NextComm 640-0001 Wireless LAN PC Card Model 700-0002 User Manual Mirror manual
NextComm, Inc. Wireless LAN PC Card Model 700-0002 Mirror manual
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User Manual
EXHIBIT K – User Manual
FCC ID# PEL640-0001
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Notice
Information furnished by NextComm, Inc., is believed to be accurate and reliable. However,
NextComm, Inc. assumes no responsibility for its use, nor for any infringements of patents or
other rights of third parties, which may result from its use.
No license is granted by implication or otherwise under any patent or patent rights of NextComm,
Inc.
NextComm, Inc. endeavors to improve products as new technology, software, components, and
firmware become available. NextComm, Inc., therefore, reserves the right to change
specifications without prior notice.
Copyright
Copyright 2001 by NextComm, Inc., Kirkland, Washington, USA.
Trademarks
NextComm is a registered trademark.
Microsoft MS-Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
Other products and company names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
holders.
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Regulatory Information
USA – Federal Communications Commission (FCC)
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation of this device is subject to the
following two conditions:
• This device may not cause harmful interference;
• This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
Interference Statement
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device
and a low power transmitter, 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. If not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, it may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is not a guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try and correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna;
• Increase the distance between the equipment and the receiver;
• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver
is connected;
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Canada – Industry Canada (IC)
This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital
apparatus set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of Industry Canada (RSS 210).
Le présent appareil numérique n’émet pas de bruits radio-électriques dépassant les limites
applicables aux appareils numériques de la classe B prescrites dens le Règlement sur le brouillage
radioélectrique édicté par l’Industrie (RSS210).
Europe – EU Declaration of Conformity
This device complies with the specifications listed below, following the provisions of the EMC
Directive 89/336/EEC:
ETS 300-826 General EMC requirements for Radio equipment
ETS 300-328 Technical requirements for Radio equipment
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CE Mark - Declaration of Conformance
This is to certify that this product complies with ISO/IEC Guide 22 and EN45014. It conforms to
the following specifications:
EMC: EN55022(1988)/CISPR-22(1985) Class B
IEC 61000-4-2(2000) 4kVCD,
8kVAD
IEC 61000-4-3(2000) 3V/m
IEC 61000-4-4(2000) 1kV- (power line)
IEC 61000-4-6(2000) 3Vrms
IEC 61000-4-11(2000) 3Vrms
This product complies with the requirements of the Low Voltage Directive 73/23/EEC and the
EMC Directive 89/336/EEC, and carries the CE Mark accordingly.
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Precautions
Safety
• Operation of any radio transmitting equipment, including a Wireless LAN PC Card, may
cause interference with the functionality of inadequately protected medical devices.
• Do not use the Wireless LAN PC Card on an aircraft.
• Do not use the Wireless LAN PC Card at a refueling point.
• Do not use the Wireless LAN PC Card near flammable materials or chemicals.
• Do not use the Wireless LAN PC Card where blasting is in progress.
• Do not use the Wireless LAN PC Card when the use of wireless device may cause
interference or danger.
• Do not use the Wireless LAN PC Card where the use of cellular terminals is prohibited.
• Only qualified service personnel must repair the equipment.
• Use approved accessories only. Do not connect incompatible products.
• Use only accessories approved by the Wireless LAN PC Card manufacturer for use with
this particular Wireless LAN PC Card. The use of any other types will invalidate any
approval or warranty applying to the Wireless LAN PC Card, and may be dangerous.
• Use only the channel settings appropriate for the country where the Wireless LAN PC
Card is used at the present time. Using the card with incorrect channel settings is
prohibited and may be illegal.
• Do not drop or cause a mechanical shock to the Wireless LAN PC Card, as this may
damage the unit.
Installation
Do not place the Wireless LAN PC Card where it will be exposed to the following conditions:
• Unstable surface.
• High humidity or poor ventilation.
• Excessive dust.
• Direct sunlight or extreme heat.
• Closed cars.
• Magnetized location (near a magnets, speaker, or TV).
Operation
• If the Wireless LAN PC Card is moved directly from a cold location to a warm one, or if it
is placed in a very damp environment, moisture may condense on the parts inside. The
Wireless LAN PC Card may not operate properly should moisture occur.
• Wireless LAN PC Card supports 3.3V notebook computers only.
• Microwave oven degrades the performance of wireless LAN drastically. So do not use the
Wireless LAN PC Card in the environment where microwave oven is being used.
Cleaning
Clean the casing with a soft cloth, lightly moistened with water or a mild detergent solution. Do
not use any type of abrasive pad, scouring powder or solvent such as alcohol or benzene as it
may damage the finish of the casing.
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Hardware Description
The Wireless LAN PC Card is an extended type II PC card (PCMCIA card). The Wireless LAN PC
Card is for mobile, portable notebook computers, mobile data systems, and appliances. It is
compatible with wireless inbuilding local area networks that are proliferating in general enterprise
office computing, small office/home office, residential consumer, and public space markets.
The Wireless LAN PC Card is designed to be inter-operable with any wireless IEEE 802.11 and
IEEE 802.11b LAN product that is based on Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) radio
technology, and is compliant to the IEEE 802.11 Standard on Wireless LANs (Revision B), as
defined and approved by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.
LED Indicator
The Wireless LAN PC Card includes one status LED indicator, whose operation is described in the
following table.
Mode Status Description
Ad Hoc Flashing Indicates that the Wireless
LAN PC Card is operating in Ad
Hoc mode
Infrastructure Flashing Indicates that the Wireless
LAN PC Card is browsing
active access points.
Infrastructure Steady (On) Indicates a valid connection to
an access point.
System Requirements
Prior to installing the Wireless LAN PC Card, please check your system for the following
requirements:
• A computer with a PCMCIA Type II slot, and a PCMCIA card and socket services
compliant with revision 2.10 of the PCMCIA specification.
• Windows 95/98/2000 (Please have the Windows installation CD-ROM available for use
during installation).
• A minimum of 500K bytes of free disk space for installing the driver and utility programs.
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Hardware Installation
This chapter describes how to install your Wireless LAN PC Card into the PC Card slot of your
computer.
Preparation
Unpack your Wireless LAN PC Card kit and verify all items are present as described below. If any
items appear to be damaged or missing, please contact your supplier.
Your Wireless LAN PC Card comes with the following items:
• Wireless LAN PC Card (1)
• CD-ROM (set-up/driver disk, User Manual, and Customer License Agreement) (1)
• Quick Installation for Windows 95/98/2000 (1)
• Warranty Card (1)
Installing the PC Card into your notebook
1. Locate available Type II or Type III PCMCIA slot on your notebook computer. Remove
the PC Card slot protector from the computer. (Some computers contain the card slot
protector to prevent damage to the slot when not in use.)
2. With the PCMCIA adapter’s 68-pin connector facing the PCMCIA slot and the NextComm
label facing up, slide the PC Card into the PCMCIA slot until it is firmly seated. If the card
does not fit easily, do not force it. Take the card out and try reinserting. Note that the
PCMCIA slot allows you to “hot swap” PC Cards any time, even when the power of your
computer is on.
Hardware installation is complete.
To Remove the Wireless LAN PC Card
1. Close the software that uses the Wireless LAN PC Card.
2. Stop the PC Card Services on the system tray and Control Panel.
3. Remove the Wireless LAN PC Card, following the instructions in your computer’s manual.
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Installation for Windows
Introduction
This chapter describes the installation of the Wireless LAN PC Card Driver for the Microsoft
Windows 95, 98, and 2000 operating systems.
Note:
Prior to copying or installing the software, you are advised to read the Customer License
Agreement. By installing, copying, or using the Wireless LAN PC Card software, you are
consenting to be bound by this agreement. If you do not agree to all the terms of the Customer
License Agreement, do not download, copy, or install the Wireless LAN PC Card software.
What You Need to Know
Installing a Wireless LAN PC Card requires the same level of expertise that you would need to
install any other type of standard Ethernet network adapter card. It is assumed that you have a
working knowledge of standard Windows 95/98/2000 operations and of installing network
adapter cards.
Installing the Driver Software
1. Windows 95/98/2000 operating systems support “Plug and Play” for PC Cards. Once you
insert the PC Card into your computer, Windows 98 will automatically identify the PC
Card and prompt you to install the necessary driver (when the operating system cannot
find the required driver). This will typically occur when inserting the Wireless LAN PC
Card into your computer for the first time. Place Driver CD-ROM into your CD drive and
close the drive and click Next to proceed.
NOTE:
In some occasions Windows 95/98/2000 operating systems may not detect the new
hardware. This may be the case in situations where:
• The laptop computer into which you wish to install the Wireless LAN PC Card is a
brand-new "out-of-the-box" computer, where the Windows 95/98/2000 operating system
was already factory-installed.
• Previous installation of a Wireless LAN PC Card was aborted before it was finished.
2. Make sure search for the best driver for your device is selected and click Next.
3. Make sure that Specify a location is selected and click Browse.
4. Windows will ask you to browse for the folder. Simply select the Windows 95/98/2000
folder in which the driver is located and click OK.
5. You will be returned to the new hardware Wizard screen. Verify that the correct folder is
selected to install the driver and click Next.
6. Windows is now ready to install the driver. Click the Next button to continue.
7. Before completely driver installation, the driver software will guide you through the
configuration of your card. Please see the User Guide for complete instructions on
Configuration.
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8. After completing configuration, the driver files will be copied. Once this is completed,
Windows will request that you insert the Windows 95/98/2000 CD. Insert your Windows
CD and select D:\win95, or D:\win98, or C:\win2000 from the drop down list. Then click
OK.
9. After Windows 95/98/2000 has copied files from your CD, you will be notified that
installation has been completed. Click Finish to continue.
10. Windows will ask you to restart your computer. Click the Yes button to restart.
Installation is complete.
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Wireless LAN Configurations
End users access the 802.11 wireless LAN through wireless-LAN adapters, which are
implemented as PC cards in notebooks, palmtop computers, or Internet appliances and as PCI
cards in desktop computers. The nature of the wireless connection is transparent.
At its most basic, two PCs equipped with wireless adapter cards can set up an independent
network whenever they are within range of one another. This is called a peer-to-peer or ad-hoc
network. Peer-to-peer networks require no administration or preconfiguration. Each client would
only have access to the resources of the other client and not to a central server.
A wireless peer-to-peer network
In a typical 802.11 wireless LAN configuration, a transmitter/receiver (transceiver) device, called
an access point, connects to the wired network from a fixed location using standard cabling. At a
minimum, the access point receives, buffers, and transmits data between the wireless LAN and
the wired network infrastructure. A single access point can support a small group of users and
can function within a range of less than 35 meters to several hundred meters.
Installing an access point can extend the range of a peer-to-peer network, effectively doubling
the range at which the devices can communicate. Since the access point is connected to the
wired network, each client can have access to server resources as well as to other clients. Each
access point can accommodate many clients; the specific number depends on the number and
nature of the transmissions involved. Many real-world applications exist where a single access
point services up to 250 client devices.
A
ccess Poin
t
Clien
t
Client and Access Point
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Access points have a finite range, on the order 35 meters indoor and 225 meters outdoors. In a
very large facility such as a warehouse, or on a college campus, it may be necessary to install
more than one access point.
A Residential Gateway provides the best utilization to multiple users by sharing a public IP
address, in addition to providing connection to a DSL or cable modem. The embedded Network
Address Translation (NAT) enables the use of private sets of IP addresses by translating to a
single public IP address.
Clien
t
Residentia
l
Gateway
Client and Residential Gateway
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Configuration and Diagnostic Utility
The Wireless LAN PC Card software provides management software for quick network
configuration and easy diagnostics.
Using the Wireless LAN Utility
Once the installation is complete, the configuration utility can be accessed by selecting the
“Configuration Utility” icon from the “802.11 Wireless LAN” folder.
Select “Start”, then “Programs”, then “PRISM 802.11 Wireless LAN, then “Configuration Utility”.
This configuration software includes the following functions:
Link Information
Allow you to monitor network status.
Configuration
Allows you to configure parameters for the Wireless LAN PC Card.
Encryption
Provides WEP security control.
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Link Information Screen
After starting the wireless LAN utility, the hardware information window is shown on the first
folder of the utility windows as shown below. Click on Link Info tab to monitor the network
status of the Wireless LAN PC Card, including the BSS ID, current channel, transmission rate
used, throughput, link quality, and signal strength.
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Configuration Screen
The Configuration Screen allows you to check and modify the configuration of the Wireless LAN
PC Card. The user-definable parameters are shown below:
Mode
Set the station operation mode to:
AdHoc – network configuration that does not use access points
Infrastructure (Default) – configurations with access points
SSID
Input an SSID string that you want to connect to. “Any” is the default.
TxRate
Indicates the transmission rates. Select appropriate transmission data rate to match your
wireless LAN setting. “Fully Automatic” is default.
PS Mode
Enables the power saving mode to reduce power consumption. “Disabled” is default.
Channel
Ad-Hoc – set the channel number to the same channel as is being used by the other wireless
clients in the group.
Infrastructure – the channel is automatically set to the access point that the Wireless LAN PC
Card connects to.
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Encryption Screen
WEP
For more secure data transmissions, select “64 bit” or “128 bit” setting to use WEP security. The
128-bit setting gives a higher level of security, but all devices in the network must have this same
setting. For normal use, retain “Disabled” WEP. “Disabled” is default.
To use the WEP function, do the following:
1. Select “64 bit” or “128 bit” for the Encryption field in the Encryption folder
2. Enter your “Passphrase” and click on “apply” to create security keys.
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Specifications
Automatic Rate Selection 11, 5.5, 2, or 1 Mbps
Standards Compatible to IEEE 802.11b 11 Mbps and 5.5 Mbps standard
and IEEE 802.11 Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) 1
Mbps and 2 Mbps standard
Operating Range1
Open Environment2 750 ft (225 m) @ 11 Mbps
1250 ft (380 m) @ 5.5 Mbps
1800 ft (550 m) @ 2 Mbps
2500 ft (775 m) @ 1 Mbps
Semi Open Environment3 225 ft (70 m) @ 11 Mbps
325 ft (100 m) @ 5.5 Mbps
420 ft (125 m) @ 2 Mbps
530 ft (160 m) @ 1 Mbps
Closed Environment4 115 ft (35 m) @ 11 Mbps
160 ft (50 m) @ 5.5 Mbps
180 ft. (55 m) @ 2 Mbps
225 ft (70 m) @ 1 Mbps
Transmitted Output Power +20 dBm EIRP
(Maximum)
Receiver Sensitivity -82 dBm @ 11 Mbps
(Typical) -87 dBm @ 5.5 Mbps
-91 dBm @ 2 Mbps
-94 dBm @ 1 Mbps
Frequency Range 2412 MHz. to 2462 MHz
Modulation DBPSK; DQPSK
Coding Technique 1 Mbps and 2 Mbps: 11 chip/bit Barker Coding
5.5 Mbps and 11 Mbps: Complementary CodeKeying (CCK)
Number of Channels USA/Canada (FCC/RSS) 11
Japan (JP) 1
France (FR) 4
Remainder of Europe (ETS) 13
Security Secure information transmission with 40 and 128-bit Wired
Equivalent Privacy (WEP) Data Encryption, RC4
Antenna Integrated dual diversity antenna system
Operating voltage 3.3 V ± 5%
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Environmental Operating 32° to 95° F. (0° to 35° C.)
95% humidity max, non condensing
Storage -13° to 140° F. (-20° C. to 70° C.)
95% humidity max, non condensing
Host Interface PC Card Type II
Dimensions 117.8 mm x 53.95 mm x 8.7 mm (PC Card)
Electromagnetic Compliance USA FCC (47CFR) Part 15C, Section 15.247
Canada ISC RSS-210
Europe: ETS 300 328 and ETS 300 826
1 Actual data transmissions rates may vary considerably depending on the number of users, type
of usage (file sizes and frequency of up/down loading), speed of network, typical packet size, and
distance from an access point or other mobile user. Walls, partitions, ceilings, racks, and
merchandise, and the composition of the building’s construction affect operating range inbuilding.
2 In Open Office environments, antennas can “see” each other, i.e. there are no physical
obstructions between them.
3 In Semi-open Office environments, workspace is divided by shoulder-height, hollow wall
elements; antennas are at desktop level.
4 In Closed Office environment, workspace is separated by floor-to-ceiling masonry walls or
equivalent.
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Radio Characteristics
Wireless communication is often subject to local radio regulations. Although Wireless LAN PC
Card has been designed for operation in the license-free 2.4 GHz band, local radio regulations
may impose a number of limitations to the use of wireless communication equipment. To comply
with such regulations, please select the channel-sets identified for your country or region in
Supported Channels below.
Supported Channels
Subject to the radio regulations that apply in your country, your Wireless LAN PC Card may
support a different set of channels. Contact your authorized Wireless LAN PC Card reseller or
NextComm main office for information about the radio regulations that apply in your country.
IEEE 802.11 Channels
Frequency
Range 2400 MHz to
2485 MHz
Channel ID FCC ETSI Spain France Japan
1 2412 2412
2 2417 2417
3 2422 2422
4 2427 2427
5 2432 2432
6 2437 2437
7 2442 2442
8 2447 2447
9 2452 2452
10 2457 2457 2457 2457
11 2462 2462 2462 2462
12 2467 2467
13 2472 2472
14 2484
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of wireless networking?
Wireless networking provides mobility, short and long-term cost savings, increased reliability,
reduced installation times and easy installation in difficult areas.
Does wireless LAN eliminate the wired LAN?
No. Through the deployment of access points or base stations, wireless LAN technology can be
used to extend the reach of an existing wired LAN.
What is the data rate for the NextComm 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Card?
Automatic data rate selection dynamically supports 11, 5.5, 2, and 1 Mbps for maximum
availability and reliability of network connections. The proper data rate is determined
automatically permitting robust connectivity. The NextComm 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Card
automatically steps down from 11 Mbps to 5.5 Mbps to 2 Mbps to 1 Mbps as a user moves away.
What is the coverage area of the NextComm 11 Mbps Access Point?
Walls, partitions, ceilings, racks, and merchandise, and the composition of the building’s
construction affect operating range inbuilding. Data transmission speed is also a factor that
affects operating range. Lower data transmission speed allows greater distance due to improved
receiver sensitivity (A measurement of the weakest signal a receiver can receive and still correctly
translate it into data.). Transmitted output power is another factor that effects operating range.
As the transmitted output power increases, the operating range increases.
In Open Office environments where antennas can “see” each other (there are no physical
obstructions between them) typical operating ranges are:
750 ft (225 m) @ 11 Mbps
1250 ft (380 m) @ 5.5 Mbps
1800 ft (550 m) @ 2 Mbps
2500 ft (775 m) @ 1 Mbps
In Semi-open Office environments where the workspace is divided by shoulder-height, hollow
wall elements and antennas are at desktop level, typical operating ranges are:
225 ft (70 m) @ 11 Mbps
325 ft (100 m) @ 5.5 Mbps
420 ft (125 m) @ 2 Mbps
530 ft (160 m) @ 1 Mbps
In Closed Office environment where the workspace is separated by floor-to-ceiling masonry walls
or equivalent, typical operating ranges are:
115 ft (35 m) @ 11 Mbps
160 ft (50 m) @ 5.5 Mbps
180 ft. (55 m) @ 2 Mbps
225 ft (70 m) @ 1 Mbps
What is IEEE 802.11 standard?
The IEEE 802.11 Wireless LAN standards subcommittee, which is formulating a standard for the
industry. The objective is to enable wireless LAN hardware from different manufacturers to
communicate.
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What IEEE 802.11 features are supported?
The product supports the following IEEE 802.1 1 functions:
• CSMA/CA plus Acknowledge protocol
• Multi-Channel Roaming
• Automatic Rate Selection
• RTS/CTS feature
• Fragmentation
• Power Management
What is the Ad-hoc mode?
In Ad-hoc (peer-to-peer) mode, several wireless stations (e.g. notebook computers) can get
together in a local area (e.g. conference room) and form their own wireless network. Through
peer-to-peer communication, they can share documents and devices. This allows peer-to-peer
communication without using an access point
What is Infrastructure?
An integrated wireless and wired LAN is called an Infrastructure configuration. Infrastructure is
applicable to enterprise scale for wireless access to central database, or wireless application for
mobile workers.
What is Roaming?
Roaming is the ability for a wireless user to move from room to room, or even building to
building on a campus, and not loose their connection to the network. Roaming is specifically
defined as the ability to effortlessly move between access points that are on different channels
but have the same network name.
Before using the roaming function, the workstation must make sure that it is the same channel
number with the Access Point of dedicated coverage area. To achieve true seamless connectivity,
the wireless LAN must incorporate a number of different functions. Each node and Access Point,
for example, must always acknowledge receipt of each message. Each node must maintain
contact with the wireless network even when not actually transmitting data. Achieving these
functions simultaneously requires a dynamic RF networking technology that links Access Points
and nodes. In such a system, the user's end node undertakes a search for the best possible
access to the system. First, it evaluates such factors as signal strength and quality, as well as the
message load currently being carried by each Access Point and the distance of each Access Point
to the wired backbone. Based on that information, the node next selects the right Access Point
and registers its address. Communications between end node and host computer can then be
transmitted up and down the backbone. As the user moves on, the end nodes RF transmitter
regularly checks the system to determine whether it is in touch with the original Access Point or
whether it should seek a new one. When a node no longer receives acknowledgment from its
original Access Point, it undertakes a new search. Upon finding a new Access Point, it then
reregisters, and the communication process continues.
What is BSS ID?
The Basic Service Set (BSS) is the communication domain for each access point. Computers in a
BSS must be configured with the same BSS ID.
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What is ESS ID?
An Infrastructure configuration could also support roaming capability for mobile workers. More
than one BSS can be configured as an Extended Service Set (ESS). Users within an ESS could
Roam freely between BSSs while served as a continuous connection to the network wireless
stations and Access Points within an ESS must be configured with the same ESS ID and the same
radio channel.
What is ISM band?
The FCC and their counterparts outside of the U.S.A. have set aside bandwidth for unlicensed use
in the ISM (Industrial, Scientific and Medical) band. Spectrum in the vicinity of 2.4 GHz, in
particular, is available worldwide.
What is Spread Spectrum?
Spread Spectrum technology is a wideband radio frequency technique developed by the military
for use in reliable, secure, mission-critical communications systems. It is designed to trade off
bandwidth efficiency for reliability, integrity, and security. In other words, more bandwidth is
consumed than in the case of narrowband transmission, but the trade off produces a signal that
is, in effect, louder and thus easier to detect, provided that the receiver knows the parameters of
the spread-spectrum signal being broadcast. Direct-sequence spread-spectrum (DSSS) generates
a redundant bit pattern for each bit to be transmitted. This bit pattern is called a chip (or
chipping code). The longer the chip, the greater the probability that the original data can be
recovered. Even if one or more bits in the chip are damaged during transmission, statistical
techniques embedded in the radio can recover the original data without -the need for
retransmission. To an unintended receiver, DSSS appears as low power wideband noise and is
rejected (ignored) by most narrowband receivers.
Would the information be intercepted while transmitting on air?
WLAN features two-fold protection in security. On the hardware side, with Direct Sequence
Spread Spectrum technology, it has the inherent security feature of scrambling. On the software
side, WLAN series offer the encryption function (WEP) to enhance security and Access Control.
What is WEP?
WEP is Wired Equivalent Protection, a data privacy mechanism ( RC4 encryption algorithm) based
on four 10-bit keys for the 64-bit WEP setting or one 26-bit key for the 128-bit WEP setting, as
described in the IEEE 802.11 standard. This WEP security protects your wireless LAN against
eavesdropping and unauthorized access by hackers or unexpected intruders.
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Troubleshooting
If you encounter difficulty using and/or installing your Wireless LAN PC Card, the error may be
related to various causes:
• Out-of range situation, which prevents the Wireless LAN PC Card from establishing a
wireless connection with the network.
• Configuration mismatch, which prevents the Wireless LAN PC Card from establishing a
wireless connection with the (correct) network.
• Absence of, or conflict of the Wireless LAN PC Card Driver.
• A problem or conflict with the PC Card slot which prevents the PC Card from powering
on.
• A conflict of the Wireless LAN PC Card hardware with another device.
This section describes how to solve common problems you may encounter when using your
Wireless LAN PC Card. Many problems have simple solutions.
My computer does not detect the Wireless LAN PC Card.
• The Wireless LAN PC Card may not be properly inserted into the PC card slot of your
computer. Check that the Wireless LAN PC Card is inserted in the proper direction, then
push it in as far as it will go.
Other computers on the wireless LAN are not displayed.
• You did not enter the password when Windows started. Enter the user name and the
password requested on Windows startup, then log onto the LAN.
• The windows environment is not properly set up. Follow the instructions in Setting up
Windows environment to set it up properly.
• No other computers are logged onto the wireless LAN.
The data transfer speed is slow.
• There is radio interference with another Access Point. Try assigning another channel
number using one of the Access Point setup utilities.
• There are too many clients logging on to the Access Point. Try later.
The communication data rate is supposed to be 11 Mbps, but MPEG2 data transfer
fails.
• 11 Mbps is the gross transmission rate. The actual net transmission rate is approximately
4 to 5 Mbps. This occurs with almost all IEEE 802.11 compliant products. The high-speed
stream transfer of MPEG2 using very short packets, may require a higher gross
transmission rate.
No communication is available even though my computer is located within 50 m (165
feet) of the Access Point.
• The actual communication distance depends on the installation site and ambient
conditions. Move your computer closer to the Access Point.
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Glossary
Channel number
The frequency used for wireless communications.
Wireless communications are available only among client computers and Access Points that use
the same channel.
Client
A single computer on a wireless LAN.
It may be called a client computer as well.
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)
DHCP lets network administrators centrally manage and automate assignment of IP addresses
with a network environment.
DNS (Domain Name System)
A system that translates host names into IP addresses.
Networks that use the TCP/IP protocol, such as the Internet, use a set of numbers like
192.168.0.1 (IP address) to identify a computer. However, since the IP address is rather hard to
remember, DNS was developed to allow a name like "www.nextcomminc.com" to identify a
computer for convenience.
DNS servers manage these translations from host names into IP addresses.
Encryption Key
IEEE802.11-compliant security system.
Using the Encryption Key as the password, only client computers and Access Points that have the
same ID and password may log onto the same wireless LAN for file sharing.
LAN (Local Area Network)
A network, which is accessible only to its members, unlike the Internet, which is open to an
unlimited number of people.
A LAN may be built for different purposes. For example, you can build an office LAN that is
accessible only to members of the same department or a home LAN that is accessible only to
family members.
NetBEUI (NetBIOS Extended User Interface)
NetBEUT is part of the transport layer, not the NetBIOS programming interface. NetBEUI cannot
be routed, so it is most appropriate in single subnet (continuous) network.
Protocol
The formal specifications that define the procedures for computers to follow when transmitting
and receiving data.
TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol)
TCP is a connection-oriented protocol for establishing reliable, sequenced data transfer.
TCP ensures that data reaches its destination.
IP assembles and addresses data packets for transmission to their network destinations.
WAN (Wide Area Network)
A network that interconnects remote LANs through the Internet or telephone lines.
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Customer License Agreement
END USER LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR SOFTWARE AND DOCUMENTATION
BY INSTALLING, LOADING OR USING THE SOFTWARE, YOU ARE CONSENTING TO BE BOUND
BY THIS AGREEMENT. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE TO ALL OF THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT,
DO NOT DOWNLOAD, COPY OR INSTALL THIS SOFTWARE.
1. Grant. Subject to the terms and conditions of this License Agreement, NextComm, Inc.
("NextComm") hereby grants you a non-exclusive license to use its accompanying software
and documentation ("Software") free of charge for the limited purpose of installing the
(product name) hardware in one of the supported computer operating systems as identified
in the User Documentation, and/or diagnosing the operation and radio performance of the
(product name) wireless LAN equipment and for no other purpose.
2. Geographic Limitation. You may not download or use the Software in any country or
jurisdiction where applicable law requires the Software or this License Agreement to be in a
language other than English.
3. Scope of Grant. The Software is contained in either a dedicated set of files and folders when
provided on diskette and/or CD-ROM, or a self-extracting executable file. You must follow
NextComm’s installation instructions to load the Software on your processor. You may copy
the files for your own use and for noncommercial distribution to others, provided:
3.1. You do not receive any form of payment for the Software, and do not distribute it with
products or services for which you receive payment;
3.2. Every copy of the Software must contain all of the original Software's proprietary notices
and license agreement provisions; and
3.3. Every user of the Software must accept the terms and conditions of this license
agreement.
You may not:
3.4. Permit others to use the Software except under the terms stated above;
3.5. Modify, translate, reverse engineer, decompile, disassemble (except to the extent
applicable laws specifically prohibit such restriction), or create derivative works based on
the Software or its interface specifications;
3.6. Copy the Software (except as specified above);
3.7. Rent, lease or otherwise transfer rights to the Software;
3.8. Remove any proprietary notices or labels pertaining to the Software.
4. Title. Title, ownership rights, and intellectual property rights in the Software shall remain in
NextComm and/or its suppliers. NextComm and/or its suppliers reserve all rights not
expressly granted herein. The Software is protected by the copyright laws and treaties. Title
and related rights in the content accessed through the Software is the property of the
applicable content owner and may be protected by applicable law. This license gives you no
rights to such content.
5. Termination. NextComm may terminate this license at any time, without requirement of
cause, by giving you written notice. The license will automatically terminate immediately if
you use the Software for any purpose not authorized by the above license, or if you fail to
comply with the terms and conditions of this license agreement. On termination, you must
destroy all copies of the Software and related documentation.
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6. Export Controls. The Software is subject to United States export laws and regulations. You
may not download or otherwise export or re-export the Software or underlying information or
technology in violation of those laws and regulations. By downloading or using the Software,
you are agreeing to the foregoing and you are representing and warranting that you are not
violating, and will not violate, those laws and regulations.
7. Miscellaneous. This Agreement represents the complete agreement concerning this license
and may be amended only by a writing executed by you and by NextComm. If any provision
of this Agreement is held to be unenforceable, such provision shall be reformed only to the
extent necessary to make it enforceable. This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of
the State of Washington, U.S.A. (except for conflict of law provisions). The application of the
United Nations Convention of Contracts for the International Sale of Goods is expressly
excluded.
8. U.S. Government Restricted Rights. If you are acquiring Software on behalf of any part of
the United States Government, the following provisions apply: The Software is deemed to be
"commercial software" and "commercial computer software documentation." Any use,
modification, reproduction, release, performance, display, or disclosure of the Software by
the United States Government or any of its agencies shall be governed solely by the terms
and conditions of this License Agreement, and shall be prohibited except to the extent
expressly permitted by the terms and conditions of this License Agreement.