ASUSTeK Computer WL160G USB WIRELESS LAN ADATER User Manual USERS MANUAL

ASUSTeK Computer Inc USB WIRELESS LAN ADATER USERS MANUAL

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WL160G User Manual

USERS MANUAL

®USB Wireless LAN Adapter(WL-160g)User Guide

iiE1441First Edition V1December 2003Copyright © 2003 ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. All Rights Reserved.No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may bereproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into anylanguage in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser forbackup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC.(“ASUS”).Product warranty or service will not be extended if: (1) the product is repaired, modified oraltered, unless such repair, modification of alteration is authorized in writing by ASUS; or(2) the serial number of the product is defaced or missing.ASUS PROVIDES THIS MANUAL “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EITHEREXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIEDWARRANTIES OR CONDITIONS OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR APARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ASUS, ITS DIRECTORS, OFFICERS,EMPLOYEES OR AGENTS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, ORCONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES (INCLUDING DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, LOSSOF BUSINESS, LOSS OF USE OR DATA, INTERRUPTION OF BUSINESS AND THELIKE), EVEN IF ASUS HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGESARISING FROM ANY DEFECT OR ERROR IN THIS MANUAL OR PRODUCT.SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS MANUAL ARE FURNISHEDFOR INFORMATIONAL USE ONLY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIMEWITHOUT NOTICE, AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED AS A COMMITMENT BYASUS. ASUS ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS ORINACCURACIES THAT MAY APPEAR IN THIS MANUAL, INCLUDING THE PRODUCTSAND SOFTWARE DESCRIBED IN IT.Products and corporate names appearing in this manual may or may not be registeredtrademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used only for identificationor explanation and to the owners’ benefit, without intent to infringe.

iiiContentsNotice ...................................................................................................... vSafety statements ................................................................................... viAbout this guide ..................................................................................... viiiWL-160g specification summary ............................................................. ixChapter 1: Product introduction1.1 Welcome! ...................................................................................1-21.2 Package contents ......................................................................1-21.3 Features.....................................................................................1-31.3.1 Top view .................................................................... 1-31.3.2 Bottom view .............................................................. 1-31.3.3 Rear view .................................................................. 1-41.4 LED indicators ........................................................................... 1-41.5 Network setup ............................................................................1-51.5.1 Ad-hoc network .........................................................1-51.5.2 Infrastructure network ............................................... 1-6Chapter 2: Installation2.1 System requirements .................................................................2-22.2 Installation procedures...............................................................2-22.2.1 Installing the device drivers and utilities ................... 2-22.2.2 Installing the device ..................................................2-32.3 Placement ..................................................................................2-42.3.1 Wall mounting ...........................................................2-42.3.2 Magnetic mounting ...................................................2-5Chapter 3: Software support3.1 Control Center ........................................................................... 3-23.1.1 Control Center icons ................................................. 3-23.1.2 Control Center right-click menu ................................ 3-23.1.3 Control Center left-click menu .................................. 3-3

ivContents3.2 Wireless Settings .......................................................................3-43.2.1 Status........................................................................3-43.2.2 Configuration ............................................................3-73.2.3 Site Survey ............................................................... 3-93.2.4 About Wireless Settings..........................................3-103.2.5 Link State ................................................................3-103.2.6 Command icons ...................................................... 3-113.2.7 Other right-click options .......................................... 3-113.3 Mobile Manager ....................................................................... 3-133.3.1 Mobile Manager main window ................................ 3-133.3.2 Using the New Configuration Wizard ...................... 3-153.3.3 Editing a configuration ............................................ 3-193.4 Site Monitor..............................................................................3-233.4.1 Launching Site Monitor ........................................... 3-233.4.2 Site Monitor main window ....................................... 3-233.4.3 Monitoring a connection..........................................3-24Chapter 4: TroubleshootingTroubleshooting ......................................................................... 4-2

vFederal Communications Commission StatementThis device complies with FCC Rules Part 15. Operation is subject to thefollowing two conditions:•This device may not cause harmful interference, and•This device must accept any interference received, includinginterference that may cause undesired operation.This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for aclass B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FederalCommunications Commission (FCC) rules. These limits are designed toprovide reasonable protection against harmful interference in aresidential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiateradio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance withthe instructions, may cause harmful interference to radiocommunications. However, there is no guarantee that interference willnot occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmfulinterference to radio or television reception, which can be determined byturning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correctthe interference by one or more of the following measures:•Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.•Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.•Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that towhich the receiver is connected.•Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.CAUTION! You are cautioned that changes or modifications notexpressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could voidyour authority to operate the equipment.Reprinted from the Code of Federal Regulations #47, part 15.193, 1993.Washington DC: Office of the Federal Register, National Archives andRecords Administration, U.S. Government Printing Office.Notice

viSafety statementsRegulatory Information/DisclaimersInstallation and use of this Wireless LAN device must be in strictaccordance with the instructions included in the user documentationprovided with the product. Any changes or modifications (including theantennas) made to this device that are not expressly approved by themanufacturer may void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.The manufacturer is not responsible for any radio or televisioninterference caused by unauthorized modification of this device, or thesubstitution of the connecting cables and equipment other thanmanufacturer specified. It is the responsibility of the user to correct anyinterference caused by such unauthorized modification, substitution orattachment. Manufacturer and its authorized resellers or distributors willassume no liability for any damage or violation of government regulationsarising from failing to comply with these guidelines.CAUTION! To maintain compliance with FCC’s RF exposure guidelines,this equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance[20cm] between the radiator and your body. Use on the suppliedantenna. Unauthorized antenna, modification, or attachments coulddamage the transmitter and may violate FCC regulations.Safety InformationIn order to maintain compliance with the FCC RF exposure guidelines, thisequipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance [20cm]between the radiator and your body. Use only with supplied antenna.Unauthorized antenna, modification, or attachments could damage thetransmitter and may violate FCC regulations.CAUTION! Any changes or modifications not expressly approved in thismanual could void your authorization to use this device.MPE StatementYour device contains a low power transmitter. When device is transmitted itsends out Radio Frequency (RF) signal.

viiSafety statementsCaution Statement of the FCC Radio FrequencyExposureThis Wireless LAN radio device has been evaluated under FCC BulletinOET 65C and found compliant to the requirements as set forth in CFR47 Sections 2.1091, 2.1093, and 15.247(b)(4) addressing RF Exposurefrom radio frequency devices. The radiation output power of thisWireless LAN device is far below the FCC radio frequency exposurelimits. Nevertheless, this device shall be used in such a manner that thepotential for human contact during normal operation – as a mobile orportable device but use in a body-worn way is strictly prohibit. Whenusing this device, a certain separation distance between antenna andnearby persons has to be kept to ensure RF exposure compliance. Inorder to comply with the RF exposure limits established in the ANSIC95.1 standards, the distance between the antennas and the usershould not be less than [20cm].RF ExposureThe antenna(s) used for this transmitter must not be co-located oroperating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.

viiiThis user guide contains the information you need to install and configureyour ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter.How this guide is organizedThis guide contains the following parts:• Chapter 1: Product introductionThis chapter describes the physical features of the ASUS PocketWireless Access Point. It also presents the package contents, LEDindicators, and recommended network settings.• Chapter 2: Hardware installationThis chapter provides information on how to install the ASUS USBWireless LAN Adapter.•Chapter 3: ConfigurationThis chapter provides information on the contents of the support CD.• Chapter 4: TroubleshootingThis chapter contains a troubleshooting guide for solving commonproblems you may encounter when using the ASUS USB WirelessLAN Adapter.About this guideConventions used in this guideTo make sure that you perform certain tasks properly, take note of thefollowing symbols used throughout this guide.WARNING: Information to prevent injury to yourself when tryingto complete a task.CAUTION: Information to prevent damage to the componentswhen trying to complete a task.IMPORTANT: Information that you MUST follow to complete atask.NOTE: Tips and additional information to aid in completing atask.

ixWL-160g specification summary*Standard IEEE 802.11gInterface USB 2.0Technology Octogonal Frequency (OFDM)Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS)Data transfer rate 802.11g: 54Mbps with auto-fallback to 48, 36, 24,18, 12, 9, and 6Mbps802.11b: 11Mbps with auto-fallback to 5.5, 2, and1MbpsNetwork types Supports Infrastructure and Ad-hoc networksFrequency band 2.4 GHz ~ 2.5 GHzSecurity 64-bit/128-bit configurable WEP encryptionOperating distance Indoors @ 11Mbps : 130 ft (40 m)Indoors @ 54Mbps : 80 ft (25 m)Outdoors @ 11Mbps LOS** : 1000 ft (310 m)Outdoors @ 54Mbps LOS**: 200 ft (60 m)Compatibility Compatible with IEEE 802.11b and 802.11g devicesPower requirement USB bus-poweredDimensions 86mm x 62mm x 17mmSupported OS Windows® 2000/XPAntenna Two internal 3D Inverted-F antennasMounting options Desktop, magnetic, or wall installationUtilities Control CenterWireless SettingsMobile ManagerSite MonitorTroubleShooting* Specifications are subject to change without notice.** Line-of-SightThe ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter operating distance may be shorter ifthere are walls, barriers, or interferences in the home layout or operatingenvironment.

Notes

Chapter 1Product introductionThis chapter describes thephysical features of the ASUSPocket Wireless Access Point. Italso presents the packagecontents, LED indicators, andrecommended network settings.

1-2 ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Product introduction1.1 Welcome!Thank you for choosing the ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter!The ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter is an easy-to-install and usewireless LAN adapter. Conforming to IEEE 802.11g standard for wirelesslocal area network (WLAN), the ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter iscapable of up to 54Mbps data transmission rate using the DirectSequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) and the Octogonal FrequencyDivision Multiplexing technologies.The ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter also comes with the latestwireless technology developed by ASUS to keep you ahead in the worldof wireless computing.Unless otherwise specified, the term “device” in this User Guide refers tothe ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter.1.2 Package contentsCheck the following items in your ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapterpackage. Contact your retailer if any item is damaged or missing.ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)USB cableSupport CDQuick Start Guide

1-3Product introductionASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)1.3 Features1.3.1 Top viewLEDs. The ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter comes with three LEDindicators. Refer to section 1.4 “LED indicators” for details.LEDs1.3.2 Bottom viewMounting hook. Use the mounting hook to install the device on concrete orwooden surfaces using a roundhead screw.Magnetic ring. Use the magnetic ring when mounting the device on metalsurfaces, such as computer chassis or office partition.Air vents. These vents provide ideal ventilation to the device.Mounting hookMagnetic ringAir vents

1-4 ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Product introduction1.4 LED indicatorsThe device comes with a Power, Activity, and LinkLED indicators. Refer to the table below for LEDindications.1.3.3 Rear viewUSB port. This USB port connects the device to a computer via the suppliedUSB plug and cable.LED Status IndicationPower On The adapter is receiving power from the USB port.Off The adapter is not receiving power from the USB port. The USB cable may be disconnected or the computer is turned off.Activity Blinking The adapter is transmitting or receiving data packets.Link On The adapter is linked to a wireless network.Blinking The adapter is searching for a wireless network to connect to.USB port

1-5Product introductionASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)1.5 Network setupThe ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter may be used in both Ad-hoc andInfrastructure network types. The following sections decribe the devicefunctions in these network types.1.5.1 Ad-hoc networkIn an Ad-hoc network type, the device connects to another wireless LANadapter in a wireless network. No access point (AP) is present in thiswireless environment.Determine your network settings before installing the device to avail all itsfeatures. The following network settings are recommended.

1-6 ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Product introduction1.5.2 Infrastructure networkIn an Infrastructure network, the wireless network is centered on anaccess point (AP) that provides a central link for wireless clients tocommunicate with each other or with a wired network.INTERNETADSL Modem Access Point

InstallationChapter 2This chapter provides informationon how to install the ASUS USBWireless LAN Adapter.

2-2 ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Installation2.1 System requirementsBefore installing the ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter, make sure thatyour system meets the following requirements:•Intel® Pentium® 4 or AMD K7/K8 system•Minimum 64MB system memory•Windows® 98SE/ME/2000 (SP4)/XP (SP1) operating system•Optical drive (for software installation)•An available USB port (USB 2.0 recommended)2.2 Installation proceduresFollow these instructions to install the ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapterin your computer.1. Install the device drivers and utilities from the support CD.2. Connect the device to your computer.You must install the ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter drivers and utilitiesbefore connecting the device to your computer.2.2.1 Installing the device drivers and utilitiesTo install the device driver and utilities in your computer:1. Insert the support CD to the optical drive.2. Click “Install ASUS WLANCard Utilities/Driver” whenthe ASUS Wireless LANCard installation windowappears.3. The device drivers andutilities are copied into yourcomputer.If Autorun is NOT enabled in your computer, browse the contents of thesupport CD and double click the Setup.exe file to run the CD.

2-4 ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Installation2.3.1 Wall mountingAside from desktop placement,you may install the ASUS USBWireless LAN Adapter verticallyon a concrete or wooden wallusing the mounting hooks at thebottom of the device and amounting screw.To mount the device on a concrete or wooden wall:1. Locate the mounting hook at the bottom of the device.2. Select an ideal location for the device following the considerationsmentioned above.3. Tighten a round head screw on the concrete or wooden wall until only1/4” is showing.4. Latch the device into the screw.Adjust the screw if you cannot latch the device or if the screw is too loose.Install this device at least 20 centimeters from any person to insure that theproduct is operated in accordance with the RF Guidelines for HumanExposure which have been adopted by the Federal CommunicationsCommission.2.3 PlacementTake note of the following guidelines before placing the device.•Place the device on a flat, stable surface as far from the ground aspossible•Keep the device away from metal obstructions and direct sunlight.•Keep the device away from transformers, heavy-duty motors, fluorescentlights, microwave ovens, refrigerators, and other industrial equipment toprevent interference and signal loss.Mounting hook

2-5InstallationASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)2.3.2 Magnetic mountingUse the magnetic ring on thebottom of the device to mount iton a flat, metal surface, such asthe side of your computer chassisor office partition.Magnetic ringDO NOT place the magnetic ring near floppy or magnetic disks to avoiddata loss.

Notes

Software supportChapter 3This chapter provides informationon the contents of the support CD.

3-2 ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Software support3.1.2 Control Center right-click menuRight-clicking the Control Center icondisplays the right-click menu.3.1 Control CenterThe Control Center utility is a managementsoftware that launches applications andconfigures network settings. The Control Centerstarts automatically when the system boots and displays the ControlCenter icon in the Windows® taskbar. The Control Center icon serves asan application launcher, and indicator of signal quality and Internetconnection.3.1.1 Control Center iconsThe Control Center icon indicates the quality of link to the access pointand connection to the Internet. Refer to the table below for iconindications.Infrastructure Network Mode (wireless LAN adapter to an access point)Excellent link quality and Excellent link quality but notconnected to the Internet connected to the InternetGood link quality and Good link quality but notconnected to the Internet connected to the InternetFair link quality and Fair link quality but notconnected to the Internet connected to the InternetPoor link quality but Poor link quality and notconnected to the Internet connected to the InternetNot linked but connected Not linked and notto the Internet connected to the InternetAd-hoc Network Mode (wireless LAN adapter to other Wi-Fi device)LinkedNot LinkedConnected to the Internet

3-3Software supportASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)3.1.3 Control Center left-click menuLeft-clicking the Control Centericon displays the left-click menu.The options are described below.Wireless Radio On – Turns the wireless LAN adapter radio ON.Wireless Radio Off – Turns the wireless LAN adapter radio OFF.Search & Connect – View available wireless networks within range.Wireless Option – Sets yourWindows® XP wireless networkingenvironment. The WirelessOption window appears when youselect this option. Select “Onlyuse ASUS utilities and disableXP wireless function” to avail allASUS USB wireless LAN adapterfeatures. Click OK.

3-4 ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Software support3.2 Wireless SettingsThe Wireless Settings is the maininterface that allows you tocontrol the ASUS wireless LANadapter. Use the WirelessSettings to view the operationaland connection status, or tomodify the wireless LAN adapterconfiguration.The Wireless Settings window iscomposed of the property windowand tabbed property sheets. Clickthe icons in the property windowto display their tabbed property sheets.3.2.1 StatusStatus tabThe Status tab provides generalinformation on the wireless LANadapter.Association State. This fielddisplays the connection status andMAC address of the network wherethe system is connected.Service Set Identifier (SSID). Thisfield displays the SSID of thenetwork to which the card isassociated or is intending to join. The SSID is a group name shared byevery member of a wireless network. Only client PCs with the same SSIDare allowed to establish a connection.The MAC Address field displays the hardware address of a deviceconnected to a network.The Current Channel field displays the radio channel that the card iscurrently tuned. The channel changes as wireless LAN adapter scans theavailable channels.Property windowTabbed property sheets

3-5Software supportASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)IP Config tabThe IP Config tab displays thecurrent host and Ethernet adapterconfigurations. IP Config displaysTCP/IP information including the IPaddress, subnet mask, defaultgateway, DNS and Windows InternetNaming Service (WINS)configurations.Use the IP Config Tab to verify yournetwork settings.IP Release. Click to release the DHCP IP address for the wireless LAN adapter.Connection tabThe Connection tab providesreal-time information on connectionthroughput, frame errors, signalstrength, link quality and overallconnection quality in graphicalrepresentation.The Current Data Rate field displays the data transfer rate between thewireless LAN adapter and the access point.The Radio State field displays the radio communication status. Click theDisable Radio button if you wish to disable radio communication with anaccess point or a Wi-Fi device.Rescan button - Click to allow wireless LAN adapter to scan availablewireless networks and to connect to the network with the best signal quality.Change SSID button - Click to change the SSID. Clicking this buttonopens the Config-Basic window. See “Basic tab” on page 3-7.Search and Connect button - Click to view all wireless networks withinthe range of your system. Clicking this button opens the Site Surveywindow. See page 3-9.

3-6 ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Software supportIP Renew. Click to renew the DHCP IP address for the wireless LANadapter.Ping. Click to display the Ping tab. Use ping to verify a connection to aparticular host name or IP address.Ping tabThe Ping tab allows you to verify theconnection of your computer withanother computer in a network. Toping a connection:1. Type the IP address of theconnection you want to verify inthe IP Address field.2. Configure the ping session byassigning the size and count ofpacket to send, and the time limitfor a ping session to continue (inmilliseconds).3. Click the Ping button.During the ping session, the Pingbutton toggles into a Stop button.Click Stop anytime to cancel theping session.The session field displaysinformation on the verifiedconnection including the roundtriptime (minimum, maximum, andaverage) and packets sent, received,and lost after a ping session.Click the Clear button to clear thesession field.The IP Release and IP Renew buttons may only be used on aDHCP-configured wireless LAN adapter.

3-7Software supportASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)3.2.2 ConfigurationBasic tabThe Basic tab provides generalinformation on network types andother configurations.Network Type. Select the type ofnetwork that you wish to use. SelectInfrastructure mode to establish aconnection with an access point(AP). In this mode, your system canaccess wireless LAN and wired LAN(Ethernet) via the AP. Select the AdHoc mode to communicate directlywith other mobile clients within thewireless LAN adapter range.Network Name - Displays the network SSID. The network SSID is a stringuse to identify a wireless LAN. Assign different SSIDs to segment thewireless LAN and increase network security. Set the SSID to a null stringto allow your station to connect to any available access point. Null stringmay not be used in Ad-hoc mode.Channel. In Infrastructure mode, wireless LAN adapter automaticallytunes in to the access point channel. In Ad-hoc mode, select a channelthat is allowed for use in your country/region.Data Rate. Sets the data transmission rate to Fix or Auto. Select FullyAuto to allow the device to adjust to the most suitable connection. You mayalso fix data transfer rates to 54, 48, 36, 24, 18, 12, 11, 9, 6, 5.5, 2 and 1Mbps.PS Mode. This field allows control of the wireless LAN adapter powersaving features. The CAM (Constantly Awake mode) is recommended forsystems running on AC power. Other options include MAX_PSP(Maximum Power Savings) and Fast_PSP (Fast power-saving mode)Others. Click the WEP or Advanced link to open the Encryption orAdvanced property tab sheet.Operating the device at very high data rates reduces the operating range.

3-8 ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Software supportEncryption tabWireless data transmissions betweenyour wireless LAN adapter and the APare secured using the Wired EquivalentPrivacy (WEP) encryption. Check theData encryption (WEP enabled) optionto assign the WEP keys.Check the Network Authentication(Shared Mode) option if you wish touse a network key to authenticate apreferred wireless network.Unchecking this option allows thenetwork to operate on an Open System mode.Key Format allows you to set a hexadecimal digit or ASCII character WEP key.Key Length allows you to choose a 64-bit or a 128-bit WEP key. A 64-bitencryption contains 10 hexadecimal digits or 5 ASCII characters. A 128-bitencryption contains 26 hexadecimal digits or 13 ASCII characters.All wireless clients in a network must have identical WEP keys tocommunicate with each other or with an access point.Two ways to assign WEP keysManual Assignment. For a 64-bit encryption, enter 10 hexadecimal digits(0~9, a~f, A~F) or 5 ASCII characters in each of the four WEP keys. For128-bit encryption enter 26 hexadecimal digits (0~9, a~f, A~F) or 13 ASCIIcharacters in each of the four WEP keys.Automatic Generation. Type a combination of up to 64 letters, numbers,or symbols in the Passphrase field. The Wireless Settings utility uses analgorithm to generate four WEP keys based on the typed combination.

3-9Software supportASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Advanced tabThe Advanced tab displays thewireless LAN adapter advancedsettings. We recommend that youkeep the default settings.•64-bit and 40-bit WEP keys use the same encryption method and caninteroperate on wireless networks. This lower level of WEP encryptionuses a 40-bit (10 hexadecimal digits assigned by the user) secret keyand a 24-bit Initialization Vector assigned by the wireless LAN adapter.104-bit and 128-bit WEP keys use the same encryption method.•After assigning the WEP keys, click APPLY to save and activate theencryption. Manually assigned encryptions are more secure thanautomatically generated encryptions.•Use Manual Assignment instead of Automatic Generation if you are notsure whether other wireless clients use the same algorithm as that ofwireless LAN adapter.•Keep a record of the WEP encryption keys.3.2.3 Site SurveyThe Site Survey window displaysthe available networks within thewireless LAN adapter range and thefollowing network settings.BSSID - The IEEE MAC address ofthe available wireless networks.SSID - SSID (service set identifier) ofthe network.CH - Direct sequence channel usedby the network.

3-10 ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Software supportRSSI - Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) in dBm.Type - wireless network mode. AP indicates an Infrastructure networktype. STA indicates an Ad-hoc network type.WEP - shows whether a network has an enabled (On) or disabled (Off)WEP encryption.Select an available network and click Connect to establish connection.Click Search to rescan available networks.3.2.4 About Wireless SettingsClick the About icon to view thesoftware version, driver version, andcopyright information.3.2.5 Link StateDisplays the current connectionstatus of the wireless LAN adapter tothe AP or to other Wi-Fi devices. Anicons represents the Link State foreasy identification. Refer to the tablebelow for icon indications.Table of Icon IndicationsExcellent link quality (Infrastructure)Good link quality (Infrastructure)Fair link quality (Infrastructure)Poor link quality (Infrastructure)Not linked (Infrastructure)Linked (Ad-hoc)Not linked (Ad-hoc)

3-12 ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Software supportAbout Control CenterSelect the About Control Centeroption to display the Control Centersoftware version and copyrightinformation.

3-13Software supportASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)3.3.1 Mobile Manager main window3.3 Mobile ManagerThe Mobile Manager is a convenient tool to setup and manage networklocation settings. This utility allows users to configure multiple alternativeconfigurations for different locations. You need to set this up once, theneasily switch configurations when you change your location.To launch the Mobile Manager utility:•Click the Windows® Start button. Select Programs > ASUS Utility >WLAN Card > Mobile Manager, or•Right-click the Control Center icon on the Windows® taskbar, then selectMobile Manager.You can use the Mobile Manager utility main window to create a newconfiguration, edit a configuration or activate a configuration. The mainwindow has a menu bar, tool bar, and a window that displays existingconfigurations.The toolbar buttons allow quick access to some of the most commoncommands in the Mobile Manager utility. All toolbar button commands arealso available from the menu bar.

3-14 ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Software supportFile MenuNew Configuration – Select this option to launch the NewConfiguration Wizard. See the next section for details.Import Configuration – Select this option to load a configurationfrom an INI File.Export Configuration – Save the selected configuration(containing Wireless Settings, TCP/IP Settings, Network Settings,etc.) to an INI file. The INI file may be saved on a floppy disk, andmay be imported by other computers with the Mobile Managerutility. You may also use this file as backup.Exit – Select to close the Mobile Manager utility.Mobilize MenuAuto Roaming – Activating this option allows the ASUS USBWireless LAN Adapter to switch to another association you havespecified when changes to an existing association occured. If noassociations are made, Auto Roaming automatically connects to awireless network based on your specified configurations.Activate Configuration – Applies the configuration you selectedfrom the list. Follow the screens instructions to activate aconfiguration.Activating a configuration requires system restart when you are usingWindows® 98/ME OS. Windows® 2000/XP OS does not require systemrestart after you activate a configuration.Edit MenuEdit Configuration – The Edit Configuration option allows you toedit selected configuration items. See the “Editing a Configuration”section on page 3-19 for details.Rename – Changes the name of the selected configuration.Copy – Duplicates the selected configuration.Delete – Discards the selected configuration.Up – Raises the position of a selected wireless networkconfiguration in the preferred network list.

3-16 ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Software support2. Choose the type of configurationyou want to create. Theconfiguration types are describedbelow. Click Next when done.•ASUS Wireless Local Area Network Configuration. Select this optionif you have an installed ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter in yourcomputer.•Wired Local Area Network Configuration. Select this if your computerhas an installed network interface card other than ASUS USB WirelessLAN Adapter.•Dialup Networking Configuration. Select this option if your computerhas an installed modem.3. Enter the name and description ofthe configuration you wish tocreate, then click Next.

3-17Software supportASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)4. Configure the wireless settingsincluding the network type, SSID,channel and WEP encryption.Click Next when done.5. Set the IP address of theconfiguration using this window.Specify the IP address using theDHCP server (automatic) ormanual assignment. The wizardauto-detects and displays thecurrent system settings.Click Next when done.6. Enter the computer name, thenclick Next.

3-18 ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Software support7. Use this window to set the proxyserver and printer sharing.Click Advanced to display theproxy server and printer sharingoptions.Click Next when finished.8. Check the ActivateConfiguration Now option to startusing the created configuration.The Mobile Manager windowdisplays the created configurationwhen it is not activated. ClickFinish to close the wizard.

3-19Software supportASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)General settingsName – The configuration name indicates the location from where you aredialing or connecting to a network. For example, name your configuration“Work-Meeting Room” if you are using this connection at your workplacemeeting room.Description – Enter additional details of the configuration in this field. Thisfield is optional.Network settings -Wireless tabPriority of Preferred Network –This field allows you to select thepriority of the preferred network.Network TypeInfrastructure – Select theInfrastructure mode to establishconnection to an access point.Ad-hoc – Select the Ad-hoc mode tocommunicate directly with otherWLAN devices without using anaccess point.3.3.3 Editing a configurationTo edit a configuration:1. Select a configuration from the Mobile Manager window.2. Click Edit from the menu bar, then select Edit Configuration.The Edit Configuration dialog boxappears. Navigate through thewindows by clicking the buttonson the left.

3-20 ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Software supportSSIDSSID stands for Service Set Identifier, a string used to identify a wirelessLAN. You can only connect with an Access Point, that has the same SSID.Use different SSIDs to segment the wireless LAN and add security.ChannelThe Channel field allow you to select the radio channel for the ASUS USBWireless LAN Adapter. In an Infrastructure network, your wireless LANadapter automatically selects the correct frequency channel required tocommunicate with an Access Point.WEPThis option allows you to disable or enable (64-bit or 128-bit) WEPencryption. The WEP Key is a 64-bit (5 byte) or 128-bit (13 byte)hexadecimal digit use to encrypt transmitted data packets and decryptreceived data packets.Network settings -Identification tabComputer name – Assign your computer a unique name of up to 15characters. The computer name allows other users in a network torecognize your computer. The computer name is generally the same withthe DNS hostname.Avoid using spaces or symbols in your computer name.TCP/IP settings-Device tabSelect the network adapter you wantto use for this configuration.This item appears only whenyou are edtiting a wired LANconfiguration.TCP/IP settings-IP Address tabObtain an IP address from aDHCP server – The Dynamic HostConfiguration Protocol (DHCP)server assigns IP addresses automatically within a specified range ofdevices.

3-21Software supportASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Specify an IP address – Ask your network administrator for the IPaddress and subnet mask you should use. Type in the IP Address andSubnet Mask manually.TCP/IP settings-Gateway tabSpecify the gateways. You may specify more than one gateway. Set up theprimary gateway first.Add – Click this button to add a new TCP/IP gateway address. The addedgateway appears in the Default gateways list. Repeat the process to addanother gateway. The value in each gateway field must be between 0 and255. You can have up to eight IP addresses for gateways.Edit – Click this button to edit a selected gateway address.Remove – Click this button to delete a selected gateway address.TCP/IP settings-DNS tabThe DNS tab allows you to configure the DNS settings of the selectedconfiguration. This tab also allows you to add a DNS server and arrangethem in order of their use. You may also assign a DNS suffix for aspecified DNS server.TCP/IP settings-WINS tabThe WINS tab allows you to configure the WINS settings of the selectedconfiguration. This tab allows you to add WINS addresses and arrangethem in order of their use. This tab also allows you to enable or importLMHOST lookup and adjust the NetBIOS settings.Internet settingsA proxy server acts as a securitybarrier between your internalnetwork (Intranet) and the Internet.A proxy server restricts otherpeople on the Internet fromgaining access to confidentialinformation on your internalnetwork or your computer.Disable Proxy Server – Allowsyou to disable the proxy server.

3-22 ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Software supportEnable Proxy Server – Use the Proxy server to access the Internet.Use the same proxy server for all protocols – Specifies whether youwant to use the same proxy server to gain access to the Internet using allprotocols.Servers field – Provides fields for you to type the address and portnumber of the proxy server you want to use to gain access to the Internetover HTTP, Secure, FTP, Gopher, and Socks protocol.Exceptions fieldDo not use proxy server for address beginning with – Type the Webaddresses that do not need to be accessed through the proxy server. Ifyou want to connect to a computer on your Intranet, make sure you typeits address in this box. You may use wild cards to match domain and hostnames or addresses, for example, “*.company.com”, “192.72.111.*”.Bypass proxy server for local addresses – Specifies whether you wantto use the proxy server for all local (Intranet) addresses.You may gain access to local addresses easier and faster if you do not usethe proxy server.Sharing settingsI want to set the default printer–Allows you to select the defaultprinter for printer sharing.Default printer – Allows you toselect the default printer from a listof installed printers.Click New to add a new printerusing the Windows® Add PrinterWizard.Click Properties to display theproperties of a selected printer.Command buttonsUse these buttons to activate, save, or cancel changes made in theconfiguration. Click Close to close the Edit Configuration window. ClickHelp to view the help files.

3-23Software supportASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)3.4 Site MonitorThe Site Monitor utility measures the signal-to-noise (SNR) values of allavailable wireless networks. Use this utility to determine the bestplacement of access points in a wireless network.3.4.1 Launching Site MonitorTo launch the Site Monitor:•Click the Windows® Start button, then select Programs > ASUS Utility >WLAN Card > Site Monitor, or•Right-click the Control Center icon on the Windows taskbar, then selectSite Monitor.The Site Monitor survey messageappears. Click OK.3.4.2 Site Monitor main windowThe Site Monitor main window displays the available wireless connectionsand the signal-to-noise (SNR) value of a selected connection.Some Access Points disable their SSID broadcasting to hide themselvesfrom “Site Survey” or “Site Monitor”. You may join these APs if you knowtheir SSID.

3-24 ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Software support3.4.3 Monitoring a connectionTo monitor a connection:1. Select the connection from the list.2. Click Command from the menu bar, then select monitor. You may alsopress <Ctrl> <M> in your keyboard.The Monitor window appears.The following connection parameters are displayed in graphicalrepresentation.SNR. This indicates the quality of communications within the currentnetwork. The communication quality is based on signal level and noiselevel measurements. The higher the SNR, the better the connectionquality.Communication Quality. This indicates the communication quality of theBasic Service Set to which the station is connected.Signal Level. This line specifies the average signal level of the BasicService Set to which the station is connected.

3-25Software supportASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Noise Level. Specifies the average noise level of the Frequency Channelcurrently used for connection.Throughput. The Throughput graph sends a specified number of datapackets to the remote host and calculates the average transmission ratein megabytes per second.During the test, the Start button toggles to Stop. Click Start button tobegin the link test. Click the Stop button at any time to stop the test.

Notes

Chapter 4TroubleshootingThis chapter contains atroubleshooting guide for solvingcommon problems you mayencounter when using the ASUSUSB Wireless LAN Adapter.

4-2 ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)TroubleshootingProblem ActionMy computer does notrecognize the installedASUS USB Wireless LANAdapter.Verify if the ASUS USB Wireless LANAdapter drivers are properly installed byfollowing these instructions:1. Open the Control Panel window fromthe Windows® desktop.2. Double-click on the System icon.3. Windows® 98SE/Me users: Select theDevice Manager tab.Windows® 2000/XP users: Select theHardware tab then click the DeviceManager button.4. Click the “+” symbol preceeding theNetwork Adapters item, then check theASUS 802.11b Network Adapter orASUS 802.11g Network Adapter item.A yellow exclamation point or a red plussign preceeding the network adaptermeans that the device driver is notproperly installed. Re-install the devicedriver following the instructions below.This troubleshooting guide provides answers to some commonproblems which you may encounter while installing and/or using ASUSWireless LAN card products. These problems requires simpletroubleshooting that you can perform by yourself. Contact the WirelessLAN Technical Support if you encounter problems not mentioned in thissection.A yellow exclamationpoint or a red plus signappears on the ASUS802.11b Network Adapteror ASUS 802.11g NetworkAdapter item.The device driver is not properly installed.Follow these instructions to uninstall andre-install the driver.1. Insert the Support CD into the CD-ROMdrive.2. When the ASUS Wireless LAN installationwindow appears, click “Uninstall ASUSWLAN Card Utilities/Driver” option.

4-3TroubleshootingASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)3. Restart your computer and repeat thesoftware installation following theinstructions contained in this User Guide.I cannot connect to anAccess Point. •Check if the Network Type of thedevice is set to Infrastructure mode.•Check if the device has the sameService Set Identifier (SSID) as that ofthe AP.•Check if the device and the AP have thesame Encryption. If WEP encryption isenabled, set the same WEP keys for thedevice and the AP.•Check if the MAC address of the deviceis added in the AP Authorization Table.Inquire this with your LAN administrator.•There is poor signal reception. Shortenthe distance between the device and theaccess point.I can connect to anAccess Point but Icannot connect to theInternet.•Check if the device and the AP have thesame Encryption. If WEP encryption isenabled, set the same WEP keys for thedevice and the AP.•Make sure the network protocolparameters (IP address, subnet mask,gateway, and DNS) of your computerare correctly set.•Check the proxy settings of the web browser.Problem ActionI cannot connect toanother station with awireless LAN device.•Check if the Network Type of thedevice is set to Ad-hoc mode.•Check if the device has the sameService Set Identifier (SSID) with thatof the other station.•There is poor signal reception. Shortenthe distance between the device and thestation.

4-4 ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapter (WL-160g)Troubleshooting•Check if the device and the other stationhave the same Encryption. If WEPencryption is enabled, set the sameWEP keys for the device and the AP.I cannot connect toother computers linkedvia an Access Point orAd-hoc network.•Check if the device and the other APs and/or clients have the same Encryption. Ifyou enable WEP encryption, you must setthe same WEP keys for the device and theother AP/s and/or clients.•Check the TCP/IP settings (IP address,subnet mask, gateway, and DNS) of yourcomputer.•Enable file and printer sharing in eachclient computer to allow file sharing.I always have poor linkquality and low signal. Observe the following to achieve betterlink quality and stronger signal:•Keep the device away from microwaveovens and large metal objects to avoidradio interference.•Shorten the distance between thedevice and the AP/station.Problem ActionWhy do I got the warning“Hi-Speed USB DevicePlugged IntoNon-Hi-Speed USB Hub”message when Iconnected the ASUSUSB Wireless LANAdapter to the USBport?This warning mesage appears when youplug the ASUS USB Wireless LAN Adapterto a USB 1.1 port.•For Windows® XP users, you need toupgrade your OS to Service Pack 1 toconvert your USB ports to USB 2.0.•For Windows® 2000 users, you mustinstall Service Pack 4 in order to convertyour USB ports into USB 2.0. You candownload these service packs from theWindows Update website(windowsupdate.microsoft.com)

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