User's Manual

Table Of Contents

Introduction

Overview

August 14, 2007, 2.00 Document Classification: Proprietary Information Page 9

1 Introduction

1.1 Overview

This document describes the functions of the Marvell Wireless Client Card Configuration Utility for

the following Marvell

IEEE 802.11a/g/b and draft-802.11n WLAN client cards:

 Marvell CB-85 CardBus WLAN Client Card

 Marvell MB-85 Mini PCI WLAN Client Card

 Marvell EC-85 PCI Express WLAN Client Card

 Marvell MC-85 PCI Express WLAN Client Mini Card

Marvell high throughput client cards are both IEEE 802.11a/g/b and draft-802.11n compliant.

1.2 Wireless Networks

The Marvell client cards operate similar to Ethernet cards, except that a radio replaces the wires

between communication devices. All existing applications that operate over Ethernet operate over a

Marvell wireless network without any modification or need for special wireless networking software.

The Marvell client cards support the following network technologies:

 Ad-Hoc (peer-to-peer group) mode

 Access Point (AP) Infrastructure mode

1.2.1 Ad-Hoc Mode

In Ad-Hoc mode (also referred to as peer-to-peer mode), wireless clients send and receive

information to other wireless clients without using an AP. In comparison to Infrastructure mode, this

type of WLAN connection only contains wireless clients. Ad-Hoc mode is useful for establishing a

network where wireless infrastructure does not exist or where services are not required. Two or

more computers can establish an Ad-Hoc network when within range of one another.

Ad-Hoc mode is used to connect network computers at home or in small offices. It can also be used

to set up a temporary wireless network for meetings.

1.2.2 Infrastructure Mode

In Infrastructure mode, wireless devices communicate with other wireless devices or devices on the

LAN side wired network through APs. When communicating through wired networks, client cards

send and receive information through APs.

Access Points are typically strategically located within an area to provide optimal coverage for

wireless clients. A large WLAN uses multiple APs to provide coverage over a wide area. APs

connect to a LAN through a wired Ethernet connection. APs send and receive information from the

LAN through this wired connection. Most corporate WLANs operate in Infrastructure mode because

they require access to the wired LAN in order to use services such as file servers or printers.

Note

 For information on installing the Marvell Wireless Configuration Utility, the Marvell

client card, and the Marvell Windows driver, see the CB-85/MB-85/EC-85/MC-85

Installation Guide.

 For a list of acronyms used throughout this document see Appendix B, Acronyms

and Abbreviations, on page 69.