User's Manual

For an infrastructure configuration (with an Access Point and several wireless

clients), physical placement of the Access Point will be key as it determines the

range of the wireless LAN network and it’s connection to the wired LAN network

(if present).

Wireless LAN networks have the best range in open areas or environments with

few obstacles. For every wall, door, ceiling the signals have to travel through, the

range is reduced. Thicker obstacles or metal environments reduce the range

even further. When placing Access Points, try to decrease the number of

obstacles in the area so that mobile wireless clients have the best access and

range. Access Points (like radio towers on top of hills) have the best range when

they are raised above obstacles such as furniture. When ever possible, mount

your Access point high up a wall. This could also help your range if your Access

Point is downstairs and you are try to provide WLAN coverage to a floor above

you.

Wireless signals also degrade if they pass through object at an angle. Again,

direct line of contact and minimal obstacles will increase the range. Also, note

that high RF noise objects such as antennas, microwaves, monitors can affect

signal sensitivity and range. Positioning wireless equipment a few feet away from

them will minimize their effect.

How Do I Check the Status of the 802.11g Wireless LAN Card?

Here are a few ways to do this.

• Check the

System Tray

bar (lower right hand corner of Windows desktop) and

verify that the Wireless LAN Card is connected (no Red X through it)

• Check to ensure that at least one green Signal Strength Indicator bar is

colored or