Wireless Adapter User Guide | Features | | |
Features
The AirConnect wireless network offers performance comparable to Ethernet networks, but without the restraints of network cables. The AirConnect product family includes the 3CRWE737A PC Card described in this manual.
AirConnect adapters use IEEE 802.11HR direct-sequence-based technology to extend the range and versatility of a network. They provide a high-capacity link across multiple access points within large or small indoor environments. AirConnect product-family features include:
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Bridging architecture allows communication between wired network devices and mobile devices.
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Compliance with IEEE 802.11 HR specification. This open architecture allows AirConnect devices to communicate with wireless devices from other manufacturers.
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Extended roaming allows mobile devices to roam throughout large facilities while remaining connected to the LAN.
AirConnect PC Card operating features include:
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Low-power operation for battery-powered devices with PC Card slots.
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Support for standard NDIS (Network Driver Interface Specification) and drivers.
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Support for Wndows 2000, Windows 98, Windows 95B, and Windows NT 4.0 (with Service Pack 3.0 or greater).
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Card and Socket Services support, including SystemSoft, CardSoft, and CardWizard.
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Plug and Play support.
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Power management.
AirConnect Wireless LAN adapters support a maximum data rate of 11 Mbps. (The data rate drops back to 5.5, 2, or 1 Mbps when the adapter cannot establish or maintain an 11 Mbps association.) Factors that can affect the data rate include:
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A separation or change in signal strength between the Access Point and the wireless client
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The ratio of packets transmitted to transmissions attempted falling below a preset threshold
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The wireless client finding and switching to another Access Point with a higher transmit rate
Roaming means the AirConnect PC Card will maintain your network connection as you roam between Access Points in the same subnet. You can also roam across routers, depending on how your Extended Roaming configuration is set. When configured for Extended Roaming, the wireless client retains its network address as it moves between subnets, between Ethernet segments, or from an Ethernet segment to a wireless LAN. See Easy Setup for details.
The wireless LAN PC Card supports Continuous Active and Power Save Polling power-management modes.
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In Continuous Active Mode, the radio that establishes and maintains the link to the network remains on. Continuous Active mode is not recommended for battery powered devices.
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Power Save Polling conserves power by suspending the adapter's communication with an associated access point. The access point saves data for transmission to the wireless client when it wakes at given intervals. When the adapter wakes to check for data, it switches back into Continuous Active Mode until it is ready to suspend communications again.