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Introduction
The NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor is a Direct-Sequence Spread Spectrum
(DSSS) product. DSSS is a spread spectrum network operating between 2.4 and 2.5 GHz. This
provides a high-capacity network within either large or small environments using multiple access
points.
Based on IEEE 802.11b, Wireless LAN (WLAN) products can perform at speeds of up to 11
Mbps. This technology works by using multiple frequencies in the 2.4 GHz range utilizing
Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) technology.
Designed to cover distances of up to 100 metres indoors and 300 metres outdoors, WLAN
technology lets you access your network from anywhere within this radius. The range of
WLAN is limited by the number of walls, ceilings, floors, or other objects the wireless signals
must pass through. Typical ranges vary depending upon the types of materials and background
radio-frequency in the WLAN area.
WLAN products offer the following network features:
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WLAN bridging architecture allows communication between wired network devices and
mobile devices.
WLAN products support the IEEE 802.11b and WiFi specifications. This open architecture
allows WLAN devices to communicate with wireless devices from other manufacturers that
conform to the same specifications.
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WLAN products allow mobile devices to roam throughout large facilities while remaining
connected to the network.
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WLAN products allow establishment of ad-hoc wireless workgroup networks.
WLAN products are protocol-independent, allowing mobile devices to communicate with a
wide range of servers, hosts and systems.
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About the NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor
The NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor allows USB equipped host systems to
configure, connect to and establish a wireless network.
Features Include:
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IEEE 802.11b compatibility providing wireless Ethernet connectivity at speeds of up to 11
Mbps.
Dynamic scaling of the connection speed between 11, 5.5, 2, and 1 Mbps to match the
wireless network conditions.
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Wireless security with 64-bit and 128-bit WEP data encryption.
Support for Microsoft Windows 98, Millennium (ME) 2000, and Windows XP.
C-Tick compliance.
Multiple operating mode options for access point (infrastructure) or peer-to-peer (ad-hoc)
associations.
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Low-power operation.
LED indicators provide power and network link status.
NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor LED Descriptions
The NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor has two LED's.
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The PWR LED illuminates during connection or data transfer to indicate that the adaptor is
functioning and is connected to an Access Point (Infrastructure mode), or a Peer (Ad hoc
mode).
The LNK LED flashes when activity is detected on the wireless link.
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Wireless LAN Basics
In order to set up and use your NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor, you should
have some basic understanding of both wired and wireless network technology and the various
functions of the device.
WLAN devices use electromagnetic waves within a broad, unlicensed range of the radio
spectrum to transmit and receive Frequency Modulation (FM) radio signals. WLAN devices
generate a carrier wave and modulate this signal using various techniques. In this way, digital data
can then be superimposed onto the carrier signal. The radio signal carries data to wireless-
capable devices within its range. The antennas of wireless-equipped devices transmit and receive
the signal. The transmission method used by WLAN devices is called Direct Sequence Spread
Spectrum (DSSS) and they operate in a range of the radio spectrum between 2.4 and 2.5 GHz.
Wireless LANs support the same network applications that are used on wired Ethernet LANs.
The NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor may be used on laptop and desktop
computer systems and support the same protocols as Ethernet adaptors. For most users, there
is no noticeable functional difference between a desktop workstation hard-wired to an Ethernet
network and a WLAN workstation other than the added benefit of being able to roam within the
WLAN.
Your NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor operates in two different modes,
depending on your network configuration and whether or not you also use Wireless LAN
Access Points (AP). Access points provide a link between the WLAN and a wired Ethernet
network and its resources.
Ad-Hoc (IBSS) Mode
Connecting to other network devices, without access points, to form a peer-to-peer network is
called Ad-Hoc (IBSS) mode. Use Ad-Hoc to create simple wireless networks where the number
of wireless computers (also referred to as network nodes) are small. In this configuration, the
first wireless LAN card to start transmitting a beacon will determine the channel and data rate
used for the other Adaptors in the IBSS network. Ad-Hoc networks are very easy to set up and
require minimal involvement by network administrators or IT personnel.
Infrastructure (ESS or 802.11-Station) Mode
In Infrastructure (ESS or 802.11-Station) mode, the NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB
Adaptor connects to an access point (AP). In ESS mode, the WLAN workstation can roam
freely between other access point cells in the network or transmit and receive across subnets.
ESS is the default mode for the NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor.
A Windows based utility is supplied to select the operational mode and to generally monitor and
configure, the NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor.
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11 Mbps Operation
The NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor supports a maximum 11 Mbps data
transfer rate. When the adaptors transmit (TX) rate is set to Auto, the adaptor automatically
shifts to a 5.5, 2 or 1 Mbps data rate when unable to maintain a high quality connection at 11
Mbps. When the adaptor detects improved signal strength, it shifts to an increased data rate, up
to the maximum 11 Mbps.
The following factors can dynamically alter the data rate:
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signal strength between the access point and adaptor,
the ratio of good transmitted packets to attempted transmitted packets that fall below a
threshold, or -
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the adaptor finds a higher transmit rate with another AP or it encounters an unspecified data
rate.
Note: An 11 Mbps data transfer rate should only be anticipated in coverage areas where
the Scan tool (part of the Wireless LAN Monitor Utility) has been used to determine
the strength and quality of the signal between the adaptor and an access point.
Physical obstructions and numerous devices operating in close proximity to one another
negatively impact the ability to maintain an 11 Mbps access point association.
Signal Range
WLAN devices are designed to operate over a radius of 100 meters indoors and 300 metres
outdoors. Obstructions such as walls, ceilings, floors, office equipment, and furniture can reduce
this range. The following example or just some factors that affect the signal range of your
Wireless network.
I Obstructions. The Wireless LAN radio signal can penetrate through ceilings and walls.
However, each wall or ceiling the signal must pass through to reach other WLAN devices
will reduce the effective range your Wireless LAN.
You should also keep the depth of the obstructions to a minimum. Take an example of a wall
that is half a metre thick. For a radio signal going through the wall, at a forty degree angle, it
must pass through almost one metre of material. At a two degree angle, this increases to over
14 metres! Position adaptors and access points so that the signal will travel straight through
a wall or ceiling for better reception.
Position your adaptors and access points so as to minimise the number and depth of
obstructions and always position your adaptors and access points so that the signal passes
through drywalls or open doorways and not through metallic materials.
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I Antenna Position: Where possible, keep your adaptors and access points at least 1 or 2
metres away from devices that generate strong radio-frequency or electromagnetic signals,
such as microwaves, computer monitors, cellular telephones and electric motors. Use the
utilities included with your product to measure the best reception (signal quality/strength)
achieved when repositioning the antenna.
Should the signal be inadequate in an area where you wish to use your wireless network,
consider adding Access Points to increase the signal strength in that area.
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Installation
The physical installation for the NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor amounts to
simply plugging the unit's USB cable into an available USB port on a USB enabled computer.
The NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor should then be located such that the
minimum number of obstructions such as walls, floors, ceilings, and office equipment are
between it and the nearest access point.
Preparation
Before beginning the installation, verify the hardware package contains the NetComm NP7042 -
Wireless LAN USB Adaptor. Keep the serial number in a safe place. The Support Centre uses
this information to reference warranty and service contract information.
Note: Verify the model indicated on the adaptor and packaging before use. Contact the
Support Centre if an item is missing or not functioning.
Requirements
The NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor installation requires:
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a computer with an available USB port.
a CD-ROM drive or Internet access.
Microsoft Windows 98, Millennium (ME), Windows 2000 or Windows XP
Avoid exposing the NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor to liquids or
abrasive materials.
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Driver Installation & Configuration
The Wireless LAN USB Card is supplied with a Windows driver and a Monitor Utility. The
utility should be installed at the same time as the Windows USB driver and is used to view and
edit Wireless LAN Card settings.
After following the driver installation instructions for your operating system, refer to the section
on Wireless LAN Card Utility for utility installation instructions.
Before installing the Wireless LAN USB Card Windows driver:
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Verify the Wireless LAN USB Card is physically installed in your computer.
Have the NetComm Driver CD ready for insertion.
Installing the WLAN Driver in Windows 98/ME/2000
To install the Wireless LAN USB Card driver in Windows 98, Windows Millennium (ME) or
Windows 2000, you must login as Administrator or a member of the Administrator Group (see
Windows Help for more information on this.)
1. Insert the adaptor's USB cable into an available USB port on the computer.
2. Insert the NetComm Driver CD.
When Windows recognises the Adaptor, the Add New Hardware Wizard dialog box
appears.
3. Select the Specify the location of the driver checkbox. Click Next.
4. Type in the location of the driver or browse for D:\Drivers\operating system, where D:\ is
the letter of your CD ROM drive. Type or select the correct operating system directory
(Win98, WinMe or Win2000) for your computer and click Next to continue.
5. Click Next when the Add New Hardware Wizard displays the location of the driver
files.
Note: The Microsoft Digital 'Signature Not Found' dialog box could appear at this point in
the installation. A Microsoft digital signature is not required for the driver
installation. Click Yes to continue.
The Add New Hardware Wizard dialog box displays stating the required software has
been installed.
6. Click Finish and when prompted, restart the computer.
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Removing a Wireless LAN Driver in Windows 98/ME/2000
To remove an existing Wireless LAN driver in Windows 98 or Windows Millennium (ME).
Note: Windows 2000 automatically removes devices from the hardware profile if they are
not present when Windows starts. It is not necessary to remove the driver files. If
you wish to use the NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor again,
Windows 2000 will automatically re-install the drivers when you reconnect the
adaptor.
1. Click Start, select Settings and Control Panel.
2. Click on the Network icon.
The Network dialog box displays.
3. Highlight the NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor.
4. Select Remove and then OK, if prompted to confirm the removal of the driver files from the
Windows hardware profile.
5. Click Close to close the Network dialog box.
Updating a Wireless LAN Driver in Windows 2000
To update an existing driver in Windows 2000:
1. Click Start, select Settings and Control Panel.
2. Double-click on the System icon and select the Hardware tab.
3. Click on the Device Manager button.
4. Double-click on Network Adapters.
5. Right-click on the NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor.
6. Select Properties.
The NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor Properties dialog box displays.
7. Select the Driver tab.
8. Click on the Update Driver button.
The Upgrade Device Driver Wizard displays. Click Next.
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9. Select the Search for a suitable driver for my device checkbox. Click Next.
10. Specify the location of the driver files in the Optional search locations field. Click Next.
11. Type in the location of the driver or browse for D:\Drivers\Win2000, where D:\ is the
letter of your CD ROM drive and click Next to continue.
12. Click Next when Windows locates the driver files.
Note: The Microsoft Digital 'Signature Not Found' dialog box could appear at this point in
the installation. A Microsoft digital signature is not required for the driver
installation. Click Yes to continue.
A progress bar displays showing the progress of the driver file update.
The Upgrade Device Driver Wizard dialog box displays again stating Windows has finished
installing the software required for this device.
13. Click Finish.
Installing the Driver in Windows XP
To install the Wireless LAN driver in Windows XP:
1. Insert the adaptor's USB cable into an available USB port on the computer.
2. Insert the NetComm Driver CD.
When Windows XP recognizes the adaptor, the Add New Hardware Wizard dialog box
appears.
3. Select the Install the software automatically (recommended) checkbox. Click Next.
4. The drivers will be found on the CD ROM in the location of D:\Drivers\WinXP, where D:\
is the letter of your CD ROM drive. Select a driver and click Next to continue.
Note: The Microsoft Windows Logo testing screen will appear advising that the driver has
not been tested. Click Continue anyway to proceed.
5. Click Finish.
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Updating a Wireless LAN Driver in Windows XP
To update an existing Wireless LAN driver in Windows XP:
1. Click Start and Control Panel.
2. Double-click on the System icon (select Switch to Classic View if necessary) and select the
Hardware tab.
3. Click on the Device Manager button.
4. Double-click on Network Adapters.
5. Right-click on the NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor.
6. Select Properties.
The NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor Properties dialog box displays.
7. Select the Driver tab.
8. Click on the Update Driver button.
The Upgrade Device Driver Wizard displays. Click Next.
9. Select the Install the software automatically (recommended) checkbox. Click Next.
10. The drivers will be found on the CD ROM in the location of D:\Drivers\WinXP, where D:\
is the letter of your CD ROM drive. Select a driver and click Next to continue.
11. Click Next when Windows locates the driver files.
Note: The Microsoft Windows Logo testing screen will appear advising that the driver has
not been tested. Click Continue anyway to proceed.
A progress bar displays showing the progress of the driver file update.
The Upgrade Device Driver Wizard dialog box displays again stating Windows has
finished installing the software required for this device.
12. Click Finish.
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Configuring you Wireless LAN Card Utility
The Wireless LAN Card Utility is used to configure and monitor the NetComm NP7042 -
Wireless LAN USB Adaptor for all Windows operating systems. It functions in the same way
for Windows 98, Millennium (ME) and Windows 2000.
Note: Users of Microsoft Windows XP do not need to use this Utility as Windows XP has
inbuilt support for WLAN devices and will automatically configure them where
possible. You may still install the Wireless LAN Utility, as it may be useful for
diagnosing problems, but some of the options shown in these pages will not be
available; they are configured by Windows XP. Please refer to the section on
Microsoft Windows XP on page 21.
We strongly suggest you also use Windows XP on-line help (Start -> Help) for
specific information on how Microsoft Windows XP utilizes wireless network
devices.
Microsoft Windows 98/ME/2000
To install the Wireless LAN Card Utility:
1. Go to the Start menu and select Run.
2. Type in the location of the setup.exe program, usually D:\Software\WLan
Utility\setup.exe (where D:\ is the letter of your CD ROM drive), or browse to the setup
file. Click OK.
The setup program will install all the files necessary and create Start Menu and desktop
icons, if selected.
Note: If the setup program detects that the
Wireless LAN Card Utility has been
previously installed, it will prompt you to
either remove the previous installation or
repair the current installation. We
recommend that you remove the existing
installation if you are experiencing
difficulties and are reinstalling the
software.
3. If prompted, restart your computer.
The Wireless LAN Card Utility should now
be available on the Start Menu.
Click on the icon and, once the Wireless LAN
Card Utility has started, the following screen
appears:
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The Adaptor is displayed at the top. If more than one Adaptor is installed on the computer, one
of the installed Adaptors can be chosen using the pull-down menu at the right of the field.
The Wireless LAN Card Utility includes seven tabs: Monitor, Statistics, Site Survey,
Encryption, Advanced, Profiles and Info.
Monitor
As you enter the Monitor screen, you will see the current settings are displayed in a light grey
colour. Click the Change button if you want to change any setting. After you have made the
change, click the Submit button to send the new settings to the NetComm NP7042 - Wireless
LAN USB Adaptor.
Operating Mode:
Channel:
Use this option to select between Infrastructure and Ad-Hoc
mode.
Shows radio channel numbers that are used for WLAN
networking. The channel number can be set only under the Ad-
Hoc operation mode.
In Ad-Hoc mode, each station must have the same channel
numbers and SSID.
In Infrastructure mode, the NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN
USB Adaptor will automatically detect the channel number of
the Access Point.
SSID:
The SSID differentiates one WLAN group name from another.
All access points and devices attempting to connect to a specific
WLAN group name must use the same SSID. A device will not
be permitted to join the BSS unless it can provide the unique
SSID.
If the SSID is left blank, the NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN
USB Adaptor it will detect and display the WLAN group with
the strongest signal from the access point.
TX Rate:
You can use this option to manually set transmission rates of 11
Mbps, 5.5 Mbps, 2 Mbps, and 1 Mbps We recommend you
leave the TX Rate at Auto as the NetComm NP7042 - Wireless
LAN USB Adaptor will automatically detect the suitable linking
transfer rate and will auto fall back from 11 Mbps to 5.5 Mbps,
2 Mbps and 1 Mbps when the signal strength is lower.
Int. Roaming:
When enabled, the International Roaming function allows users
of the NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor to
travel to a foreign country and use their channels. Note: This
feature is not supported in some countries and WLAN networks.
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Radio:
This function is to turn on or off communication to and from the
NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor.
Other information:
This dialog box shows the Status, Signal Strength and Link
Quality of the NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB
Adaptor. The Status will show different information when you
select the following operating modes:
Ad-Hoc Mode:
The status bar will show Ready and the linked BSSID, the Signal
Strength and the Link quality will not be active.
Infrastructure Mode: The status bar will show Associated and the linked Access Point
BSSID, the Signal Strength and Link Quality will be shown in the
screen below under the Status of your NetComm NP7042 -
Wireless LAN USB Adaptor.
When the both stations do not have the same Encryption setting,
one Encryption's WEP Key is enabled and the other is disabled.
The status bar will show Enable Encryption to join this BSS or
Disable Encryption to join this BSS.
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Statistics
The following screen shows various statistics
of the Data transmitting and receiving status.
You can click the Clear button to reset
statistics counter.
Site Survey
The screen shows all the information of
Access Point and the Ad-Hoc wireless
stations round your NetComm NP7042 -
Wireless LAN USB Adaptor. The information
of the Site Survey includes BSSID, SSID,
Signal, Channel used, Encryption status and
the operating type mode.
Double-click the BSSID to choose the SSID
that you want to connect with. You can click
the Rescan button to find new wireless
devices.
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Encryption
This function is used to protect wireless communication from eavesdropping. A secondary
function of WEP is to prevent unauthorized access to a wireless network, and it can be achieved
by using the Encryption function.
Encryption Type:
WEP Key #1 ~ #4:
The Encryption has two types, 64-bit and 128-bit. Select the
level of encryption that you wish to use.
Type into these fields the encryption (decryption) key that you
want to use. You may enter up to four keys (Key #1 to Key #4)
for use on different WEP enabled WLAN's.
Note: Any keys that you type will only be used to set the encryption with the station you
currently connected with.
If you select 64-
bit encryption,
you must type a
value with 10
characters.
If you if you
select 128-bit,
you must type a
value with 26
characters.
All values should
be entered in
hexadecimal
notation. For
more information on encryption keys and hexadecimal
numbering, see Windows Help or your network administrator.
WEP Key to use:
WEP Mode:
There are four WEP keys (Key #1 to Key #4) to use. Select a
key to use for Encryption.
Mandatory Mode:
The device cannot communicate with other stations with
disabled WEP. To communicate, enable the WEP Mode in the
other stations or select Optional Mode.
Optional Mode:
The device can communicate with other stations with disabled
WEP.
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Authentication Type:
Open System:
This system is the most popular. Open systems do not
perform any checks on a workstation before allowing it to
attempt an association on the wireless network. Put simply, each
time a workstation ask "will you authenticate me?", it will be
answered with "Yes".
However, after the workstation is associated, all the data
transferred would be encrypted if WEP was required in the
WLAN. If WEP was not being used, the data frames would all
be sent unencrypted.
This does not mean that your network is insecure (providing you
use WEP), rather the workstations and the other wireless
network devices do not perform any additional checks to
authenticate the new workstation.
Shared Key:
With this system, the authentication algorithm must already be
known to both the new workstation and the device
authenticating the workstation. Each time a workstation asks
"will you authenticate me?", it will be answered with a 'challenge'
response. The workstation then sends an encrypted response
back to the device authenticating the workstation. If the device
authenticating the workstation can decrypt the challenge
response, and the new workstation as allowed on the network,
then the new workstation is authenticated.
Note: Shared Key authentication can add to the security of your network but, as you can
see, is much more complicated. When using Shared Key authentication, you must
have the same authentication key configured in all the devices.
After the settings are completed, click the Submit button to save the setting.
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Advanced
The Advanced screen shows the advanced settings of the Wireless LAN Card Utility, and it
includes Preamble Type, Fragmentation Threshold, and RTS / CTS Threshold.
Preamble Type:
The preamble is to limit the packet size of the data transmitted.
It is recommended that the short preamble is selected when the
link quality is bad, thereby preventing wasted time when
resending any lost packets. The default setting is Auto.
Fragmentation Threshold: This option controls the way the transmitting packets will be
fragmented. If a packet is larger, in octets, than the threshold, the
packet will be split up, or fragmented, prior to being transmitted.
Once a packet is
fragmented, if a
portion of the
original packet is
corrupted in
transit, only the
corrupted portion
needs to be
retransmitted.
Throughput is
generally lower for
fragmented
packets, however,
because the packet
header consumes
RF bandwidth.
It is recommended
to fragment the packet when the link quality is bad, so as to
reduce the time taken to resend a lost packet.
RTS/CTS Threshold
Defines a threshold for the number of packets that can be
received before the NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB
Adaptor will issue a Request to Send (RTS) packet. The RTS
packet is used to avoid data collisions on the WLAN. There are
some trade-offs to consider when setting this parameter. A small
RTS threshold will cause RTS packets to be sent more often,
thereby consuming bandwidth and reducing the apparent
throughput of the WLAN. The more often RTS packets are sent,
however, the quicker the WLAN can recover from interference or
data collisions. Refer to the IEEE 802.11b standard for more
information on the RTS/CTS mechanism.
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Page 19
802.11 Power Save:
Enable this option to reduce the power of the NetComm
NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor.
Click on Submit button to save all the settings.
Profile
The Profile screen shows the existing profile
information. You can create your profile name,
just click the New button and type the profile
that you want to use; otherwise, it will be set to
default.
After changing the settings on the Monitor, an
"*" sign will appear by the current profile name
to indicate that changes have occured. The Save
button on the Profiles screen will become active
and the current setting can be saved with the
profile name you choose.
Info
The Info screen shows the version of Driver,
Firmware, MAC address and Application for
NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB
Adaptor Utility / Driver.
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Microsoft Windows XP
With Microsoft XP's native support for WLAN devices, most of the configuration is done
within the tools provided with Windows XP. Users of Microsoft Windows XP do not need to
use the Utility from the CD-ROM as Windows XP will automatically configure them where
possible. You may still install the Wireless LAN Utility, as it may be useful for diagnosing
problems, but some of the options will not be available. We also strongly suggest you also use
Windows XP on-line help (Start -> Help) for specific information on how Microsoft Windows
XP utilizes wireless network devices.
Once the WLAN card has successfully been installed and recognised by Windows XP, follow
these steps to outline basic wireless network configuration with Windows XP supplied tools.
1. Click Start and go to Control Panel.
2. Double-click on the Network Connections
icon. You may have to switch to Classic View
to see this option.
3. Right click the WLAN device and select View
Available Wireless Networks.
Windows will search for WLAN devices. Once
found, you are given the option to connect to
WLAN network by choosing Connect. If you
wish to use encryption (which is recommended),
then you must enter the WEP key in the
Network Key field. You may also set the other
options, such as the Network SSID, by clicking
Advanced.
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Manual Configuration in Windows XP
If you wish to configure the WLAN connection manually, you need to change the NetComm
NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor properties in the Network Properties or the
Windows Device Manager.
1. Click Start and go to Control Panel.
2. Double-click on the Network Connections
icon. You may have to switch to Classic
View to see this option.
3. Right click the WLAN device and select
Properties.
4. Click Configure.
5. Click the Advanced tab.
From this screen, you may set the Channel, data
rates and other network options. For more
information about these options, please use
Windows XP on-line help (Start -> Help).
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Advanced Topics
Network Topology
The IEEE 802.11 standard supports three basic topologies for WLANs - the Independent Basic
Service Set (IBSS), the Basic Service Set (BSS), and the Extended Service Set (ESS). WLAN
components can be used to extend, enhance or entirely replace existing Ethernet infrastructure.
The NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor can accommodate any of these WLAN
topologies.
IBSS
An Independent Basic Service Set or Ad Hoc network consists of two or more wireless stations
that communicate directly, peer-to-peer, without the services of a wireless access point. An
example of an Ad Hoc or IBSS network would be a group of wireless-equipped laptop
computers at a trade show set up to share information. In this arrangement, one of the WLAN
units is elected to act as a controller or base station, similar to the function of a wireless access
point except there is no connection to a wired Ethernet LAN.
BSS
In a Basic Service Set network, a wireless access point performs multiple tasks - it is a base
station and a network access controller for the wireless stations in the WLAN. The access point
can also provide a connection to a wired Ethernet LAN for the BSS member stations. An
example of a BSS might be a business meeting conducted in a room with only a single Ethernet
port available. Each participant has a wireless laptop computer and requires simultaneous access
to a data server on the Ethernet LAN. A wireless access point provides the connection to the
Ethernet LAN and acts as the network control station for the BSS network members.
In a BSS network, the wireless access point performs functions similar to an Ethernet switch.
The access point controls network access and maintains a dynamically updated list of all the
members of the BSS. Wireless stations in the BSS are identified by their MAC Addresses.
ESS
An Extended Service Set is a series of two or more basic service sets (BSSs) networked on an
Ethernet LAN. Each access point provides connections to the Ethernet LAN for their respective
BSS members. Each BSS member is identified by a unique number, the BSSID (actually the
MAC address of the access point). Wireless stations (such as a laptop computer with a
NetComm NP7032 - Wireless LAN PC Card installed) on an ESS network automatically select
the access point or BSS that can serve them best (has the best signal). If no access point can be
found, the device will scan for a usable access point.
An ESS network can be set up so that wireless stations can roam anywhere within the range of
the access points and still maintain links to both the WLAN and the Ethernet LAN. In this case,
each station shares a common ESS. The ESS network is identified by an ESSID that is known
and used by all of the stations in the ESS network.
Wireless access points can also be used to segment a wireless network. Under such
circumstances, more than one ESS might be used. Two or more separate ESS's can occupy the
same physical space. Each station on a WLAN can use only one ESS - and thus only one ESSID.
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How to Make Your Wireless Network More Secure
Wireless networks can be vulnerable to an outsider gaining access if the encryption settings are
not set adequately. Some of the default security settings on some wireless hardware, and in
Microsoft Windows, may allow access to your wireless network from other wireless devices.
The concepts that are presented here are offered only as a guide, and may help make your
wireless network more difficult for an outsider to gain access. For more specific information
about the implementation of these suggestions, you should consult a trusted security source.
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Enable Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption
The 802.11b standard, which your NetComm WLAN device is based on, permits Wired
Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption. Depending on what other hardware you use your
NetComm NP7042 - Wireless LAN USB Adaptor with, there are two levels of WEP
typically available: 64-bit encryption (based on a 40-bit encryption key), and 128-bit
encryption (based on a 104-bit key). We strongly recommend that you enable WEP.
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Change the default Service Set Identifier (SSID) and passwords for your network devices.
Do not change the SSID or password to reflect your name, address, or anything that would
be easy to guess as this could make it easy for an outsider to gain access to your wireless
network.
Install Access Points away from windows
If you are installing access points, think about locating them towards the centre of your
home instead of near the windows. Plan your coverage to radiate out to the windows, but
not beyond. If the access points are located near the windows, a stronger signal will be
radiated outside your home making it easier for those outside the building to locate your
network.
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Check the range of your network
Take a notebook, or a PDA computer, that is equipped with a wireless network PC Card and
go outside your home to survey what range you get when moving around your property or
neighbourhood. You may be surprised how far the signal radiates. If you can connect from
three or four houses away, so can someone else.
Use a combination of the previous suggestions.
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Troubleshooting
Windows Troubleshooting Tips
Many problems can easily be diagnosed using the tools provided by Microsoft Windows, such
as the PING utility, Network Monitors, TELNET and FTP. Other more elaborate tools, such as
LAN analysers, for example NETXRAY or Novell's LAN analyser, may also be used.
Some common problems exhibited when the Wireless LAN USB Card has not been properly
installed include:
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Windows 95/98 does not recognize the Wireless LAN USB Card when installed.
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Verify that Windows 95/98 Wireless LAN USB support is installed.
Verify the computer has a Plug and Play BIOS.
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The driver fails to load.
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A resource conflict could exist. Use the Device Manager to resolve resource conflicts.
Select the System applet from the Control Panel.
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The workstation cannot associate to the Wireless access point.
Verify the adaptor ESSID matches the ESSID of the Access Point.
Degraded performance from the Wireless LAN USB Card.
Verify a secure antenna connection on the adaptor.
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Network drive mappings disappear when the laptop suspends or the adaptor is removed
then reinserted.
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Windows does not automatically restore network drive mappings under these
conditions. Log out and log in again, or restart the machine to restore the connections.
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Non-functioning Wireless LAN USB Card LED's
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Verify the Card Type parameter is set correctly.
Verify that the adaptor ESSID matches the ESSID of the AP.
An adaptor associates with an access point, but the WLAN USB Adaptor Utility fails to
discover the access point or work properly.
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The WLAN USB Adaptor Utility is closely integrated with the driver. Investigate for
system resource conflicts and reload or reconfigure driver software as needed.
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Registering your NetComm Product
To ensure that the conditions of your warranty are complied with, please go to the NetComm
web site for quick and easy registration of your product at
Alternatively, you can fill in the Warranty Registration Form and mail it to NetComm Limited,
PO Box 1200, Lane Cove NSW 2066.
Contact Information
If you have any technical difficulties with your product, please do not hesitate to contact
NetComm’s Customer Support Department.
Email:
Fax:
(02) 9424-2010
Web:
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Warranty Registration Form
Date of Purchase …….......………………...........……….................................
Name
…….......………………...........……….................................
…….......………………...........……….................................
…….......………………...........……….................................
Company
Address
…………………….........……...........
Post Code .....………...……….
..............………....……. Fax No ( .....………...……….
…….......………………...........……….................................
Tel No (
E-mail
)
)
The following information is vital for your warranty
Please make sure it’s correct and complete.
Serial No
Model
…….......………………...........……….................................
…….......………………...........……….................................
Product Type:
Make sure
PC Card
Internal
External
you fill this
section in!
!
Other
I intend to use this modem at:
Home
School/College/University
Business
Government Office
Dealer’s Name
Dealer’s Address …….......………………...........……….................................
…………………….........……........... Post Code .....………...……….
Tel No ( ..............………....……. Fax No ( .....………...……….
How did you find out about our products?
…….......………………...........……….................................
)
)
…………………….............................………………………………………....…………
…………………….............................………………………………………....…………
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Product Warranty
The warranty is granted on the following conditions:
1. This warranty extends to the original purchaser (you) and is not transferable;
2. This warranty shall not apply to software programs, batteries, power supplies, cables or
other accessories supplied in or with the product;
3. The customer complies with all of the terms of any relevant agreement with NetComm and
any other reasonable requirements of NetComm including producing such evidence of
purchase as NetComm may require;
4. The cost of transporting product to and from NetComm’s nominated premises is your
responsibility; and,
5. NetComm does not have any liability or responsibility under this warranty where any cost,
loss, injury or damage of any kind, whether direct, indirect, consequential, incidental or
otherwise arises out of events beyond NetComm’s reasonable control. This includes but is
not limited to: acts of God, war, riot, embargoes, acts of civil or military authorities, fire,
floods, electricity outages, lightning, power surges, or shortages of materials or labour.
6. The customer is responsible for the security of their computer and network at all times.
Security features may be disabled within the factory default settings. NetComm recommends
that you enable these features to enhance your security.
The warranty is automatically voided if:
1. You, or someone else, use the product, or attempts to use it, other than as specified by
NetComm;
2. The fault or defect in your product is the result of a voltage surge subjected to the product
either by the way of power supply or communication line, whether caused by thunderstorm
activity or any other cause(s);
3. The fault is the result of accidental damage or damage in transit, including but not limited to
liquid spillage;
4. Your product has been used for any purposes other than that for which it is sold, or in any
way other than in strict accordance with the user manual supplied;
5. Your product has been repaired or modified or attempted to be repaired or modified, other
than by a qualified person at a service centre authorised by NetComm; and,
6. The serial number has been defaced or altered in any way or if the serial number plate has
been removed.
7. The Telephone Line Cord used with this unit must comply with the ACA Technical Standard
TS008.
Limitations of Warranty
The Trade Practices Act 1974 and corresponding State and Territory Fair Trading Acts or
legalisation of another Government (“the relevant acts”) in certain circumstances imply
mandatory conditions and warranties which cannot be excluded. This warranty is in addition to
and not in replacement for such conditions and warranties.
To the extent permitted by the Relevant Acts, in relation to your product and any other materials
provided with the product (“the Goods”) the liability of NetComm under the Relevant Acts is
limited to, at the option of NetComm to:
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Replacement of the Goods; or
Repair of the Goods; or
Payment of the cost of replacing the Goods; or
Payment of the cost of having the Goods repaired.
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All NetComm ACN 002 490 486 products have a standard 12 months warranty from date of
purchase. However some products have an extended warranty option (refer to packaging). To
be eligible for the extended warranty you must supply the requested warranty information to
NetComm within 30 days of the original purchase by registering on-line via the NetComm web
NetComm reserves the right to request proof of purchase upon any warranty claim.
Trademarks and Notices
NetComm™ is a trademark of NetComm Limited. Windows® is a registered trademark of
Microsoft Corporation. Other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks
of their respective holders. Information is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved.
Please note that the images used in this document may vary slightly from those of the actual
product. Specifications are accurate at the time of the preparation of this document but are
subject to change without notice.
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