FCC ID: PKW-NWU11B Wireless USB Network Adapter

INDUSTRY CANADA (CANADA) This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003. Cet appareil numrique de la classe B est conforme la norme NMB-003 du Canada. The use of this device in a system operating either partially or completely outdoors may require the user to obtain a license for the system according to the Canadian regulations. COPYRIGHT & TRADEMARKS Copyright 2002 Network Everywhere. All rights reserved. Network Everywhere and the Network Everywhere logo are registered trademarks of The Linksys Group, Inc. Microsoft, Windows, and the Windows logo are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. All other companies and product names are trademarks of their respective companies. Network Everywhere guarantees that every Wireless USB Adapter will be free from phys-

ical defects in material and workmanship for one year from the date of purchase, when used within the limits set forth in the Specifications section of this User Guide. If the prod-

uct proves defective during this warranty period, call Network Everywhere Technical Support in order to obtain a Return Authorization number. BE SURE TO HAVE YOUR PROOF OF PURCHASE ON HAND WHEN CALLING. When returning a product, mark the Return Authorization number clearly on the outside of the package and include a copy of your original proof of purchase. RETURN REQUESTS CANNOT BE PROCESSED WITHOUT PROOF OF PURCHASE. All customers located outside of the United States of America and Canada shall be held responsible for shipping and handling charges. IN NO EVENT SHALL NETWORK EVERYWHERES LIABILITY EXCEED THE PRICE PAID FOR THE PRODUCT FROM DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSE-

QUENTIAL DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THE PRODUCT, ITS ACCOM-

PANYING SOFTWARE, OR ITS DOCUMENTATION. NETWORK EVERYWHERE OFFERS NO REFUNDS FOR ITS PRODUCTS. Network Everywhere makes no warranty or repre-

sentation, expressed, implied, or statutory, with respect to its products or the contents or use of this documentation and all accompanying software, and specifically disclaims its quality, performance, merchantability, or fitness for any particular purpose. Network Everywhere reserves the right to revise or update its products, software, or documenta-

tion without obligation to notify any individual or entity. Please direct all inquiries to:

Network Everywhere P.O. Box 18558, Irvine, CA 92623. FCC STATEMENT This Wireless USB Adapter has been tested and complies with the specifications for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used according to the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communi-

cations. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular instal-

lation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which is found by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to cor-

rect the interference by one or more of the following measures:

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna Increase the separation between the equipment or devices Connect the equipment to an outlet other than the receivers Consult a dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for assistance FCC Caution: Any changes or modifications nor expressly approved by the party respon-

sible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate this equipment. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. FCC RF Radiation Exposure Statement This device and its antenna(s) must operate with a separation distance of at least 20 cm from all persons and must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. End-users must be provided with specific operations for satisfy-

ing RF exposure compliance. UG-NWU11B-103002NC JL Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter Table of Contents Chapter 1: Introduction The Wireless USB Adapter Features Chapter 2: Planning Your Wireless Network Network Topology Ad-Hoc versus Infrastructure Mode Chapter 3: About USB Overview USB Icon USB Cabling 1 1 1 2 2 2 4 4 4 5 Chapter 4: Getting to Know the Wireless USB Adapter 6 6 The Adapters Port and LEDs Chapter 5: Software Installation and Configuration for Windows 98SE, Me, and 2000 Overview Setup Wizard Instructions for Windows 98SE, Me, and 2000 Chapter 6: Hardware Installation Hardware Detection for Windows 98SE, Me, and 2000 Chapter 7: Driver Installation and Configuration for Windows XP Overview Driver Installation for Windows XP Windows XP Wireless Zero Configuration Chapter 8: Using the WLAN Monitor for Windows 98SE, Me, and 2000 Overview Accessing the WLAN Monitor Link Information Site Survey Profiles Creating a New Profile Appendix A: Troubleshooting Common Problems and Solutions Frequently Asked Questions Appendix B: Glossary Appendix C: Specifications Environmental Appendix D: Warranty Information Appendix E: Contact Information 7 7 8 12 13 14 14 14 16 18 18 18 18 21 23 25 30 30 30 34 39 40 41 42 Chapter 1: Introduction The Wireless USB Adapter Connect your USB-equipped desktop or notebook computer to a wireless net-

work with the Network Everywhere Wireless USB Adapter. Save the trouble of opening up the case of your desktop computer. To install, simply plug the Wireless USB Adapter into any available USB port. It gets its power through the USB connection, so no power cord is necessary. The included Setup Wizard walks you through configuring the Adapter to your wireless network settings, step by step. The Wireless USB Adapter lets you put your computer almost anywhere in the building, without the cost and hassle of running cables. Now you dont have to drill holes in your walls and climb through the attic or cellar to get connected to the network. Once youre connected, you can keep in touch with your e-mail, access the Internet, use instant messaging to chat with friends, and share files and other resources such as printers and network storage with other computers on the network. The Network Everywhere Wireless USB Adapter is fully compliant with the 802.11b wireless network standard, transferring data at up to 11Mbps in the 2.4GHz radio band. And your wireless communications are protected by up to 128-bit encryption, so your data stays secure. So dont hassle with running cables through your houseget connected the easy way with the Network Everywhere Wireless USB Adapter. Features Up to 11Mbps High-Speed Data Transfer Rate with Automatic Fallback Plug-and-Play Operation Provides Easy Setup 802.11b, DSSS, 2.4GHz Compliant Compatible with Microsoft Windows 98SE, Me, 2000, and XP Supports up to 128-bit WEP Encryption Security 1-Year Limited Warranty 1 Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter If the wireless network is relatively small and needs to share resources only with the other computers on the wireless network, then the ad-hoc mode can be used. (See Figure 2-2.) Ad-hoc mode allows computers equipped with wire-

less transmitters and receivers to communicate directly with each other, elimi-

nating the need for an access point. The drawback of this mode is that, in Ad-

Hoc mode, wireless-equipped computers are not able to communicate with computers on a wired network. And, of course, communication between the wireless-equipped computers is limited by the distance and interference direct-

ly between them. Figure 2-2 Chapter 2: Planning Your Wireless Network Network Topology A wireless local area network (WLAN) is exactly like a regular local area net-

work (LAN), except that each computer in the WLAN uses a wireless device to connect to the network. Computers in a WLAN share the same frequency channel and SSID, which is an identification name for wireless devices. Ad-Hoc versus Infrastructure Mode Unlike wired networks, wireless networks have two different modes in which they may be set up: infrastructure and ad-hoc. An infrastructure configura-

tion is a WLAN and wired LAN communicating to each other through an access point. An ad-hoc configuration is wireless-equipped computers com-

municating directly with each other. Choosing between these two modes depends on whether or not the wireless network needs to share data or periph-

erals with a wired network or not. If the computers on the wireless network need to be accessed by a wired network or need to share a peripheral, such as a print-

er, with the wired network computers, the wireless network should be set up in infrastructure mode.

(See Figure 2-1.) The basis of infrastructure mode centers around an access point, which serves as the main point of communications in a wireless network. Access points transmit data to PCs equipped with wireless network cards, which can roam within a certain radial range of the access point. Multiple access points can be arranged to work in succession to extend the roaming range, and can be set up to communicate with your Ethernet (wired) hardware as well. Figure 2-1 2 3 Chapter 3: About USB Overview Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter USB Cabling There are two kinds of USB connectors, Type A and Type B. Type A is a rec-

tangular connector, and Type B is a square connector. USB, which is short for Universal Serial Bus, is a technology designed to make it easier to connect devices to computers. First developed in 1996 by a group of computer industry leaders that included Compaq, Digital, IBM, Intel, Microsoft, NEC, and Northern Telecom, USB is one of the most widely used technologies for users who want to add peripherals to their computers. USB is unique because it is Plug-and-Play, which allows a computer to instant-

ly recognize when a device like a keyboard, mouse, or scanner has been con-

nected to it. Once the device has been recognized, its ready to gono special setup is required. Similarly, USB supports hot-swapping, the insertion or removal of devices while the computer is turned on. You can swap one device for another without having to power down your system or install any special softwareit really is that easy. The USB 1.1 standard supports two speed modes, 1.5 and up to 12Mbps. USB Icon The USB icon marks a USB port on a PC or device. USB Type A USB Type B Figure 3-2 The USB cable that comes with the Adapter has a Type A connector on one end and a Type B connector on the other end. The Type A connector plugs into the PCs USB port, and the Type B connector plugs into the Adapter. Figure 3-3 shows two USB ports as they might appear on your computer. Note the two USB icons marking the ports. Figure 3-1 Figure 3-3 4 5 Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter Chapter 5: Software Installation and Configuration for Windows 98SE, Me, and 2000 Overview The Wireless USB Adapter Setup Wizard will guide you through the installa-

tion procedure for Windows 98SE, Me, and 2000. The Setup Wizard will install the WLAN Monitor and driver, as well as configure the Adapter. Note to Windows XP users: Do NOT run the Wireless USB Adapter Setup Wizard. Proceed directly to Chapter 6: Hardware Installation. Note to Windows 98SE, Me, and 2000 users: You must run the Setup Wizard to install the software before installing the hardware. Insert the Setup Wizard CD-ROM into your CD-ROM drive. The Setup Wizard should run automatically, and Figure 5-1 should appear. If it does not, click the Start button and choose Run. In the field that appears, enter D:\setup.exe (if D is the letter of your CD-ROM drive). Chapter 4: Getting to Know the Wireless USB Adapter The Adapters Port and LEDs Figure 4-1 The USB Port USB Port The USB Port connects to the included USB cable. The LED Indicators Link Power Green. The Link LED flashes when the Adapter has an active connection. Green. The Power LED lights up when the Adapter is pow-

ered on. 6 7 Figure 5-1 Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter Setup Wizard Instructions for Windows 98SE, Me, and 2000 1. To install the Adapter, click the Install button on the Welcome screen. Click the User Guide button to open the PDF file of this User Guide. Click the Exit button to exit the Setup Wizard. 3. The Setup Wizard will ask you to choose a wireless mode. Click the Infrastructure Mode radio button if you want your wireless computers to communicate with computers on your wired network using a wireless access point. Click the Ad-Hoc Mode radio button if you want multiple wireless computers to communicate directly with each other. Do not use the Ad-Hoc mode if you want your wireless computers to communicate with computers on your wired network. In the SSID field, enter the SSID of your wireless network. The SSID must be identical for all devices in the network. The default setting is wireless (all lowercase). Click the Next button. Figure 5-2 2. After reading the License Agreement, click the Next button if you agree, or click the Cancel button to end the installation. Figure 5-4 Figure 5-3 8 9 Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter 4. If you chose Infrastructure Mode, go to Step 5 now. If you chose Ad-Hoc Mode, select the correct operating channel for your network. The channel you choose should match the channel set on the other devices in your wire-

less network. Click the Next button, and go to Step 5. Click the Back button to change any settings. 6. For Windows 2000, you may be informed that a digital signature has not been found (see Figure 5-7). This is normal, and it has been verified that the Adapter does work with Windows 2000. Click the Yes button to continue. Windows will begin installing the driver files. If Windows asks you for the original Windows CD-ROM, insert the CD-ROM, and direct Windows to the proper location for the CD-ROM (e.g., D:\). Figure 5-5 Figure 5-7 5. The Setup Wizard will ask you to review your settings before it starts to copy files. Click the Next button to save these settings, or click the Back button to change any settings. 7. After the files have been successfully copied, the screen in Figure 5-8 will appear. Click the Finish button. Figure 5-6 10 Figure 5-8 Proceed to Chapter 6: Hardware Installation. 11 Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter Chapter 6: Hardware Installation Note to Windows 98SE, Me, and 2000 users: You must run the Setup Wizard to install the software before installing the hardware. Note to Windows XP users: You must install the Adapters hardware before installing the software. 1. Connect one end of the USB cable to the Adapter. Figure 6-1 2. Connect the other end of the USB cable to the USB port on your computer. Because the Adapter gets its power from the PCs USB port, there is no external power supply for the Adapter. The Power LED should light up when the Adapter is plugged in and the PC is on. 3. Raise the antenna. Make sure the antenna is positioned straight up into the air, at a 90 angle to the ground. If your PC is running Windows 98SE, Me, or 2000, proceed to the next section, Hardware Detection for Windows 98SE, Me, and 2000. If your PC is running Windows XP, proceed to the section, Chapter 7:

Driver Installation and Configuration for Windows XP. Hardware Detection for Windows 98SE, Me, and 2000 After the Adapter has been physically connected to your computer, Windows will detect the new hardware. For Windows 2000, you may be informed that a digital signature has not been found (see Figure 6-2). This is normal, and it has been verified that the Adapter does work with Windows 2000. Click the Yes button to continue. Figure 6-2 Windows will begin installing the driver files. If Windows asks you for the original Windows CD-ROM, insert the CD-ROM, and direct Windows to the proper location for the CD-ROM (e.g., D:\). Congratulations! The installation of the Wireless USB Adapter is com-

plete. If you want to check the link information, search for available wireless networks, or make additional configuration changes, proceed to Chapter 8: Using the WLAN Monitor for Windows 98SE, Me, and 2000. 12 13 Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter Chapter 7: Driver Installation and Configuration for Windows XP Overview After connecting the Adapter to your computer, you will install the driver and configure the Adapter. Note to Windows XP users: Do NOT run the Wireless USB Adapter Setup Wizard. If the Setup Wizard runs automatically after the Setup CD-ROM has been inserted, click the Exit tab. Driver Installation for Windows XP 1. Windows XP will automatically detect the Adapter. Insert the Setup CD-

ROM into your CD-ROM drive. Click the radio button next to Install the software automatically (Recommended). Then click the Next button. 2. Windows will notify you that the driver has not passed Windows Logo test-

ing. This is normal, and it has been verified that the Adapter does work with Windows XP. Click the Continue Anyway button. Figure 7-2 3. After Windows has finished installing the driver, click the Finish button. Figure 7-1 14 Figure 7-3 You have now completed the driver installation for the Wireless USB Adapter. To configure the Adapter, proceed to the next section, Windows XP Wireless Zero Configuration. 15 Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter Windows XP Wireless Zero Configuration For Windows XP users: Windows XP has a built-in configuration tool. Use Windows XP Wireless Zero Configuration (in the system tray at the bottom of your screen) to configure the Adapter. 1. After installing the Adapter, the Windows XP Wireless Zero Configuration icon will appear in your computers system tray

(see Figure 7-4). Double-click the icon. Figure 7-4 2. The screen that appears will show any available wireless network. Select a network, and then click the Connect button. Figure 7-5 Note: These are the instructions and screenshots for Windows XP without Service Pack 1 installed. If you have already installed Service Pack 1, enter the keyword wireless in the Windows XP search engine for your wireless networking instructions. 3. If your access point has WEP encryption enabled, the screen in Figure 7-6 will appear. Enter the WEP key of your wireless network in the Network key field. Click the Connect button. Figure 7-6 Note: Windows XP does not support the use of a passphrase. Enter the exact WEP key used by your access point. To find the WEP encryption key settings of the other wireless devices in your network, such as an access point or wireless router, you may use any devices web-based utility to check the WEP encryption screen for the cor-

rect key entries. If you are using other manufacturers access points, refer to their documentation for more information about WEP encryption. 4. The screen in Figure 7-7 will appear if your connection is active. For more information about WEP, refer to your access points docu-

mentation, or visit www.networkeverywhere.com. Figure 7-7 For more information about wireless networking on a Windows XP computer, enter the keyword wireless in the Windows XP search engine. The installation of the Wireless USB Adapter is complete. Congratulations!

16 17 Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter Chapter 8: Using the WLA N Monitor for Windows 98SE, Me, and 2000 Overview Use the WLAN Monitor to check the link information, search for available wireless networks, or create profiles that hold different configuration settings. Accessing the WLAN Monitor After installing the Adapter, the Wireless USB Adapter WLAN Monitor icon will appear in your system tray. Double-click the icon

(see Figure 8-1). Figure 8-1 The Link Information screen will appear (see Figure 8-2). From this screen, you can find out how strong the current wireless signal is and how good the con-

nections quality is. You can also click the More Information button to view additional status information about the current wireless connection. To search for available wireless networks, click the Site Survey tab. To perform configu-

ration changes, click the Profiles tab. Link Information As shown in Figure 8-2, the Link Information screen displays signal strength and link quality information about the current connection and provides a but-

ton to click for additional status information. Ad-Hoc Mode or Infrastructure Mode - The screen indicates whether the Adapter is currently working in ad-hoc or infrastructure mode. Signal Strength - The Signal Strength bar indicates signal strength, from 0 to 100%. Link Quality - The Link Quality bar indicates the quality of the wireless net-

work connection, from 0 to 100%. Figure 8-2 Click the More Information button to view more information about the wire-

less network connection (see Figure 8-3). Click the X (Close) button in the upper right corner to exit the WLAN Monitor. The More Information screen displays the Adapters network settings and infor-

mation about the current wireless network connection (see Figure 8-3). 18 Figure 8-3 19 Ad-Hoc Mode or Infrastructure Mode - The screen indicates whether the Adapter is currently working in ad-hoc or infrastructure mode. Site Survey Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter TCP/IP Setting IP Address - The IP Address of the Adapter. Subnet Mask - The Subnet Mask of the Adapter. Default Gateway - The Default Gateway address of the Adapter. DHCP - The status of the DHCP client. DNS - The DNS address of the Adapter. Wireless Network Status State - The status of the wireless network connection. SSID - The unique name of the wireless network. Network Type - The mode of the wireless network currently in use. Transfer Rate - The data transfer rate of the current connection. Channel - The channel to which the wireless network devices are set. WEP - The status of the WEP encryption security feature. MAC - The MAC address of the wireless networks access point. Signal Strength - The Signal Strength bar indicates signal strength, from 0 to 100%. Link Quality - The Link Quality bar indicates the quality of the wireless net-

work connection, from 0 to 100%. The Site Survey screen displays a list of infrastructure and ad-hoc networks available for connection. Figure 8-4 Click the Back button to return to the initial Link Information screen. Click the X (Close) button in the upper right corner to exit the WLAN Monitor. SSID - The SSID or unique name of the wireless network. Signal - The quality of the signal. Site Information Network Type - The mode of the wireless network currently in use. Channel - The channel to which the wireless network devices are set. WEP - The status of the WEP encryption security feature. MAC - The MAC address of the wireless networks access point. Surveyed at - The time at which the wireless network was scanned. Refresh - Click the Refresh button to perform a new search for wireless devices. 20 21

Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter Connect - To connect to one of the networks on the list, select the wireless net-

work, and click the Connect button. If the wireless network has WEP encryp-

tion enabled, you will see the screen shown in Figure 8-5. Profiles The Profiles screen lets you save different configuration profiles for different network setups. You can also import or export profiles. The default profile holds the initial configuration saved when you ran the Setup Wizard. Figure 8-5 In the WEP drop-down box, select the type of WEP encryption used by the wireless network: 64-bit, 128-bit, or 152-bit WEP. If the wireless network uses a passphrase, enter the passphrase in the Passphrase field. If the wireless network uses a WEP key, enter the WEP key in the Key 1 field. Click the OK button to complete the network connection and return to the Site Survey screen, or click the Cancel button to cancel the network connection and return to the Site Survey screen. On the Site Survey screen, click the X (Close) button in the upper right corner to exit the WLAN Monitor. 22 Figure 8-6 Profile - Name of the connection profile. SSID - The wireless networks unique name, as set in the connection profile. Profile Information Network Type - The mode of the wireless network currently in use. Transfer Rate - The data transfer rate of the current connection. (In Auto mode, the Adapter dynamically shifts to the fastest data transfer rate possible at any given time.) Channel - The channel to which the wireless network devices are set. WEP - The status of the WEP encryption security feature. Connect - To connect to a wireless network using a specific profile, select the profile, and click the Connect button. Edit - Select a profile, and click the Edit button to change an existing profile. New - Click the New button to create a new profile. See the next section, Creating a New Profile, for detailed instructions. 23 Import - Click the Import button to import a profile that has been saved in another location. Select the appropriate file, and click the Open button. Creating a New Profile Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter 1. On the Profiles screen, click the New button to create a new profile. Figure 8-7 Export - To save the profile(s) in a different location, click the Export button. Direct Windows to the appropriate folder, and click the Save button. Figure 8-9 2. The Choose a network type screen shows a choice of two wireless modes

(see Figure 8-10). In the Current Profile field, enter the name of the new profile. Click the Infrastructure Mode radio button if you want your wire-

less computers to communicate with computers on your wired network via a wireless access point. Click the Ad-Hoc Mode radio button if you want multiple wireless computers to communicate directly with each other. Complete the SSID field. Click the Next button to continue or the Back button to return to the previous screen. Current Profile - Enter the name of this profile here. Infrastructure Mode - This mode allows wireless and wired networks to communicate through an access point. Ad-Hoc Mode - This mode allows wireless-equipped computers to com-

municate directly with each other. No access point is used. SSID - The SSID is the unique name shared by all devices in a wireless net-

work. The SSID must be identical for all devices in the wireless network. It is case-sensitive and must not exceed 32 characters (use any of the charac-

ters on the keyboard). Make sure this setting is the same for all devices in your wireless network. Figure 8-8 Note: If you want to export more than one profile, you have to export them one at a time. Delete - Click the Delete button to delete a profile. Click the X (Close) button in the upper right corner to exit the WLAN Monitor. 24 25 Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter 4. The Network Settings screen will appear. If your network has a DHCP server, click the radio button next to Obtain an IP address automatically (DHCP). Click the Next button to continue, or click the Back button to return to the previous screen. Then go to Step 5. If your network does not have a DHCP server, click the radio button next to Specify the IP address. Enter an IP Address, Subnet Mask, Default Gateway, and DNS appropriate for your network. Enter each address in this format: xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx (the xs represent the numbers that make up each address). You must specify the IP Address and Subnet Mask on this screen. If you are unsure about the Default Gateway and DNS addresses, then leave these fields alone. Click the Next button to continue, or click the Back but-

ton to return to the previous screen. Then go to Step 5. Figure 8-10 IP Address - This IP Address must be unique to your network. 3. If you chose Infrastructure Mode, go to Step 4 now. If you chose Ad-Hoc Mode, select the correct operating channel for your network. Click the Next button, and go to Step 4. Click the Back button to change any settings. Channel - The channel you choose should match the channel set on the other devices in your wireless network. Subnet Mask - The Adapters Subnet Mask must be the same as your wired networks Subnet Mask. Default Gateway - Enter the IP address of your networks Gateway here. DNS - Enter the DNS addresses of your Ethernet (wired) network here. Figure 8-11 26 Figure 8-12 27 Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter 5. The Security Settings screen will appear. Enable or disable Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption for your wireless network. If you enable WEP, enter a Passphrase or WEP key. Click the Next button to con-

tinue or the Back button to return to the previous screen. WEP (Disabled/64-bit WEP/128-bit WEP) - If you do not want to use WEP encryption, choose Disabled. To use WEP encryption (recommended to increase network security), select 64-bit or 128-bit WEP from the drop-

down menu, and enter either a Passphrase or WEP key. Passphrase - Instead of manually entering WEP keys, you can enter a Passphrase, so a WEP key is automatically generated. It is case-sensitive and should not be longer than 16 alphanumeric characters. This passphrase must match the passphrase of your wireless network and is compatible with Network Everywhere wireless products only. (If you have any non-Network Everywhere wireless products, enter the WEP key(s) manually on those products.) Key 1 - This WEP key must match the WEP key of your wireless network. If you are using 64-bit WEP encryption, then the key must consist of exact-

ly 10 hexadecimal characters. If you are using 128-bit WEP encryption, then the key must consist of exactly 26 hexadecimal characters. Valid hexa-

decimal characters are 0 to 9 and A to F. 6. The Confirm New Settings screen will appear. To save the new settings, click the Next button. To cancel the settings and return to the Profiles screen, click the No button. To edit the new settings, click the Back button. Figure 8-14 7. The Congratulations screen will appear next. Click Activate Now to imple-

ment the new settings immediately and return to the Link Information screen. Click Activate Later to keep the current settings active and return to the Profiles screen. Figure 8-13 You have successfully created a connection profile. Click the X (Close) button in the upper right corner to exit the WLAN Monitor. 28 29 Figure 8-15 Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter Appendix A: Troubleshooting Common Problems and Solutions This chapter provides solutions to problems that may occur during the installa-

tion and operation of the Wireless USB Adapter. Read the descriptions below to solve your problems. If you cant find an answer here, check the Network Everywhere website at www.networkeverywhere.com. 1. My computer does not recognize the Wireless USB Adapter. Make sure that the Adapter is properly inserted into the USB port. Also, make sure that the USB Controller is enabled in the BIOS. Refer to your motherboards user guide for more information. 2. The Wireless USB Adapter does not work properly. Reinsert the Adapter into the notebook or desktops USB port. For Windows 98SE or Me, right-click My Computer, and select Properties. Select the Device Manager tab, and select the Adapter. You will find the Wireless USB Adapter if it has been installed successfully. If you see a yel-

low exclamation mark, the resources may be in conflict, and you must follow the steps below:

Uninstall the driver software from your PC. Restart your PC and repeat the hardware and software installation as spec-

ified in this User Guide. 3. I cannot communicate with a wired computer linked via an access point in the infrastructure configuration. Make sure that the notebook or desktop PC is powered on. Make sure that the Adapter is configured with the same SSID and security options as the other computers in the infrastructure configuration. Frequently Asked Questions Can I run an application from a remote computer over the wireless network?

This will depend on whether or not the application is designed to be used over a network. Consult the applications user guide to determine if it supports oper-

ation over a network. Can I play computer games with other members of the wireless network?

Yes, as long as the game supports multiple players over a LAN (local area net-

work). Refer to the games user guide for more information. What is the IEEE 802.11b standard?

It is one of the IEEE standards for wireless networks. The 802.11b standard allows wireless networking hardware from different manufacturers to commu-

nicate, provided that the hardware complies with the 802.11b standard. The 802.11b standard states a maximum data transfer rate of 11Mbps and an oper-

ating frequency of 2.4GHz. What IEEE 802.11b features are supported?

The product supports the following IEEE 802.11b functions:

CSMA/CA plus Acknowledge protocol Multi-Channel Roaming Automatic Rate Selection RTS/CTS feature Fragmentation Power Management What is ad-hoc mode?

When a wireless network is set to ad-hoc mode, the wireless-equipped com-

puters are configured to communicate directly with each other. The ad-hoc wireless network will not communicate with any wired network. What is infrastructure mode?

When a wireless network is set to infrastructure mode, the wireless network is configured to communicate with a wired network through a wireless access point. What is roaming?

Roaming is the ability of a portable computer user to communicate continu-

ously while moving freely throughout an area greater than that covered by a sin-

gle access point. Before using the roaming function, the workstation must make sure that it is the same channel number with the access point of dedicated cov-

erage 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 users end node under-

takes 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 30 31 Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter 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 sys-

tem 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 re-registers, and the communication process continues. What is ISM band?

The FCC and their counterparts outside of the U.S. 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 being made available worldwide. This presents a truly revolutionary opportunity to place convenient high-speed wireless capabilities in the hands of users around the globe. What is Spread Spectrum?

Spread Spectrum technology is a wideband radio frequency technique devel-

oped by the military for use in reliable, secure, mission-critical communica-

tions 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. If a receiver is not tuned to the right frequency, a spread-spectrum signal looks like background noise. There are two main alternatives, Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum

(DSSS) and Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum (FHSS). What is DSSS? What is FHSS? And what are their differences?

Frequency-Hopping Spread-Spectrum (FHSS) uses a narrowband carrier that changes frequency in a pattern that is known to both transmitter and receiver. Properly synchronized, the net effect is to maintain a single logical channel. To an unintended receiver, FHSS appears to be short-duration impulse noise. 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 trans-

mission, 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 nar-

rowband receivers. 32 Would the information be intercepted while transmitting on air?

WLAN features two-fold protection in security. On the hardware side, as with Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum technology, it has the inherent security fea-

ture of scrambling. On the software side, WLAN offers the encryption function

(WEP) to enhance security and access control. What is WEP?

WEP is Wired Equivalent Privacy, a data privacy mechanism based on a 64-bit or 128-bit shared key algorithm, as described in the IEEE 802.11 standard. 33 Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter Appendix B: Glossary 802.11b - One of the IEEE standards for wireless networking hardware. Products that adhere to a specific IEEE standard will work with each other, even if they are manufactured by different companies. The 802.11b standard specifies a maximum data transfer rate of 11Mbps, an operating frequency of 2.4GHz, and WEP encryption for security. 802.11b networks are also referred to as Wi-Fi networks. Ad-hoc Network - An ad-hoc network is a group of computers, each with a wireless adapter, connected as an independent 802.11 wireless LAN. Ad-hoc wireless computers operate on a peer-to-peer basis, communicating directly with each other without the use of an access point. Ad-hoc mode is also referred to as an Independent Basic Service Set (IBSS) or as peer-to-peer mode, and is useful at a departmental scale or SOHO operation. CTS (Clear To Send) - An RS-232 signal sent from the receiving station to the transmitting station that indicates it is ready to accept data. Default Gateway - The router used to forward all traffic that is not addressed to a station within the local subnet. DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) - A protocol that lets network administrators manage centrally and automate the assignment of Internet Protocol (IP) addresses in an organizations network. Using the Internets set of protocol (TCP/IP), each machine that can connect to the Internet needs a unique IP address. When an organization sets up its computer users with a con-

nection to the Internet, an IP address must be assigned to each machine. Without DHCP, the IP address must be entered manually at each computer and, if computers move to another location in another part of the network, a new IP address must be entered. DHCP lets a network administrator supervise and dis-

tribute IP addresses from a central point and automatically sends a new IP address when a computer is plugged into a different place in the network. DHCP uses the concept of a lease or amount of time that a given IP address will be valid for a computer. The lease time can vary depending on how long a user is likely to require the Internet connection at a particular location. Its espe-

cially useful in education and other environments where users change fre-

quently. Using very short leases, DHCP can dynamically reconfigure networks in which there are more computers than there are available IP addresses. DHCP supports static addresses for computers containing Web servers that need a permanent IP address. DNS - The domain name system (DNS) is the way that Internet domain name are located and translated into Internet Protocol (IP) addresses. A domain name is a meaningful and easy-to-remember handle for an Internet address. DSSS (Direct-Sequence Spread Spectrum) - DSSS generates a redundant bit pattern for all transmitted data. This bit pattern is called a chip (or chipping code). Even if one or more bits in the chip are damaged during transmission, statistical techniques embedded in the receiver 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. However, to an intended receiver (i.e. another wireless LAN end-

point), the DSSS signal is recognized as the only valid signal, and interference is inherently rejected (ignored). Dynamic IP Address - An IP address that is automatically assigned to a client station in a TCP/IP network, typically by a DHCP server. Network devices that serve multiple users, such as servers and printers, are usually assigned static IP addresses. ESS (Extended Service Set) - A set of more than two or more BSSs (multiple access points) forming a single network. Firmware - Code that is written onto read-only memory (ROM) or program-

mable read-only memory (PROM). Once firmware has been written onto the ROM or PROM, it is retained even when the device is turned off. IEEE - The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. The IEEE describes itself as the worlds largest technical professional societypromot-

ing the development and application of electrotechnology and allied sciences for the benefit of humanity, the advancement of the profession, and the well-

being of our members. The IEEE fosters the development of standards that often become national and international standards. The organization publishes a number of journals, has many local chapters, and several large societies in special areas, such as the IEEE Computer Society. Infrastructure Network - An infrastructure network is a group of computers or other devices, each with a wireless adapter, connected as an 802.11 wireless 34 35 Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter LAN. In infrastructure mode, the wireless devices communicate with each other and to a wired network by first going through an access point. An infra-

structure wireless network connected to a wired network is referred to as a Basic Service Set (BSS). A set of two or more BSS in a single network is referred to as an Extended Service Set (ESS). Infrastructure mode is useful at a corporation scale, or when it is necessary to connect the wired and wireless networks. IP Address - In the most widely installed level of the Internet Protocol (IP) today, an IP address is a 32-binary digit number that identifies each sender or receiver of information that is sent in packet across the Internet. When you request an HTML page or send e-mail, the Internet Protocol part of TCP/IP includes your IP address in the message (actually, in each of the packets if more than one is required) and sends it to the IP address that is obtained by looking up the domain name in the Uniform Resource Locator you requested or in the e-mail address you're sending a note to. At the other end, the recipient can see the IP address of the Web page requester or the e-mail sender and can respond by sending another message using the IP address it received. Roaming - In an infrastructure mode wireless network, this refers to the abili-

ty to move out of one access point's range and into another and transparently reassociate and reauthenticate to the new access point. This reassociation and reauthentication should occur without user intervention and ideally without interruption to network connectivity. A typical scenario would be a location with multiple access points, where users can physically relocate from one area to another and easily maintain connectivity. SSID (Service Set Identifier) - An identification name that wireless devices use to make connections. In order for wireless devices to communicate, they must all be set to the same channel and they all must use the same SSID. For instance, if you are using an access point to connect two computers using wire-

less devices, the access point and each of the wireless devices must use the same SSID. Even if they are set to the same channel, they cannot communicate unless the SSID is the same. Static IP Address - A permanent IP address that is assigned to a node in a TCP/IP network. IPCONFIG - A utility that provides for querying, defining and managing IP addresses within a network. A commonly used utility, under Windows NT and 2000, for configuring networks with static IP addresses. Subnet Mask - The method used for splitting IP networks into a series of sub-

groups, or subnets. The mask is a binary pattern that is matched up with the IP address to turn part of the host ID address field into a field for subnets. ISP - An ISP (Internet service provider) is a company that provides individuals and companies access to the Internet and other related services such as Web site building and virtual hosting. LAN - A local area network (LAN) is a group of computers and associated devices that share a common communications line and typically share the resources of a single processor or server within a small geographic area (for example, within an office building). MAC Address - The MAC (Media Access Control) address is your computers unique hardware number. mIRC - mIRC runs under Windows and provides a graphical interface for log-

ging onto IRC servers and listing, joining and leaving channels. Network Mask - Also known as the Subnet Mask. Plug-and-Play - The ability of a computer system to configure expansion boards and other devices automatically without requiring the user to turn off the system during installation. 36 TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) - A method (protocol) used along with the IP (Internet Protocol) to send data in the form of message units (datagram) between network devices over a LAN or WAN. While IP takes care of handling the actual delivery of the data (routing), TCP takes care of keeping track of the individual units of data (called packets) that a message is divided into for effi-

cient delivery over the network. TCP is known as a connection-oriented pro-

tocol due to requiring the receiver of a packet to return an acknowledgment of receipt to the sender of the packet resulting in transmission control. TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) - The basic com-

munication language or set of protocols for communications over a network

(developed specifically for the Internet). TCP/IP defines a suite or group of protocols and not only TCP and IP. UDP (User Datagram Protocol) - A method (protocol) used along with the IP

(Internet Protocol) to send data in the form of message units (datagram) between network devices over a LAN or WAN. While IP takes care of handling the actual delivery of the data (routing), UDP takes care of keeping track of the individual units of data (called packets) that a message is divided into for effi-

37 Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter cient delivery over the network. UDP is known as a connection-less protocol due to NOT requiring the receiver of a packet to return an acknowledgment of receipt to the sender of the packet (as opposed to TCP). WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) - A data privacy mechanism based on a 64-

bit shared key algorithm, as described in the IEEE 802.11b standard. WINIPCFG - Configuration utility based on the Win32 API for querying, defining and managing IP addresses within a network. A commonly used util-

ity under Windows 95, 98, and Me. WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) - A group of computers and associat-

ed devices that communicate with each other wirelessly. Appendix C: Specifications Standards Channels Port Transmit

(typical) IEEE 802.11b, USB 1.1 11 Channels (USA) USB 18 dBm Receive Sensitivity

(typical)

-84 dBm Modulation CCK, DQPSK, DBPSK Network Protocols TCP/IP LEDs Link, Power 38 39 Network Everywhere Wireless USBAdapter Environmental Dimensions 3.58" x 2.80" x 0.91"

(91 mm x 71 mm x 23 mm) Unit Weight 2.82 oz. (0.08 kg) Power Supplied by PCs USB port Certifications FCC Class B, Wi-Fi Operating Temp. 32F to 131F (0C to 55C) Storage Temp.

-13F to 158F (-25C to 70C) Operating Humidity 0% to 70%, Non-Condensing Storage Humidity 10% to 90%, Non-Condensing Appendix D: Warranty Information BE SURE TO HAVE YOUR PROOF OF PURCHASE AND A BARCODE FROM THE PRODUCTS PACKAGING ON HAND WHEN CALLING. RETURN REQUESTS CANNOT BE PROCESSED WITHOUT PROOF OF PURCHASE. IN NO EVENT SHALL NETWORK EVERYWHERES LIABILITY EXCEED THE PRICE PAID FOR THE PRODUCT FROM DIRECT, INDI-

RECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THE PRODUCT, ITS ACCOMPANYING SOFTWARE, OR ITS DOCUMENTATION. NETWORK EVERYWHERE DOES NOT OFFER REFUNDS FOR ANY PRODUCT. NETWORK EVERYWHERE OFFERS CROSS SHIPMENTS, A FASTER PROCESS FOR PROCESSING AND RECEIVING YOUR REPLACEMENT. NETWORK EVERYWHERE PAYS FOR UPS GROUND ONLY. ALL CUS-

TOMERS LOCATED OUTSIDE OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND CANADA SHALL BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR SHIPPING AND HANDLING CHARGES. PLEASE CALL NETWORK EVERYWHERE FOR MORE DETAILS. 40 41 Appendix E: Contact Information Network Everywhere For help with the installation or operation of the Wireless USB Adapter, con-

tact Network Everywhere Technical Support at one of the phone numbers or Internet addresses below. Technical Support Fax E-mail Web site 949-271-5470, M-F, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (PST) 949-265-6655 support@NetworkEverywhere.com http://www.NetworkEverywhere.com 42 http://www.NetworkEver ywhere .com Copyright 2002 Network Everywhere, All Rights Reserved. Federal Communication Commission Interference Statement This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one 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. FCC Caution: To assure continued compliance, any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate this equipment. 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. IMPORTANT NOTE:

FCC Radiation Exposure Statement:

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator & your body. This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.