaluates such
factors as signal strength and quality, as well as the message load currently
being carried by each access point and the distance of each access point to the
wired backbone. Based on that information, the node next selects the right
access point and registers its address. Communications between end node and
host computer can then be transmitted up and down the backbone.
Frequency-Hopping Spread-Spectrum (FHSS) uses a narrowband carrier that
changes frequency in a pattern that is known to both transmitter and receiver.
Properly synchronized, the net effect is to maintain a single logical channel. To
an unintended receiver, FHSS appears to be short-duration impulse noise.
Direct-Sequence Spread-Spectrum (DSSS) generates a redundant bit pattern
for each bit to be transmitted. This bit pattern is called a chip (or chipping
code). The longer the chip, the greater the probability that the original data can
be recovered. Even if one or more bits in the chip are damaged during trans-
mission, statistical techniques embedded in the radio can recover the original
data without the need for retransmission. To an unintended receiver, DSSS
appears as low power wideband noise and is rejected (ignored) by most nar-
rowband receivers.
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Appendix B: Glossary
Would the information be intercepted while transmitting on air?
WLAN features two-fold protection in security. On the hardware side, as with
Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum technology, it has the inherent security fea-
ture of scrambling. On the software side, WLAN offers the encryption function
(WEP) to enhance security and access control.
802.11a - One of the IEEE standards for wireless networking hardware.
Products that adhere to a specific IEEE standard will work with each other,
even if they are manufactured by different companies. It specifies a maximum
data transfer rate of 54Mbps and an operating frequency of 5GHz. The 802.11a
standard uses the Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) trans-
mission method. Additionally, the 802.11a standard supports 802.11 features
such as WEP encryption for security.
What is WEP?
WEP is Wired Equivalent Privacy, a data privacy mechanism based on a 64-bit
or 128-bit shared key algorithm, as described in the IEEE 802.11 standard.
802.11b - One of the IEEE standards for wireless networking hardware.
Products that adhere to a specific IEEE standard will work with each other,
even if they are manufactured by different companies. The 802.11b standard
specifies a maximum data transfer rate of 11Mbps, an operating frequency of
2.4GHz, and WEP encryption for security. 802.11b networks are also referred
to as Wi-Fi networks.
Ad-hoc Network - An ad-hoc network is a group of computers, each with a
wireless adapter, connected as an independent 802.11 wireless LAN. Ad-hoc
wireless computers operate on a peer-to-peer basis, communicating directly
with each other without the use of an access point. Ad-hoc mode is also
referred to as an Independent Basic Service Set (IBSS) or as peer-to-peer
mode, and is useful at a departmental scale or SOHO operation.
CTS (Clear To Send) - An RS-232 signal sent from the receiving station to the
transmitting station that indicates it is ready to accept data.
Default Gateway - The router used to forward all traffic that is not addressed
to a station within the local subnet.
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) - A protocol that lets network
administrators manage centrally and automate the assignment of Internet
Protocol (IP) addresses in an organization’s network. Using the Internet’s set of
protocol (TCP/IP), each machine that can connect to the Internet needs a
unique IP address. When an organization sets up its computer users with a con-
nection to the Internet, an IP address must be assigned to each machine.
Without DHCP, the IP address must be entered manually at each computer and,
if computers move to another location in another part of the network, a new IP
address must be entered. DHCP lets a network administrator supervise and dis-
tribute IP addresses from a central point and automatically sends a new IP
address when a computer is plugged into a different place in the network.
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DHCP uses the concept of a “lease” or amount of time that a given IP address
will be valid for a computer. The lease time can vary depending on how long a
user is likely to require the Internet connection at a particular location. It’s espe-
cially useful in education and other environments where users change fre-
quently. Using very short leases, DHCP can dynamically reconfigure networks
in which there are more computers than there are available IP addresses.
The IEEE fosters the development of standards that often become national and
international standards. The organization publishes a number of journals, has
many local chapters, and several large societies in special areas, such as the
IEEE Computer Society.
Infrastructure Network - An infrastructure network is a group of computers
or other devices, each with a wireless adapter, connected as an 802.11 wireless
LAN. In infrastructure mode, the wireless devices communicate with each
other and to a wired network by first going through an access point. An infra-
structure wireless network connected to a wired network is referred to as a
Basic Service Set (BSS). A set of two or more BSS in a single network is
referred to as an Extended Service Set (ESS). Infrastructure mode is useful at
a corporation scale, or when it is necessary to connect the wired and wireless
networks.
DHCP supports static addresses for computers containing Web servers that
need a permanent IP address.
DNS - The domain name system (DNS) is the way that Internet domain name
are located and translated into Internet Protocol (IP) addresses. A domain name
is a meaningful and easy-to-remember “handle” for an Internet address.
DSSS (Direct-Sequence Spread Spectrum) - DSSS generates a redundant bit
pattern for all transmitted data. This bit pattern is called a chip (or chipping
code). Even if one or more bits in the chip are damaged during transmission,
statistical techniques embedded in the receiver can recover the original data
without the need for retransmission. To an unintended receiver, DSSS appears
as low power wideband noise and is rejected (ignored) by most narrowband
receivers. However, to an intended receiver (i.e. another wireless LAN end-
point), the DSSS signal is recognized as the only valid signal, and interference
is inherently rejected (ignored).
IP Address - In the most widely installed level of the Internet Protocol (IP)
today, an IP address is a 32-binary digit number that identifies each sender or
receiver of information that is sent in packet across the Internet. When you
request an HTML page or send e-mail, the Internet Protocol part of TCP/IP
includes your IP address in the message (actually, in each of the packets if more
than one is required) and sends it to the IP address that is obtained by looking
up the domain name in the Uniform Resource Locator you requested or in the
e-mail address you're sending a note to. At the other end, the recipient can see
the IP address of the Web page requester or the e-mail sender and can respond
by sending another message using the IP address it received.
Dynamic IP Address - An IP address that is automatically assigned to a client
station in a TCP/IP network, typically by a DHCP server. Network devices that
serve multiple users, such as servers and printers, are usually assigned static IP
addresses.
IPCONFIG - A utility that provides for querying, defining and managing IP
addresses within a network. A commonly used utility, under Windows NT and
2000, for configuring networks with static IP addresses.
ESS (Extended Service Set) - A set of more than two or more BSSs (multiple
access points) forming a single network.
ISP - An ISP (Internet service provider) is a company that provides individuals
and companies access to the Internet and other related services such as Web site
building and virtual hosting.
Firmware - Code that is written onto read-only memory (ROM) or program-
mable read-only memory (PROM). Once firmware has been written onto the
ROM or PROM, it is retained even when the device is turned off.
LAN - A local area network (LAN) is a group of computers and associated
devices that share a common communications line and typically share the
resources of a single processor or server within a small geographic area (for
example, within an office building).
IEEE - The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. The IEEE
describes itself as “the world’s largest technical professional society—promot-
ing the development and application of electrotechnology and allied sciences
for the benefit of humanity, the advancement of the profession, and the well-
being of our members.”
MAC Address - The MAC (Media Access Control) address is your computer’s
unique hardware number.
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mIRC - mIRC runs under Windows and provides a graphical interface for log-
ging onto IRC servers and listing, joining and leaving channels.
Subnet Mask - The method used for splitting IP networks into a series of sub-
groups, or subnets. The mask is a binary pattern that is matched up with the IP
address to turn part of the host ID address field into a field for subnets.
Network Mask - also known as the “Subnet Mask.”
TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) - A method (protocol) used along with
the IP (Internet Protocol) to send data in the form of message units (datagram)
between network devices over a LAN or WAN. While IP takes care of handling
the actual delivery of the data (routing), TCP takes care of keeping track of the
individual units of data (called packets) that a message is divided into for effi-
cient delivery over the network. TCP is known as a "connection oriented" pro-
tocol due to requiring the receiver of a packet to return an acknowledgment of
receipt to the sender of the packet resulting in transmission control.
OFDM - Developed for wireless applications, Orthogonal Frequency Division
Multiplexing (OFDM) technology offers superior performance-increased data
rates and more reliable transmissions-than previous technologies, such as
DSSS. OFDM is a scheme in which numerous signals of different frequencies
are combined to form a single signal for transmission on the medium.
OFDM works by breaking one high-speed data stream into a number of lower-
speed data streams, which are then transmitted in parallel. Each lower speed
stream is used to modulate a subcarrier. Essentially, this creates a multi-carrier
transmission by dividing a wide frequency band or channel into a number of
narrower frequency bands or sub-channels. OFDM is also used for other appli-
cations, including powerline networking.
TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) - The basic com-
munication language or set of protocols for communications over a network
(developed specifically for the Internet). TCP/IP defines a suite or group of
protocols and not only TCP and IP.
Plug-and-Play - The ability of a computer system to configure expansion
boards and other devices automatically without requiring the user to turn off
the system during installation.
UDP (User Datagram Protocol) - A method (protocol) used along with the IP
(Internet Protocol) to send data in the form of message units (datagram)
between network devices over a LAN or WAN. While IP takes care of handling
the actual delivery of the data (routing), UDP takes care of keeping track of the
individual units of data (called packets) that a message is divided into for effi-
cient delivery over the network. UDP is known as a “connection-less” protocol
due to NOT requiring the receiver of a packet to return an acknowledgment of
receipt to the sender of the packet (as opposed to TCP).
Roaming - In an infrastructure mode wireless network, this refers to the abili-
ty to move out of one access point's range and into another and transparently
reassociate and reauthenticate to the new access point. This reassociation and
reauthentication should occur without user intervention and ideally without
interruption to network connectivity. A typical scenario would be a location
with multiple access points, where users can physically relocate from one area
to another and easily maintain connectivity.
WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) - A data privacy mechanism based on a 64-
bit shared key algorithm, as described in the IEEE 802.11b standard.
SSID (Service Set Identifier) - An identification name that wireless devices
use to make connections. In order for wireless devices to communicate, they
must all be set to the same channel and they all must use the same SSID. For
instance, if you are using an access point to connect two computers using wire-
less devices, the access point and each of the wireless devices must use the
same SSID. Even if they are set to the same channel, they cannot communicate
unless the SSID is the same.
WINIPCFG - Configuration utility based on the Win32 API for querying,
defining and managing IP addresses within a network. A commonly used util-
ity under Windows 95, 98, and Me.
WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) - A group of computers and associat-
ed devices that communicate with each other wirelessly.
Static IP Address - A permanent IP address that is assigned to a node in a
TCP/IP network.
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Environmental
Appendix C: Specifications
Dimensions
4.4" x 2.13" x 0.4"
(110 mm x 54 mm x 10 mm)
Standards
IEEE 802.11a, EEE 802.11b
Channels
802.11a
802.11b
Unit Weight
1.5 oz. (0.043 kg)
8 Channels (USA)
11 Channels (USA)
13 Channels (Europe)
14 Channels (Japan)
Certifications
Operating Temp.
Storage Temp.
FCC Class B, CE Mark
32ºF to 140ºF (0ºC to 60ºC)
-40ºF to 185ºF (-40ºC to 85ºC)
Transmit
16 dBm
Receive Sensitivity -83 dBm
(typical)
Operating Humidity 10% to 85%, Non-Condensing
Storage Humidity 5% to 90%, Non-Condensing
Network Protocols TCP/IP, NetBEUI, IPX/SPX
LEDs
2 (not labeled)
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Appendix D: Warranty Information
BE SURE TO HAVE YOUR PROOF OF PURCHASE AND A BARCODE
FROM THE PRODUCT’S PACKAGING ON HAND WHEN CALLING.
RETURN REQUESTS CANNOT BE PROCESSED WITHOUT PROOF OF
PURCHASE.
Appendix E: Contact Information
For help with the installation or operation of the Dual-Band Wireless A+B
Notebook Adapter, contact Linksys Technical Support at one of the phone num-
bers or Internet addresses below.
Sales Information
Technical Support
RMA Issues
Fax
800-546-5797 (LINKSYS)
800-326-7114
949-271-5461
IN NO EVENT SHALL LINKSYS’ LIABILITY EXCEED THE PRICE PAID
FOR THE PRODUCT FROM DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDEN-
TAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE USE
OF THE PRODUCT, ITS ACCOMPANYING SOFTWARE, OR ITS DOCU-
MENTATION. LINKSYS DOES NOT OFFER REFUNDS FOR ANY PROD-
UCT.
949-265-6655
E-mail
Web
FTP Site
ftp.linksys.com
LINKSYS OFFERS CROSS SHIPMENTS, A FASTER PROCESS FOR PRO-
CESSING AND RECEIVING YOUR REPLACEMENT. LINKSYS PAYS
FOR UPS GROUND ONLY. ALL CUSTOMERS LOCATED OUTSIDE OF
THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND CANADA SHALL BE HELD
RESPONSIBLE FOR SHIPPING AND HANDLING CHARGES. PLEASE
CALL LINKSYS FOR MORE DETAILS.
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