Sony Group PCWAC700 802.11a/b Dual-Band Wireless LAN PCMCIA Card User Manual PCWA C700

Sony Corporation 802.11a/b Dual-Band Wireless LAN PCMCIA Card PCWA C700

Users manual 1

Operating Instructions
IEEE802.11a/b Dual Band
Wireless PC Card
PCWA-C700
4-672-859-11(1)
© 2003 Sony Corporation
2
WARNING
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not
expose the unit to rain or moisture.
Owner’s Record
The model and serial numbers are located on the
back of the unit. Record the serial number in the
space provided below. Refer to them whenever
you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this
product.
Model No. PCWA-C700
Serial No.______________
CAUTION
Any changes or modifications not expressly
approved in this manual could void your warranty.
FCC ID: AK8PCWAC700
Exposure to Radio Frequency Radiation.
The radiated output power of the Wireless LAN
PC Card is far below the FCC radio frequency
exposure limits.
Nevertheless, the Wireless LAN PC Card shall be
used in such a manner that the potential for human
contact during normal operation is minimized.
Note
This equipment has been tested and found to
comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and,
if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to
radio or communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does
cause harmful interference to television reception,
which can be determined by turning the equipment
off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct
the interference by one or more of the following
measures:
– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
– Increase the separation between the equipment
and receiver.
– Connect the equipment into an outlet on a
circuit different from that to which the receiver
is connected.
– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.
Declaration of Conformity
Trade Name: Sony
Model No: PCWA-C700
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.
Address: 680 Kinderkamack Road,
Oradell, NJ 07649 USA
Telephone: 201-930-6972
This phone number is for FCC-related matters
only.
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.
You are cautioned that any changes or
modifications not expressly approved in this
manual could void your authority to operate this
equipment.
Safety Information
WARNING
• Opening the unit, for whatever reason, could
lead to damages that are not covered by the
warranty.
• Do not use this equipment on hospital premises.
Doing so may cause medical devices to
malfunction.
• If using the equipment near a pacemaker, make
sure it is at least 9 inches (22 cm) away from
the pacemaker.
• Do not use this equipment in an aircraft, as
doing so could cause the aircraft's equipment to
malfunction. Make sure you remove the
equipment from the PC card slot before
carrying your computer onto an aircraft.
• When using the unit with 802.11a (5 GHz), use
it indoors.
• Do not apply unnecessary physical strain on the
unit when it is inserted in your computer as this
could damage the unit and/or your computer.
• The use of optical instruments with this product
will increase eye hazard.
3
• Install and connect this product by following
descriptions in its Operating Instructions and
Quick Install Guide before using it.
• This equipment generates and radiates radio-
frequency energy. SAR (Specific Absorption Rate)
for this device was measured in accordance with
FCC OET Bulletin 65, Supplement C and
guidelines established in IEEE C95.1-1991.
The user is advised to maintain a distance of
at least 3 mm from the antenna of this device
while it is in use.
Users are not permitted to make changes or
modify the system in any way.
About the supplied software
THE SUPPLIED SOFTWARE IS SUPPLIED
PURSUANT TO THE APPLICABLE END-
USER LICENSE AGREEMENT.
• Copyright laws prohibit reproducing the
software or the software manual in whole or in
part, or renting the software without the
permission of the copyright holder.
• In no event will SONY be liable for any
financial damage or loss of profits, including
claims made by third parties, arising out of the
use of the software supplied with this product.
• In the event a problem occurs with this software
as a result of defective manufacturing, SONY
will replace it at SONY’s option or issue a
refund; however, SONY bears no other
responsibility.
• The software provided with this product cannot
be used with equipment other than that which is
designated for use with.
• Please note that, due to continued efforts to
improve quality, the software specifications
may be changed without notice.
Program © 2001, 2002, 2003 Sony Corporation,
© 2000-2003 Atheros Communications, Inc., All
Rights Reserved
Documentation © 2003 Sony Corporation
Sony, VAIO, and the VAIO logo are trademarks
of Sony Corporation.
Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks
of Microsoft Corporation in the United States of
America and other countries.
MMX and Pentium are registered trademarks of
Intel Corporation.
Ehternet is a registered trademark of Xerox Co.,
Ltd.
All other trademarks are trademarks of their
respective owners.
Notes
• The user interface of the Sony supplied
software may differ slightly from that shown in
this manual.
• This manual is written based on the assumption
that you are familiar with basic operations of
the Windows operating system. For computer
operations, refer to manuals that come with
your computer.
• In this manual, Microsoft® Windows®
Millennium Edition is referred to as Windows
Me.
• In this manual, Microsoft® Windows® 2000
Professional is referred to as Windows 2000.
• In this manual, Microsoft® Windows® XP
Professional and Microsoft® Windows® XP
Home Edition are referred to as Windows XP.
4
Table of contents
Overview ............................................... 5
Capabilities.................................... 5
System requirements ..................... 9
Documentation and Help file............... 10
Getting started
Unpacking............................................ 11
Supplied software ........................ 11
Names of parts ..................................... 12
Inserting the Wireless LAN
PC Card........................................... 13
To remove the Wireless LAN
PC Card ................................... 14
If your computer has two PC Card
slots .......................................... 14
Software setup
Installing the supplied software ........... 15
Installing the Wireless LAN PC
Card driver ............................... 15
Installing the Wireless Panel ....... 22
Verifying Wireless LAN PC Card
driver installation ..................... 24
Wireless LAN connection
Configuring the wireless LAN
environment .................................... 31
Windows Me or
Windows 2000 ......................... 31
Windows XP ............................... 41
Checking the communication status .... 53
Checking the wireless signal
strength .................................... 53
Checking network information ... 53
Using the Wireless Panel ..................... 54
Calling up the Wireless Panel main
screen ....................................... 54
Removing the supplied software ......... 63
Uninstalling the Wireless LAN PC
Card driver ............................... 63
Uninstalling the Wireless Panel .. 66
Additional information
Precautions .......................................... 69
Specifications ...................................... 70
Getting help ......................................... 70
Glossary ............................................... 71
Troubleshooting................................... 73
5
Overview
Capabilities
The IEEE802.11a/b Dual Band Wireless PC Card PCWA-C700*1 is a PC
Card type wireless network card. With this card, you can build a wireless
LAN, allowing multiple computers to communicate and exchange data
without needing any physical connection. The supplied Wireless Panel
software lets you easily configure the card for multiple networks. For
example, you can store different settings required for networking at the
office and at home, or quickly switch between Access Point (Infrastructure)
Network connection mode and Peer to Peer (Ad-Hoc) connection mode.
This greatly facilitates use of the card in various environments and for a
range of applications.
z Hints
•The network mode can be easily switched using the supplied Wireless Panel software.
•To use the card in Access Point Network connection mode, a separately available
802.11a/b Wireless LAN Access Point*2 is required.
With Windows Me or Windows 2000:
*1 In this documentation, the IEEE802.11a/b Dual Band Wireless PC Card PCWA-C700
is referred to as Wireless LAN PC Card.
*2 If using the separately available 5GHz Wireless LAN Access Point PCWA-A500
(February, 2003), refer also to the “Quick Start Guide” supplied with the unit.
Peer to Peer (Ad-Hoc) connection mode
Access Point (Infrastructure) Network
connection mode
6
With Windows XP:
Windows XP Service Pack 1:
Available Wireless Networks
Available Wireless Networks
7
Accessing the Internet from various points within your
home (Access Point Network connection mode)
With a separately available Access Point you can easily build a wireless
network. By connecting a DSL modem, cable modem, or ISDN router to
the Access Point, you can access the Internet from the living room,
bedroom, or any other convenient location in the house. Equipping multiple
computers with a Wireless LAN PC Card also allows you to exchange files
between the computers via the Access Point.
POWER
MESSAGE
WIRELESS
NETWORK 1
NETWORK 2
z Hint
The illustration above shows an example of a system configuration using Access Point
Network connection mode. Two computers with Wireless LAN PC Cards communicate
with the Access Point, which is connected to an Ethernet LAN via a hub.
Internet
ISP
DSL modem
Cable modem
ISDN router
Access Point
8
Smooth movie streaming playback*
(in Peer to Peer connection mode)
Peer to Peer connection mode enables computers equipped with Wireless
LAN PC Cards to communicate directly. This allows playback of streaming
data and file sharing also in locations where the Wireless LAN Access
Point is not present.
Notes
•Weak radio conditions may cause video playback interruptions.
•Smooth movie streaming playback is only possible when using 802.11a (5 GHz).
* A method of playing a file while the download is still in progress.
9
System requirements
To use the supplied software, the following system requirements must be
met:
❑Windows PC:
– 128 MB RAM or more
– Card Bus compliant PC Card slot
– CD-ROM drive (for software installation)
❑Operating system:
–Microsoft® Windows® Millennium Edition
–Microsoft® Windows® 2000 Professional
–Microsoft® Windows® XP Home Edition
–Microsoft® Windows® XP Professional
❑Display:
High color (16 bit color) or higher, 800 × 400 pixels or higher
Notes
•Correct operation is not assured for all computers, even if satisfying the above system
requirements.
•Correct operation in an OS upgrade environment is not assured, except for factory
provided Windows XP upgrade packages for Sony VAIO series computers.
•For Internet access via the wireless LAN, a 802/11a/b Wireless LAN Access Point
(available separately) is required.
•An Internet Service Provider (ISP) is required for Internet access.
10
Documentation and Help file
This product comes with the following documentation and help files.
❑Quick Install Guide
Contains information about how to install the Wireless LAN PC Card
and the Wireless LAN PC Card driver. Also explains how to install and
set up the supplied Wireless Panel software. All basic settings can be
made using the steps outlined in this guide. You should refer to this guide
first.
❑Wireless LAN Quick Guide
Contains detailed information about the Wireless Panel software and
instructions for setting up a Peer to Peer network. This guide provides
information on configuring and changing specific settings.
❑Troubleshooting Guide
Contains answers to frequently asked questions and commonly
encountered problems. Refer to the “Quick Install Guide” for additional
information. Also go through the points listed here before contacting
Sony Customer Information Services Center.
❑Operating Instructions (this document)
Explains how to install the Wireless LAN PC Card and how to configure
all settings of the card. Refer to the “Quick Install Guide” for additional
information.
❑Wireless Panel Online Help
This is the Online Help of the supplied Wireless Panel software. Refer to
this help for instructions on how to use the software. Access the Wireless
Panel Online Help as follows:
1Install the Wireless Panel software, following the instructions in this
manual or in the “Quick Install Guide”.
2Start the Wireless Panel.
3Right-click the Wireless Panel icon in the system tray (notification
area in Windows XP), and select Help from the shortcut menu.
z Hint
You can also access Help by clicking the icon on the Wireless Panel title bar.
11
Getting started
Unpacking
Your Wireless LAN PC Card comes with the following items:
•Wireless PC Card PCWA-C700
•PC Card case
•CD-ROM (Setup disc)
•CD-ROM (Setup disc)
•Quick Install Guide
•Wireless LAN Quick Guide
•Troubleshooting Guide
•Operating Instructions
•Warranty Card
Supplied software
The supplied CD-ROM contains the following software.
❑Wireless LAN PC Card driver
This software is required for operation of the Wireless LAN PC Card.
❑Wireless Panel
Wireless Panel is a software utility that lets you configure the computer
for the wireless LAN and monitor the communication status. The
software is also used to switch between networks to connect to.
Normally, the Wireless Panel appears as an icon in the system tray
(notification area in Windows XP) which shows the communication
status.
When using the unit for the first time, see page 21 of this
manual or refer to the separate “Quick Install Guide” for
information on how to install the Wireless LAN PC Card driver
and the Wireless Panel.
Notes
•To install the supplied software on a computer running Windows 2000, log on with a
user account listed in “Administrators”. To install the supplied software on a computer
running Windows XP, log on with a user account with administrator privileges. You
cannot install the software or modify settings when logged on with any other account.
•To change any of the Wireless Panel settings on a computer running Windows 2000,
log on with a user account listed in “Administrators”. You cannot modify settings when
logged on with any other account.
12
Names of parts
1Indicator
Indicator modes and operation status
Color Lighting pattern Status
Rapid flashing Communication in progress
Green *1 Communication standby
Lit (Communication is possible but no data
are being sent or received.)
Rapid flashing Communication in progress
Orange *2 Communication standby
Lit (Communication is possible but no data
are being sent or received.)
Connection not established
Red Flashing (PC Card is functioning properly, but
connection to network has not been
established.)
Off PC Card is not powered
*1 802.11b (2.4 GHz) wireless LAN operation
*2 802.11a (5 GHz) wireless LAN operation
13
Getting started
Inserting the Wireless LAN PC Card
If you are inserting the Wireless LAN PC Card into the computer for the
first time, refer to the “Quick Install Guide”. This section only explains
how to insert the Wireless LAN PC Card into your computer and how to
remove it.
You do not need to turn off your computer when inserting or removing the
Wireless LAN PC Card.
Proceed as follows.
1If your computer has a PC card slot protector, remove it from
the computer. (Some computers have such a protector to
prevent damage to the PC card slot while not in use.)
2Insert the Wireless LAN PC Card in the PC card slot.
Note
If your computer has two PC Card slots, insert the Wireless LAN PC Card into the
top slot. If inserted into the bottom slot, the antenna of the Wireless LAN PC Card
will block the top slot. Also refer to the section “If your computer has two PC Card
slots” on page 19.
Push the Wireless LAN PC Card into the slot until it is firmly seated. If
the card does not fit easily, do not force it in. Take the card out and try
reinserting it.
If your computer is turned on when you insert the Wireless LAN PC
card, the driver installation wizard will start automatically. For
information on driver installation, see page 21 of this manual or refer
to the “Quick Install Guide”.
To PC Card slot
Insert in arrow
direction
14
To remove the Wireless LAN PC Card
1Exit any software that uses the wireless LAN.
2Safely remove hardware according to the documentation of
your computer.
3Remove the Wireless LAN PC Card according to the
documentation of your computer.
If your computer has two PC Card slots
Notes
•When using a computer which has two PC Card slots arranged vertically (one above the
other), insert the Wireless LAN PC Card into the top slot. If inserted into the bottom
slot, the antenna of the Wireless LAN PC Card will block the top slot.
•If you insert the Wireless LAN PC Card into a slot other than the one you usually use,
the computer treats the card as a new device and automatically begins installing device
drivers for it. Completing the driver installation makes it possible to use the Wireless
LAN PC Card in that slot. For details on how to install the Wireless LAN PC Card
driver, refer to the separate “Quick Install Guide”. (For instructions on how to uninstall
the Wireless LAN PC Card driver, see page 38 of this manual.)
z Hint
If you are using Windows Me or Windows 2000, you can register up to 32 networks for
each PC card slot. However, you have to register each network individually. You cannot
share the settings across slots.
15
Software setup
Installing the supplied software
Installing the Wireless LAN PC Card driver
Before you start...
If your computer has only one PC card slot and it is currently used, copy
the “WirelessLAN” folder from the supplied CD-ROM to the hard disk of
the computer before inserting the Wireless LAN PC Card. The following
explanation assumes that a folder called “Temp” was created on drive D
and that the data were copied to this folder.
Note
When using Windows 2000, log on with a user account listed in “Administrators”. When
using Windows XP, log on with a user account with administrator privileges.
1Insert the Wireless LAN PC Card into the PC Card slot of the
computer. See page 14 for details.
Note
When using a computer which has two PC Card slots arranged vertically (one above
the other), insert the Wireless LAN PC Card into the top slot. If inserted into the
bottom slot, the antenna of the Wireless LAN PC Card will block the top slot.
When you insert the Wireless LAN PC card, the driver installation
wizard starts automatically.
2Install the Wireless LAN PC Card driver.
The actual procedure differs slightly, depending on whether you are
using Windows Me, Windows 2000, or Windows XP. Please refer to
the section for the operating system you are using.
16
Windows Me:
1Check the box “Specify the location of the driver” and click
“Next”.
2Check the box “Specify a location”.
17
Software setup
3Click “Browse” and specify the location of the driver in the
dialog box that appears.
z Hint
If the “WirelessLAN” folder from the CD-ROM has been copied to the “Temp”
folder on drive D, enter “D:\Temp\WirelessLAN”.
4Click “OK”.
5Click “Next”.
18
6Click “Next”.
The driver is installed.
7Click “Finish”.
Restart the computer according to the prompts.
Windows 2000:
1Click “Next”.
19
Software setup
2Select “Search for a suitable driver for my device” and click
“Next”.
3Check the box “Specify a location” and click “Next”.
4Click “Browse” and specify the location of the driver in the
dialog box.
z Hint
If the “WirelessLAN” folder from the CD-ROM has been copied to the “Temp”
folder on drive D, enter “D:\Temp\WirelessLAN”.
5Click “OK”.
20
6Click “Next”.
The driver is installed.
7Click “Finish”.
Windows XP:
1Check the box “Install from a list or specific location” and
click “Next”.
21
Software setup
2Check the box “Include this location in the search” and
click “Browse”.
3In the dialog box that appears, select the folder that
contains the driver and click “OK”.
z Hint
If the “WirelessLAN” folder from the CD-ROM has been copied to the “Temp”
folder on drive D, select “D:\Temp\WirelessLAN”.
4Click “OK”.
22
5Click “Next”.
6Click “Finish”.
Installing the Wireless Panel
Note
When using Windows 2000, log on with a user account listed in “Administrators”. When
using Windows XP, log on with a user account with administrator privileges.
Before installation
• Install the Access Point and connect it to a power outlet when using the
Access Point Network connection mode.
•Complete installation of the Wireless LAN PC Card driver. (See page 21)
•Exit all other Windows programs.
23
Software setup
1Go to the “WirelessLAN” folder copied from the CD-ROM
and double-click “Setup.exe”.
Depending on your computer’s settings, the file name “Setup.exe” may
be displayed as “Setup”. If there are multiple files named “Setup” in
the same folder, double-click the one with the following icon:
2Click “Next”.
3The “License Agreement” dialog box appears. Click “Yes” to
accept.
The “Choose Destination Location” dialog box appears.
4Click “Next”.
The Wireless Panel software is installed.
5Click “Finish”.
Under Windows Me and Windows 2000, the message “Installation is
completed. Wireless Connection Easy Setup Wizard will be launched”
appears. Proceed to step 6.
z Hint
In the following cases, the Wireless Connection Easy Setup Wizard does not appear.
•If the driver for the Wireless LAN PC Card PCWA-C500 is already installed and
enabled.
•If the Wireless LAN PC Card PCWA-C700 was installed and enabled, and then
the Wireless Panel only was uninstalled and is now being reinstalled.
Under Windows XP, the Wireless Panel starts automatically and the
icon appears in the notification area. Under Windows XP,
installation of the Wireless Panel is now complete.
6Click “OK” to start the Wireless Connection Easy Setup
Wizard.
Under Windows Me and Windows 2000, the Wireless Connection
Easy Setup Wizard starts after Wireless Panel installation is completed.
24
What to do next
Configure the wireless LAN environment.
When using Windows Me or Windows 2000, proceed to page 45.
When using Windows XP, the Wireless Connection Easy Setup Wizard
does not appear. Proceed to page 54.
Verifying Wireless LAN PC Card driver installation
To verify that the Wireless LAN PC Card driver has been installed
properly, perform the following steps.
Windows Me:
1From the “Start” menu, click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.
The Control Panel appears.
2Double-click the “System” icon.
z Hint
If the “System” icon is not shown, select “View all Control Panel options”.
3Click the “Device Manager” tab.
4Click “View devices by type”.
5Double-click “Network adapters”.
25
Software setup
6Double-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”.
The “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter Properties” dialog
box appears.
Note
The Wireless LAN PC Card is not working properly in the following cases:
•“Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter” is shown with an “X” or “!” symbol.
cClick “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter” and click “Remove” to
uninstall the driver. Then repeat the installation process.
•Double-clicking “Network Adapters” does not display “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless
Network Adapter”.
cRemove the Wireless LAN PC Card. Then repeat the installation process.
•Double-clicking “Other devices” displays “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network
Adapter”.
cClick “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”, then click “Remove” to
uninstall the driver. Repeat the installation process.
7Confirm that the message “This device is working properly.”
is displayed under “Device status”.
Note
If “This device is working properly.” is not shown, the Wireless LAN PC Card is not
working correctly. Perform steps 1 - 5, click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network
Adapter”, then click “Remove” to uninstall the driver. After uninstalling, restart the
computer and repeat the installation process.
26
8Click “OK” to close the “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network
Adapter Properties” dialog box.
The “System Properties” dialog box appears.
9Click “OK” to close the “System Properties” dialog box.
The Control Panel appears.
10
Click to close the Control Panel.
If the computer you are using incorporates another Ethernet interface
besides the Wireless LAN PC Card, disable the other interface as follows.
1From the “Start” menu, click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.
The Control Panel appears.
2Double-click the “System” icon.
z Hint
If the “System” icon is not shown, select “View all Control Panel options”.
3Click the “Device Manager” tab and double-click “Network
adapters”.
4Double-click the network adapter to disable.
5Click the “General” tab, then select the “Disable in this
hardware profile” check box.
6Click “OK” to close the Properties dialog box for the network
adapter to disable.
The “System Properties” dialog box appears again.
7Click “OK” to close the “System Properties” dialog box.
The Control Panel appears again.
8Click to close the Control Panel.
27
Software setup
Windows 2000:
1From the “Start” menu, click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.
The Control Panel appears.
2Double-click the “System” icon.
The “System Properties” dialog box appears.
3Click the “Hardware” tab, then click “Device Manager”.
The “Device Manager” window appears.
4In the “View” menu, click “View devices by type”.
5Double-click “Network adapters”.
6Double-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”.
The “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter Properties” dialog
box appears.
28
Note
The Wireless LAN PC Card is not working properly in the following cases:
•“Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter” is shown with an “X” or “!” symbol.
cRight-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter” and click “Remove”
to uninstall the driver. Then repeat the installation process.
•Double-clicking “Network Adapters” does not display “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless
Network Adapter”.
cRemove the Wireless LAN PC Card. Then repeat the installation process.
•Double-clicking “Other devices” displays “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network
Adapter”.
cRight-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”, then click “Remove”
to uninstall the driver. Repeat the installation process.
7Confirm that the message “This device is working properly.”
is displayed under “Device status”.
Note
If “This device is working properly.” is not shown, the Wireless LAN PC Card is not
working correctly. Perform steps 1 - 5, right-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless
Network Adapter”, then click “Remove” to uninstall the driver. After uninstalling,
restart the computer and repeat the installation process.
8Click “OK” to close the “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network
Adapter Properties” dialog box.
The “Device Manager” window appears.
9Click to close the “Device Manager” window.
The “System Properties” dialog box appears.
10
Click “OK” to close the “System Properties” dialog box.
The Control Panel appears.
11
Click to close the Control Panel.
29
Software setup
If the computer you are using incorporates another Ethernet interface
besides the Wireless LAN PC Card, disable the other interface as follows.
1From the “Start” menu, click “Settings” – “Network and Dial-
up Connections”.
The “Network and Dial-up Connections” window appears.
2Select the network adapter to disable.
3From the “File” menu, select “Disable”.
4Click to close the “Network and Dial-up Connections”
window.
Windows XP:
1Click “Start”, and click “Control Panel”.
The Control Panel appears.
2Double-click the “System” icon.
The “System Properties” dialog box appears.
z Hint
If the “System” icon is not displayed, click “Switch to Classic View”.
3Click the “Hardware” tab, then click “Device Manager”.
The “Device Manager” window appears.
4In the “View” menu, click “View devices by type”.
5Double-click “Network adapters”.
30
6Double-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”.
The “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter Properties” dialog
box appears.
Note
The Wireless LAN PC Card is not working properly in the following cases:
•“Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter” is shown with an “X” or “!” symbol.
cRight-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter” and click “Remove”
to uninstall the driver. Then repeat the installation process.
•Double-clicking “Network Adapters” does not display “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless
Network Adapter”.
cRemove the Wireless LAN PC Card. Then repeat the installation process.
•Double-clicking “Other devices” displays “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network
Adapter”.
cRight-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”, then click “Remove”
to uninstall the driver. Repeat the installation process.
7Confirm that the message “This device is working properly.”
is displayed under “Device status”.
Note
If “This device is working properly.” is not shown, the Wireless LAN PC Card is not
working correctly. Perform steps 1 - 5, right-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless
Network Adapter”, then click “Remove” to uninstall the driver. After uninstalling,
restart the computer and repeat the installation process.
31
Software setup
8Click “OK” to close the “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network
Adapter Properties” dialog box.
The “Device Manager” window appears.
9Click to close the “Device Manager” window.
The “System Properties” dialog box appears.
10
Click “OK” to close the “System Properties” dialog box.
The Control Panel appears.
11
Click to close the Control Panel.
If the computer you are using incorporates another Ethernet interface
besides the Wireless LAN PC Card, disable the other interface as follows.
1Click “Start”, and click “Connect To” – “Show all
connections”.
The “Network Connections” window appears.
2From “LAN or high-speed Internet”, select the network
adapter to disable.
3From the “File” menu, select “Disable”.
4Click to close the “Network Connections” window.
31
Wireless LAN connection
Configuring the wireless LAN
environment
Windows Me or Windows 2000
After installation of the Wireless Panel is completed, the Wireless
Connection Easy Setup Wizard starts automatically. This wizard makes it
easy to configure your wireless network.
z Hints
•If you want to exit the wizard, click “Cancel”.
•Any settings you configure with the wizard can be easily changed later using the
Wireless Panel. For information on how to use the Wireless Panel, see page 68.
•You can also configure the card without using the wizard. Refer to the Wireless LAN
Online Help for details.
•You can also start the wizard at any time other than immediately after installation of the
Wireless Panel. To do this, double-click “InitSetup.exe” in the folder where you
installed the Wireless Panel. (The default location is “C:\Program Files\Sony\Wireless
Panel”.)
•To use the card in Access Point Network connection mode, see page 40.
•To use the card in Peer to Peer Network connection mode, see page 47.
32
Using the product in Access Point (Infrastructure)
Network connection mode
1Check the box “Use Easy Setup Wizard” and click “Next”.
The “Connection mode” screen appears.
2Select “Access Point Network”, and click “Next”.
The following screen appears.
33
Wireless LAN connection
3Configure the “Network Name (SSID)” and “WEP” items.
1Network Name (SSID)
This is a unique ID used to identify wireless networks. The setting
can be made individually for Access Point Network connection
mode and Peer to Peer Network connection mode. When connecting
to an existing network, consult your network administrator
regarding the proper settings. For Peer to Peer Network connection
mode and when changing an existing Network Name, you can use
up to 32 alphanumeric characters (including symbols).
zHints
•Opening the “Network Name” drop-down list will show the Network Names
of any Access Points within range. You can then select a Network Name from
the list.
•When using the Sony 5GHz Wireless LAN Access Point PCWA-A500, the
default Network Name (SSID) of the Access Point is shown on the ID label of
the unit. For details on the position of the label and other information, refer to
the manuals provided with the Access Point.
An explanation of
the respective item
is shown here.
2
1
34
2WEP
If Data Encryption (WEP) is enabled for the Access Point to which
to connect, check this item. When this item is checked, you also
need to enter the encryption key (WEP key) in the “Key” field.
The data encryption function serves to prevent unauthorized access
to the network. For security reasons, it is strongly recommended
that you enable this feature. The setting can be made individually
for Access Point Network connection mode and Peer to Peer
Network connection mode. When connecting to an existing
network, consult your network administrator regarding the proper
settings. For information on how to control this setting at the Access
Point, please refer to the documentation of the Access Point. When
configuring a Peer to Peer network, the setting must be the same for
all computers in the network.
Key
If data encryption (WEP) is enabled for the Access Point, enter the
encryption key (WEP key) here. Because this key functions as
password that enables communication with the network, the key
entered here must be exactly the same as that set for the Access
Point. Only computers for which the key has been configured
correctly can participate in the network. The number of characters
depends on the “ASCII/Hex” and “Length” settings (see table
below).
ASCII/Hex 40 bits 104 bits
ASCII 5 characters 13 characters
Hex 10 characters 26 characters
z Hint
This product supports a function called “roaming” which allows the creation of a
wireless network with multiple Access Points for wider coverage. When using
this function, configure all Access Points to the same Network Name (SSID) and
Data Encryption (WEP) settings.
35
Wireless LAN connection
4When all items have been set, click “Next”.
A confirmation screen showing the selected settings appears.
5Verify that all settings are as desired, and click “Next”.
When connection is complete, the Wireless Connection Easy Setup
Wizard completion screen appears.
Note
If an error message is shown, read the message carefully and click “Back” to correct
the settings.
36
6Click “Finish”.
The Wireless Panel starts up automatically, and the icon appears in
the system tray of the computer.
If the Access Point has already been configured, the setup procedure is
now complete.
If you want to change the Access Point settings, refer to
the documentation of the Access Point for information on how to
proceed. When using the Sony 5GHz Wireless LAN Access Point
PCWA-A500, proceed to step 7.
Note
To use an Access Point to connect to the Internet, you must change the Access Point
factory default settings.
37
Wireless LAN connection
7When using the Sony 5GHz Wireless LAN Access Point
PCWA-A500, click the “AP Setting” button under the “Status”
tab of the Wireless Panel.
For information on how to call up the Wireless Panel, see page 68. For
information on the “AP Setting” button, see page 72.
Your Web browser starts and displays the Access Point home page
(setup page).
Notes
•If you are using Internet Explorer, any proxy setting will automatically be disabled
for the IP address of the Access Point. When using another browser, make sure
that the browser does not use a proxy server for the Access Point IP address. (The
factory default IP address of the PCWA-A500 is 192.168.11.1.)
•The content of the Access Point home page (setup page) differs depending on the
firmware version. (The illustration below shows an example for the PCWA-A500.)
38
8Configure the Access Point according to the onscreen
instructions.
z Hints
•For details on how to configure the Access Point, refer to the documentation of the
Access Point or its Online Help.
•Help regarding Access Point settings can be called up by clicking .
Note
If you change the Network Name (SSID) and Data Encryption (WEP) settings of the
Access Point, the settings will no longer match those of the computer and
communication will be interrupted. To resume communication, the settings of the
computer must be changed accordingly.
9When Access Point settings are completed, double-click the
icon in the system tray.
The Wireless Panel screen appears.
10
Click the “Network” tab, select a wireless network from the
list, and click “Register”.
The “Register Network” dialog box appears.
11
If you have enabled Data Encryption (WEP) for the Access
Point in step 8, check the box “WEP” and enter the
encryption key (WEP key) in the “Key” field.
z Hint
This dialog box appears only when “Dialog Format” is selected in “Add/Edit/
Register Network” on the "Setting" tab of the “Wireless Panel” dialog box.
39
Wireless LAN connection
12
Click “Connect”.
This completes the setup procedure.
Using the product in Peer to Peer Network connection
mode
1When the Wireless Connection Easy Setup Wizard starts,
check the box “Use Easy Setup Wizard” and click “Next”.
2Select “Peer to Peer Network”, and click “Next”.
3Configure the “Network Name (SSID)”, “Channel”, and
“WEP” items.
An explanation of the respective item is shown here.
1
2
3
40
1Network Name (SSID)
See page 47 for details.
2Channel
A drop-down list appears which lets you select the radio channel to
use.
z Hints
•You can leave this setting at “Auto”, but to ensure low-interference
transmission, you may want to use the “Network List” tab (page 72) of the
Wireless Panel to verify the channels used by networks operating within
communication range of your computer, and select a channel with low usage.
•When connecting to an existing Peer to Peer network, changing the channel
has no effect. The channel automatically will revert to the one used by the Peer
to Peer network.
3WEP
See page 47 for details.
4When all items have been set, click “Next”.
A confirmation screen showing the selected settings appears.
5Verify that all settings are as desired, and click “Next”.
The network settings are activated. This process may require up to
several minutes. Please wait until it is complete.
6When the Wireless Connection Easy Setup Wizard
completion screen appears, click “Finish”.
The wizard closes.
41
Wireless LAN connection
7Establish the same settings at all computers participating in
the network.
This completes the setup procedure.
z Hint
For information on how to share files and printers on the network, refer to the
Windows Help and documentation.
Windows XP
Note
Before configuring the Wireless LAN PC Card
Perform the following steps to confirm that the “Use Windows to configure my wireless
network settings” check box is selected. This option is selected as the default setting of
Windows XP.
1Click “Start”, “Control Panel”, and double-click “Network
Connections”.
z Hint
If “Network Connections” is not displayed, click “Switch to Classic View”.
2Right-click “Wireless Network Connection *” (“*” is a
number that differs according to the computer settings),
and select “Properties” from the shortcut menu.
3Click the “Wireless Network” tab.
4Confirm that the box “Use Windows to configure my
wireless network settings” is checked. If not, place a check
mark in the box.
•To use the card in Access Point Network connection mode, see below.
•To use the card in Peer to Peer Network connection mode, see page xx.
Using the product in Access Point Network connection
mode
1Click “Start”, and click “Connect To” -- “Show all
connections”.
The “Network Connections” window appears.
42
2Right-click “Wireless Network Connection *” (“*” is a number
that differs according to the computer settings), and select
“View Available Wireless Networks” from the shortcut menu.
The “Connect to Wireless Network” dialog box appears.
z Hints
• If the computer is not connected to a wireless network, an “x” is shown for the
“Wireless Network Connection *” icon in the “Network Connections” window.
•If you have installed Windows XP Service Pack 1, see page 56.
3From the “Available Wireless Networks” list in the “Connect
to Wireless Network” dialog box, select the Access Point to
which you want to connect.
z Hint
The “Available Wireless Networks” list shows the names of Access Points within
communication range of the computer. When using the Sony 5GHz Wireless LAN
Access Point PCWA-A500, the default Network Name (SSID) of the Access Point is
shown on the ID label of the unit. For details on the position of the label and other
information, please refer to the documentation of the Access Point. Because the
Network Name of an Access Point may have been changed, consult your network
administrator if you are not sure.
43
Wireless LAN connection
4If Data Encryption (WEP) is enabled for the Access Point,
enter the encryption key (WEP key) in the “Network key”
field.
The key entered here must be exactly the same as that set for the
Access Point. The number of characters depends on the “Key format”
and “Key length” settings (see table below).
Key format 40 bits 104 bits
ASCII 5 characters 13 characters
Hex 10 characters 26 characters
z Hint
The data encryption (WEP) function serves to prevent unauthorized access to the
network. When the function is enabled, only computers configured with the correct
encryption key (WEP key) can participate in the network. For security reasons, it is
strongly recommended that you enable this feature. The setting can be made
individually for Access Point Network connection mode and Peer to Peer Network
connection mode. When connecting to an existing network, consult your network
administrator regarding the proper settings. For information on how to control this
setting at the Access Point, please refer to the documentation of the Access Point.
❑When using Service Pack 1
If you have installed Windows XP Service Pack 1, steps 3 and 4 must
be performed as follows.
3From the “Available Wireless Networks” list in the
“Connect to Wireless Network” dialog box, select the
Access Point to which you want to connect.
44
4Depending on the Data Encryption (WEP) settings of the
Access Point, proceed as follows.
•Data Encryption (WEP) at selected Access Point is
enabled
Enter the encryption key (WEP key) in the “Network key” field.
(The input is shown only as asterisks.) For verification, the same
string must be entered once more in the “Re-enter WEP Key” field.
•Data Encryption (WEP) at selected Access Point is
disabled
Check the box “Allow me to connect to the selected wireless
network, even though it is not secure”. (For security reasons,
enabling data encryption is recommended.)
45
Wireless LAN connection
5Click “Connect”.
Connection to the Access Point is established.
If the Access Point has already been configured, the setup procedure is
now complete.
If you want to change the Access Point settings, refer to the
documentation of the Access Point for information on how to proceed.
When using the Sony 5GHz Wireless LAN Access Point PCWA-A500,
proceed to step 6.
Note
To use an Access Point to connect to the Internet, you must change the Access Point
factory default settings.
6When using the Sony 5GHz Wireless LAN Access Point
PCWA-A500, click the “AP Setting” button under the “Status”
tab of the Wireless Panel.
For information on how to call up the Wireless Panel, see page 68. For
information on the “AP Setting” button, see page 72.
Your Web browser starts and displays the Access Point home page
(setup page).
Notes
•If you are using Internet Explorer, any proxy setting will automatically be disabled
for the IP address of the Access Point. When using another browser, make sure
that the browser does not use a proxy server for the Access Point IP address. (The
factory default IP address of the PCWA-A500 is 192.168.11.1.)
46
•
The content of the Access Point home page (setup page) differs depending on the
firmware version. (The illustration below shows an example for the PCWA-A500.)
7Configure the Access Point according to the onscreen
instructions.
z Hints
•For details on how to configure the Access Point, refer to the documentation of the
Access Point or its Online Help.
•Help regarding Access Point settings can be called up by clicking .
Note
If you change the Network Name (SSID) and Data Encryption (WEP) settings of the
Access Point, the settings will no longer match those of the computer and
communication will be interrupted. To resume communication, the settings of the
computer must be changed accordingly.
8When Access Point settings are completed, right-click the
“Wireless Network Connection” icon in the system tray, and
select “View Available Wireless Networks” from the shortcut
menu.
47
Wireless LAN connection
9If you have enabled Data Encryption (WEP) for the Access
Point in step 7, enter the encryption key (WEP key) in the
“Network key” field.
When Windows XP Service Pack 1 is installed, the same string must
be entered once more in the “Re-enter WEP Key” field.
10
Click “Connect”.
This completes the setup procedure.
Using the product in Peer to Peer Network connection
mode
1Click “Start”, and click “Connect To” – “Show all
connections”.
The “Network Connections” window appears.
2Right-click “Wireless Network Connection *” (“*” is a number
that differs according to the computer settings), and select
“View Available Wireless Networks” from the shortcut menu.
The “Connect to Wireless Network” dialog box appears.
z Hint
If the computer is not connected to a wireless network, an “x” is shown for the
“Wireless Network Connection *” icon in the “Network Connections” window.
48
With Windows XP Service Pack 1
3Click “Advanced”.
The “Wireless Network Connection * Properties” dialog box appears.
(“*” is a number that differs according to the computer settings.)
49
Wireless LAN connection
With Windows XP Service Pack 1
4Click “Add”.
The “Wireless Network Properties” dialog box appears.
50
With Windows XP Service Pack 1
5Enter the Network Name (SSID) for this network
(alphanumeric characters or symbols can be used).
The Network Name (also called SSID) is a unique ID that identifies the
network. When connecting to a Peer to Peer network , all computers
must use the same Network Name. The Network Name can be up to 32
characters long. When connecting to an existing network, consult your
network administrator regarding the proper settings.
6Check the box “Data encryption (WEP enabled)” and
remove the check mark from the box “The key is provided
for me automatically”.
Note
The data encryption (WEP) function serves to prevent unauthorized access to the
network. When the function is enabled, only computers configured with the correct
encryption key (WEP key) can participate in the network. For security reasons, it is
strongly recommended that you enable this feature.
51
Wireless LAN connection
7Enter the encryption key (WEP key) in the “Network key”
field.
Notes
•When newly creating a Peer to Peer Network, you can enter any character string to
use as a key. When connecting to an existing network, consult your network
administrator regarding the proper settings. The number of characters for the key
depends on the “Key format” and “Key length” settings (see table below).
Key format 40 bits 104 bits
ASCII 5 characters 13 characters
Hex 10 characters 26 characters
•With Windows XP Service Pack 1, you cannot select “Key format” or “Key
length”.
“Network key”
If data encryption (WEP) is enabled, enter the encryption key (WEP
key) here. Because this key functions as password that enables
communication with the network, the key entered here must be exactly
the same as that set for the Access Point. Only computers for which the
key has been configured correctly can participate in the network. The
number of characters depends on the “Key format” and “Key length”
settings (see table above).
“Key format”
This is the format for entering the password (WEP key) required. You
can select either ASCII (alphanumeric characters, including symbols)
or Hex (hexadecimal notation).
“Key length”
This is the length (bit length) for the WEP key (password) required
when connecting to networks where WEP is enabled. You can select
from 40 bits or 104 bits. Generally, the longer the bit length, the better
the security.
8Check the box “This is a computer-to-computer (ad hoc)
network; wireless access points are not used”, and click
“OK”.
The “Wireless Network Connection * Properties” dialog box appears
again.
52
9Click “Advanced”.
The “Advanced” dialog box appears.
10
Check the box “Computer-to-computer (ad hoc) networks
only” and click “Close”.
The “Wireless Network Connection * Properties” dialog box appears
again.
11
Click “OK”.
The setting are saved, and the computer automatically connects to the
newly registered network.
z Hint
For additional information on the wireless network capabilities of Windows XP,
refer to Windows XP “Help and Support”. (From the “Start” menu, click “Help and
Support”, enter “wireless” into the Search field, and click the green arrow icon.)
You may also wish to consult the Windows XP documentation.
53
Wireless LAN connection
Checking the communication status
Checking the wireless signal strength
The communication status is shown by the reception level indicator in the
task tray.
Reception level indicator
Meaning of indicator appearance
Excellent
Good
Poor
Out of range
Card not inserted
(Wireless LAN PC Card is not inserted or not
recognized correctly)
Peer to Peer
(Communicating in Peer to Peer Network connection
mode)
Checking network information
To obtain information about the network to which you are connected,
proceed as follows.
Double-click the reception level indicator in the task tray.
The Wireless Panel main screen appears, and information about the
network connection is shown. For details about the various items, see the
section “Calling up the Wireless Panel main screen” (page 68).
54
Using the Wireless Panel
The Wireless Panel is a software application that shows information about
the communication status of the computer connected to the wireless
network. Normally, the Wireless Panel runs in the background and only
shows the radio signal condition by means of the reception level indicator
in the system tray (notification area in Windows XP). The main screen of
the Wireless Panel contains more detailed information. When running
under operating systems other than Windows XP, communication setup and
network switching are also performed using the Wireless Panel. For more
information, refer also to the separate “Wireless LAN Quick Guide”.
Notes
•To use the Wireless Panel under Windows 2000 for modifying communication settings,
log on with a user account listed in “Administrators”. You cannot modify settings when
logged on with any other account.
•On a computer running Windows XP, communication setup and network switching are
not performed with the Wireless Panel but with built-in functions of Windows XP.
However, the Wireless Panel can be used to check the communication status.
Calling up the Wireless Panel main screen
To call up the Wireless Panel main screen, proceed as follows.
Double-click the reception level indicator in the system tray (notification
area in Windows XP).
The Wireless Panel main screen appears.
z Hints
•For information on the reception level indicator, see “Checking the wireless signal
strength” on page 66.
•When you move the mouse pointer over an item in the Wireless Panel screen, a short
description of that item appears.
55
Wireless LAN connection
There are three tabs on the main screen of the Wireless Panel.
•“Status” tab (page 69)
•“Network List” tab (page 72)
•“Setting” tab (page 75)
“Status” tab
1Status indicator icon
The icon type indicates the type of network to which the computer is
connected.
Network mode
Data encryption Access Point Peer to Peer
Network Network
Off
On
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
56
2Status
Shows the communication status of the wireless network.
“Network Name”
Unique ID for the wireless network to which the computer is
connected. Also called SSID.
“Frequency”
Indicates the communication channel and frequency currently being
used.
“Signal Level”
Indicates the signal level as a bar graph.
Install the computer and Access Point so that the signal level
displayed here is as high as possible.
“IP Address”
Indicates the computer’s IP address.
In Access Point mode, if an IP address starting with “169.254. ...” or
if “0.0.0.0” is shown here, the Access Point and computer are not
linked, or the Access Point is not connected to the Internet. For
details, refer to the separate Wireless LAN Quick Guide or to the
separate Troubleshooting Guide.
“Frames Sent”
Shows the total number of network data frames that have been sent.
“Frames Received”
Shows the total number of network data frames that have been
received.
“Link Rate (TX)”
Shows the transmission rate.
“Link Rate (RX)”
Shows the reception rate.
“Throughput (TX)”
Shows the current transmission rate and maximum transmission rate
of the session in the format “Current Mbps/Max. Mbps”. The
maximum value update frequency corresponds to the time width of
the status graph.
“Throughput (RX)”
Shows the current reception rate and maximum reception rate of the
session in the format “Current Mbps/Max. Mbps”. The maximum
value update frequency corresponds to the time width of the status
graph.
57
Wireless LAN connection
3Wireless ON/OFF
Wireless signal transmission can be switched on/off independently for
the 2.4 GHz (802.11b) and 5 GHz (802.11a) band. Select the On/Off
status according to the environment you are in. Take special care if you
are using your computer in locations where radio emissions are
prohibited, such as outdoors (5 GHz band) or within an aircraft (2.4
GHz and 5 GHz band). Be sure to set wireless signal transmission to
Off with these buttons in such cases.
4“Streaming Mode” button
This button is shown only when using Windows XP. It allows you to
temporarily suspend the Windows XP wireless configuration functions
(Wireless Zero Configuration service) in order to optimize throughput
for real-time playback of streaming data.
5Graph scale
This is a scale for transmission and reception link rate and throughput.
Normally, the transmission and reception throughput will be about half
the link rate.
6Status indicator graph
Shows the reception level, RX link rate, and TX throughput. These
parameters are useful for finding the optimum location of computer
and Access Point, and for measuring throughput.
7“Renew IP” button
Clicking this button causes the computer to release the currently
assigned IP address and obtain a new IP address.
Notes
•When a fixed IP address has been assigned to the computer, this function cannot
be used.
•Under Windows Me, this function cannot be used.
58
8“AP Setting” button
Clicking on this button starts your Web browser and displays the
Access Point home page (setup page). This page lets you configure the
Access Point and display status information. In Peer to Peer Network
connection mode, this button cannot be used.
Note
The “AP Setting” button can only be used when you are using the Sony 5GHz
Wireless LAN Access Point PCWA-A500* or another 5GHz Wireless LAN Access
Point which supports this feature. (* As of February, 2003)
9“Show Graph/Hide Graph” button
Lets you turn the status graph on an off. The default setting is off.
“Network List”
The “Network List” tab shows a list of 802.11a/b wireless networks
operating within communication range of the computer. You can select a
network from this list to connect to, and you can register networks for the
computer.
1
2 3 4
59
Wireless LAN connection
1Network List
All wireless networks operating within communication range are
shown.
“Status”
The status of registered networks is shown as an icon.
Access Points within communication range are shown as colored
icons, and Access Points outside communication range are shown as
gray icons.
Network mode
Status Access Point Peer to Peer
Network Network
Connected
Data encryption
On
Data encryption
Off
Not connected
Data encryption
Off
Data encryption
Off
“Registered”
If the network has been registered with the Wireless Panel, a check
mark is shown here.
Note
This is shown only under Windows Me and Windows 2000.
“Network Name (SSID)”
Shows the unique network ID.
“Signal Level”
Shows the signal level (field strength) of the received radio signal.
Higher numbers mean better reception.
60
“Channel”
Shows the channel used by the respective network. If multiple
networks use the same channel, communication may be impaired.
z Hint
The Sony 2.4GHz Access Point PCWA-A100/A200 can be configured not to show
the Network Name (SSID). (This is referred to as a “closed system”.) For a closed
system Access Point, the “Network Name (SSID)” field in the network list will be
blank.
To connect to a closed system, obtain information about the Network Name
(SSID) and encryption key (WEP key) from the network administrator and use this
information to register the network. When connected, the Network Name (SSID) is
shown in the network list.
2Wireless ON/OFF
Wireless signal transmission can be switched on/off independently for
the 802.11b (2.4 GHz ) and 802.11a (5 GHz) band. Select the On/Off
status according to the environment you are in. Take special care if you
are using your computer in locations where radio emissions are
prohibited, such as outdoors (802.11a band) or within an aircraft
(802.11a and 802.11b band). Be sure to set wireless signal transmission
to Off with these buttons in such cases.
3“New”/“Register”/“Edit”/“Delete” button
“New”
This is used when no network is selected from the list. If “Dialog
Format” is selected in “Add/Edit/Register Network” on the
“Setting” tab of the “Wireless Panel” dialog box, when you click
this button the “Registering Network” dialog box appears, letting
you register a new network and connect to it.
“Register”
When you select a network from the list, the button caption changes
to “Register”. If “Dialog Format” is selected in “Add/Edit/Register
Network” on the “Setting” tab of the “Wireless Panel” dialog box,
when you click this button the “Registering Network” dialog box
appears, letting you register the selected network. You can register
up to 32 networks.
“Edit”
When you select a registered network from the list, the button
caption changes to “Edit”. If “Dialog Format” is selected in “Add/
Edit/Register Network” on the “Setting” tab of the “Wireless Panel”
dialog box, when you click this button the “Registering Network”
dialog box appears, letting you change the registered settings.
61
Wireless LAN connection
“Delete”
This can be used when a registered network is selected from the list.
Clicking the button brings up a confirmation message, letting you
delete a registered network. (The currently connected network
cannot be deleted.)
Note
This function is available only under Windows Me and Windows 2000.
4“Scan” button
Clicking this button causes the computer to scan again for 802.11b
(2.4 GHz)/802.11a (5 GHz) wireless networks operating within
communication range. The network list is updated according to the
results of the scan.
“Setting” tab
The “Setting” tab lets you configure the Wireless Panel.
1Task Tray Icon
Lets you change the icon in the system tray (task tray).
2Add/Edit/Register Network
This item lets you select whether various utility procedures such as
registering a wireless network are performed in wizard style or dialog
box style (as used in this documentation).
Note
This function is available only under Windows Me and Windows 2000.
1
2
3
4
5
62
3“Reset” button
Clicking this button returns all items under the “Setting” tab to the
default condition.
4Auto-Connect Mode
When this box is checked, the computer will automatically connect to
the registered network with the strongest signal if the current
connection is interrupted.
Clicking brings up a list in which you can specify the priority for
automatic connection.
Note
This function is available only under Windows Me and Windows 2000.
5Change the TCP/IP setup when Wireless LAN setup is
changed
Check this box if you want to automatically switch TCP/IP settings (as
set under “Advanced” in the “Registering Network” dialog box) when
you switch the wireless network.
Note
This function is available only under Windows Me and Windows 2000.
63
Wireless LAN connection
Removing the supplied software
Uninstalling the Wireless LAN PC Card driver
To uninstall the Wireless LAN PC Card driver, proceed as follows.
z Hint
For information on how to install the Wireless LAN PC Card driver, see page 21 of this
manual or refer to the separate “Quick Install Guide”.
Windows Me:
1From the “Start” menu, click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.
The Control Panel window appears.
2Double-click the “System” icon.
The “System Properties” dialog box appears.
z Hint
If the “System” icon is not shown, select “View all Control Panel options”.
3Click the “Device Manager” tab.
4Click “View devices by type”.
5Double-click “Network adapters”.
6Click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”, then click
“Uninstall”.
The “Confirm Device Removal” dialog box appears.
7Click “OK” to uninstall.
The message “To finish removing your hardware, you must restart
your computer. Do you want to restart your computer now?” appears.
64
8Remove the Wireless LAN PC Card from its slot, then click
“Yes”.
The system restarts. This completes uninstallation of the driver.
Windows 2000:
Notes
•In Windows 2000, only users with administrator privileges can uninstall drivers. Log
onto Windows 2000 with a user account listed in “Administrators”.
•Exit all programs before starting the uninstall process.
1From the “Start” menu, click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.
The Control Panel appears.
2Double-click the “System” icon.
The “System Properties” dialog box appears.
3Click the “Hardware” tab, then click “Device Manager”.
The “Device Manager” window appears.
4In the “View” menu, click “View devices by type”.
5Double-click “Network adapters”, and double-click “Sony
802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”.
The “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter Properties” dialog
box appears.
6Click the “Driver” tab, then click “Uninstall”.
The “Confirm Device Removal” dialog box appears.
7Click “OK”.
The Device Manager window appears.
8Click to close the “Device Manager” window.
The “System Properties” dialog box appears.
65
Wireless LAN connection
9Click “OK” to close the “System Properties” dialog box.
The Control Panel appears.
10
Click to close the Control Panel.
Windows XP:
Notes
•In Windows XP, only users with administrator privileges can uninstall drivers. Log
onto Windows XP with a user account with administrator privileges.
•Exit all programs before starting the uninstall process.
1Click “Start”, and click “Control Panel”.
The Control Panel appears.
2Double-click the “System” icon.
The “System Properties” dialog box appears.
z Hint
If the “System” icon is not displayed, click “Switch to Classic View”.
3Click the “Hardware” tab, then click “Device Manager”.
The “Device Manager” window appears.
4In the “View” menu, click “View devices by type”.
5Double-click “Network adapters”, and Double-click “Sony
802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”.
The “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter Properties” dialog
box appears.
6Click the “Driver” tab, then click “Uninstall”.
The “Confirm Device Removal” dialog box appears.
7Click “OK”.
The Device Manager window appears.
66
8Click to close the Device Manager window.
The “System Properties” dialog box appears.
9Click “OK” to close the “System Properties” dialog box.
The Control Panel appears.
10
Click to close the Control Panel.
Uninstalling the Wireless Panel
To uninstall the Wireless Panel, proceed as follows.
zHint
For information on how to install the Wireless Panel, see page 28 of this manual or refer
to the separate “Quick Install Guide”.
Windows Me:
Note
Exit all programs before running the uninstall process.
1From the “Start” menu, click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.
The Control Panel window appears.
2Double-click the “Add/Remove Programs” icon.
The “Add/Remove Programs Properties” dialog box appears.
3Select “Wireless Panel” and click “Add/Remove”.
The “Confirm File Deletion” dialog box appears.
4Click “OK”.
The software uninstall process is carried out.
5Click “Finish”.
The uninstall process is complete.
67
Wireless LAN connection
Windows 2000:
Notes
•In Windows 2000, only users with administrator privileges can uninstall software. Log
onto Windows 2000 with a user account listed in “Administrators”.
•Exit all programs before starting the uninstall process.
1From the “Start” menu, click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.
The Control Panel appears.
2Double-click the “Add/Remove Programs” icon.
The “Add/Remove Programs” dialog box appears.
3Select “Wireless Panel” and click “Add/Remove”.
The “Confirm File Deletion” dialog box appears.
4Click “OK”.
The software uninstall process is carried out, and then the InstallShield
completion dialog box appears.
5Click “Finish”.
The uninstall process is complete.
Windows XP:
Notes
•In Windows XP, only users with administrator privileges can uninstall software. Log
onto Windows XP with a user account with administrator privileges.
•Exit all programs before starting the uninstall process.
1Click “Start”, and click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.
The Control Panel appears.
2Double-click the “Add/Remove Programs” icon.
The “Add/Remove Programs” dialog box appears.
68
3Select “Wireless Panel” and click “Add/Remove”.
The “Confirm File Deletion” dialog box appears.
4Click “OK”.
The software uninstall process is carried out, and then the maintenance
completion dialog box appears.
5Click “Finish”.
The uninstall process is complete.
69
Additional information
Precautions
Safety
Do not drop or cause a mechanical shock
to the Wireless LAN PC Card, as this may
damage the unit.
Installation
Do not expose the Wireless LAN PC Card
to the following conditions:
•Unstable surfaces
•High humidity or poor ventilation
•Excessive dust
•Direct sunlight or extreme heat
•Closed cars
•Magnetized location (near magnets,
speakers, or televisions)
•Locations exposed to frequent vibration
•Locations where the transmission of
radio waves may be obstructed by metal
plates or concrete walls
Operation
If the Wireless LAN PC Card is moved
directly from a cold location to a warm
locations, 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 if moisture
condensation occurs.
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.
70
Specifications
Protocol support
TCP/IP compliant
Standard compliance
IEEE 802.11a/IEEE 802.11b
Radio frequency
5 GHz wireless network:
5.15 to 5.35 GHz (IEEE 802.11a)
2.4 GHz wireless network:
2.4 to 2.4835 GHz (IEEE 802.11b)
(ISM band: IEEE 802.11b)
Modulation
OFDM (IEEE 802.11a compliant)
DS-SS (IEEE 802.11b compliant)
General
Power requirements
3.3 V DC (supplied from the computer
through the PC card adapter)
Current
Peak current at transmission: 660 mA
Peak current at reception: 380 mA
Connector
PC Card CardBus
Dimensions
Approx. 2.2 × 0.2 × 4.7 inches
(Approx. 54 × 5 × 119 mm ) (w/h/d)
(Antenna height: 0.5 inches (Approx. 11 mm))
Mass
Approx. 1.7 oz (Approx. 47 g)
Operating temperature
41°F to 95°F (5°C to 35°C) (not condensed)
Environment temperature
–4°F to 140°F (–20°C to 60°C) (not condensed)
Supplied accessories
See “Unpacking” on page 11.
Design and specifications are subject to change
without notice.
Getting help
This section describes how to get help and
support from Sony, as well as
troubleshooting tips for your Wireless
LAN PC Card.
About Sony’s Support Options
Sony provides several support options for
your Wireless LAN PC Card.
❒Operating Instructions explains
how to use your Wireless LAN PC
Card.
❒Quick Install Guide explains how to
install the Wireless LAN PC Card,
Wireless LAN PC Card driver, and the
Wireless Panel utility software
provided.
❒Troubleshooting Guide contains
answers to frequently asked questions
and solutions to common problems.
❒Wireless LAN Quick Guide
describes the Wireless Panel software
and explains how to set up a Peer to
Peer network in detail, and provides
information on configuring and
changing specific settings.
❒Wireless Panel Online Help
explains how to use the Wireless Panel
utility software provided.
❒The Sony Wireless LAN PC Card
support Web site
http://www.sony.com/
wirelesslansupport provides the
latest information on your Wireless
LAN products.
71
Additional information
❒The Sony e-mail support service
answers your questions by electronic
mail. Just send your question in an e-
mail message and a customer service
representative will reply. To send a
question to Sony e-mail support, fill out
the e-mail form at
http://www.ita.sel.sony.com/
support/pc/email.html
❒The Sony fax-back service provides
you with answers to commonly asked
questions. You can use this automated
service to request a list of available
topics then select the topics you want to
receive. To contact the Sony fax-back
service, call
1-877-760-7669.
❒The Sony Customer Information
Services Center offers information
about your Wireless LAN products, and
other Sony products that work with your
computer. To contact the Sony
Customer Information Services Center,
call 1-877-760-7669.
Open 24 hours/day, 7 days/week.
Glossary
Access Point (Infrastructure)
Network mode
A method of building a wireless network
using one or more Access Points. For
details, see “Capabilities” on page 8.
Channel
A part of the frequency spectrum to be
used for wireless communication.
Only client computers and Access Points
set to the same channel can communicate
with each other.
Client
A computer connected to a LAN (Local
Area Network). Also may be called a
client computer.
DHCP (Dynamic Host
Configuration Protocol)
DHCP lets network administrators centrally
manage and automate assignment of client
computer IP addresses.
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 hard to memorize, DNS was developed
to allow a name like “www.sony.com” to
identify a computer for convenience. DNS
servers manage these translations from
host names into IP addresses.
72
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.
Network Name (SSID)
A wireless LAN group identifier
according to the IEEE 802.11 standard.
SSID stands for “Service Set ID”. The
Network Name can be set individually for
each Access Point and Peer to Peer
Network to connect to. When roaming
among multiple Access Points is used, all
Access Points must be configured for the
same Network Name (SSID) and WEP
encryption key.
TCP/IP (Transmission Control
Protocol/Internet Protocol)
TCP/IP is the network communications
protocol that is used to communicate over
the Internet. 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.
73
Additional information
Troubleshooting
Read the Troubleshooting section of this guide before calling Sony
Customer Information Services. If you still cannot resolve your issue after
reading this section, call Sony Customer Information Services.
Symptom Cause/Remedy
My computer does not
detect the Wireless
LAN PC Card.
I cannot access the
Internet.
The Wireless LAN PC Card may not be properly inserted
into the PC card slot of your computer.
cCheck that the Wireless LAN PC Card is inserted in the
proper direction, then push it in as far as it will go.
The Access Point is not connected.
cFollow the instructions in the Access Point Operating
Instructions to connect it properly.
The Wireless LAN PC Card is not properly inserted into
your computer.
cSee the instructions on page 13 of this manual to insert it
properly.
Communication between the Access Point and your
computer are not established.
cCheck the communication status using the Wireless Panel.
For details on how to check the status, see “Viewing
communication status” (page 45).
The Access Point is not properly configured.
cConfigure the Access Point with the connection method of
your choice.
Distance between computer and Access Point is too great.
The maximum allowable distance is about 150 feet for
802.11a and 100 feet for 802.11b line of sight, but this will
vary depending on usage conditions.
cCheck the reception level indicator in the system tray
(notification area in Windows XP). If the level is low,
bring the computer and Access Point closer together.
74
Symptom Cause/Remedy
Data transfer speed is
slow
I cannot remember the
WEP Key.
Distance between
Access Point and
computer is less than
50 meters, but
communication is not
possible.
There is interference with other Access Points.
cTry changing the Access Point channel setting.
The network is handling a large amount of simultaneous
traffic.
cTry again when the network load is lower.
Communication distance is long.
cReduce the communication distance.
There are obstacles (objects blocking radio transmission)
within the communication range.
cRemove the obstacles or change the installation location.
Channel 14 is used for the 2.4 GHz band.
cChannel 14 is limited to 2 Mbps.
cWhen using an Access Point, reset the Access Point to its
defaults. For further information about how to reset the
Access Point, see the Access Point Operating Instructions.
cWhen using a Wireless LAN PC Card in Peer to Peer
Network connection mode, delete the network settings
registered on each computer connected to the network,
then reconfigure the computer’s wireless network settings.
The actual communication distance depends on the
installation site and surrounding conditions.
cMove your computer closer to the Access Point.
Printed in Japan
❒The Sony Wireless LAN products support Web site
http://www.sony.com/wirelesslansupport provides the
latest information on your Wireless LAN products.
❒The Sony e-mail support service answers your questions
by electronic mail. Just send your question in an e-mail message
and a customer service representative will reply. To send a
question to Sony e-mail support, fill out the e-mail
form at
http://www.ita.sel.sony.com/support/pc/email.html
❒The Sony fax-back service provides you with answers to
commonly asked questions. You can use this automated service
to request a list of available topics and then select the topics you
want to receive. To contact the Sony fax-back service, call
1-877-760-7669.
❒The Sony Customer Information Services Center offers
information about your Wireless LAN products, and other Sony
products that work with your computer. To contact the Sony
Customer Information Services Center, call
1-877-760-7669.
Open 24 hours/day, 7 days/week.
Printed on chlorine-free 100% recycled paper using
VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free vegetable oil
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