Broadxent 2021 WLAN PCMCIA Card User Manual 2021

Broadxent Pte Ltd. WLAN PCMCIA Card 2021

Users Manual

Getting StartedCreative Network BlasterWireless PCMCIA Card 2021Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a commitment on the part of Creative Technology Ltd. The software described in this document is furnished under a license agreement and may be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of the license agreement. It is against the law to copy the software on any other medium except as specifically allowed in the license agreement. The licensee may make one copy of the software for backup purposes. No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying and recording, for any purpose without the written permission of Creative Technology Ltd.Copyright © 2002  Creative Technology Ltd. All rights reserved.Version 1.0August 2002Network Blaster and Sound Blaster are registered trademarks of Creative Technology Ltd.Intel and Pentium are registered trademarks of Intel Corporation.Microsoft, MS-DOS, Windows, and the Windows logo are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.All other products are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.
iiContents ContentsSafety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  ivGeneral Safety  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ivFCC Radiation Exposure Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ivSetup Guide   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  5Before you Begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  6Introduction  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  6Package Contents   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  6Recording model and serial numbers  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  7Checking System Requirements   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  7Document Conventions   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  71 About Your Product . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  8About your PCMCIA Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  82 Device Installation  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  9In Windows 98 SE/Me/2000/XP  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  9Uninstalling Driver and Network Blaster 2021 Utility   . . . . . . . . . . . .  13Ejecting the PCMCIA Card  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  143 Device Connection   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  15About your Network Blaster 2021 Utility Icon  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  15Connecting in Windows 98 SE/Me/2000   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  16Connecting in Windows XP   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  174 Device Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  18Configuring in Windows 98 SE/Me/2000   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  18Configuring in Windows XP   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  23Configuring a Wireless Network  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  275 Network Security  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  28 The Importance of Network Security  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  28 Security Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  29A Technical Specifications  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  31
 iiiContentsB What Is Wireless Network?  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  32Features and Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  32C Troubleshooting   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  34Problems With Your Card  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  34Problems With Software  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  36D Glossary   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  39E Service and Warranty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48The Americas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  48Asia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .  51
ivSafety Instructions Safety InstructionsTo avoid the risk of fire, electric shock or personal injury, note the following precautions when using the product:❍Do not expose the product to direct sunlight or excessive heat.❍Do not place the product in surroundings that exceed 40°C (104°F).❍Avoid humid conditions. Do not place the product near a water source or outlet.❍Do not clean the product with a damp cloth or liquid cleaner.❍Do not put any weight on the product.❍Allow only qualified personnel to service or repair the product, if such is necessary.❍This equipment must be installed and operated in accordance with provided instructions and a minimum 2.5 cm spacing must be provided between the product and the user during wireless modes of operation.❍This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.❍Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the authority to operate equipment.❍This device must not be co-located or operated in conjuction with any other atenna or transmitter.General SafetyFCC Radiation Exposure Statement
5Setup Guide Setup Guide12Understand your ProductInstall your ProductConnect Card❍Go to Chapter 1— Shows you the parts of your PCMCIA card.❍Go to Chapter 2—Shows you how to install your product’s hardware and software.❍Go to Chapter 3—Shows you how to connect your PCMCIA card.4Secure Your Connection❍Go to Chapter 5 — Shows you how to use the encrytion feature to secure your wireless connection.5Before You Begin❍Go to "Before you Begin"— Shows you what to do before you begin installing your PCMCIA card.36Configure Card❍Go to Chapter 4—Shows you how to configure yourPCMCIA card.
6Before you Begin Before you BeginThe Creative Network Blaster Wireless PCMCIA Card 2021 is a fully featured wireless network solution for your Notebook, from the makers of Sound Blaster®. It installs quickly and effortlessly, and uses auto-sensing capabilities to ensure fast connections and great performance.Complete 802.11b compatibility allows you to connect wirelessly at home and work, or even connect directly to other wireless enabled computers or Notebooks. And with 128-bit WEP encryption, your personal information and sensitive work information will be secure wherever you use your Notebook.IntroductionCreative Network Blaster Wireless PCMCIA Card 2021Quick Start leaflet Installation CD containing software and PDF User ManualPackage Contents
 7Before you BeginYour PCMCIA card has a model number and a serial number. The numbers are found on the bottom-side of the device. After removing the Network Blaster from its packaging, write down its model and serial numbers for future reference. You will need to provide these numbers when contacting our Technical Support.The following are the minimum system requirements:• Intel® Pentium® II 233 MHz processor or equivalent • 20 MB of free hard disk space• 64 MB RAM• Microsoft® Windows® 98 Second Edition (SE), Windows 2000, Windows Millennium Edition (Me) or Windows XP• CD-ROM drive• Available PCMCIA slot (68-pin, 16 bit, Type II)This manual uses the following icons to highlight useful or urgent information: ❍Tip. This tells you about shortcuts or hints relating to a feature.❍Note. This highlights additional or important information about a feature.❍Caution! This highlights proper usage of your product. Use this information to avoid situations involving risk.❍Warning! This warns you of possible hazards, which may result in injury to yourself or damage to the product.Recording Model and Serial NumbersChecking System RequirementsDocument Conventions
8About Your Product1About Your ProductThe LEDs on your PCMCIA card can be seen in Figure 1-1:Do not tamper with the internal assembly or circuit board of the PCMCIA card as none of its parts are user replaceable.About Your PCMCIA CardPower LEDLights up when the PCMCIA card is connected to the Notebook and activated.Activity LEDThis indicates the activity status.Blinking green: the PCMCIA card is  transferring or receiving data.Figure 1-1: PCMCIA card
9Device Installation2Device InstallationDO NOT insert the PCMCIA card into your Notebook before installing the software. You will be required to do so halfway during the installation.1Turn on your Notebook and insert the Installation CD into your CD-ROM drive.2Click the Install Software option.3Select the drivers and applications to install, then click the OK button.4When the InstallShield Wizard dialog box similar to Figure 2-1 appears, click the Next button.In Windows 98 SE/Me/2000/XPFigure 2-1
 10Device Installation5 When the dialog box similar to Figure 2-2 appears, click the Typical option, and then click the Next button.6 When the Insert adapter now dialog box similar to Figure 2-3 appears, insert your PCMCIA card into your Notebook (Figure 2-4), and then click the OK button.Windows 98 SE users may be prompted to insert the Win 98 SE installation CD. Insert the Win 98 SE installation CD into your CD-ROM drive, and then click the OK button.Figure 2-2Figure 2-3Figure 2-4
 11Device Installation7For Windows 2000 only:When the Digital Signature not Found dialog box similar to Figure 2-5 appears, click the Yes button. For Windows XP only:When the Found New Hardware Wizard dialog box similar to Figure 2-6 appears, click the Install the software automatically (Recommended) option, and then click the Next button.If the Hardware Installation dialog box similar to Figure 2-7 appears, click the Continue Anyway button.Figure 2-5Figure 2-7Figure 2-6
 12Device InstallationAt the time of this product’s release, Microsoft strongly encouraged companies to submit their hardware solutions for certification. If a hardware device driver is not submitted, or does not qualify, for Microsoft certification, a warning message similar to Figure 2-7 appears.You may see this message when installing this driver. If you do, you may choose to click the Continue Anyway button. Creative has tested this driver on Windows XP, and it does not impair or destabilize your computer. If you need more XP-related information, go to the product web site's Help or speak with Creative Technical Support staff.8Click the Finish button. For Windows 98 SE/Me/2000 only:The Network Blaster Wireless LAN PCMCIA Card utility dialog box appears.Installation is now complete.Go to "Device Connection" on page 15 to connect your PCMCIA card.
 13Device InstallationYou may at times need to uninstall and then reinstall the drivers to correct problems or make version upgrades. The following instructions tell you how to uninstall the driver and Network Blaster 2021 Utility in all Windows operating systems.1Close all applications.2Click Start -> Programs or All Programs -> Creative Network Blaster 2021 -> Uninstall Network Blaster 2021 Utility.3When the Confirm File Deletion dialog box appears, click the OK button.4When the Uninstallation Completed dialog box appears, click the OK  button.5Restart your Notebook if it does not restart automatically.6Eject the PCMCIA card.Uninstalling Driver and Network Blaster 2021 Utility
 14Device InstallationYou can remove the PCMCIA card from your Notebook. You need not turn off your Notebook when removing the card. However, before ejecting the card, you should exit any applications, and disable the PCMCIA card. This is to prevent data loss.To disable the PCMCIA card:1Double-click the PC card icon   on the taskbar.2On the menu that appears, click Wireless LAN PCMCIA Card, and then click the Stop button.3Click the OK button.4Click the Close button.If you remove the PCMCIA card without disabling it, a dialog box similar to Figure 2-8 appears. Click the OK button.Ejecting the PCMCIA CardORFigure 2-8
15Device Connection3Device ConnectionThis chapter explains how to connect your PCMCIA card in Windows 98 SE, Windows Me, Windows 2000 and Windows XP. Before you can connect your PCMCIA card, you need to choose whether you will be connecting directly to another wireless enabled Notebook, computer or to an access point. You may easily switch between modes if your requirements changeUse Ad-hoc mode when connecting directly to other wireless computers or Notebooks. Use Infrastructure mode when connecting to an access point. In either mode the Service Set Identifier (SSID) and Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) must have the same settings. For more information, see “What Is A Wireless Network?”  on page 32.The Network Blaster 2021 Utility icon appears on your Notebook’s taskbar after you have installed the driver and Network Blaster 2021 Utility. It disappears when you remove the PCMCIA card from you Notebook, or when you are not running Network Blaster 2021 Utility.Ad-Hoc mode (Figure 3-1).The black bars on it indicate the signal strength in either mode.Infrastructure mode (Figure 3-2).The black bars on it indicate the signal strength in either mode.In Infrastructure mode, your PCMCIA card is not connected to the access point (Figure 3-3).About your Network Blaster 2021 Utility IconFigure 3-1Figure 3-2Figure 3-3
 16Device Connection1 After installing the driver and software, the Network Blaster Wireless LAN PCMCIA Card Utility dialog box appears (Figure 3-4).If it does not, double-click the Network Blaster 2021 Utility icon on the taskbar (Figure 3-1).2Click the Site Survey tab.3Click the Re-Scan button. A list of available access points and Ad-hoc stations appear.4In the BSSID box, double-click the access point or Ad-hoc station that you want to connect to. Your PCMCIA card automatically connects to the selected network.After your Notebook connects to a network, you can start using the Internet. If, however, you want to configure or view the rest of your PCMCIA card’s settings, proceed to “Configuring a Network in Windows 98 SE/Me/2000”  on page 18.Connecting to a Network in Windows 98 SE/Me/2000Figure 3-4
 17Device Connection1After installing the driver and Network Blaster 2021 Utility, the Windows Wireless Network Connection icon (Figure 3-5) appears on the taskbar.2Right-click the Windows Wireless Network Connection icon, and then click View Available Wireless Networks.3When the Connect to Wireless Network dialog box similar to Figure 3-6 appears, click the available network that you want, to select it.4If necessary, type a WEP key entry in the Network key box.5Click the Connect button. Your Notebook automatically connects to the selected network. After your Notebook connects to a network, you can start using the Internet. If, however, you want to configure or view the rest of your PCMCIA card’s settings, proceed to "Configuring a Network in Windows XP" on page 22.Connecting to a Network in Windows XPFigure 3-5Figure 3-6
18Device Configuration4Device ConfigurationAfter connecting to a selected network, you should configure your PCMCIA card’s network settings.1After connecting to a selected network, the Network Blaster Wireless LAN PCMCIA Card Utility dialog box appears (Figure 4-1). The status of your wireless connection is displayed.2Click the Monitor tab.3Determine if your wireless network is operating in Ad-hoc or Infrastructure mode (see “What Is Wireless Network?”  on page 32).4In Ad-hoc mode, click the Channel box, and then click the channel that is the same as your Ad-hoc network.In Infrastructure mode, this setting is disabled.5Click the SSID box, and then type the SSID that is the same as your access point or Ad-hoc network.For more information on SSID, refer to “Service Set Identity (SSID)”  on page 46.Configuring a Network in Windows 98 SE/Me/2000Figure 4-1
 19Device Configuration5Click the Statistics tab (Figure 4-2). The available statistic information is displayed.6 To renew or update the statistics, click the Clear button.Figure 4-2
 20Device Configuration8Click the Encryption tab (Figure 4-3).9Click the Encryption box, and then select either 64 or 128 bit.10 Click either the Hex or ASCII option to select it, and then complete the key table with either hexadecimal or ASCII values. These keys serve as passwords that encrypt your data before transmission.For more information on hexadecimal (HEX) values, refer to “Hexadecimal”  on page 42 and for more information on ASCII values, refer to “American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII)”  on page 39.11 Click the Authentication Type box, and then click the authentication type that is the same as your access point or Ad-Hoc network.12 Click the Submit button.Figure 4-3
 21Device Configuration12 Click the Advanced tab (Figure 4-4).13 Drag the Fragmentation Threshold and RTS/CTS Threshold sliders to the rate that you want.For more information on Fragmentation Treshold, refer to “Fragmentation Threshold”  on page 42, and for more information on RTS Treshold, refer to “Request to Send (RTS) Threshold”  on page 45.14 To enable the power saving mode, click the 802.11 Power Save check box to select it.15 Click the Submit button.Figure 4-4
 22Device Configuration1Right-click the Windows Wireless Network Configuration icon on the taskbar, and then click View Available Networks.2When the Connect to Wireless Network dialog box (Figure 4-6) appears, click the Advanced button.Configuring a Network in Windows XPFigure 4-5
 24Device Configuration3When the Wireless Network Connection Properties dialog box similar to Figure 4-7 appears, click the available network that you want.4Click the Configure button.5When the Wireless Network Properties dialog box appears, click the Data Encryption (WEP enabled) check box to select it.Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) ensures that information is encrypted before transmission. All wireless stations in a network must have the same WEP settings and WEP Key Entry for this feature to work.Figure 4-7
 25Device Configuration6Click the The key is provided for me automatically check box to deselect it.7Click the Key format box, and then click either ASCII characters or Hexadecimal digits.8Click the Key length box, and then click the appropriate key length depending on your access point settings.Depending on your access point settings, 40 bits may be indicated as 64 bits, and 104 bits may be indicated as 128 bits.9Complete the Network key box with random hexadecimal values or ASCII characters. These keys serve as passwords that encrypt your data before transmission.10 Click the OK button.11 Double-click the Windows Wireless Network Connection icon on the taskbar.
 26Device Configuration12 When the Wireless Network Connection Status dialog box similar to Figure 4-8 appears, click the General tab. This displays the connection status, duration, speed and signal strength.13 Click the Support tab (Figure 4-9). This displays the address type, IP address, subnet mask and default gateway.Figure 4-8Figure 4-9
 26Device ConfigurationWhen configuring a wireless network, take note of the following points:❍Start by determining the areas to be networked, the number of users and the type of devices to be used. Then determine the number of access points required and where they should be placed.❍An access point provides a data rate of up to 11 Mbps, which is shared by all wireless clients in the area covered by the access point. If two access points are placed close to each other, you can optimize your bandwidth by setting them to different channels.❍Optimize the performance of the wireless network by ensuring that the distance between two access points is not too large. In most buildings, wireless network cards operate within a range of 100 to 300 feet (30 to 91 meters), depending on the thickness and structure of the walls. Under normal conditions, an access point provides a coverage of up to 150 feet (46 meters). However, in offices with walls or cube walls, the coverage is only around 80 feet (24 meters). ❍Radio waves can pass through walls and glass but not metal. If the signal on the other side of a wall is weak, it may be that the wall has reinforcing metal in its structure. Install another access point to circumvent this problem or move the access point to another location.❍Floors usually have metal girders and metal reinforcing struts that weaken radio waves.Configuring a Wireless Network
28Network Security5Network SecurityYour PCMCIA card comes with security features that protect  your wireless network. As your information is transmitted and recieved by radio waves, enabling the encryption security will keep your data safe. The Importance of Network SecurityProtected by WEP featurePotential hacker
 29Network SecurityThe following security features are incorporated in your PCMCIA card:❍Wireless Encryption Protocol (WEP) — This data stream encryption technology allows for the definition of up to four keys shared between access points and clients. Unauthorized wireless network stations not having the same keys are locked out. When typing the keys, use either hexadecimal characters, which are the letters A to F and the numbers 0 to 9, or alphanumeric characters.❍WEP encryption is not necessary for your product to work. It is an additional data security measure. See ‘Device Configuration” on page 18 for instructions on how to enable this feature.❍Only wireless network stations with the same keys can communicate with each other. For more information, refer to the diagrams below. Security Features When Keys 1-4 and the selected default key for both wireless network stations are the same, the stations can communicate with each other.When Keys 1-4 for both wireless network stations are the same but the selected default  key is different, the stations can communicate with each other.default key default keydefault key default key
 30Network SecurityWhen Keys 1-4 for both wireless network stations are different but the selected default key is the same, the stations can communicate with each other.When Keys 1-4 and the selected default  key in both wireless network stations is different, the stations cannot communicate with each other.default keydefault key default keydefault key
31Technical SpecificationsATechnical SpecificationsThis appendix lists the general specifications of your PCMCIA card.Wireless Interface❍IEEE 802.11b compliant❍WEP security support (64-bit and 128-bit encryption)Antenna❍Built-in strip antennaFrequency Range❍2.4 - 2.4835 GHz (ISM Band)Modulation❍DSSS - Direct Sequence Spread SpectrumChannels❍11 Channels (US, Canada)❍13 Channels (Europe)❍14 Channels (Japan)Data Rate❍11/5.5/2/1 MbpsOutput Power❍15 dBm (typical)PCMCIA Interface❍ 68-pin 16-bit PCMCIA socket connector compliant with release 2.1 standard
32What Is A Wireless Net-B W   hat Is A W    ireless N  etwork?Wireless network is a revolutionary way of connecting devices to each other or to a Local Area Network wirelessly through the use of radio frequency waves.This means that you will be able to move around in a room or move from one floor to another without being disconnected from the network. In most companies, a wireless network is an extension of a wired network. In small offices or hard-to-wire areas, it may be the only network solution.Using wireless network has many advantages! Here are some of them:❍Easy Installation — Installing a wireless network is easy, convenient, and fast. ❍Cost Effective — You do not have to install cables into your walls and floors. Multiple Internet users will be able to share a single IP address.❍Speed — A wireless network provides data speeds of up to 11 Mbps, which increases the access rate to shared resources.❍Mobility — Unlike wired networks, a wireless network allows you to move around on a floor or building, or even across buildings, and still remain connected to the network.❍Flexibility — Adding new users and rearranging office space is convenient as it does not require any additional wiring.❍Scalability — You can choose to configure your wireless network to Ad-hoc mode or Infrastructure mode. In Ad-hoc mode, a wireless laptop can communicate with other wireless stations directly. In Infrastructure mode, one or more wireless computers are connected to an Access Point via radio waves, and the Access Point connects these wireless laptops to other wireless and wired laptops or computers.Features  and Benef its
 33What Is Wireless Net-An Ad-hoc network is also known as a Peer-to-Peer network. Ad-hoc mode allows for wireless-to-wireless communication. Select this mode when connecting to other wireless adaptors, which comply to the 802.11b standard. Users on the network can share files, printers, drives and other peripherals, and access the Internet using a shared modem. However, users can only communicate with other wireless network stations that are in the wireless network workgroup and that are within a fixed range.In Infrastructure mode, a wireless adaptor communicates with a wired network using an access point. It allows for roaming between a wireless station and access point, while maintaining connection to all network resources. In Infrastructure mode, a user on a wireless network can access an existing wired network to connect to the Internet, E-mail, transfer files, and share a printer. Moreover, the access point manages the bandwidth to maximize bandwidth utilization.Ad-hoc NetworkInfrastructure Network
34TroubleshootingCTroubleshootingThis appendix provides tips and solutions for resolving some of the problems you might encounter with your PCMCIA card either during installation or normal use.Windows does not auto-detect the new PCMCIA card when it is inserted into the laptop.To solve this problem, refer to the section that corresponds to your Windows operating system.In Windows 98SE/Me:1Right-click the My Computer icon on your desktop.2On the menu that appears, click Properties. The System Properties dialog box appears.3Click the Device Manager tab.4Click the View devices by type option.5Click the plus sign next to Network adapters. The name of the PCMCIA card appears. Be sure that there is no red “X” or yellow “!” next to it. The red “X” or yellow “!” signs indicates incorrect or incomplete installation.6Click any items with the red “X” or yellow “!”, and then click the Remove button.7Reinstall the drivers for the card. For more information, see ‘Device Installation” on page 9.Problems With Your Card
 35TroubleshootingIn Windows 2000:1Right-click the My Computer icon on your desktop.2On the menu that appears, click Properties. The System Properties dialog box appears.3Click the Hardware Profile tab.4Click the Device Manager button.5Click the View devices by type option.6Click the plus sign next to Network adapters. The name of the PCMCIA card appears. Be sure that there is no red “X” or yellow “!” next to it. The red “X” or yellow “!” signs indicates incorrect or incomplete installation.7Click any items with the red “X” or yellow “!”, and then click the Remove button.8Reinstall the drivers for the card. For more information, see ‘Device Installation” on page 9.In Windows XP:1Click Start -> Control Panel.2Double-click the System icon. The System Properties dialog box appears.3Click the Hardware tab.4Click the Device Manager button.5Click the plus sign next to Network adapters. The name of the PCMCIA card appears. Be sure that there is no red “X” or yellow “!” next to it. The red “X” or yellow “!” signs indicates incorrect or incomplete installation.6Click any items with the red “X” or yellow “!”, and then click the Remove button.7Reinstall the drivers for the card. For more information, see ‘Device Installation” on page 9.
 36TroubleshootingEjecting the PCMCIA card from the PCMCIA slot causes your laptop to restart or stop responding.To solve this problem:• Before removing the PCMCIA card, close all files and network applications, such as E-mail and Internet Explorer.• Disable the PCMCIA card before removing it from the computer. See ‘Ejecting the PCMCIA Card” on page 14.When reinserted, the card is not detected.When the PCMCIA card is removed and reinserted, the signals may become destabilized and cause the card to be misread. The Windows drivers may incorrectly read the card’s status during this period of signal instability, and fail to detect the correct status of the PCMCIA card.To solve this problem:• Always disable the PCMCIA card before removing it from the laptop.• Click Start -> Settings -> Control Panel. Double-click the System icon. In the System Properties dialog box, click the Device Manager tab, and then click the Refresh button.The Network Blaster 2021 Utility icon on the status bar has a red cross on it.To solve this problem:• If you are in Infrastructure mode, be sure that your PCMCIA card and the access point have the same SSID and WEP settings. The SSID is case sensitive. See ‘Device Configuration” on page 18.• In Advanced settings (refer to ‘Device Configuration” on page 18), make sure that the Authentication Type is either in Shared or Auto mode.• Make sure that all the wireless stations are within range of the access point.• Restart the access point.• Restart your laptop.Problems With Software
 37TroubleshootingAfter inserting the PCMCIA card, my laptop can detect the PCMCIA card but not the drivers in the Installation CD.To solve this problem:1When the Add New Hardware Wizard dialog box appears, click the Cancel button.2Remove the PCMCIA card, and then install the software from the beginning.3Insert the PCMCIA card only when instructed.My laptop is unable to establish a connection with an access point.To solve this problem:• Be sure that the access point is connected and turned on. Observe the status LEDs to be sure that the access point is connected properly.• Be sure that your laptop (wireless client) is set to Infrastructure mode.• Be sure that the PCMCIA card is connected to your laptop, and that you have installed the drivers properly.• Be sure that your laptop is configured with the same SSID as the access point. Also remember that SSID is case sensitive.• Be sure that the WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) settings for your laptop and the access point are the same. If WEP is disabled on the access point, it must be disabled on the computer. If WEP is enabled, the key table must match.• Restart the access point.• Restart your laptop.There is radio interference.To solve this problem:• Adjust the antennas of the access point until you get the best reception.• Keep the access point and wireless clients away from microwave ovens and large metal objects.• If possible, move the access point from its present location to other locations until you get the best reception.
 38TroubleshootingMy laptop cannot connect to the Internet.To solve the problem:In Windows 98 SE/Me:1Click Start -> Run.2In the Open box, type winipcfg, and then click the OK button. The IP Configuration dialog box appears.3Click the Adaptor box, and then click your product’s name.4Click the Release button.5When the IP Address box dipslays 0.0.0.0, click the Renew button.6Click the OK button.In Windows 2000/XP:1Click Start -> Run.2In the Open box, type command, and then click the OK button. The MS-DOS Prompt window appears.3Type ipconfig/release, and then press the <Enter> key.4Type ipconfig/renew, and then press the <Enter> key.
39GlossaryDGlossaryThis appendix explains the technical terms used in this manual.Access pointA networking device that transparently bridges wireless computers and laptops to a wired local network.Ad-hoc modeA small peer-to-peer network mode, in which wireless Notebooks are connected to each other directly without using an access point. Some of the wireless Notebooks are part of the network for a limited duration. They are also in close proximity with the rest of the network. According to the IEEE 802.11b specification, Ad-hoc mode is referred to as an independent basic service set.American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII)ASCII is the most common format for text files in computers and on the Internet. In an ASCII file, each alphabetic, numeric, or special character is represented with a 7-bit binary number (a string of seven 0s or 1s). 128 possible characters are defined. AntennaA device that intercepts radio frequency (RF) waves from the atmosphere and converts them to corresponding signal voltages.BandwidthA measure of the maximum rate of data transfer. A higher bandwidth allows more data transmission in a given period of time. For digital services, the bandwidth is usually expressed in bits or bytes per second.Basic Service Set (BSS)A group of wireless stations and an access point using the same ID (SSID).BinaryA number system that has only two digits, 0 and 1.
 40GlossaryBridgeA hardware device that links two or more physical networks and manages the transfer of data between these networks. The two networks connected can be alike or dissimilar.BroadbandA transmission media that can handle the transmission of multiple messages at different frequencies, at one time. Broadband signals use analog carriers.ChannelA channel is a separate path through which signals can flow.Decibels Per Milliwatt (dBm)A unit of measurement used to express relative difference in power or intensity, relative to 1mW.Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)A method of assigning a temporary IP address to a host, such as a computer, connected on a specific network. With dynamic addressing, a particular host may have a different IP address each time it connects to the network.DigitalData expressed as a string of 0s and 1s. Each of these digits is referred to as a bit (and a string of 8 bits that a computer can address individually as a group is a byte).DNS ServerA server that contains both the English and numerical addresses of all computers connected to the Internet. When you specify an e-mail or IP address using the “English” domain name, the DNS server will return the corresponding numeric address.Domain NameA domain name locates an organization or other entity on the Internet.Domain Name System (DNS)This allows you to specify a symbolic name, a meaningful and easy-to-remember “handle,” instead of an Internet Protocol address. The DNS is the way that Internet domain names are located and translated into Internet Protocol addresses.
 41GlossaryDriverA program that a computer uses to control the operation of a peripheral device, such as a keyboard, modem, monitor, card, or cable.Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS)A digital modulation technique that spreads data transmissions across the entire available frequency band in a pre-arranged scheme. Under DSSS, each bit of data to be transmitted is encoded with a redundant pattern called a chip. The chipping code is known only to the sending and receiving stations, making it difficult for an intruder to intercept and decipher the encoded wireless data. DSSS is used in IEEE 802.11b networks.Dynamic IP addressSee DHCP.EncryptionA procedure to convert a file from its original form to one that can be read only by the intended recipient.Extended Service Set Identity (ESSID)It is an ASCII string and can be as long as 32 characters. It is used by a wireless network. Wireless stations with a different ESSID from your network’s ESSID cannot connect to your network.EthernetA local-area network (LAN) protocol that supports data transfer rates of 10 Mbps. It is a widely implemented LAN standard that operates over the twisted pair or coaxial cable. A version of Ethernet, called 100 Base-T (or fast Ethernet), supports data transfer rates of 100 Mbps.Extended Service Set (ESS)A group of Wireless Stations and multiple access points using the same ID (ESSID) form an Extended Service Set.Fast EthernetAn Ethernet specification with a speed of 100 Mbps (10 times faster than 10BaseT).
 42GlossaryFirewall protectionCreative’s built-in router provides firewall protection to all the computers on its network. All these computers share a single public IP address and are assigned local IP addresses, which are hidden from the outside world. For the external world, there is no network, only a single device. Creative router blocks any attempt by any external computer to connect to local resources.Fragmentation ThresholdThe size at which the transmitted data packets are fragmented. The range extends from 256 to 2346 bytes.Full duplexSimultaneous and independent data transmission, between two communicating computers, in both directions.Half duplexA data transmission system where two Notebooks can send and receive data but in which data transmission can occur in only one direction at a time.HexadecimalA number system with a base of 16. The 16 digits in the hexadecimal system are 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, a, b, c, d, e, f.HubA device used for connecting nodes in a star topology, that is all the nodes are connected to a central hub. A passive hub simply organizes the wiring, while an active hub, besides organizing the wiring, regenerates and retransmits the signals.IEEE 802.11A family of wireless network standards — 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11e, and 802.11g, out of which 802.11b has won widespread adoption. The original 802.11 standard was first approved in 1997 but was not very successful because it was relatively slow at 2 Mbps.IEEE 802.11bA high-bit wireless network standard that works on the 2.4 GHz band and utilizes DSSS (direct sequence spread spectrum) technology. It offers data bit rates of up to 11 Mbps and the range is from 200 to 300 feet for maximum speed.
 43GlossaryInfrastructure modeA local area network or other small network mode in which wireless clients are part of the network and use one or more access points to connect to a wired network. Each access point is connected to the Ethernet network using a standard Ethernet cable. In IEEE 802.11b specification, the infrastructure mode is referred to as the Basic Service Set.InterfaceThe physical arrangement that supports the attachment of a device to a connector or to another device.Internet Protocol (IP)The standard protocol within TCP/IP that defines the basic unit of information by breaking down data messages into packets, routing and transporting the packets over networks, then reassembling the packets at their destination. IP corresponds to the Network layer (layer 3) in the ISP/OSI model.IP AddressThe address for a computer on a TCP/IP network. The IP address identifies a particular machine on a network. The format of an IP address is a 32-bit numeric address written as four numbers separated by periods. Each number can be 0 to 255, for example, 11.160.10.240 is an IP address. Any machine connected to the Internet is assigned an IP address.Industrial, Scientific and Medical (ISM) bandThere are four unlicensed bands for wireless networks and these bands are commonly known as ISM bands. These bands are found on the 900 MHz, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz (two) frequency bands.Local Area Network (LAN)A computer network that spans a relatively small area. Most LANs are confined to an office, single building, or group of buildings.Light Emitting Diode (LED)An electric component that emits light (turns ON) when current flows through it.Kilobits per second (Kbps)A measure of data transfer speed.
 44GlossaryKilobytes (KB)1,024 bytes.Megabits per second (Mbps)A measure of data transfer speed.Megabits/MegabytesOne million bits/bytes.ModemA device that allows a computer to transmit data to other computers via telephone lines.Network Address Translation (NAT)An Internet standard that enables a local-area network to use one set of IP addresses for internal traffic and a second set of IP addresses for external traffic. NAT provides a type of firewall security by hiding internal IP addresses. Since they are used internally, such IP addresses will not be in conflict with those used by other companies and organizations.Network MaskSee Subnet Mask.Network Interface Card (NIC)A card that is installed in a computer so that it can be connected to a network. The NIC manages the flow of network information to and from the computer.Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA)An industry group organized in 1989 to promote standards for a card-size memory or I/O device that would fit into a personal computer, usually a Notebook or computer.PCMCIA CardA card-size memory or I/O device that connects to a personal computer, usually a Notebook or computer. The PCMCIA card has a 68-pin connector that connects into a slot in the computer.
 45GlossaryPacket Internet Groper (PING)An Internet program used to determine whether a specific IP address is accessible. It works by sending a packet to the specified address and waiting for a reply. PING is used primarily to troubleshoot network connections.PreambleA preamble is a signal, in the form of series of pulses, used in network communication to synchronize the transmission timing between two or more systems. There are two options, Short and Long. The Short option improves throughput performance.ProtocolA set of agreed-upon rules for transmitting data between two devices. A user’s laptop must support the right protocols for the laptop to communicate with other computers.RebootWhen a computer is shut down and restarted, it is rebooting.RJ-11A connector/socket for two pairs (four wires) of twisted pair cables that are used primarily to connect telephone equipment in the United States.RJ-45A connector/socket for four pairs of twisted pair cables that are used commonly to connect computers onto a local-area network, especially to the Ethernet. The only difference between an RJ-45 and RJ-11 connector is that an RJ-45 connector is slightly wider.RouterA hardware device that connects two separately functional networks using the same or different protocols. Routers look at the destination addresses on the packets passing through them and then decide which route to send them on.Request to Send (RTS) ThresholdThis threshold refers to when your PCMCIA card sends out RTS frames to reserve bandwidth for maximum data transmission. If a transmitted data frame is larger than the threshold value, the RTS frame sent out will request for more bandwidth.
 46GlossaryService Set Identity (SSID)A group name shared by all members of an IEEE 802.11 standard wireless network. Only wireless devices with the same SSID are allowed to establish connections.Static IP addressA permanent IP address assigned to a computer (host) connected on a specific network.Subnet or SubnetworkAny network that is a part of a larger IP network and is identified by a subnet address.Subnet MaskA 32-bit string of a TCP/IP address — a part of which is the network address and another part the host address. A Subnet Mask is usually represented in dotted-decimal notation, for example, 255.255.255.0.SwitchA device used for connecting nodes in a star topology. In a star topology, all nodes are connected to a central switch. By monitoring packets, a switch learns which devices are connected to its ports and then sends a packet to the appropriate port only.Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)A suite of communication protocols that are used by computers or networking devices on the Internet so that they can communicate with each other. TCP/IP uses several protocols, the two main being TCP and IP.10 Base-TA wiring standard used for Ethernet networks that can transmit data at up to 10 Mbps transmission using baseband unshielded twisted pair cables. The maximum cable length is 100 meters (330 feet).Twisted pair cableA cable that consists of two wires twisted together. This cable is less expensive but more brittle than a coaxial cable.
 47GlossaryUniversal Serial Bus (USB)A plug-and-play interface that allows the user to attach a device without having to add an adapter card and turning off the computer.Wide Area Network (WAN)A computer network that spans a relatively large geographical area. Typically, a WAN consists of two or more local-area networks (LANs).Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP)A wired security policy defined by the IEEE 802.11 working group. WEP uses the RC-4 40-bit encryption algorithm to scramble all data before it is transmitted. Vendors add proprietary encryption features to their software, taking the encryption level up to 128 bits.Wi-FiWi-Fi is promoted by the Wireless Ethernet Compatibility Alliance (WECA). It places a stamp of certification on wireless products that are interoperable with other 802.11b compliant products.
48Service and WarrantyEService and WarrantyThis chapter provides Technical Support and Warranty information for the following geographic regions:❍The Americas❍AsiaVisit our online help website at www.americas.creative.com/support for help with installation, answers to frequently asked questions, or troubleshooting tips. Our website holds a wealth of information as well as up-to-the-minute software and driver upgrades.Product ReturnsTo return a Creative product for a factory service, contact the Creative Technical Support office.  Once the staff has verified the product is defective, you will be given a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. When returning a product for factory service:• Shipment to Creative is at your expense and you assume all risk.  Ship the package through a carrier that provides proof of delivery; insure the shipment at full product value.• Place the RMA number on the outside of the package.• Use proper materials for packing the product for shipment.• For free repair or replacement, you must include a copy of a dated proof of purchase (store receipt), proving that the product is still under WarrantyCreative may replace or repair the product with new or reconditioned parts, and the faulty parts or product will become the property of Creative.The Americas
                                                                                                                                                     49 Technical SupportIf after consulting our online help, you still have an installation question on a Creative product, you may contact us by the following numbers (please have your system hardware and operating system configuration information and Creative product model and serial numbers available for the call):  Telephone (405) 742-6622. Tech SupportBEFORE YOU CONTACT USPlease fill out the following information and be seated at your computer.• Model #: _____________Serial # _____________(both found on the back of the device)• Error message on the screen and how it came about: ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________• Information on the adapter card that conflicts with the product (if applicable): ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________• Hardware configuration information:  ________________________________________________• IRQ line: (if applicable): __________________________________________________________• DMA channel used (if applicable):  __________________________________________________• Computer type and speed: _________________________________________________________• Type and version of your operating system; Windows 95/98/Me/NT/2000: __________________For comments or questions regarding our technical support, you can also contact us at the following address: Creative Labs, Inc., Technical Support, 1523 Cimarron Plaza, Stillwater, OK 74075.
 50Service and WarrantyWarranty InformationWarranty InformationCREATIVE (“the manufacturer”) warrants that equipment furnished will be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the confirmed date of purchase of the product new from the retail location. Upon written notice of any such defect, the manufacturer will, at its option, repair or replace the defective item under the terms of this warranty, subject to the provisions and specific exclusions listed herein.This warranty shall not apply to equipment that has been previously repaired or altered outside our plant in any way. Nor will it apply if the equipment has been used in a manner exceeding its specifications or if the serial number has been removed.We do not assume any liability for consequential damages as a result from our products use, and in any event our liability shall not exceed the original selling price of the equipment.The equipment warranty of Creative Technology Ltd., shall constitute the sole and exclusive remedy of any buyer of the manufacturer’s equipment and the sole and exclusive liability of the manufacturer, its successors or assignees, in connection with equipment purchase and in lieu of all other warranties expressed, implied or statutory, including, but not limited to, any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness and all other obligations or liabilities of the manufacturer, its successors or assignees.
                                                                                                                                                   51 Our company is happy to assist and support our customers. If you have trouble or questions relating to any purchased equipment, follow the steps below:1Duplicate the problem. Once a problem occurs, try to restart your hardware and software from the beginning and see if the problem happens again. If a problem is intermittent, finding it may be difficult because there may be more than one cause and, consequently, more than one solution. 2Contact the dealer who sold you the equipment. Your dealer may be able to provide the assistance you need. 3Call our Technical Support Hotline at (65) 6895-4100. 4Our representatives will be glad to help you over the phone Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Singapore Time). 5Be at your computer when you call technical support. 6Our technicians often need to ask you to perform certain functions while on the phone.7n the event that you need to return a product, you will need to obtain a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number. Equipment returned without a RMA number will not be accepted.8Please keep a record of your RMA number for future reference.Asia
 52Service and Warranty9When returning equipment to us, please use the following procedures:• Include a note inside the package that has the RMA, along with your name and address. Also, write your RMA number on the shipping label and with your return address.• Please send the package postage paid. We will not accept packages sent COD.• Ship the well-packed equipment to:Creative Technology Ltd.31 International Business Park    Creative ResourceSingapore 609921Attn: Asia Customer ServiceRMA# (your RMA number here)• Your equipment will be returned to you via United Parcel Service (UPS) ground service. Depending on your location, it could take two weeks to complete the return process.Helpline Information❍South AfricaCreative Labs Africa (Pty) Ltd, 1F North East Wing, Corner K101 & Old Pretoria Road, Midrand, JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA.Mailing Address: P O Box 76761, WENDYWOOD 2144, Republic of SOUTH AFRICA.Operating Hours: 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., 1:00 pm-5:00 p.m. Mon-Fri, except for Public Holidays.Hotline: (27-11)805-0188.Fax: (27-11)805-0190.E-mail Form: http://asia.creative.com/support/lookup.asp.❍MalaysiaCreative Labs Sdn Bhd, D-2-5 Megan Phileo Promenade, Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA.Operating Hours: 9:00 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Mon-Thurs & 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Fri, except for Public Holidays.Hotline: (60-3)2164-7199.Fax: (60-3)2164-7198.E-mail: techsupport@clsb.creative.com.E-mail Form: http://asia.creative.com/support/lookup.asp.
                                                                                                                                                 53 ❍Hong Kong & MacauCreative Labs (Hong Kong) Ltd, Unit 31, 9/F, Hong Kong International Trade & Exhibition Centre, No 1 Trademart Drive, Kowloon Bay, KOWLOON, HONG KONG.Operating Hours:9:15 a.m.-5:45 p.m. Mon-Fri & 9:15 a.m.-12.45 p.m. Sat, except for Public Holidays.Hotline: (852)2148-6151/6152.Fax: (852)2331-2151.Web Site: http://asia.creative.com/hongkong/E-mail Form: http://asia.creative.com/support/lookup.asp❍The rest of the Asia Pacific regionCreative Technology Ltd, 31 International Business Park, Creative Resource, SINGAPORE 609921, Republic of SINGAPORE.Operating Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Mon-Fri, except for Public Holidays.Hotline: (65) 6895-4100.Fax: (65) 6895-4029.Web Site: http://asia.creative.com/E-mail Form: http://asia.creative.com/support/lookup.asp

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