® Wireless LAN Access Point User Guide Model WL-306 Published May 2000
3Com Corporation ■ 5400 Bayfront Plaza ■ Santa Clara, California 95052-8145 ■ Copyright © 2000, 3Com Corporation. All rights reserved. No part of this documentation may be reproduced in any form or by any means or used to make any derivative work (such as translation, transformation, or adaptation) without written permission from 3Com Corporation.
CONTENTS OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING Introduction 8 Wireless LAN Network Topologies 8 Peer-To-Peer Network 8 Same-Site Separate Networks 9 Single AP Bridge 10 Multiple-AP Full Coverage Network 11 Wireless LAN Access Point 11 AP features 12 PowerBASE-T 13 Radio Basics 13 Cellular Coverage 15 Site Topography 16 Theory of Operation 16 MAC Layer Bridging 16 DHCP Support 17 Media Types 18 Bridging Support 18 Direct-Sequence Spread Spectrum 20 Wireless Client Association Process 20 Mobile IP 21 Suppor
Power Options 27 Mounting the AP 28 Flat Surface 28 Wall Mount 28 Ceiling Mount 29 Using the PowerBASE-T 31 LED Indicators 32 Troubleshooting 32 Wired Network 32 Setting Up Wireless Clients 34 MONITORING STATISTICS Introduction 36 System Properties 36 Interface Statistics 36 Forwarding Counts 36 Ethernet Statistics 37 Radio Frequency Statistics 37 Miscellaneous Statistics 38 Analyzing Retries 38 Clearing Statistics 39 Known APs 39 CONFIGURING THE ACCESS POINT Introduction 40 Gaining Access to the User In
Filtering 50 Updating AP Firmware Special Functions 52 52 MONITORING WIRELESS CLIENTS Introduction 54 Wireless Clients 54 Clearing Statistics 55 CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE Introduction 56 Gaining Access to the User Interface (UI) 56 Using Telnet 56 Using a Direct Serial Connection 57 Using a Dial-Up Connection 57 Navigating the UI 57 Entering Admin Mode 58 Changing the Access to the UI 59 Configuring for Dial-Up to the UI 59 Access Point Installation 61 Configuring the AP 62 System Para
Encryption Configuration Requirements 77 Saving, Resetting, and Restoring Configurations 77 Saving a Configuration 77 Resetting an AP 78 Restoring the Default AP Configuration 78 ACCESS POINT SPECIFICATIONS UPGRADING AP FIRMWARE Wireless Clients 82 AP Software Upgrade Procedure 82 TECHNICAL SUPPORT Online Technical Services 83 World Wide Web Site 83 3Com FTP Site 83 3Com Bulletin Board Service 84 3Com Facts Automated Fax Service 84 Support from Your Network Supplier 84 Support from 3Com 85 Returning Prod
1 Introduction OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING The Wireless LAN from 3Com is made up of a series of products that work together to deliver high-speed digital wireless networking. This technology provides connectivity between wireless clients and network nodes in a variety of indoor environments, and also provides bridging architecture between wired and wireless network segments. Wireless LAN is based on the IEEE 802.11HR standard, and delivers 11 Mbps data transfer rates.
Wireless LAN Network Topologies Same-Site Separate Networks 9 In this scenario, as shown in the followng figure, Multiple APs can coexist as separate networks at the same site without interference using different network identifiers (wireless LAN service areas). The wireless clients can move within the coverage area of one AP and remain connected, or can roam (if configured to do so) to the coverage area of a different AP, and communicate with the wireless clients associated with that AP.
CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING Single AP Bridge Another possible Wireless LAN topology is a single AP bridging an Ethernet and wireless network. As shown in the next figure, the AP, wired to a network server or LAN through an Ethernet cable, serves as a network node and provides the link between the server and the wireless clients. The wireless clients can move freely throughout the coverage area of the AP while remaining connected to the server.
Wireless LAN Access Point Multiple-AP Full Coverage Network Wireless LAN Access Point 11 This network topology will be used in most enterprise environments: multiple APs wired to an existing LAN to provide complete wireless network coverage. In this scenario, as shown in the following figure, wireless clients can roam seamlessly between different coverage areas and remain connected to the network.
CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING A wireless client communicating with an AP appears on the network as a peer to other network devices, rendering the wireless interface transparent. The AP receives data from its wired interfaces and forwards the data to the proper interface. The AP has connections for wired networks, built-in antennas, and a power supply. It attaches to a wall or ceiling, or can be placed on a flat surface, depending on installation-site requirements.
Radio Basics PowerBASE-T 13 This device allows the AP to be powered through the Ethernet cable connecting the AP to a LAN. The PowerBASE-T should be used when the AP is connected to LAN and is mounted in a location where access to a standard electric outlet is severely limited. For details concerning the installation of your PowerBase-T, see “Using the PowerBASE-T”. Radio Basics Wireless LAN devices use radio signals to transmit and receive data without wires.
CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING Wireless LAN devices, like other Ethernet devices, have unique, hardware-encoded Media Access Control (MAC), or IEEE, addresses. MAC addresses determine the device sending or receiving data. A MAC address is a 48-bit number written as six hexadecimal bytes separated by colons. A typical MAC address might be: 00:A0:F8:24:9A:C8 The AP MAC address is printed on the bottom of the unit, as shown below.
Radio Basics Cellular Coverage 15 The AP establishes an average communication range with wireless clients called a Home Service Area (HSA), or cell. When a wireless client is in a particular cell, the wireless client associates and communicates with the AP in that cell. Each cell has a Home Service Area Identifier (HSA_ID). Under the 802.11 standard, the MAC address of an AP represents its HSA_ID. The wireless client recognizes the AP it associates with using the HSA_ID.
CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING 802.1d Spanning Tree Support This protocol creates a loop-free topography with exactly one path between every LAN. This is the shortest path from the Root AP to each AP and LAN. If an AP or LAN fails, a new route is calculated and added to the tree. All packet forwarding follows the spanning tree. APs have to choose one AP as the Root AP.
Theory of Operation 17 Each AP stores information on destinations and their interfaces to facilitate forwarding. When you send an Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) request packet, the AP forwards the request over all enabled interfaces (Ethernet, PPP, or radio), except over the interface on which the ARP request packet was received. (Radio-received ARP request packets echo back to other APs over radio.
CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING Media Types The AP supports bridging between Ethernet, radio, and serial media. The Ethernet interface fully complies with Ethernet Rev. 2 and IEEE 802.3 specifications. The AP supports 10BASE-T wired connections and full-speed filtering. The data transfer rate over radio waves is 11 Mbps. The Ethernet interface is optional for single-cell or PPP-connected networks. The radio interface conforms to IEEE 802.11 HR specifications.
Theory of Operation 19 The AP database dynamically tracks wireless clients and APs on the PPP interface. Packets forward to the PPP link after the AP determines their destination. The PPP implementation in the AP uses the NCP as described in RFC 1220: PPP Extensions for Bridging to encapsulate packets at the Ethernet level. The PPP provides IP bridging control as defined by RFC 1172 and MAC-level bridging. The protocol provides support for PPP negotiations conforming to RFC 1661.
CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING Direct-Sequence Spread Spectrum Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) uses a high-speed, non-information bearing signal to spread the transmitted information over a segment of the radio frequency band or spectrum. The Wireless LAN access point uses DSSS for radio communication. Direct-sequence systems communicate by continuously transmitting a redundant pattern of bits called a chipping sequence.
Theory of Operation 21 and the addition of the AP to the AP table with a proximity classification. An unsuccessful AP packet transmission generates another wireless client probe on the same channel. If the wireless client fails to receive a probe response within the time limits, it repeats the probe process on the next channel in the sequence. This process continues through all channels in the range. A wireless client can roam within the coverage area by switching APs.
CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING A Home Agent is an AP acting as a router on the wireless client home network. The home agent intercepts packets sent to the wireless client home address and tunnels the message to the wireless client at its current location. This happens as long as the wireless client keeps its home agent informed of its current location on some foreign link. A Foreign Agent is an AP acting as a router at the wireless client location on a foreign link.
Theory of Operation 23 them to the wireless client and the wireless client goes back to sleep. A DTIM field, also called a countdown field, informs wireless clients of the next window for listening to broadcast and multicast messages. The AP sends the messages following the nth beacon where n is the DTIM interval defined in the AP. When the AP has buffered broadcast or multicast messages for associated wireless clients, it sends the next DTIM with a DTIM Interval value.
CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING Changing one AP does not affect the configuration of other APs on the network. Make configuration changes to APs individually. Each AP requires an individual IP address. Programmable SNMP Trap Support The SNMP protocol defines the method for obtaining information about networks operating characteristics and changing router and gateway parameters.
Theory of Operation 25 Using the User Interface The User Interface (UI) is a text-based maintenance tool integrated into the AP. It provides statistical displays, AP configuration options, and firmware upgrades. Access to the UI requires one of the following Method Description Telnet Client Gain access to the AP built-in Telnet server from any AP interface including remote Ethernet connections. See “Using Telnet” in Appendix C.
2 INSTALLING ACCESS POINT HARDWARE Introduction To install an AP, you will have to connect the AP to your network, mount the AP in a location best suited for reception, and provide power to the AP. Precautions Before installing the AP, review the following guidelines and precautions. Package Contents ■ Ensure that you have performed the preinstallation procedure outlined in the Access Point Quick Start Guide. ■ Do not install the AP in wet or dusty areas without additional protection.
Power Options Network Connection 27 Locate the Ethernet port and power plug on the back of the AP, as shown by items 2 (power plug) and 3 (Ethernet port) in the figure below. Item 1 is the serial port. Ethernet configurations vary according to the environment. Determine the Ethernet wiring to connect the AP, 10BASE-T UTP, or single cell. 10BASE-T UTP Use a 10BASE-T connection for multiple APs or an AP attached to a wired UTP Ethernet hub. Normal 10BASE-T limitations apply.
CHAPTER 2: INSTALLING ACCESS POINT HARDWARE Mounting the AP The AP can be mounted in any number of locations, some of which are shown below. Flat Surface To mount an AP on a flat surface, place the AP so that it rests on the four rubber pads on its underside. The surface should be clear of debris and away from traffic.
Mounting the AP Ceiling Mount 29 To mount an AP on a ceiling: 1 Attach the mounting bracket to the AP by lining up the raised flanges in the center of the bracket with the mounting holes on the bottom of the AP. 2 Firmly press the rounded ends of the flanges into both mounting holes, and then push forward until the flanges slide into the holes and the bracket locks into place. 3 Attach both t-rail grips to the outer flanges of the mounting bracket with the t-rail wingnuts.
CHAPTER 2: INSTALLING ACCESS POINT HARDWARE 5 Tighten the t-rail wingnuts. The power adapter connects to the rear of the AP and to a power outlet. 1 Plug the power adapter cable into the socket at the back of the AP. 2 Plug the adapter into an outlet. The AP is functional when the Status indicator on the front of the AP flashes consistently, and the Wireless LAN Activity indicator begins flickering (see “LED Indicators” for more details).
Using the PowerBASE-T 31 The AP operates without user intervention after setup. See the AP LED indicators to verify that the unit operates properly. Using the PowerBASE-T The PowerBASE-T allows you to power the AP using the Ethernet cable. If you are forced to mount the AP in an area where access to an electrical outlet is limited, the PowerBASE-T can be used to power the AP. The PowerBASE-T can be located at any point between the AP and the hub or switch, where a convenient AC outlet exists.
CHAPTER 2: INSTALLING ACCESS POINT HARDWARE LED Indicators The top panel LED indicators provide a status display indicating transmission, error condition, and other activity. Symbol Description Power ■ On—Power being received by AP ■ Off—No power to AP ■ Flashing—AP boot sequence ■ On—Link to hub detected, but no network traffic ■ Off—No power and no network connection ■ Flashing—LAN traffic detected. Faster flashing indicates heavier traffic.
Troubleshooting ■ Failed AC supply ■ Electrical Management System (EMS) operating outlet 33 2 After the AP resets and hardware is initialized, it performs an SRAM test. If the test passes, all three LEDs turn on. If the test fails, the LEDs all turn off and the AP resets. The LEDs turn off sequentially, in the order shown, as each of the following tests pass. LED State Test Passed Power Blinks continuously Bootup and run-time codes downloaded to AP flash memory successful.
CHAPTER 2: INSTALLING ACCESS POINT HARDWARE ■ ■ ■ ■ Setting Up Wireless Clients Verify that antenna diversity setting for AP is appropriate. If using one antenna, the setting is Primary Only, if using two antennas, the setting is Primary and Secondary. Verify network traffic does not exceed 37% of bandwidth. Check to see that the wired network does not exceed 10 broadcast messages per second. Verify wired network topology and configuration.
3 MONITORING STATISTICS Introduction The Wireless LAN AP keeps statistics of its transactions during operation. These statistics include traffic, transmission success, and the existence of other radio network devices. This chapter discusses the statistics that can be monitored. All statistics can be cleared as needed.
Ethernet Statistics Ethernet Statistics 37 The AP keeps Ethernet performance statistics, including packet transmission and data retries, until it is reset. To view or change Ethernet statistics, select Statistics→Ethernet Statistics. Statistic Definition Packets Seen Packets received on the Ethernet interface. Packets Forwarded Packets forwarded from the Ethernet interface to other interfaces.
CHAPTER 3: MONITORING STATISTICS Miscellaneous Statistics The AP keeps statistics on WNMP and SNMP packets, filtering violations, and serial port use in the Miscellaneous Statistics window. to display the Misc System Statistics window, select Main Menu→Misc Statistics. Type Name Definition WNMP Echoes Echo requests received by the AP. Pings Ping requests received by the AP. Passthrough Echoes Echoes for wireless clients associated with the AP.
Clearing Statistics Clearing Statistics 39 To clear statistics, do the following: 1 Select Configuration from the Main Menu. 2 Select Clear All Statistics. 3 Select Perform Function. The AP zeroes out all statistics. Resetting the AP also clears statistics. Known APs The AP displays a list of the known APs derived from AP-to-AP communication. The list includes the MAC and IP addresses and configuration information for each AP. The first AP on the list provides the information.
4 CONFIGURING THE ACCESS POINT Introduction Software configuration requires setting up a connection to the Access Point (AP) and gaining access to the User Interface (UI). Gaining Access to the User Interface (UI) In order to configure an AP, you need access to the Web and you need to know the IP address of the AP. In the address/URL text box of your browser, type IP address of the AP and press Enter.
Gaining Access to the User Interface (UI) 41 8 Click Add to open the Directories dialog box. 9 Type the complete path to the directory created in step one. 10 Select Virtual Directory. 11 Type the folder alias (i.e., Wireless LAN Help). 12 Click OK. 13 Enable the Default document option. 14 Type WirelessLANHelp.htm as the default document and click Apply. 15 Click OK to exit the window.
CHAPTER 4: CONFIGURING THE ACCESS POINT You must always reset the AP after you make configuration changes if you want the changes to be initiated. To reset the AP, follow the procedure below. 1 Select Special Functions. 2 Select Reset AP. 3 Select Yes at the confirmation prompt. To enable Help file access, change the Help URL parameter using the following procedure. 1 Select Special Functions. 2 Select Alter Filename(s)/HELP URL/TFTP Server/DHCP using Tab. 3 Press ENTER. 4 Select the .
Gaining Access to the User Interface (UI) 43 frame. Refer to the online help file for Web page navigation, page contents, and parameter use.) 5 Turn off the caching function for the browser to view configuration, function, or option changes on the Web page(s). ■ For Netscape a Select Edit→Preferences from the menu bar. b Select Advanced→Cache when the Preferences dialog box opens. c Select Every time under the Document in cache is compared to document on network item.
CHAPTER 4: CONFIGURING THE ACCESS POINT Installing the Access Point AP Easy Setup in which you set basic parameters for a Wireless LAN network. These parameters include designating a gateway address that enables message forwarding across routers on the wired Ethernet. To install an AP, follow the procedure below. 1 Select Easy Setup→Easy Setup. The parameters in the Access Point Easy Setup window are explained in the list below.
Configuring the AP Configuring the AP Security 45 The AP has many configuration parameters. This section discusses all the AP parameters and how to set them. One of the first tasks you need to accomplish is to set AP security. By doing so, you define the system password, enable you Access Control List (ACL), determine which wireless clients have access to an AP and which do not, and enable or disable encryption. 1 Select Configuration→Security. The Security Setup page displays.
CHAPTER 4: CONFIGURING THE ACCESS POINT 4 Enter the MAC address of a wireless client that cannot associate with the AP and click Add Disallowed Wireless Client. 5 Click Clear Entry if you decide to remove a wireless client from disallowed status with the AP. 6 Repeat step 4 for as many wireless clients as you wish. 7 Click Security Home Page when you have completed your entry on this page. Enabling or Disabling Encryption 1 Select Configuration→Security. 2 Select Enabled for WEP (Privacy).
Configuring the AP 47 6 Select the status of the Ethernet Timeout and enter the number of seconds between 30 and 255. This feature disables radio interface if no activity is detected on the Ethernet line after the seconds indicated. The AP disassociates wireless clients and prevents further associations with itself until it detects Ethernet activity.
CHAPTER 4: CONFIGURING THE ACCESS POINT Wireless LAN supports broadcast download protocols for any wireless client (typically Point-of-Sale terminals) requiring the expedited download of a new operating image over the network instead of using a local nonvolatile drive. All multicast downstream data packets that match the top 32 bits of the multicast mask are forwarded immediately instead of being queued for transmission at the next DTIM interval.
Configuring the AP ■ Disabled disables SNMP functions. ■ Read-only allows get and trap operations. ■ Read/Write (default) allows get, set, and trap operations. 49 3 Enter a user-defined password of up to 31 characters for Read-Only Community. This password is for and identifies users with read-only privileges. 4 Enter a user-defined password of up to 13 characters for Read/Write Community. This password is for and identifies users with read/write privileges.
CHAPTER 4: CONFIGURING THE ACCESS POINT ■ US Robotics Sportster Modem 28.8 Configuring the Originating Modem 1 Select Configuration→PPP/Modem. The PPP/Modem Setup page displays. 2 Select Enabled for PPP Interface. 3 Select PPP for Serial Port Use. 4 Select Originate for Modem Connect Mode. 5 Select Yes for Modem Connected. 6 Select Auto for Dialout Mode. 7 Select the appropriate mode for Modem Speaker. This setting sends a command to the modem to turn the modem speaker on or off. The default is On.
Configuring the AP 51 types of packets (TCP/IP, IPX). Or you can allow all traffic through by disabling the filtering option. 1 Select Configuration→Filtering. The Filtering Setup page displays. 2 Determine what type of filtering you want to set up and select the appropriate procedure below. Filtering to Forward Packets To configure the AP to forward packets of particular types, do the following: 1 Click Forward as the Type Filtering.
CHAPTER 4: CONFIGURING THE ACCESS POINT Updating AP Firmware To upgrade your firmware, you need a TFTP server and a connection between the AP and PC on the same Ethernet segment.The files required for firmware updates are 3cap_fw.bin and 3cap_htm.bin. Verify the PC has a TFTP server running on it. Running the server requires third party software such as FTP PC/TCP for DOS or OnNet™ for Windows. The wireless TFTP upgrade method requires a connection between the AP and a TFTP server.
Configuring the AP Special Function Description Clear All Statistics Clears the current statistics for the AP. Clear Wireless Client Table Ensures that wireless clients associating with the AP are active. Clear the wireless client association table for diagnostic purposes. Clear wireless clients from an AP if the AP has many wireless client associations that are no longer in use. The AP removes the wireless clients associated with it.
5 MONITORING WIRELESS CLIENTS Introduction The AP keeps statistics of its transactions during operation. These statistics indicate traffic, transmission success, and the existence of other radio network devices. Clear statistics as needed. Wireless Clients Wireless Client statistics provide information on wireless clients associated with an AP. The statistics include information on data sent and received, activity and association.
Clearing Statistics 55 5 Select Start Refresh to have the AP automatically update the display every two seconds. The information displayed about the wireless client includes the following: : Category Description Interface Displays the wireless client connection (RF, Ethernet, PPP or AP) State Connection state between the AP and the wireless client: ■ Host–unit is on AP or PPP interface ■ Associated–current association on radio interface ■ Away–unit is no longer associated with AP.
CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE 6 Introduction Software configuration consists of setting up a connection to the Access Point (AP) and gaining access to the User Interface (UI). NOTE: Before configuring the AP, you may wish to upgrade the Wireless LAN firmware to the latest version. Refer to “Manually Updating AP Firmware” on page 73. . NOTE: The dot in front of certain parameters, functions, or options (.
Navigating the UI 57 Using a Direct Serial Connection To use the ASCII interface with a direct serial connection, follow the instructions in the AP Quick Start Guide, included in your package. Using a Dial-Up Connection The AP supports a dial-up connection to the UI. This requires accessing the UI from Telnet or a direct serial connection and changing the serial port configuration. Configure the AP for the following: ■ Enable serial port. ■ Set serial port for UI. ■ Disable any modem connection.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE ■ Some options listed at the bottom of screens indicate possible commands for a selected item. For example, in the Known APs window, highlighting an AP on the list and pressing F1 brings up the Ping function to Ping that AP. ■ To exit from submenus, press Esc. Administration screens include options for saving or clearing data that appear on the bottom line of the screen. Confirmation prompts are listed below.
Navigating the UI Changing the Access to the UI 59 To prevent unauthorized Telnet access, change the configuration access to the UI. This includes enabling or disabling the Telnet Logins or changing the System Password. To change Telnet access to the AP, do the following: 1 Select Set System Configuration from the Main Menu. 2 Select Telnet Logins. 3 Press the space bar or left/right arrow to toggle between Enabled and Disabled. 4 Press Tab to highlight the SAVE-[F1] function at the bottom of the screen.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE Configure the other settings as required on the AP. The table below explains the other settings. Setting Description Answer Wait Time The time waiting for a remote connection before dropping the attempt. The default is 60 seconds. Modem Speaker AP sends a command to the modem to turn on/off the modem speaker. The default is On.
Access Point Installation Access Point Installation 61 The AP UI includes an AP Installation window in which you can set basic parameters for a Wireless LAN network. These parameters include designating a gateway address that enables message forwarding across routers on the wired Ethernet. To install an AP, follow the procedure below. 1 Enter Admin Mode. 2 Select AP Installation from the Main Menu to display the Access Point Installation window. Parameter Description Unit Name AP name.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE Configuring the AP System Parameters The AP has many configuration parameters. This section discusses all the AP parameters and how to set them. The AP has configuration options to operate the unit, including security access and interface control. Some parameters do not require modification. To configure the system parameters, follow the procedure below.
Configuring the AP 63 Web Server Enables the use of a Web based browser to access the UI instead of HyperTerminal or Telnet applications. An AP Reset is required for this feature to take effect. Access Control Specifies enabling or disabling the access control feature. If enabled, the ACL (Access Control List) specifies the MAC addresses of wireless clients that can associate with this AP. The default is Disabled.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE Parameter Description DTIM Interval Configure DTIM packet frequency as a multiple of beacon packets. The DTIM Interval indicates how many beacons equal one cycle. Do not modify. BC/MC Q Max Determines the memory allocated for the queue used in the AP to temporarily hold broadcast/multicast messages. Unit measure is in packets and corresponds to maximum-sized Ethernet packets. The default is 10.
Configuring the AP 65 5 To save the RF Configuration information to all APs with the same WLAN Service area, select Save ALL APs [F2]. This option saves the configuration changes for the current AP, and sends two WNMP messages to all other APs on the Known APs table to update their configurations and reset them after the configuration has been modified. You can execute this option only among the same hardware platforms and same firmware versions.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE The following modems qualify to work with the AP: ■ Practical Peripherals PM288MT II V.34 ■ Supra Fax Modem 288 ■ USRobotics Sportster Modem 28.8 Dial out manually through the Special Functions menu or dial out automatically when the system boots up. Originating AP To configure an originating AP, do the following from the UI of the originating AP: 1 Select Set Serial Port Configuration from the Main Menu. 2 Set the Port Use parameter to PPP.
Configuring the AP 67 Initiating Modem Connection To manually initiate dial-out from the originating AP to the answering AP, do the following: 1 Select the Special Functions Menu from the Main Menu. 2 Select Modem Dialout. The AP dials out and attempts to make a connection according to parameters set in the Serial Port Configuration. If dial-out fails, the AP switches to manual dial-out. NOTE: For automatic dial-out, reset the AP.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE Parameter Description Access Cntrl Violation Send a trap to manager when an ACL violation occurs. The default value is Disabled. DHCP Change If enabled, this trap generates the following enterprise-specific traps: ■ ■ ■ Gateway Address Change—Indicates the gateway address for the router has changed. IP Address Change—Indicates the IP address for the AP has changed.
Configuring the AP 69 6 Press down arrow to select OK. 7 Press Enter. The UI generates the Ranges of Allowed Mobile Units window. 8 Verify that values reflect the network environment and change them as needed. 9 Select Delete [F1] to delete a range of Mobile Units. 10 Select Add [F2] to add a range of Mobile Units. 11 Select Save ALL APs [F3] to save the Ranges of Allowed Mobile Units information to all APs with the same WLAN Service Area.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE Enable/Disable the ACL To toggle between enable or disable, locate the ACL in the System Configuration window, then do the following: 1 Select Set System Configuration from the Main Menu. 2 Press Tab to select Access Control. 3 Press space bar to Enable. 4 Select Save to save changes. Removing All Allowed Wireless Clients You can remove all wireless clients from the ACL by following the procedure below.
Clearing Wireless Clients from the AP 71 3 Enter the appropriate MAC address. You can enter MAC addresses without colons. Removing Disallowed Wireless Clients To remove wireless clients from the Disallowed Addresses list, do the following: 1 Select Set Address Filtering from the Main Menu. 2 Highlight the MAC address using the Up or Down Arrows. 3 Select Delete-[F1] to delete the MAC address. Type Filtering Packet types supported for the type filtering function include the 16-bit DIX Ethernet types.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE To clear wireless clients associated with an AP, do the following: 1 Select Special Functions from the Main Menu. 2 Select Clear wireless client Table. The AP removes the wireless clients associated with it. Wireless Clients cleared from an AP attempt to reassociate with the AP or another nearby AP. Setting Logging Options The AP keeps an event log based on settings for logging options.
Manually Updating AP Firmware 73 7 Select Save ALL APs [F2] to save the Event Logging Configuration information to all APs with the same WLAN Service Area. This option saves the configuration changes for the current AP, and sends two WNMP messages to all other APs on the Known APs table to update their configurations and reset them after the configuration has been modified. You can execute this option only among the same hardware platforms and firmware versions.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE 10 Select Special Functions from the Main Menu. 11 Select Use TFTP to Update Access Points and press Enter., which generates the following prompt: “Are you sure (Y/N)?” 12 Type y. The Telnet session ends when you type y at the prompt. The WIRED LAN ACTIVITY indicator on the AP does not flash. The AP resets when the file transfer and flash programming complete. 13 Telnet to the AP using its IP address.
Auto Upgrade all APs Via Messaging 75 Both downloads the 3cap_fw.bin and 3cap_htm.bin files separately. Make sure both files are located in the same directory before the download begins. 10 Press Enter. 11 Type y at the confirmation prompt, which generates the following message: Downloading firmware using XMODEM. Send firmware with XMODEM now ... NOTE: When you use Xmodem, verify the accuracy of the file name before a send. An incorrect file can render the AP inoperable.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE Updating the firmware requires that a TFTP server be running in the background. To update the AP firmware: 1 Copy the firmware files 3cap_fw.bin and 3cap_htm.bin to the terminal or PC hard disk. 2 Telnet to the AP using its IP address. 3 Type the case-sensitive password at the prompt (see “Changing the Access to the UI” for more details). The AP generates the Main Menu. 4 Select Special Functions from the Main Menu.
Mobile IP Using MD5 Authentication 77 5 Enter the number of Pings (1 to 539), the Packet Length in bytes (1 to 539), and the Packet Data content in hex (0x00 to 0xFF). 6 Select Start-[CR] to begin pinging. The AP dynamically displays ping packets transmitted and received. Mobile IP Using MD5 Authentication You can achieve authentication by using the MD5 algorithm with a shared key configured into the AP and its wireless client.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE The Save All APs function saves only the five parameters the precede it in the Special Functions Menu. You can use this option only among the same hardware platforms and firmware versions. The NVRAM stores saved configuration information. To clear configuration information stored in the NVRAM, see “Restoring the Default AP Configuration”. Resetting an AP Resetting an AP clears statistics and restores the last saved configuration.
Saving, Resetting, and Restoring Configurations 79
7 ACCESS POINT SPECIFICATIONS Physical Characteristics Dimensions 1.25” H x 5.5” L x 7.75” W (3.18 cm H x 14.97 cm L x 19.69 cm W) Weight (w/power supply) 1 lbs (0.454 kg) Operating Temperature -4º F to 131º F (-20º C to 55º C) Storage Temperature -40º F to 149º F (-40º C to 65º C) Humidity 10% to 95% noncondensing Shock 40 G, 11 ms, half-sine ESD Meets CE-Mark Drop Withstands up to a 30 in. (76 cm) drop to concrete with possible surface marring Radio Characteristics Frequency No.
Network Characteristics Ethernet Frame DIX, Ethernet_II, IEEE 802.
8 Wireless Clients UPGRADING AP FIRMWARE This chapter describes how to upgrade your Access Point software. The following procedure applies to the following operating systems: AP Software Upgrade Procedure ■ Windows 95B/95C, ■ Windows 98/98SE ■ Windows NT4 Workstation ■ Windows 2000 PROFESSIONAL This procedure describes how to upgrade the access point firmware using the Web User Interface.
A Online Technical Services World Wide Web Site TECHNICAL SUPPORT 3Com offers worldwide product support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, through the following online systems: ■ World Wide Web site ■ 3Com FTP site ■ 3Com Bulletin Board Service (3Com BBS) ■ 3Com Facts automated fax service SM Access the latest networking information on the 3Com Corporation World Wide Web site by entering the URL into your Internet browser: http://www.3com.
APPENDIX A: TECHNICAL SUPPORT 3Com Bulletin Board Service The 3Com BBS contains patches, software, and drivers for 3Com products. This service is available through analog modem or digital modem (ISDN) 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To reach the service by modem, set your modem to 8 data bits, no parity, and 1 stop bit.
Support from 3Com Support from 3Com 85 If you are unable to obtain assistance from the 3Com online technical resources or from your network supplier, 3Com offers technical telephone support services. To find out more about your support options, please call the 3Com technical telephone support phone number at the location nearest you.
APPENDIX A: TECHNICAL SUPPORT Returning Products for Repair Before you send a product directly to 3Com for repair, you must first obtain a Return Materials Authorization (RMA) number. Products sent to 3Com without RMA numbers will be returned to the sender unopened, at the sender’s expense.
WARRANTY AND REGULATORY COMPLIANCE 3Com Corporation Limited Warranty This warranty applies to customers located in the United States, Australia, Canada (except Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, U.K.
Dead- or Defective-on-Arrival.
Regulatory Compliance Information RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE REQUIREMENTS This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commissions Rules and Regulation. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment.
3Com End User Software License Agreement IMPORTANT: Read Before Using This Product YOU SHOULD CAREFULLY READ THE FOLLOWING TERMS AND CONDITIONS BEFORE USING THIS PRODUCT. IT CONTAINS SOFTWARE, THE USE OF WHICH IS LICENSED BY 3COM CORPORATION (“3COM”) TO ITS CUSTOMERS FOR THEIR USE ONLY AS SET FORTH BELOW. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THIS AGREEMENT, DO NOT USE THE SOFTWARE. USING ANY PART OF THE SOFTWARE INDICATES THAT YOU ACCEPT THESE TERMS.
