Acrowave Systems AWL-1100U DSSS WLAN IEEE802.11b USB Card User Manual

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Corporate Headquarters

Acrowave Systems Co. Ltd.

6Fl. Maru Building 86-6 Nonhyun-dong

Gangnam-gu Seoul 135-818

Korea

http://www.acrowave.com

Tel: 82-2-547-8778

Fax: 82-2-547-4779

Acrowave Systems£

££

Wireless LAN PC Card

User’s Guide

AWL-1100C/AWL-1100P

AWL-1100U/AWL-1100M

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Contents

Chapter 1 Introduction To The Wireless LAN

1.1 What’s the Wireless LAN? …………………………………… 5

1.2 Wireless LAN Standard and Structure………………………… 6

Chapter 2 Before You Start AcroLAN……………………………. 12

Chapter 3 Installing AcroLAN Card Driver………………………13

Chapter 4 Connecting the AcroLAN Card to your computer

4.1 Installing AcroLAN PCMCIA Card……………………… 16

4.2 Installing AcroLAN PCI Card………………………….… 16

4.3 Installing AcroLAN USB Card………………………….… 20

4.4 Installing AcroLAN Mini-PCI Card …………………….… 20

Chapter 5 Configuring the Wireless LAN Card

5.1 Installing Network Protocols… ……...…………………………...22

5.2 Uninstalling AcroLAN Card Driver……………………………. 27

5.3 Remove AcroLAN Card from you computer………………….. 27

5.4 Wireless AcroLAN Card Configuration Utility………………. 30

Chapter 6 Troubleshooting ……………………………………………35

Appendix

Appendix A Cell Planning (Radio Range) …………………………….. 37

Appendix B Technical Specification …………………………………. 39

Appendix C Channel Allocation ……………………………..………… 42

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THE SPECIFICATIONS AND INFORMATION REGARDING THE PRODUCTS IN THIS MANUAL ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT

NOTICE. ALL STATEMENTS, INFORMATION, AND RECOMMENDATIONS IN THIS MANUAL ARE BELIEVED TO BE ACCURATE BUT

ARE PRESENTED WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. USERS MUST TAKE FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR

THEIR APPLICATION OF ANY PRODUCTS.

THE SOFTWARE LICENSE AND LIMITED WARRANTY FOR THE ACCOMPANYING PRODUCT ARE SET FORTH IN THE

INFORMATION PACKET THAT SHIPPED WITH THE PRODUCT AND ARE INCORPORATED HEREIN BY THIS REFERENCE. IF YOU

ARE UNABLE TO LOCATE THE SOFTWARE LICENSE OR LIMITED WARRANTY, CONTACT YOUR ACROWAVE REPRESENTATIVE

FOR A COPY.

The following information is for FCC compliance of Class B devices:

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the

FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential

installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in

accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no

guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to

radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try

to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

lReorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

lIncrease the separation between the equipment and receiver.

lConnect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.

lConsult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules and with RSS-210 of Industry Canada.

Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

(1) this device my not cause harmful interference, and

(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired

operation.

This equipment complies with FCC RF radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment.This equipment

must be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20 centimeters between the radiator and your body.

Modifications to this product not authorized by Acrowave Systems Co., Ltd. could void the FCC approval and negate your authority to

operate the product.

NOTWITHSTANDING ANY OTHER WARRANTY HEREIN, ALL DOCUMENT FILES AND SOFTWARE OF THESE SUPPLIERS ARE

PROVIDED “AS IS” WITH ALL FAULTS. ACROWAVE AND THE ABOVE-NAMED SUPPLIERS DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES,

EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THOSE OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR

PURPOSE AND NONINFRINGEMENT OR ARISING FROM A COURSE OF DEALING, USAGE, OR TRADE PRACTICE.

IN NO EVENT SHALL ACROWAVE OR ITS SUPPLIERS BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR

INCIDENTAL DAMAGES, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, LOST PROFITS OR LOSS OR DAMAGE TO DATA ARISING OUT OF

THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THIS MANUAL, EVEN IF ACROWAVE OR ITS SUPPLIERS HAVE BEEN ADVISED OF THE

POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.

AcroLAN, the Acrowave logo are registered trademarks of Acrowave Systems Co., Ltd. or its affiliates in the Korea, U.S. and certain other

countries. All other trademarks mentioned in this document are the property of their respective owners. The use of the word partner does

not imply a partnership relationship between Acrowave and any of its resellers.

Using the Acrowave AcroLAN Card

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Chapter 1 Introduction To The Wireless LAN

A wireless LAN (WLAN) is a flexible data communication system implemented as an

extension to, or as an alternative for, a wired LAN within a building or campus. Using

electromagnetic waves, WLANs transmit and receive data over the air, minimizing the

need for wired connections. Thus, WLANs combine data connectivity with user mobility,

and, through simplified configuration, enable movable LANs. WLANs have gained strong

popularity in a number of vertical markets, including the health-care, retail,

manufacturing, warehousing, and academic arenas. These industries have profited from

the productivity gains of using hand-held terminals and notebook computers to transmit

real-time information to centralized hosts for processing. Today WLANs are becoming

more widely recognized as a general-purpose connectivity alternative for a broad range

of business customers.

1.1 What’s Wireless LAN?

Wireless LANs use electromagnetic airwaves (radio and infrared) to communicate

information from one point to another without relying on any physical connection. Radio

waves are often referred to as radio carriers because they simply perform the function of

delivering energy to a remote receiver. The data being transmitted is superimposed on

the radio carrier so that it can be accurately extracted at the receiving end. This is

generally referred to as modulation of the carrier by the information being transmitted.

Once data is superimposed (modulated) onto the radio carrier, the radio signal occupies

more than a single frequency, since the frequency or bit rate of the modulating

information adds to the carrier.

Multiple radio carriers can exist in the same space at the same time without interfering

with each other if the radio waves are transmitted on different radio frequencies. To

extract data, a radio receiver tunes in (or selects) one radio frequency while rejecting all

other radio signals on different frequencies.

In a typical WLAN configuration, a transmitter/receiver (transceiver) device, called an

access point, connects to the wired network from a fixed location using standard

Ethernet cable. At a minimum, the access point receives, buffers, and transmits data

between the WLAN and the wired network infrastructure. A single access point can

support a small group of users and can function within a range of less than one hundred

to several hundred feet. The access point (or the antenna attached to the access point)

is usually mounted high but may be mounted essentially anywhere that is practical as

long as the desired radio coverage is obtained.

End users access the WLAN through wireless LAN adapters, which are implemented as

PC cards in notebook computers, or use PCI adapters in desktop computers. WLAN

adapters provide an interface between the client network operating system (NOS) and

the airwaves (via an antenna). The nature of the wireless connection is transparent to

the NOS.

1.2 Wireless LAN Standard and Structure

ƒƒ

ƒWireless LAN Standard – IEEE802.11b

The widespread acceptance of WLANs depends on industry standardization to ensure

product compatibility and reliability among the various manufacturers. The Institute of

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Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) ratified the original 802.11 specifications in

1997 as the standard for wireless LANs. That version of 802.11 provides for 1 Mbps and

2 Mbps data rates and a set of fundamental signaling methods and other services. The

most critical issue affecting WLAN demand has been limited throughput. The data rates

supported by the original 802.11 standard are too slow to support most general business

requirements and have slowed adoption of WLANs. Recognizing the critical need to

support higher data-transmission rates, the IEEE recently ratified the 802.11b standard

(also known as 802.11 High Rate) for transmissions of up to 11 Mbps.

With 802.11b, WLANs will be able to achieve wireless performance and throughput

comparable to wired Ethernet. Outside of the standards bodies, wireless industry leaders

have united to form the Wire-less Ethernet Compatibility Alliance (WECA).

WECA’s mission is to certify cross-vendor interoperability and compatibility of IEEE

802.11b wireless networking products and to promote that standard for the enterprise,

the small business, and the home. Members include WLAN semiconductor

manufacturers, WLAN providers, computer system vendors, and software makers.

ƒƒ

ƒWireless LAN Network Equipment

802.11 defines two pieces of equipment, a wireless station, which is usually a PC

equipped with a wireless network interface card (NIC), and an access point (AP), which

acts as a bridge between the wireless and wired networks. An access point usually

consists of a radio, a wired network interface (e.g., 802.3), and bridging software

conforming to the 802.1d bridging standard. The access point acts as the base station

for the wireless network, aggregating access for multiple wireless stations onto the wired

network. Wireless end stations can be 802.11 PC Card, PCI.

ƒƒ

ƒWireless LAN Network Configuration

The 802.11 standard define two modes: infrastructure mode and ad hoc mode (or

independent or peer-to-peer).

lAd Hoc Mode

Ad hoc mode (also called peer-to-peer mode or an Independent Basic

Service Set, or IBSS) is simply a set of 802.11 wireless stations that

communicate directly with one another without using an access point or any

connection to a wired network. This mode is useful for quickly and easily

setting up a wireless network anywhere that a wireless infrastructure does not

exist or is not required for services, such as a hotel room, convention center,

or airport, or where access to the wired network is barred (such as for

consultants at a client site).

Independent Basic

Service Set (IBSS)

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Figure 1. Ad Hoc Mode

lInfrastructure Mode

In infrastructure mode, the wireless network consists of at least one access

point connected to the wired network infrastructure and a set of wireless end

stations. This configuration is called a Basic Service Set (BSS). An Extended

Service Set (ESS) is a set of two or more BSSs forming a single sub-network.

Since most corporate WLANs require access to the wired LAN for services

(file servers, printers, Inter-net links) they will operate in infrastructure mode.

Figure 2. Infrastructure Mode

ƒƒ

ƒRoaming

Wireless communication is limited by how far signals carry for given power output.

WLANs use cells, called microcells, similar to the cellular telephone system to extend

the range of wireless connectivity. At any point in time, a mobile PC equipped with a

WLAN adapter is associated with a single access point and its microcell, or area of

coverage. Individual microcells overlap to allow continuous communication within wired

network. They handle low power signals and “hand off” users as they roam through a

given geographic area.

The 802.11 MAC layer is responsible for how a client associates with an access point.

When an 802.11 client enters the range of one or more APs, it chooses an access point

to associate with (also called joining a Basic Service Set), based on signal strength and

Distribution System (DS)

Service Set (SS) – Multiple

le Cells

Access Point (AP)

Ethernet (802.3)

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observed packet error rates. Once accepted by the access point, the client tunes to the

radio channel to which the access point is set. Periodically it surveys all 802.11 channels

in order to assess whether a different access point would provide it with better

performance characteristics. If it determines that this is the case, it reassociates with the

new access point, tuning to the radio channel to which that access point is set.

Reassociation usually occurs because the wireless station has physically moved away

from the original access point, causing the signal to weaken. In other cases,

Reassociation occurs due to a change in radio characteristics in the building, or due

simply to high network traffic on the original access point. In the latter case this function

is known as “load balancing,” since its primary function is to distribute the total WLAN

load most efficiently across the available wireless infrastructure. This process of

dynamically associating and reassociating with APs allows network managers to set up

WLANs with very broad coverage by creating a series of overlapping 802.11b cells

throughout a building or across a campus. To be successful, the IT manager ideally will

employ “channel reuse,” taking care to set up each access point on an 802.11 DSSS

channel that does not overlap with a channel used by a neighboring access point.

Figure

Roam

ing

Backbone Network

Access Point (AP)

Inter-Cell Roaming

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ƒƒ

ƒBSS, ESS and SS ID

The basic service set (BSS) is the basic building block of WLAN network. Minimum

WLAN BSS may be consist of only two stations. Using access point (AP) and network

distribution systems (DS), WLAN service set can be extended arbitrary size – extended

service set (ESS). Each service set has its network ID (SSID). All the service sets within

an ESS network can have same service ID so that the ESS can support inter-cell

ROAMING.

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Figure 4. SSID and Roaming

Backbone Network

AP #`2 SS ID

= Acrowave

ROAMING

AP #`1 SS ID

= Acrowave

AP #`3 SS ID

=Acro

ESS

BSS

Backbone Network

Re-Configuration

Required

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Chapter 2 Before You Start AcroLAN

To use the AcroLAN adapter with a computing device (desktop personal computer,

notebook, laptop computer, portable or hand-held device), the device must be equipped

with an internal or external PC Card Type II or Type III slot. All drivers and supporting

software (card and socket services) for the client adapter slot must be loaded and

configured.

Ask your system administrator for the following information, which you may need to

provide during driver installation:

• Your Wireless Client Name

• Your Wireless SSID

• Your computer's unique client name and workgroup name

• For Windows NT, a free interrupt and I/O address.

• For your network account, your user name and password

• If you’re not using a DHCP server, your IP address, gateway address, and subnet

mask

After unpacking the card, make sure the following items are present and in good

condition:

• Acrowave AcroLAN AWL-1100 Series PC Card Adapter

• AWL-1100 Series install software and documentation CD for Windows

If any item is damaged or missing, contact your PC Card adapter supplier. Save all the

shipping and the packing material to repack the unit should service be required.

Caution

Before you start, close all working windows and backup important data.

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Chapter 3 Installing the PC/PCI Card Adapter on a Windows OS

This section provides instructions for installing a PC/PCI adapter on a computer using

one of the Windows operating systems.

Whatever operating systems(Windows 95/98/ME/2000/XP) you use the installation

procedures are all same. But, PCI card does not support for Windows XP.

Caution

The following procedures and physical connections apply generally to normal

and conventional client adapter slots. In the cases of custom or non-conventional

equipment, be alert to possible differences in client adapter slot configurations.

3.1 Installing PC Card Adapter

Before you begin, examine the client adapter. One end is a dual-row, 68-pin client

adapter connector. This side will be inserted into the client adapter slot with the logo on

the client adapter facing up. The card is keyed so it can be inserted only one way into

the slot.

The client adapter can be connected to a client adapter Type II slot. This includes slots

that support both Type II and Type III cards.

Caution

Do not force the client adapter into the slot. Forcing it will damage both the

client adapter and the slot. If the client adapter does not go in easily, remove the card

and reinsert it.

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3.1.1 Installing the PC Card Driver for Windows Operating Systems

××

×Windows95, 98, 2000, ME, XP

If the operating system on your computer is Windows, follow these steps.

If you insert the AcroLAN software and

documentation CD for Windows, the Windows automatically runs AcroLAN setup

program and a dialog box appears.

( Some CDs may not run automatically, in this case execute “Setpu.exe” file located at

the Card setup directory of CD.)

It takes a few seconds for copying the

utility files and then click on Finish to complete the installation.

STEP 1

STEP 2

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Chapter 4 Connecting the AcroLAN Card to your computer

Caution

The following procedures and physical connections apply generally to normal

and conventional client adapter slots. In the cases of custom or non-conventional

equipment, be alert to possible differences in client adapter slot configurations.

4.1 Installing AcroLAN PCMCIA Card

Before you begin, examine the card. One end is a dual-row, 68-pin client adapter

connector. This side will be inserted into the client adapter slot with card’s logo facing

up. The card is keyed so it can be inserted only one way into the slot.

The client adapter can be connected to a client adapter Type II slot. This includes slots

that support both Type II and Type III cards.

Caution

Do not force the card into the slot. Forcing it will damage both the client adapter

and the slot. If the client adapter does not go in easily, remove the card and reinsert it.

4.2 Installing AcroLAN PCI Card

This section describes the procedures for installing the client adapter.

Before You Start

For the client adapter to be used with a computing device, the device must be equipped

with a PCI or ISA expansion slot. Check the documentation that came with your

computer for details on the differences between PCI and ISA expansion slots.

Ask your system administrator for the following information, which you may need to

provide during driver installation:

• Your Wireless Client Name

• Your Wireless SSID

• Your computer's unique client name and workgroup name

• For your network account, your user name and password

• If you’re not using a DHCP server, your IP address, gateway address, and subnet

mask

After unpacking the client adapter, make sure the following items are present and in

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good condition:

• AcroLAN AWL-1100P Series PCI Client Adapter

• Standard 2 dBi dipole antenna

• AWL-1100P Series software and documentation CD for Windows 95/98 Windows ME,

Windows 2000 Installing the PCI Client Adapter

If any item is damaged or missing, contact your client adapter supplier. Save all shipping

and packing material in order to repack the unit should service be required.

This section provides instructions for installing a client adapter on a computer using one

of the Windows operating systems.

Before you begin, examine the client adapter. The antenna connector and Status and

Activity LEDs will face out of your computer, and will be visible when you put the cover

back on. The bottom edge of the card is the connector you will insert into an empty

expansion slot in your computer.

4.2.1 Installing PCI Card Adapter

1. Turn off the computer and all its components.

2. Remove the computer cover.

3. Remove the screw from the top of the CPU back panel above an empty expansion

slot. This screw is used to hold the metal bracket on the back panel.

4. Tilt the client adapter to allow the antenna connector and LED lights to slip through

the opening in the CPU back panel.

5. Press the client adapter into the empty slot until its connector is firmly seated.

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Caution

Do not force the client adapter into the slot. Forcing it will damage both the card

and the slot. If the card does not go in easily, remove the card and reinsert it.

6. Reinstall the screw to the top of the CPU back panel.

7. The client adapter comes with one 2dBi dipole antenna. With the unit powered off,

attach the antenna to the antenna connector on the client adapter.

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Caution

Do not over-tighten the antenna connector; finger-tight is sufficient. Position the

antenna vertically for best omni-directional signal reception.

4.3 Installing AcroLAN USB Card

AWL-1100U is Wireless LAN Adapter and it provide USB1.1 host interface. USB can

use both notebook PC and desktop PC. Operation and installation method is same

with PC card.

To install AcroLAN USB Card, first connect one end of the USB cable to the card. Then,

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connect the other end of the USB cable to the USB port on your computer. Since the

card gets its power from the PC’s USB port, there is no external power adapter. The

Power LED should light up green when the Card is attached and the PC is on.

4.4 Installing AcroLAN Mini-PCI Card

AWL-1100M is Mini PCI type card and it can use at notebook PC. Antenna is located at

the side of monitor and it can improve link quality.It is very convenient to use because

the card is installed inside PC. It satisfy IEEE802.11b standard and support maximum

11Mbps data rate. It support also Ad-Hoc(Peer to Peer) and Infra structure mode.

Installation procedure of Mini PCI card is as below.

Install driver program first before insert card. Turn off PC power and insert card to PC.

Turn on PC power then it will automatically run installation program.

Caution

Please check the availability of your PC has Mini PCI slot before you purchase Mini PCI

card. Most of the case Mini PCI will be installed at manufacturing status.

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Chapter 5 Configuring the AcroLAN Card

If you have connected Wireless LAN card successfully, illuminating LED and Sound

confirms the detection of your card. Also you will see its icon on the right bottom of your

screen.

If you install Acrowave’s wireless LAN card for the first time all the setup process runs

automatically. If you reinstall, the install program asks next two files folder position and

you should select same as the below:

lLocation designation of inf file

Windows98, ME(filename : AcrowavePRISMNIC.inf)

C: \WINDOW\inf

Windows 95, 2000, XP(filename : PRISMNIC.inf)

C: \WINDOWS\inf

lLocation designation of driver file

Windows 95, 98, ME (filename : PRISMNDS.sys)

C: \WINDOWS\SYSTEM

Windows 2000, XP (filename : PRISMNDS.sys)

C: \WINDOWS\SYSTEM\Drivers

And then the install program asks whether you want to reboot your computer. At this

time you should select No in order to complete the installation correctly.

Left-click My Computer icon on your desktop and select Properties. Open Device

Manager In the Hardware Tab. If you find yellow (?) sign on the adaptor, it shows the

installation is not successful. Select the adaptor and click on Remove. Restart your

computer after uninstalling the driver to make the change effective.

5.1 Installing Network Protocols

Protocols are necessary for computers to be recognized on your network. Windows

2000 and XP users need to check their Windows User Guides for protocol installation.

From the Start Menu, select Settings and bring up the Control Panel. From the Control

Panel, double-click on the Network icon. The Network box appears and you see three

main tabs; Configuration, Identification, Access control.

Select Wireless LAN Card on the configuration tab and then click the Add button.

Highlight Protocol, and click the Add button.

Select Microsoft from the list of “Manufacturers” and TCP/IP from the list of “Network

Protocols” Click the OK button to close the Network window. Windows may start

copying some files and ask you for your Windows installation files at this time. After the

files are copied Windows may ask you to restart. Click Yes to restart and complete the

installation process.

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Caution

This Process could cause serious problem on your network if you edit wrong data. So, if you do

not know how to configure your network option, ask for help your network administrator.

Click on the TCP/IP option for setting the IP address for your computer. You can select either

Static or DHCP setting. If you use static IP address then enter the IP value assigned for you, and

Subnet masking, DNS, Domain/Workgroup name, Gateway address value.

IP Address

IP AddressIP Address

IP Address

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Gateway Address

Gateway AddressGateway Address

Gateway Address

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After setting these parameters appropriately, click on OK to return Network Component

Type and you can select the File and Printer Sharing options as well as the Access to

your computer by other users connected to that network by setting the computer

sharing options.

Click on OK.

DNS

DNSDNS

DNS

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Screen message “Do you want to restart your computer” will pop up. Select Yes. It will

shut down your computer and will restart.

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5.2 Uninstalling AcroLAN Card Driver

If you want to uninstall the PC card, click on the control panel. Select the Add/Remove

Programs. Click on the Acrowave 11Mbps Wireless LAN and click on Add/Remove

button. Uninstall Shield removes the software successfully.

And then, click System icon in the control panel and removes the ACROWAVE 11Mbps

Wireless PC Card adapter under the Network adapters.

5.3 Remove PC Card from PC card socket

5.3.1 Remove PCMCIA AcroLAN Card /PCI AcroLAN Card

If you want to extract PC card from PC card socket, click on PC card information icon.

Click on Socket Status window and select ACROWAVE 11Mbps Wireless PC cars

adapter and click on Stop button.

After a few second, screen message “You can remove this device safely” will pop up.

5.3.2 Remove USB AcroLAN Card

PC may shut down or malfunction if you pull out USB connector from PC without proper

procedure. It will be okay if you follow as below.

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Above utility window will be pop up when you click PC monitor shape green icon.

Select “ Radio Disable”.

Then PC icon will be display with X and it means Wireless LAN operation is stoped.

After PC monitor shape green icon go out of sight, Pull out USB connector from PC.

If you want to use again then connect USB port to PC and select “Enable Radio” at utility

window.

5.3.3 Remove Mini-PCI AcroLAN Card

Be sure to turn off PC power before remove.

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5.4 AcroLAN Configuration Utility

Acrowave install shied program installs wireless LAN driver program and Configuration

Utility program. You can see the icon at the right bottom of your screen. Click on that

icon will show you the screen as show below.

Status shows wireless LAN card’s MAC address information.

Current Tx Rate shows transmit data rate.

Current Channel shows selected channel number.

Channel number is the channel available for the communications between the client

and AP or between the clients only. In case of the Infrastructure Network Mode, the

channel number scanned automatically, while in case of the Ad-hoc Network Mode, the

channel number is set by the client and can be changed by the client user.

If you click on Rescan button, LAN card program searches other new channel that

currently used one.

Throughput (Byte/sec) shows transmit/receive data rate.

Link Quality shows measured radio link quality. If the link quality is bad, your computer

may not communicate with other client computers. Otherwise (; fair, good…), there is

no problem to communicate with other clients.

Signal Strength is similar to Link Quality information but slightly differ from it. But

Wireless Link Status

Wireless Link StatusWireless Link Status

Wireless Link Status

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usually, the quality level moves simultaneous with the Link Quality level.

Network Type : You can select wireless LAN network mode – Infrastructure(Access

Point) or Ad-hoc(Peer-to-Peer) mode

Infrastructure Mode

This mode is used to set up a connection to a wired Ethernet network. This mode

requires an ACROLAN Access Point to gain access to the wired network.

Ad Hoc Mode

This mode is used to set up a small, temporary network between two or more

computers. For example, you might set up an ad hoc network between computers in a

conference room so users can share information in a meeting.

Network Name(SSID) :The Service Set Identifier (SSID) controls access to a given wireless

network. This value MUST match the SSID of any and all AcroLAN Access Points that you want

to communicate with. If the value does not match, access to the system is not granted. The SSID

can be up to 32 case-sensitive characters.

Transmit Rate: The transmission rate at which the data packets are transmitted by the

client or AP. You can set this value to 1~2Mbps, 5.5Mbps, 11Mbps or Fully Automatic.

Power Save Enabled : Power Saving Mode. Currently, the Power Save mode does not

supported.

After changing the setting in the Configuration change dialog box, click on Apply

Changes button. It takes a few seconds to set changes that you made.

Network Configuration

Network ConfigurationNetwork Configuration

Network Configuration

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In order to do secure communication over the wireless LAN network, wireless LAN

module provides encryption function - WEP. There are two ways to generate WEP key.

This key is an important in protecting the illegal access to the wireless networks.

If you want to use WEP function, the AP also set the same WEP key value with you.

Andalltheuserswhowanttocommunicatewithyoumustusesamekeywitheach

other.

You can select WEP key Disable in Configuration dialog box, the communication

between clients and AP does not secure.

Encryption

EncryptionEncryption

Encryption - WEP

- WEP - WEP

- WEP

!AcroLAN Card User’s Guide Version 20002.5

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There are two ways to generate the WEP key. One is by entering any text in the

Passphrase. And click on Generate button. It will generate four WEP keys; Key 1, Key 2,

Key 3, Key 4. You can select any key for the security. If you do not select any key, Key 1

is selected in default.

The other way is by entering Key value directly from the keyboard. Select the Key

number and use that Key for accessing the AP. If the Key is not entered correctly, a

client cannot access any other client or AP. This Key value protects the illegal access to

the wireless network resources. As the wireless channel is more prone to the illegal

access, WEP provides the users safe wireless LAN network access.

Caution

If you use WEP function, your network throughput degrade

!AcroLAN Card User’s Guide Version 20002.5

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Chapter 6 Troubleshooting

In this chapter, we have listed various problems that you may encounter during the

installation and have also listed possible solutions.

£Change your location or the location of the antenna by a few feet and try again.

£Make sure the client adapter card is securely inserted in the expansion slot.

£Make sure the antenna is securely attached.

£Make sure that your computers SSID have the same one with other clients.

( Set all clients to the same channel number in case of Ad-hoc network mode.

( Make sure that you are with in the range of an AP. If your computer cannot be

associated with any AP, it cannot communicate with other clients.

( Make sure the antenna is securely attached.

(You

can communicate with other clients but air link quality is not good so data

transferred slowly. In this case, you may move your computer or wireless LAN card

antenna to higher position than current state or closer position with AP.

(Make

sure that the PC card is started as automatic in the device applet of the Control

panel.

£Double click on the PC card icon in the Control panel. Click on AcroLAN adapter

and then click on the properties button. It should say that the driver started

correctly.

£Make sure the drivers were installed correctly. If there is some warning or error,

uninstall drivers and software through Add/Remove Program, remove the Wireless

LAN card and reinstall the drivers following the manual.

£Make sure that the client computer is with in the range of an AP and uses same

SSID with you.

The system tray wireless monitor icon

The system tray wireless monitor icon The system tray wireless monitor icon

The system tray wireless monitor icon is always red

is always red is always red

is always red

The system tray wireless monitor icon

The system tray wireless monitor icon The system tray wireless monitor icon

The system tray wireless monitor icon is always yellow

is always yellow is always yellow

is always yellow

Cannot find wireless monitor icon

Cannot find wireless monitor icon Cannot find wireless monitor icon

Cannot find wireless monitor icon in the taskbar

in the taskbarin the taskbar

in the taskbar

Cannot connect to some computers

Cannot connect to some computersCannot connect to some computers

Cannot connect to some computers

!AcroLAN Card User’s Guide Version 20002.5

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£Make sure that your TCP/IP is set properly and correctly.

!AcroLAN Card User’s Guide Version 20002.5

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Appendix

Appendix A Cell Planning (Radio Range)

This section provides general guidelines on factors that influence network performance

Cell Site Survey

Because of differences in component configuration, placement and physical

environment, every network application is a unique installation. Before installing the

system, users should perform a site survey to determine the optimum utilization of

networking components and to maximize range, coverage and network performance.

Here are some operating and environmental conditions you should consider:

•Data Rates

Radio signal sensitivity and range are inversely proportional to data bit rates. The

maximum radio range is achieved at the lowest workable data rate. There will be a

decrease in receiver threshold sensitivity as the radio data rate increases.

•Antenna Type and Placement(PCI card only)

Proper antenna configuration is a critical factor in maximizing radio range. As a general

guide, range increases in proportion to antenna height. For a detailed explanation of

antenna types and configurations along with guidelines on selecting antennas for

specific environments, see the documentation that comes with your antenna.

•Physical Environments

Clear or open areas provide better radio range than closed or filled areas. Also, the less

cluttered the work environment, the greater the range.

•Obstructions

A physical obstruction such as metal shelving or a steel pillar can hinder the

performance of the client adapter. Avoid locating the computing device in a location

where there is a metal barrier between the sending and receiving antennas.

•Building Materials

Radio penetration is greatly influenced by the building material used in construction. For

example, drywall construction allows greater range than concrete blocks. Metal or steel

construction is a barrier to radio signals.

Enhancing Coverage

The system architecture options of the wireless station and AcroLAN Access Points

provide for a variety of coverage alternatives and flexibility. The system can be designed

to provide a wide coverage area with minimal overlap or coverage with heavy overlap.

The latter improves system performance and protection against downtime in the event of

a component failure. By arranging the AcroLAN Access Points so the overlap in

coverage area is minimized, a large area can be covered with minimal system cost. The

total bandwidth available to each mobile station will depend on the amount of data each

!AcroLAN Card User’s Guide Version 20002.5

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mobile station desires to transfer and the number of stations located in each cell.

Seamless roaming is supported as a mobile station moves in and out of range of each

AcroLAN Access Point, thereby maintaining a constant connection to the wired LAN.

Each device in the radio network must be configured with the same Service Set Identifier

(SSID) to provide the roaming capability. Multiple systems can operate in the same

vicinity. The architecture provides multiple channels, which can coexist in the same area

with virtually no interference to each other. In this mode, each system must be

configured with different Service Set Identifiers (SSID) and different channels, which

prevent clients from roaming to AcroLAN Access Points of a different wireless system.

!AcroLAN Card User’s Guide Version 20002.5

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Appendix B Technical Specifications

Supported Operating Systems

Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows 2000, Windows ME, Windows XP

Radio Specifications

Item Specification Description

Radio Type

Direct Sequence

Spread-Spectrum

(DSSS)

2.4 GHz ISM Band

Operating Frequency 2400-2483.5 MHz

North American, ETSI, and

Japan channel coverage, factory

configurable

FCC ID FCC approval

Channeling 5 MHz increments Programmable for IEEE 802.11b

Type of Modulation

BPSK 1 Mbit/s

QPSK 2 Mbit/s

CCK 5.5 and 11 Mbits/s

Nominal 10 MHz BW

(-6 dB)

Receiver sensitivity

–87 dBm @ 1 Mbps

–85 dBm @ 2 Mbps

–84 dBm @ 5.5 Mbps

–81 dBm @ 11 Mbps

!AcroLAN Card User’s Guide Version 20002.5

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Power Requirements

-PCCard

Specification Value

Operational Voltage 3.3V ± 0.25V

Receive Mode Current 250 mA (200 mA typically)

High Power Transmit Mode Current 400 mA (370 mA typically)

Sleep Mode Current 30 mA typically

- PCI Card

Specification Value

Operational Voltage 5.0V ± 0.25V

Receive Mode Current 250 mA (200 mA typically)

High Power Transmit Mode Current 470 mA (450 mA typically)

Sleep Mode Current 40 mA typically

-USBCard

Specification Value

Operational Voltage 5.0V ± 0.25V

Receive Mode Current 250 mA (200 mA typically)

High Power Transmit Mode Current 390 mA (370 mA typically)

Sleep Mode Current 15 mA typically

- Mini-PCI Card

Specification Value

Operational Voltage 3.3V± 0.25V

Receive Mode Current 240 mA (200 mA typically)

High Power Transmit Mode Current 390 mA (450 mA typically)

Sleep Mode Current 15 mA typically

Physical Specifications

PC Card

Item Description

Size 114 mm L x 54 mm W x 5 mm H

Enclosure PC Card Type II

Operating Temperature 0°C to 70°C minimum (32°F to 158°F)

Connectors 68-pin PCMCIA card

Status Indicators Green LEDs – link association/activity

PCI Card

Item Description

!AcroLAN Card User’s Guide Version 20002.5

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Size 149 mm L x 121 mm W x 18 mm H

Operating Temperature 0°C to 70°C minimum (32°F to 158°F)

Connectors PCI Card edge

Status Indicators Green LEDs – link association/activity

USB Card

Item Description

Size 56 mm L x 121.8 mm W x 10.5 mm H

Operating Temperature 0°C to 50°C minimum

Connectors Mini USB Card wafer

Status Indicators Green LEDs – link association/activity

Mini-PCI Card

Item Description

Size 59.7 mm L x 59.95 mm W x 3mm H

Operating Temperature 0°C to 55°C minimum

Connectors Mini-PCI Card edge

Status Indicators None

!AcroLAN Card User’s Guide Version 20002.5

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Appendix C Channel Allocation

The channel identifiers and the channel center frequencies of each 22-MHz-wide

channel are shown in the table below, as appropriate for the various areas or regulatory

agencies.

Regulatory Domains

Channel

Identifier

Center

Frequency North

America ETSI Spain France Korea /

Japan

1 2412MHz √

√√

√−−√

√√

√

2 2417MHz √

√√

√−−√

√√

√

3 2422MHz √

√√

√−−√

√√

√

4 2427MHz √

√√

√−−√

√√

√

5 2432MHz √

√√

√−−√

√√

√

6 2437MHz √

√√

√−−√

√√

√

7 2442MHz √

√√

√−−√

√√

√

8 2447MHz √

√√

√−−√

√√

√

9 2452MHz √

√√

√−−√

√√

√

10 2457MHz √

√√

√

11 2462MHz √

√√

√

12 2467MHz −√

√√

√−√

√√

√

13 2472MHz −√

√√

√−√

√√

√

14 2484MHz −−−−√

√√

√

Acrowave Systems AWL-1100U DSSS WLAN IEEE802.11b USB Card User Manual

Acrowave Systems Co., Ltd DSSS WLAN IEEE802.11b USB Card Users Manual

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