User's Manual

Laputa MiniPCI
TwinMOS
Page 4
WIRELESS NETWORK OVERVIEW
A wireless local area network (LAN) is a flexible data communications system
implemented as an extension to, or as an alternative for, a wired LAN. Using radio
frequency (RF) technology, wireless LANs transmit and receive data over the air,
minimizing the need for wired connections. Thus, wireless LANs combine data
connectivity with user mobility.
A local area network that transmit and receive over the air typically in an unlicensed
frequency such as the 2.4GHz band. A wireless LAN does not require lining up
devices for line of sight transmission like IrDA. Wireless access points (base stations)
are connected to an Ethernet hub or server and transmit a radio frequency over an area
of several hundred to a thousand feet which can penetrate walls and other nonmetal
barriers. Roaming users can be handed off from one access point to another like a
cellular phone system. Laptops use wireless modems that plug into an existing
Ethernet port or that are self contained on PC cards, while stand-alone desktops and
servers use plug-in cards (ISA, PCI, etc.).
Wireless LANs offer the following productivity, convenience, and cost advantages
over traditional wired networks：
Mobility - WLAN provide LAN users to access data in any location within the
operating range of the WLAN. Ad-hoc management decisions based on real-time
information can significantly improve worker efficiency.
Installation Speed and Simplicity - Installing a wireless LAN system can be
fast and easy and can eliminate the need to pull cable through walls and ceilings.
Installation Flexibility - Wireless technology allows the network to go where wire
cannot go.
Reduced Cost-of-Ownership - While the initial investment required for wireless
LAN hardware can be higher than the cost of wired LAN hardware, overall
installation expenses and life-cycle costs can be significantly lower. Long-term cost
benefits are greatest in dynamic environments requiring frequent moves and changes.
Scalability - Wireless LAN systems can be configured in a variety of topologies to
meet the needs of specific applications and installations. Configurations are easily
changed and range from peer-to-peer networks suitable for a small number of users to
full infrastructure networks of thousands of users that enable roaming over a broad
area.
Installation Considerations
Designed to go up to 300 feet (100 meters) indoors and up to 900 feet (273 meters)
outdoors, Laputa MiniPCI lets you access your network from virtually anywhere
you want. Keep in mind, however, that the number and thickness of walls, ceilings or
other objects that the wireless signals must pass thru may limit range. Typical ranges
vary depending on the types of materials and background RF noise in your home or
business. The key to maximizing range is to follow these basic principles: