LINKSYS WGA54GV2 Wireless-G Game Adapter User Manual WGA54G UG RevNC

LINKSYS LLC Wireless-G Game Adapter WGA54G UG RevNC

Users Manual

Instant Wireless®Series Use this guide to install:WGA54G ver. 2Wireless-G GameAdapterUser Guide
COPYRIGHT & TRADEMARKS Specifications are subject to change without notice. Copyright © 2003 Linksys, All RightsReserved. Instant Wireless, Linksys, and the Linksys logo are registered trademarks ofLinksys Group, Inc. Microsoft, Windows, and the Windows logo are registered trade-marks of Microsoft Corporation. All other trademarks and brand names are the propertyof their respective proprietors. LIMITED WARRANTY Linksys guarantees that every Wireless-G Game Adapter will be free from physicaldefects in material and workmanship for three years from the date of purchase, whenused within the limits set forth in the Specifications section of this User Guide. TThhiiss WWaarrrraannttyy iiss vvaalliidd aanndd mmaayy bbee pprroocceesssseedd oonnllyy iinn tthhee ccoouunnttrryy ooff ppuurrcchhaassee..If the product proves defective during this warranty period, go to the Linksys website atwww.linksys.comfor complete RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) assistance. Youcan also call Linksys Technical Support in order to obtain a RMA Number. BE SURE TOHAVE YOUR PROOF OF PURCHASE AND A BARCODE FROM THE PRODUCT’S PACK-AGING ON HAND WHEN CALLING. RETURN REQUESTS CANNOT BE PROCESSEDWITHOUT PROOF OF PURCHASE. When returning a product, mark the RMA Numberclearly on the outside of the package and include a copy of your original proof of pur-chase. All customers located outside of the United States of America and Canada shallbe held responsible for shipping and handling charges.IN NO EVENT SHALL LINKSYS’S LIABILITY EXCEED THE PRICE PAID FOR THE PROD-UCT FROM DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAM-AGES RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THE PRODUCT, ITS ACCOMPANYING SOFT-WARE, OR ITS DOCUMENTATION. LINKSYS DOES NOT OFFER REFUNDS FOR ANYPRODUCT. Linksys makes no warranty or representation, expressed, implied, or statuto-ry, with respect to its products or the contents or use of this documentation and allaccompanying software, and specifically disclaims its quality, performance, mer-chantability, or fitness for any particular purpose. Linksys reserves the right to revise orupdate its products, software, or documentation without obligation to notify any individ-ual or entity. Please direct all inquiries to:Linksys P.O. Box 18558, Irvine, CA 92623. SAFETY AND REGULATORY NOTICESFCC STATEMENTThis Wireless-G Game Adapter has been tested and complies with the specifications fora Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designedto provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if notinstalled and used according to the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radiocommunications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a par-ticular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or televisionreception, which is found by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged totry to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna• Increase the separation between the equipment or devices• Connect the equipment to an outlet other than the receiver’s• Consult a dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for assistanceFCC Caution: Any change or modification to the product not expressly approved byLinksys could void the user’s authority to operate the device.FCC Radiation Exposure StatementThis equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolledenvironment. This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance20cm between the radiator and your body.• Access points with 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz integrated antenna must operate with a sepa-ration distance of at least 20 cm from all persons using the cable provided and mustnot be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.End-users must be provided with specific operations for satisfying RF exposure compli-ance.Note: Dual antennas used for diversity operation are not considered co-located.INDUSTRY CANADA (CANADA)This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.The use of this device in a system operating either partially or completely outdoors mayrequire the user to obtain a license for the system according to the Canadian regulations.EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY (EUROPE)Linksys Group declares that the Instant Wireless Series products included in the InstantWireless Series conform to the specifications listed below, following the provisions of theEMC Directive 89/336/EEC and Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC:• ETS 300-826, 301 489-1 General EMC requirements for Radio equipment.• EN 609 50 Safety• ETS 300-328-2 Technical requirements for Radio equipment.Note: This equipment is intended to be used in all EU and EFTA countries. Outdoor usemay be restricted to certain frequencies and/or may require a license for operation. Formore details, contact Linksys Corporate Compliance.Note: Combinations of power levels and antennas resulting in a radiated power level ofabove 100 mW are considered as not compliant with the above mentioned directive andare not allowed for use within the European community and countries that have adoptedthe European R&TTE directive 1999/5/EC and/or the CEPT recommendation Rec 70.03.For more details on legal combinations of power levels and antennas, contact LinksysCorporate Compliance.• Linksys Group vakuuttaa täten että Instant Wireless Wireless-G Game Adapter tyyp-pinen laite on direktiivin 1999/5/EY, direktiivin 89/336/EEC ja direktiivin 73/23/EEColeellisten vaatimusten ja sitä koskevien näiden direktiivien muiden ehtojenmukainen.• Linksys Group déclare que le pont Ethernet sans fil G est conforme aux conditionsessentielles et aux dispositions relatives à la directive 1999/5/EC, la directive89/336/EEC, et à la directive 73/23/EEC.
Wireless-G Ethernet Bridge• Belgique B L’utilisation en extérieur est autorisé sur le canal 11 (2462 MHz), 12 (2467MHz), et 13 (2472 MHz).Dans le cas d’une utilisation privée, à l’extérieur d’un bâtiment, au-dessus d’unespace public, aucun enregistrement n’est nécessaire pour une distance de moinsde 300m. Pour une distance supérieure à 300m un enregistrement auprès de l’IBPTest requise. Pour une utilisation publique à l’extérieur de bâtiments, une licence del’IBPT est requise. Pour les enregistrements et licences, veuillez contacter l’IBPT.• France F: Bande de fréquence restreinte: seuls les canaux 10, 11, 12, 13 (2457,2462, 2467, et 2472 MHz respectivement) doivent être utilisés en France. Toute util-isation, qu'elle soit intérieure ou extérieure, est soumise à autorisation. Vous pouvezcontacter l'Autorité de Régulation des Télécommuniations (http://www.art-telecom.fr)pour la procédure à suivre.• France F: Restricted frequency band: only channels 10, 11, 12, 13 (2457, 2462,2467, and 2472 MHz respectively) may be used in France. License required forevery indoor and outdoor installations. Please contact ART for procedure to follow.• Deutschland D: Anmeldung im Outdoor-Bereich notwending, aber nicht genehmi-gungspflichtig. Bitte mit Händler die Vorgehensweise abstimmen.• Germany D: License required for outdoor installations. Check with reseller for proce-dure to follow.• Italia I: E' necessaria la concessione ministeriale anche per l'uso interno. Verificarecon i rivenditori la procedura da seguire. L'uso per installazione in esterni non e' per-messa.• Italy I: License required for indoor use. Use with outdoor installations not allowed.• the Netherlands NL License required for outdoor installations. Check with reseller forprocedure to follow.• Nederlands NL Licentie verplicht voor gebruik met buitenantennes. Neem contact opmet verkoper voor juiste procedure.WGA54G-UG-304229 KLTable of ContentsChapter 1: Introduction 1The Wireless-G Game Adapter 1Features 1Chapter 2: Getting to Know theWireless-G Game Adapter 2The Wireless-G Game Adapter’s Back Panel 2The Wireless-G Game Adapter’s Front Panel LEDs 3Chapter 3: Planning Your Wireless Network 4Network Topology 4Ad-Hoc versus Infrastructure Mode 4Chapter 4: Fast Setup for Head-to-Head Play 6Chapter 5: Setting Up theWireless-G Game Adapter for Network Play 7Connecting the Game Adapter to Your PC 7Starting the Setup Wizard from your PC 8Easy Setup Wizard Configuration for Head-to-Head Play 9Advance Setup Wizard Configuration for Head-to-Head Play 11Setup Wizard Configuration for Internet Play 14Connecting the Game Adapter to Your Game Console 18Chapter 7: Using the Wireless-GGame Adapter’s Web-based Utility 19Overview 19Starting the Web-based Utility 19Setup 21Advanced 24Help 27Appendix A: Troubleshooting 28Common Problems and Solutions 28Frequently Asked Questions 29
Wireless-G Ethernet Bridge1Instant Wireless®SeriesChapter 1: IntroductionrThe Wireless-G Game Adapter gives any wired Ethernet-equipped game con-sole wireless connection capabilities. The Game Adapter can be used in twodifferent ways. If you have an existing home wireless network and a cable orDSL Internet connection, the Game Adapter lets your PlayStation®2, Xbox™or GameCube™ attach to the network so you can get into online games with-out running wires to the game room. Or, use a pair of Game Adapters to forma "cable-less cable" between two game consoles for head-to-head gaming -- inthe same room, or all the way across the house.It's completely driver-free, so it works on any platform. Since there's no driv-ers to load, setup is a snap. In some cases, it works right out of the box! If yoursetup's a little different -- just configure the network settings through your PC'sweb browser, plug it into your game box, and go.The Wireless-G Game Adapter provides lag-free gaming with communicationspeeds up to 54Mbps when connected to other Wireless-G devices. It can alsoconnect to Wireless-B (802.11b) devices and networks at 11Mbps.Spend your time gaming, not stringing wires, with the Linksys Wireless-GGame Adapter.• Compatible with all 802.11b and draft 802.11g compliant devices• Operates in the 2.4GHz frequency range for maximum distance• Dynamically shifts channels and wireless networks based on signal strengthand link quality for maximum availability and reliability of connection• Utilizes up to 128 Bit Wired Equivalency Protection (WEP) to ensure secu-rity• Works with all network-ready game consoles, including Xbox, Playstation2* and GameCube**May require additional Network Adapter AccessoryThe Wireless-G Game AdapterFeaturesAppendix B: Glossary 30Appendix C: Specifications 35Environmental 35Appendix D: Warranty Information 36Appendix E: Contact Information 37
Wireless-G Ethernet Bridge3Instant Wireless®Series2The Game Adapter’s LEDs display theactivity on your network.Power Green. The Power LED willlight up when the GameAdapter is powered on.Ethernet Green. The Ethernet LEDwill be lit steadily when theGame Adapter is connectedto the wired network. TheLED will blink when there iswired network traffic. Wireless-G Green. The Wireless-G LEDwill be lit steadily when theGame Adapter is connectedto the wireless network. TheLED will blink when there iswireless network traffic.Figure 2-2Chapter 2: Getting to Know theWireless-G Game AdapterThe Back Panel is where you’ll connect the GameAdapter and find the Reset button.Reset The Reset button resets the GameAdapter to its factory default settings.LAN The LAN port is where you will con-nect the Ethernet network cable.Power The Power port is where you will con-nect the power adapter.The Wireless-G Game Adapter’s Back PanelFigure 2-1The Wireless-G Game Adapter’s LEDs
Wireless-G Ethernet BridgeInstant Wireless®Series54and receivers to communicate directly with each other, eliminating the need foran access point. The drawback of this mode is that in Ad-Hoc mode, wireless-equipped computers are not able to communicate with computers on a wirednetwork. And, of course, communication between the wireless-equipped comput-ers is limited by the distance and interference directly between them.Figure 3-2 shows a wireless bridging scenario using two Wireless-G GameAdapters. Each wireless network is connected to a Wireless-G Game Adapterthrough a switch. A separate computer is equipped with a wireless PC card andcan communicate with both wireless networks as long as it has the same SSIDand channel as both wireless networks.Chapter 3: Planning Your WirelessNetworkA wireless local area network (WLAN) is exactly like a regular local area net-work (LAN), except that each computer in the WLAN uses a wireless device toconnect to the network. Computers in a WLAN share the same frequency chan-nel and SSID, which is an identification name for wireless devices.Unlike wired networks, wireless networks have two different modes in whichthey may be set up: infrastructure and ad-hoc. An infrastructure configurationis a WLAN and wired LAN communicating to each other through an accesspoint. An ad-hoc configuration is wireless-equipped computers communicatingdirectly with each other. Choosing between these two modes depends onwhether or not the wireless network needs to share data or peripherals with awired network or not. If the computers on the wireless network need to be accessible by a wired net-work or need to share a peripheral, such as a printer, with the wired networkcomputers, the wireless network should be set up in Infrastructure mode. Thebasis of Infrastructure mode centers around an access point, which serves as themain point of communications in a wireless network (see Figure 3-1). Accesspoints transmit data to PCs equipped with wireless network cards, which canroam within a certain radial range of the access point. Multiple access pointscan be arranged to work in succession to extend the roaming range, and can beset up to communicate with your Ethernet hardware as well. If the wireless network is relatively small and needs to share resources onlywith the other computers on the wireless network, then the Ad-Hoc mode canbe used. Ad-Hoc mode allows computers equipped with wireless transmittersNetwork TopologyAd-Hoc versus Infrastructure ModeFigure 3-1Note: The Game Adapter can be used right out of the box if you areonly using it to play head-to-head with another game console. Justplug it in and play.But if you are connecting it to a wireless network, or using it to playover the Internet, you must configure it with your wireless network.Refer to “Chapter 5: Setting up the Wireless-G Game Adapter forNetwork Play” for more information.Figure 3-2
Wireless-G Ethernet Bridge7Instant Wireless®SeriesChapter 4: Fast Setup for Head-to-Head Play1. Plug the included Ethernet network cable into the GameAdapter’s LAN port, as shown in Figure 4-1.2. Plug the other end of the Ethernet network cable into theRJ-45 port of your game console.3. Plug the supplied power cable into the Game Adapter’sPower port, as shown in Figure 4-2. Then, plug the otherend into an electrical outlet, preferably a surge protector. 4. Set your game console for multiplayer gaming as usual.6Chapter 5: Setting Up theWireless-G Game Adapter forNetwork Play1. Plug the included Ethernet network cable into the GameAdapter’s LAN port, as shown in Figure 5-1.2. Plug the other end of the Ethernet network cable intoyour PC’s RJ-45 port.3. Plug the supplied power cable into the Game Adapter’sPower port, as shown in Figure 4-2. Then, plug the otherend into an electrical outlet, preferably a surge protector. 4. Start your PC.Connecting the Game Adapter to Your PCFigure 4-1Figure 4-2Figure 5-1Figure 5-2Note: These directions are provided for gamersplaying Head-to-Head with no setting changes.If you wish to change the Game Adapter’s set-tings to match those of your wireless network,you should follow the directions provided in“Chapter 5: Setting up the Wireless-G GameAdapter for Network Play”.
Wireless-G Ethernet BridgeWhen the Game Adapter is located, you will beasked to enter your network password. Type thepassword in the field, as shown in Figure 5-5,and click Enter.After you have entered your password, choose the following set of directions toconfigure the Game Adapter. “Easy Setup Wizard Configuration for Head-to-Head Play” is a simple procedure for verifying correct settings. “AdvancedSetup Wizard Configuration for Head-to-Head Play” allows you to modify theGame Adapter’s settings for Head-to-Head play. “Setup Wizard Configurationfor Internet Play” should be used when configuring the Game Adapter to playgames over a broadband Internet connection. After you have completed thesesteps, disconnect the Game Adapter from your PC and connect it to your gameconsole as shown in “Connecting the Game Adapter to Your Game Console”.Easy Setup is included for when you wish to verify that the Game Adapter’s set-ting are correct. 1. From the screenshown in Figure5-6, select theHead to Head(Console toConsole) radiobutton and clickNext.9Instant Wireless®Series8Next, you will configure the Wireless-G Game Adapter with your PC. TheSetup Wizard will guide you through all the steps necessary.1. Insert the Setup CD-ROM into your PC’s CD-ROM drive. The SetupUtility should run automatically, and the screen in Figure 5-3 should appear.If it does not, click the Start button and choose Run. In the field thatappears, enter D:\setup.exe (if “D” is the letter of your CD-ROM drive).•Setup - Click Setup to proceed with the Setup Wizard. •User Guide - Click User Guide to open the PDF file of this User Guide. •LINKSYS Web - Click LINKSYS Web to access the Linksys websiteusing an active Internet connection.•Exit - Click Exit to exit the Setup Wizard.Click Setup to begin the setup process.2. The Setup Wizard will search for the GameAdapter.If it cannot find one, you will be asked to checkthe connections, as shown in Figure 5-4.Review your connections and click Continue.The Setup Wizard will search again.Figure 5-3Starting the Setup Wizard from Your PCFigure 5-4Figure 5-5Easy Setup Wizard Configuration for Head-to-Head PlayFigure 5-6
4. Now that thesettings havebeen verified,Easy Setup iscomplete.Advanced Setup allows you to modify the Game Adapter’s settings for Head-to-Head Play.1. From the screen shown in Figure 5-10, select the Head to Head (Consoleto Console) radio button and click Next.11Instant Wireless®Series2. From the next screen, shown in Figure 5-7, select a radio button next to theEasy selections. When setting up Adapter 1, chose the radio button besideAdapter 1. When setting up Adapter 2, chose the radio button besideAdapter 2. When selecting Adapter 2, the Game Adapter’s IP Address willchange as not to conflict with Adapter 1.After makingyour selection,click Next.3. Verify the Game Adapter’s settings from the following screen, shown inFigure 5-8. Then, click Ye s to accept these settings.10Figure 5-8Figure 5-9Figure 5-7Advanced Setup Wizard Configuration for Head-to-Head PlayFigure 5-10
Wireless-G Ethernet Bridge13Instant Wireless®Series2. From the next screen, shown in Figure 5-11, select a radio button next to theAdvanced (Manual Configuration) selection. Then, click Next to contin-ue.3. The wireless set-tings screen willnow appear, shownin Figure 5-12.Enter your wirelessnetwork’s SSID andselect the channel atwhich the networkbroadcasts its wire-less signal. Then,click Next to con-tinue or Back toreturn to the previ-ous screen. •SSID - The SSID is the unique name shared among all devices in your wire-less network. The SSID must be identical for all devices in the wireless net-work. It is case-sensitive and must not exceed 32 alphanumeric characters,which can be any keyboard character.•Channel - From the drop-down menu, select the appropriate channel tomatch your network settings. All devices in your wireless network must usethe same channel in order to function correctly.124. From the next screen, shown in Figure 5-13, enter the IP Settings unique toyour network. Then, click Next to continue or Back to return to the previ-ous screen. •IP Address - This IP address must be unique to your network.•IP Mask - TheGame Adapter’s IPMask (also knownas Subnet Mask)must be the same asyour wired net-work’s SubnetMask.•Gateway - Enter theIP address of yournetwork’s Gateway.5. Confirm your changes to the Game Adapter’s settings from the followingscreen, shown in Figure 5-14. Then, click Ye s to accept these settings.Figure 5-12Figure 5-13Figure 5-11Figure 5-14
Wireless-G Ethernet Bridge2. The Basic Settings screen will now appear, shown in Figure 5-17. Enteryour wireless network’s SSID and select the level of WEP Encryption youwish to apply to your network transmissions. Then, click Next to continueor Back to return to the previous screen. •SSID - The SSID is the unique name shared among all devices in your wire-less network. The SSID must be identical for all devices in the wireless net-work. It is case-sensitive and must not exceed 32 alphanumeric characters,which can be any keyboard character.•WEP (Disabled/64-bit WEP/128-bit WEP) - In order to utilize WEPencryption,select 64-bit or128-bit WEPfrom the drop-down menu.3. If you chose to enable WEP Encryption, the Security Setting screen willappear, shown in Figure 5-18. Enter a Passphrase, which is like a securitypassword. This will generate a WEP key in the Key field. (If you want toenter a WEP key manually, leave the Passphrase field blank and enter theWEP key as described below.)•Passphrase - Instead of manually entering a WEP key, you can enter aPassphrase, and the WEP Key will appear in the Key field. The Passphraseis case-sensitive and should have 16 or fewer alphanumeric characters. Itmust match the passphrase of your wireless network and is compatible withLinksys wireless products only. (You will have to enter the WEP key man-ually on any non-Linksys wireless products.) Write down the Passphraseand click Next to continue.15Instant Wireless®Series6. The followingscreen (shownin Figure 5-15)confirms thatAdvanced Setupis complete.Console to Internet Setup allows you to configure the Game Adapter’s settingsfor playing games over a broadband Internet connection.1. From the screen shown in Figure 5-16, select the Console to Internet radiobutton and click Next.14Setup Wizard Configuration for Internet PlayFigure 5-16Figure 5-17Figure 5-15
Wireless-G Ethernet Bridge5. Confirm your changes to the Game Adapter’s settings from the followingscreen, shown in Figure 5-20. Then, click Ye s to accept these settings.6. The following screen (shown in Figure 5-21) confirms that Advanced Setupis complete. Later changes can be made from the Web-based Utility, asshown in “Chapter 6: Using the Wireless-G Game Adapter’s Web-basedUtility”.17Instant Wireless®Series• You can also enter the WEP Key manually in the Key field. If you are using64-bit WEP encryption, then the key must consist of exactly 10 hexadeci-mal characters.If you are using128-bit WEPencryption, thenthe key mustconsist of exact-ly 26 hexadeci-mal characters.Valid hexadeci-mal charactersare “0”-“9” and“A”-“F”. Then,click Next.4. From the next screen, shown in Figure 5-19, enter the IP Settings unique toyour network. Then, click Next to continue or Back to return to the previ-ous screen. •IP Address - This IP address must be unique to your network.•IP Mask - The Game Adapter’s IP Mask (also known as Subnet Mask)must be the same as your wired network’s Subnet Mask.•Gateway - Enter theIP address of yournetwork’s Gateway.16Figure 5-18Figure 5-19Figure 5-20Figure 5-21
Wireless-G Ethernet BridgeChapter 6: Using the Wireless-GGame Adapter’s Web-based UtilityThe Game Adapter is designed to function properly after configuration usingthe Setup Wizard. However, if you would like to change these settings or makemore advanced configuration changes, use your web browser and the Wireless-G Game Adapter’s Web-based Utility. This chapter explains how to use theUtility.1. Open your web browser, and enter the Game Adapter’s IP address (thedefault is 192.168.1.250). Press the Enter key, and the screen shown inFigure 6-1 will appear. In lowercase letters, enter the default password,admin, in the Password field. Click the OK button. You can set a new pass-word on the Advanced screen later. 19Starting the Web-based UtilityOverviewFigure 6-1Instant Wireless®SeriesNow that the Game Adapter is configured properly, asshown in the previous three sections, you can connect toyour game console and start gaming.1. Plug the included Ethernet network cable into the GameAdapter’s LAN port, as shown in Figure 5-22.2. Plug the other end of the Ethernet network cable into theRJ-45 port of your game console.3. Plug the supplied power cable into the Game Adapter’sPower port, as shown in Figure 5-23. Then, plug theother end into an electrical outlet, preferably a surge pro-tector. 4. Set your game console for multiplayer gaming as usual.18Connecting the Game Adapter to Your Game ConsoleFigure 5-22Figure 5-23
Wireless-G Ethernet Bridge21Instant Wireless®Series20The Setup screen, shown in Figure 6-2, lets you configure the Game Adapter’swireless network settings.• Firmware - The version number of the Game Adapter’s firmware is dis-played here. Firmware should be upgraded ONLY if you experience prob-lems with the Game Adapter. Firmware updates are posted atwww.linksys.com.• MAC Address - The Game Adapter’s MAC Address is displayed here.• SSID - The SSID is the network name shared among all devices in a wire-less network. The SSID must be identical for all devices in the wireless net-work. It is case-sensitive and must not exceed 32 alphanumeric characters,which may be any keyboard character (do not use any spaces). Make surethis setting is the same for all devices in your wireless network. For addedsecurity, you should change the default SSID (linksys) to a name of yourchoice.• Network Type - Choose the Game Adapter’s wireless operating mode here.Keep the default setting, Infrastructure, if you want your wireless-equipped device to communicate with computers and other devices on yourwired network using a wireless access point. Select Ad-Hoc button if youwant multiple wireless-equipped devices to communicate directly with eachother, such as when playing head-to-head. If you chose Ad-Hoc mode, then select the correct operating channel foryour network in the Channel drop-down menu. The channel you chooseshould match the channel set on the other devices in your wireless network. • WEP - To enable WEP encryption, click the Enable radio button. Youshould always employ WEP to increase wireless network security. Thenclick the WEP Key Settings button to configure the WEP settings. To dis-able WEP encryption, keep the default, Disable.Note: You may have to refresh this page to see any new settings.Setup2. The Setup screen will appear, shown in Figure 6-2. The Utility provides a convenient, web-browser-based way to alter theGame Adapter’s settings. It offers five main tabs:•Setup - Enables you to configure the IP address and wireless settings.•Advanced - Lets you change the advanced wired and wireless settings,clone a MAC address onto the Game Adapter, change the password, andrestore default settings.•Help - Provides explanations of various configuration settings and links toonline technical support resources.Figure 7-2
23Instant Wireless®Series22•Default Transmit Key - Select which WEP key (1-4) will be used when theGame Adapter sends data. Make sure the other wireless-equipped devicesare using the same key.•WEP Encryption - In order to use WEP encryption, select 64-Bit (10 hexdigits) or 128-Bit (26 hex digits) from the drop-down menu.•Passphrase - Instead of manually entering WEP keys, you can enter aPassphrase. This Passphrase is used to generate one or more WEP keys. Itis case-sensitive and should not be longer than 16 alphanumeric characters.(The Passphrase function is compatible with Linksys wireless productsonly. If you want to communicate with non-Linksys wireless products, youwill need to enter your WEP key(s) manually on the non-Linksys wirelessproducts.) After you enter the Passphrase, click the Generate button to cre-ate WEP key(s).An acronym for Wired Equivalent Privacy, WEP is an encryption methodused to protect your wireless data communications. WEP uses 64-bit or128-bit keys to provide access control to your network and encryption secu-rity for every data transmission. To decode a data transmission, each devicein a network must use an identical WEP key. Higher encryption levels offerhigher levels of security, but due to the complexity of the encryption, theymay decrease network performance.The wireless networks available to the Game Adapter are listed below. Detailedinformation about the networks is listed on each line. This information includesSSID, MAC Address, Channel, Signal Strength (as a percentage), and Mode.•SSID - The network name. To join a wireless network, click the radio but-ton next to the SSID.•MAC Address - The MAC address of the network’s access point.•Channel - The channel setting.•Signal Strength (%) - The percentage of wireless signal strength.•Mode - The type of wireless standard, network mode, and status of WEPencryption.Click the Connect button to connect to the selected network. If your page does-n’t automatically refresh itself, then click the Refresh button of your webbrowser.WEP EncryptionClick the WEP Key Settings button from the Setup screen to configure theWEP settings. This will open the WEP Encryption screen.Note: Make sure your WEP key matches the WEP key of the wire-less network you want to join. Otherwise, the connection will fail.Figure 7-3Note: You may have to refresh this page to see any new settings.
Wireless-G Ethernet Bridge• Transmission Rate - The default setting is Auto. The range is from 1 to54Mbps. The rate of data transmission should be set depending on the speed of yourwireless network. You can select from a range of transmission speeds, oryou can keep the default setting, Auto, to have the Game Adapter automat-ically use the fastest possible data rate and negotiate the best possible con-nection speed between the Game Adapter and another wireless-equippeddevice.25Figure 7-4Note: You may have to refresh this page to see any new settings.Instant Wireless®Series24•Keys 1-4 - If you are not using a Passphrase, then you can enter one or moreWEP keys manually.In each key field, manually enter a set of values. (Do not leave a key fieldblank, and do not enter all zeroes. These are not valid key values.) If you areusing 64-bit WEP encryption, then each key must consist of exactly 10hexadecimal characters in length. If you are using 128-bit WEP encryption,then each key must consist of exactly 26 hexadecimal characters in length.Valid hexadecimal characters are “0”-“9” and “A”-“F”.Click the Apply button to save your changes. If your page doesn’t automati-cally refresh itself, then click the Refresh button of your web browser. Clickthe Cancel button to cancel your changes. Click the Help button for addition-al on-screen information.Use the Advanced Settings screen to customize advanced wired and wirelesssettings, clone a MAC address onto the Game Adapter, change the password,and restore default settings.IP Address• Obtain IP Address automatically (DHCP). If your network assigns IPaddresses via DHCP, select this setting.• Use the following IP settings. Select this setting if your network uses stat-ic IP Addresses:IP Address. The IP address must be unique to your network. We suggestyou use the default IP address of 192.168.1.245. This is a private IPaddress, so there is no need to purchase a separate IP address from yourservice provider. Verify the address and click the Apply button to savechanges.Subnet Mask. The Game Adapter’s Subnet Mask (or IP Mask) must be thesame as your Ethernet network. Verify this is correct and click the Applybutton to set it. Gateway. If your network does not have a Gateway, then leave this fieldblank.Advanced
Wireless-G Ethernet BridgeThe Help screen offers links to all of the help information for the Web-basedUtility’s screens and this User Guide. All information is read-only.• Linksys Website - Click the Linksys Website link to visit Linksys’s web-site, www.linksys.com.• Online manual in PDF format - Click the Online manual in PDF formatto view this User Guide on-screen. It is in Adobe Acrobat PortableDocument File (.pdf) format, so you will need the free Adobe AcrobatReader to view the pdf. If you do not have the Reader, click the AdobeWebsite link to download it. • Adobe Website (to obtain a PDF reader if required) - If you need todownload the Adobe Acrobat Reader to view the User Guide pdf, then clickthe Adobe Website link.• Firmware Upgrade - Click this button to upgrade the Game Adapter’sfirmware once you have downloaded it from the Linksys Website using thelink above.27Figure 7-9HelpNote: Firmware should be upgraded ONLY if you experience prob-lems with the Game Adapter. Firmware updates are posted atwww.linksys.com.Instant Wireless®Series• Mode. Select Mixed and both Wireless-G and Wireless-B computers willbe allowed on the network, but the speed will be reduced. Select G-Onlyfor maximum speed, but no Wireless-B users will be allowed on the net-work.• Authentication - The default setting is Open. The choices are Open andShared. This setting allows the Game Adapter to authenticate communication withthe wireless devices in your network. With the Shared Key setting, all wire-less devices must have the same WEP keys so that the Game Adapter andthe client can authenticate each other and start transmitting data. With theOpen System setting, any device can join a network without performing anysecurity check. • Cloning Mode - You can clone the MAC address of any network deviceonto the Game Adapter. To disable MAC address cloning, select Disable.The default setting, Automatic, enables the use of the MAC cloning feature.If you have enabled MAC cloning, then select Auto if you want to clone theMAC address of the device currently connected to the Game Adapter’sLAN port. The Game Adapter will actively scan for a new MAC address tobe cloned whenever you disconnect and re-connect the Game Adapterthrough its LAN port.• Administrative Password - You should always change the password fromthat set by the factory, which is admin. All users who try to access theGame Adapter’s Web-based Utility will be prompted for the GameAdapter’s Password. The new Password must not exceed 12 characters inlength and must not include any spaces. Enter the new Password a secondtime to confirm it.• Restore Factory Defaults - Click the Ye s radio button to reset all configu-ration settings to their default values. If you do not want to restore the fac-tory defaults, then keep the default setting, No.Click the Apply button to save your changes. If your page doesn’t automati-cally refresh itself, then click the web browser’s Refresh button. Click theCancel button to cancel your changes. Click the Help button for additional on-screen information.26Note: Any settings you have saved will be lost when the default set-tings are restored.
Wireless-G Ethernet Bridge6. After I make changes through the Web-based Utility, the new settings aren’t dis-played on-screen.Click the Refresh button of your web browser. If the new settings aren’t dis-played, then unplug the power adapter from the Game Adapter. Plug thepower adapter back in, and then click the Refresh button again.Do Xbox “System Link” games require any special configuration?Yes. MAC cloning on the Game Adapters used must be set to Automatic.Can I run an application from a remote computer over the wireless network?This will depend on whether or not the application is designed to be used overa network. Consult the application’s user guide to determine if it supports oper-ation over a network.Can I play multiplayer games with other users of the wireless network?Yes, as long as the game supports multiple players over a LAN. Refer to thegame’s user guide for more information.What is ad-hoc mode?When a wireless network is set to ad-hoc mode, the wireless-equipped com-puters are configured to communicate directly with each other. The ad-hocwireless network will not communicate with any wired network. Would the information be intercepted while transmitting on air?Instant Wireless products feature two-fold protection in security. On the hard-ware side, it has the inherent security feature of scrambling. On the softwareside, Instant Wireless products offer the encryption function (WEP) to enhancesecurity and access control. Users can set it up depending upon their needs.What is WEP?WEP is Wired Equivalent Privacy, a data privacy mechanism based on a 40/64bit shared key algorithm, as described in the IEEE 802.11 standard. 29Instant Wireless®Series28Frequently Asked QuestionsAppendix A: TroubleshootingThis section provides solutions to potential problems regarding the installation andoperation of the Wireless-G Game Adapter. If you can’t find an answer here, checkthe Linksys website at www.linksys.com.1. I can’t connect to the Game Adapter.Open the Web-based Utility. On the Setup tab, perform the following steps: • Verify that the operating mode is set to Infrastructure mode.• Make sure that the SSID is the same as the SSID of the access point.• On the WEP Encryption screen, make sure that all of the WEP settings arethe same as the WEP settings of the access point.2. I don’t know how to change the Game Adapter’s IP address.You have two ways to change the Game Adapter’s IP address. • Open the Web-based Utility. On the Advanced screen, click the Use the fol-lowing IP settings radio button, and change the IP address there.• If you encounter problems, power the Game Adapter off and on again, orpush the Reset button. Then try to change the IP address again. 3. The Web-based Utility doesn’t detect the Game Adapter.Make sure that the Ethernet cable is properly connected and that theEthernet LED is lit.4. The Web-based Utility won’t open.Make sure that you have a network adapter installed on the PC so you canuse the Web-based Utility. 5. The Web-based Utility does not recognize my password.The password is case-sensitive. Make sure you are using the correct case(s)when entering the password.If you forget your password, you can push the Game Adapter’s Reset but-ton. This will reset the password to the default setting; however, all otherGame Adapter settings will be reset to the factory defaults as well. To usethe default setting, enter admin in the Password field.Common Problems and Solutions
Wireless-G Ethernet Bridge31Instant Wireless®Series30Protocol (IP) addresses in an organization's network. Using the Internet's set ofprotocol, each machine that can connect to the Internet needs a unique IPaddress. When an organization sets up its computer users with a connection tothe Internet, an IP address must be assigned to each machine. Without DHCP,the IP address must be entered manually at each computer and, if computersmove to another location in another part of the network, a new IP address mustbe entered. DHCP lets a network administrator supervise and distribute IPaddresses from a central point and automatically sends a new IP address whena computer is plugged into a different place in the network. DHCP uses the concept of a "lease" or amount of time that a given IP addresswill be valid for a computer. The lease time can vary depending on how long auser is likely to require the Internet connection at a particular location. It's espe-cially useful in education and other environments where users change fre-quently. Using very short leases, DHCP can dynamically reconfigure networksin which there are more computers than there are available IP addresses. DHCP supports static addresses for computers containing Web servers thatneed a permanent IP address. Download - To receive a file transmitted over a network. In a communicationssession, download means receive, upload means transmit. Driver - A software module that provides an interface between a network inter-face card and the upper-layer protocol software running in the computer; it isdesigned for a specific device, and is installed during the initial installation ofa network-compatible client or server operating system.DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) - A technology that dramatically increases thedigital capacity of ordinary telephone lines into the home or office and, byemploying unused bandwidth, still allows for normal phone usage. DSL pro-vides "always-on" operation, eliminating the need to dial in to the service.Encryption - A security method that applies a specific algorithm to data inorder to alter the data's appearance and prevent other devices from reading theinformation. Ethernet - IEEE standard network protocol that specifies how data is placedon and retrieved from a common transmission medium.Appendix B: Glossary802.11b - One of the IEEE standards for wireless networking hardware.Products that adhere to a specific IEEE standard will work with each other,even if they are manufactured by different companies. The 802.11b standardspecifies a maximum data transfer rate of 11Mbps, an operating frequency of2.4GHz, and WEP encryption for security. 802.11b networks are also referredto as Wi-Fi networks.802.11g - A proposed, but as yet unratified extension of the IEEE 802.11 stan-dard for wireless networking hardware. The draft 802.11g specifications usedby Linksys specify a maximum data transfer rate of 54Mbps using OFDMmodulation, an operating frequency of 2.4GHz, backward compatibility withIEEE 802.11b devices, and WEP encryption for security.Adapter - This is a device that adds network functionality to your PC, gameconsole, etc.Ad-hoc Network - An ad-hoc network is a group of computers, each with awireless adapter, connected as an independent 802.11 wireless LAN. Ad-hocwireless computers operate on a peer-to-peer basis, communicating directlywith each other without the use of an access point. Ad-hoc mode is alsoreferred to as an Independent Basic Service Set or as peer-to-peer mode, and isuseful at a departmental scale.Bit - A binary digit. The value - 0 or 1-used in the binary numbering system.Also, the smallest form of data.Broadband - A data-transmission scheme in which multiple signals share thebandwidth of a medium. This allows the transmission of voice, data and videosignals over a single medium. Cable television uses broadband techniques todeliver dozens of channels over one cable.Browser - A browser is an application program that provides a way to look atand interact with all the information on the World Wide Web or PC. The word"browser" seems to have originated prior to the Web as a generic term for userinterfaces that let you browse text files online. DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) - A protocol that lets networkadministrators manage centrally and automate the assignment of Internet
Wireless-G Ethernet Bridge33Instant Wireless®SeriesFirmware - Code that is written onto read-only memory (ROM) or program-mable read-only memory (PROM). Once firmware has been written onto theROM or PROM, it is retained even when the device is turned off.Gateway - A device that interconnects networks with different, incompatiblecommunications protocols. Hardware - Hardware is the physical aspect of computers, telecommunica-tions, and other information technology devices. The term arose as a way to dis-tinguish the "box" and the electronic circuitry and components of a computerfrom the program you put in it to make it do things. The program came to beknown as the software.IEEE (The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) - The IEEEdescribes itself as "the world's largest technical professional society, promotingthe development and application of electrotechnology and allied sciences forthe benefit of humanity, the advancement of the profession, and the well-beingof our members." The IEEE fosters the development of standards that often become national andinternational standards. The organization publishes a number of journals, hasmany local chapters, and several large societies in special areas, such as theIEEE Computer Society.IP (Internet Protocol) - The method or protocol by which data is sent from onecomputer to another on the Internet. It is a standard set of rules, procedures, orconventions relating to the format and timing of data transmission between twocomputers that they must accept and use to be able to understand each other.IP Address - In the most widely installed level of the Internet Protocol (IP)today, an IP address is a 32-binary digit number that identifies each sender orreceiver of information that is sent in packet across the Internet.LAN (Local Area Network) - A group of computers and associated devices thatshare a common communications line and typically share the resources of asingle processor or server within a small geographic area (for example, withinan office building). MAC (Media Access Control) Address - A unique number assigned by themanufacturer to any Ethernet networking device, such as a network adapter,that allows the network to identify it at the hardware level.32Network - A system that transmits any combination of voice, video and/or databetween users. OFDM - Developed for wireless applications, Orthogonal Frequency DivisionMultiplexing (OFDM) technology offers superior performance--increased datarates and more reliable transmissions--than previous technologies, such asDSSS. OFDM is a scheme in which numerous signals of different frequenciesare combined to form a single signal for transmission on the medium. OFDM works by breaking one high-speed data stream into a number of lower-speed data streams, which are then transmitted in parallel. Each lower speedstream is used to modulate a subcarrier. Essentially, this creates a multi-carriertransmission by dividing a wide frequency band or channel into a number ofnarrower frequency bands or sub-channels. OFDM is also used for other appli-cations, including powerline networking.Packet - A unit of data routed between an origin and a destination in a network.Passphrase - Used much like a password, a passphrase simplifies the WEPencryption process by automatically generating the WEP encryption keys forLinksys products.PC Card - A credit-card sized removable module that contains memory, I/O,or a hard disk. Port - A pathway into and out of the computer or a network device. For exam-ple, the serial and parallel ports on a personal computer are external sockets forplugging in communications lines, modems and printers. RJ-45 (Registered Jack-45) - A connector similar to a telephone connector thatholds up to eight wires, used for connecting Ethernet devices.Roaming - In an infrastructure mode wireless network, this refers to the abili-ty to move out of one access point's range and into another and transparentlyreassociate and reauthenticate to the new access point. This reassociation andreauthentication should occur without user intervention and ideally withoutinterruption to network connectivity. A typical scenario would be a locationwith multiple access points, where users can physically relocate from one areato another and easily maintain connectivity.Software - Instructions for the computer. A series of instructions that performsa particular task is called a "program." The two major categories of software are
Wireless-G Game AdapterAppendix C: SpecificationsStandards IEEE 802.11b, draft 802.11gPorts Power, EthernetButtons ResetCabling Category 5LEDs Power, Ethernet,Wireless-GTransmit Power 14dBm +/- 1dBmSecurity Features WEPWEP key bits 64, 128Warranty 3 YearsDimensions 6.30" x 3.94" x 1.42" (160 mm x 100 mm x 36 mm)Unit Weight 0.44 lbs. (0.2 kg)Power 5 volt 2.5 AmpCertification FCC, IC-03Operating Temp. 32ºF to 104ºF (0ºC to 40ºC) Storage Temp. -4ºF to 158ºF (-20ºC to 70ºC) Operating Humidity 10% to 85%, Non-CondensingStorage Humidity 5% to 90%, Non-Condensing 35EnvironmentalInstant Wireless®Series34"system software" and "application software." System software is made up ofcontrol programs such as the operating system and database management sys-tem (DBMS). Application software is any program that processes data for theuser.A common misconception is that software is data. It is not. Software tells thehardware how to process the data.SSID (Service Set IDentifier) - A unique name shared among all points in awireless network. The SSID must be identical for each point in the wireless net-work and is case-sensitive. Subnet Mask - The method used for splitting IP networks into a series of sub-groups, or subnets. The mask is a binary pattern that is matched up with the IPaddress to turn part of the host ID address field into a field for subnets. Switch - 1. A data switch connects computing devices to host computers,allowing a large number of devices to share a limited number of ports. 2. Adevice for making, breaking, or changing the connections in an electrical cir-cuit.Topology - A network's topology is a logical characterization of how thedevices on the network are connected and the distances between them. Themost common network devices include hubs, switches, routers, and gateways.Most large networks contain several levels of interconnection, the most impor-tant of which include edge connections, backbone connections, and wide-areaconnections.Upgrade - To replace existing software or firmware with a newer version. Upload - To transmit a file over a network. In a communications session,upload means transmit, download means receive. WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) - A data privacy mechanism based on a 64-bit or 128-bit shared key algorithm, as described in the IEEE 802.11 standard. WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) - A group of computers and associat-ed devices that communicate with each other wirelessly.
Wireless-G Ethernet BridgeAppendix E: Contact InformationFor help with the installation or operation of the Wireless-G Ethernet Bridge,contact Linksys Technical Support at one of the phone numbers or Internetaddresses below.Sales Information 800-546-5797 (LINKSYS)Technical Support 800-326-7114RMA (Return MerchandiseAuthorization) Issues www.linksys.com (or call 949-271-5461)Fax 949-265-6655E-mail support@linksys.comWeb http://www.linksys.comFTP Site ftp.linksys.com37Instant Wireless®Series36Appendix D: Warranty InformationBE SURE TO HAVE YOUR PROOF OF PURCHASE AND A BARCODEFROM THE PRODUCT’S PACKAGING ON HAND WHEN CALLING.RETURN REQUESTS CANNOT BE PROCESSED WITHOUT PROOF OFPURCHASE. IN NO EVENT SHALL LINKSYS’S LIABILITY EXCEED THE PRICEPAID FOR THE PRODUCT FROM DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCI-DENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THEUSE OF THE PRODUCT, ITS ACCOMPANYING SOFTWARE, OR ITSDOCUMENTATION. LINKSYS DOES NOT OFFER REFUNDS FOR ANYPRODUCT. LINKSYS OFFERS CROSS SHIPMENTS, A FASTER PROCESS FOR PRO-CESSING AND RECEIVING YOUR REPLACEMENT. LINKSYS PAYSFOR UPS GROUND ONLY. ALL CUSTOMERS LOCATED OUTSIDE OFTHE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND CANADA SHALL BE HELDRESPONSIBLE FOR SHIPPING AND HANDLING CHARGES. PLEASECALL LINKSYS FOR MORE DETAILS.
38Appendix F: Regulatory InformationWireless-G Game AdapterAppendix F: Regulatory InformationFCC STATEMENTThis product has been tested and complies with the specifications 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 according to 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 is found 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:Reorient or relocate the receiving antennaIncrease the separation between the equipment or devicesConnect the equipment to an outlet other than the receiver'sConsult a dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for assistanceFCC Radiation Exposure StatementThis equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator and your body.SAFETY NOTICESCaution: To reduce the risk of fire, use only No.26 AWG or larger telecommunication line cord.Do not use this product near water, for example, in a wet basement or near a swimming pool.Avoid using this product during an electrical storm. There may be a remote risk of electric shock from lightning.INDUSTRY CANADA (CANADA)•This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.•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.FCC Caution: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate this equipment.Linksys declares that WGA54G ver. 2 ( FCC ID: Q87-WGA54GV2 ) is limited in CH1~CH11 for 2.4 GHz by specified firmware controlled in U.S.A. To prevent radio interference to the licensed service (i.e. co-channel Mobile Satellite systems) this device is intended to be operated indoors and away from windows to provide maximum shielding. Equipment (or its transmit antenna) that is installed outdoors is subject to licensing.Operation is subject to the following two conditions:1) This device may not cause interference and2) This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
© Copyright 2003 Linksys,All Rights Reserved.http://www.linksys.com

Navigation menu