Copyright 2004 Compex Systems Pte Ltd

All Rights Reserved This document contains information, which is protected by copyright. Reproduction, adaptation or translation without prior permission is prohibited, except as allowed under the copyright laws.

Trademark Information
Compex, ReadyLINK and MicroHub are registered trademarks of Compex, Inc. Microsoft Windows and the Windows logo are the trademarks of Microsoft Corp. NetWare is the registered trademark of Novell Inc. All other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. Notice: Copyrights 2004 by Compex, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, adaptation, or translation without prior permission of Compex, Inc. is prohibited, except as allowed under the copyright laws. Manual Revision by Kee Manual Number: U-0336-V1.9C Version 1.9, March 2004

Disclaimer
Compex, Inc. provides this manual without warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Compex, Inc. may make improvements and/or changes to the product and/or specifications of the product described in this manual, without prior notice. Compex, Inc will not be liable for any technical inaccuracies or typographical errors found in this guide. Changes are periodically made to the information contained herein and will be incorporated into later versions of the manual. The information contained is subject to change without prior notice.

Your Feedback
We value your feedback. If you find any errors in this users manual, or if you have suggestions on improving, we would like to hear from you. Please contact us at: Fax: (65) 62809947 Email: feedback@compex.com.sg

FCC NOTICE
This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This device generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this device does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Connect the computer into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. Increase the separation between the computer and receiver. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. Caution: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the grantee of this device could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

ii

FCC Compliance Statement

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Declaration of Conformity
Compex, Inc. declares the following: Product Name: Compex iWavePort 11 Mbps Wireless LAN USB Adapter Model No: WLU11A conforms to the following Product Standards: This device complies with the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (89/336/EEC) issued by the Commission of the European Community. Radiated Emission Standards: ETSI EN 300 328-2: July 2000; FCC: 47 CFR Part 15, Subpart B, ANSI C63.4-1992; 47 CFR Part 15, Subpart C (Section 15.247), ANSI C63.4-1992. Conducted Emission Standards: ETS 300 826: Nov. 1997. Immunity Standards: IEC 801-2; IEC 801-3; IEC 801-4 Low Voltage Directive: EN 60 950:1992+A1: 1993+A2: 1993+A3; 1995+A4; 1996+A11: 1997 Therefore, this product is in conformity with the following regional standards: FCC Class B following the provisions of FCC Part 15 directive; CE Mark following the provisions of the EC directive. This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

iii

Technical Support Information The warranty information and registration form are found in the Quick Install Guide. For technical support, you may contact Compex or its subsidiaries. For your convenience, you may also seek technical assistance from the local distributor, or from the authorized dealer/reseller that you have purchased this product from. For technical support by email, write to support@compex.com.sg. Refer to the table below for your nearest Technical Support Centre.

Technical Support Centres

Contact the technical support centre that services your location. Write

U.S.A., Canada, Latin America and South America

Compex, Inc. 4051 E. La Palma, Unit A Anaheim, CA 92807, USA Tel: +1 (714) 630-7302 (8 a.m.-5 p.m. Pacific time) Tel: +1 (800) 279-8891 (Ext.122 Technical Support) Fax: +1 (714) 630-6521 BBS: +1 (714) 630-2570 (24-hour access)

Call Fax

Europe
Write ReadyLINK Networktechnology Gmbh Albert Einstein Strae 34/M21 63322 Rdermark, Germany Tel: +49 (0) 6074 - 98017 (8 a.m.-5 p.m. local time) Fax: +49 (0) 6074 - 90668 BBS: +49 (0) 6074 - 93974 (24-hour access) Support Email: readylink@compex.com.sg

Call Fax

Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Middle East and the rest of the World
Write Compex Systems Pte Ltd 135, Joo Seng Road #08-01, PM Industrial Building Singapore 368363 Tel: (65) 6286-1805 (8 a.m.-5 p.m. local time) Tel: (65) 6286-2086 (Ext.199 Technical Support) Fax: (65) 6283-8337 BBS: (65) 6282-8854 (24-hour access) E-mail: support@compex.com.sg ftp.compex.com.sg FTPsite: http://www.cpx.com or http://www.compex.com.sg

Call Fax Internet access/ Website:

iv

About This Document

The product described in this document, Compex iWavePort 11 Mbps Wireless LAN USB Adapter WLU11A is a licensed product of Compex Systems Pte Ltd.

Information provided: This document contains instructions for installing, configuring and using Compex WLU11A. It also gives an overview of key applications and networking concepts relevant to the product. Audience: This documentation is intended for both network administrators and end users who possess some basic knowledge of networking structures and protocols. Assumptions: Procedures listed in the document are intended for Microsoft Windows users. If you are running a different operating system, you may need to refer to your operating systems documentation for relevant networking instructions. How to Use this Document If you want to get started without having to read everything: Skim through Chapter 2 to verify whether the setup requirements are met. Move on to Chapter 3 for the hardware setup procedure. Follow Chapter 4 for installing the driver and the utility. Tag on with Chapter 5 for further configuration of your WLU11A unit. The Table of Contents will guide you to specific topics. Conventions The Compex iWavePort 11Mbps Wireless LAN USB Adapter is often referred to as WLU11A or USB adapter or unit. Here is a list of icons used throughout the manual.

!
eXpert

This symbol alerts the user of an important notice to be heeded. The user is advised to read instructions carefully before proceeding further. This symbol characterises sections meant for advanced users or specific features meant for exceptional non-standard applications. The user is assumed to have sufficient relevant network knowledge to carry out the necessary configuration or understand the information given.

 Copyright 2004 Compex Systems Pte Ltd ...................................................... ii Trademark Information ....................................................................................... ii Disclaimer .......................................................................................................... ii Your Feedback................................................................................................... ii FCC NOTICE ..................................................................................................... ii FCC Compliance Statement...............................................................................iii Declaration of Conformity...................................................................................iii Technical Support Information .......................................................................... iv Technical Support Centres................................................................................ iv About This Document......................................................................................... v How to Use this Document................................................................................. v Conventions ....................................................................................................... v Chapter 1: Getting to know your product .......................................... 1 The Compex WLU11A ....................................................................................... 1 Key features....................................................................................................... 2
IEEE 802.11b Compliance............................................................... 2 Fast USB interface ......................................................................... 2 Cable-free .................................................................................... 2 Network Security........................................................................... 2 Adjustable antenna........................................................................ 2 Portability .................................................................................... 2

When to use which mode ................................................................................... 3

Ad-hoc mode ................................................................................ 3 Infrastructure mode....................................................................... 3

Chapter 2: Getting started ................................................................ 4 Package Content................................................................................................ 4 Hardware Requirements .................................................................................... 4 Software Requirements...................................................................................... 4 Setup Requirements .......................................................................................... 5 Configuration utility icon ..................................................................................... 5 Chapter 3: Hardware Installation..................................................... 6 Hardware Setup ................................................................................................. 6 Chapter 4: Software Installation ...................................................... 7 Driver Installation ............................................................................................... 7
vi

For Microsoft Windows 98/98SE/ME/2000 users ................................. 7 For Microsoft Windows XP users ...................................................... 9

Configuration Utility Installation ........................................................................ 11 Chapter 5: The Configuration Utility .............................................. 12 Quick overview of the Configuration utility........................................................ 12 Starting the configuration utility ........................................................................ 14 Display parameters .......................................................................................... 15 Searching for available wireless networks........................................................ 17
The Site Survey function .............................................................. 17

Creating a new profile ...................................................................................... 18

Alternative means of creating a new profile ..................................... 18 Profile Creation ........................................................................... 19 Common ........................................................................................................ 19 Connection .................................................................................................... 20 Security ........................................................................................................... 22 Advanced ...................................................................................................... 25 The Profiles function .................................................................... 26

Status Information ............................................................................................ 28

The Statistics function.................................................................. 28

Customizing your display ................................................................................. 30

The Customize function ................................................................ 30

About the System............................................................................................. 32

The Information tab..................................................................... 32

Chapter 6: Troubleshooting............................................................ 33 IP Address Conflicts......................................................................................... 33

For Microsoft Windows 98/98SE/ME users ....................................... 33 For Microsoft Windows 2000/XP users ............................................ 34

Appendix I: Driver Upgrade ........................................................... 35 Before Upgrading ............................................................................................. 35 Uninstalling the driver....................................................................................... 35 Uninstalling the Configuration utility ................................................................. 36 Appendix II: Windows XP Wireless Connectivity ........................... 38 Configuring XP Wireless Connectivity .............................................................. 38 Appendix III: Top Panel View & Description...................................40 Panel View ....................................................................................................... 40
vii

Panel Description ............................................................................................. 40 Appendix IV: Technical Specifications............................................ 41

viii

 Copyright 2004 Compex Systems Pte Ltd

All Rights Reserved This document contains information, which is protected by copyright. Reproduction, adaptation or translation without prior permission is prohibited, except as allowed under the copyright laws.

Trademark Information
Compex, ReadyLINK and MicroHub are registered trademarks of Compex, Inc. Microsoft Windows and the Windows logo are the trademarks of Microsoft Corp. NetWare is the registered trademark of Novell Inc. All other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. Notice: Copyrights 2004 by Compex, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, adaptation, or translation without prior permission of Compex, Inc. is prohibited, except as allowed under the copyright laws. Manual Revision by Kee Manual Number: U-0336-V1.9C Version 1.9, March 2004

Disclaimer
Compex, Inc. provides this manual without warranty of any kind, either expressed or implied, including but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Compex, Inc. may make improvements and/or changes to the product and/or specifications of the product described in this manual, without prior notice. Compex, Inc will not be liable for any technical inaccuracies or typographical errors found in this guide. Changes are periodically made to the information contained herein and will be incorporated into later versions of the manual. The information contained is subject to change without prior notice.

Your Feedback
We value your feedback. If you find any errors in this users manual, or if you have suggestions on improving, we would like to hear from you. Please contact us at: Fax: (65) 62809947 Email: feedback@compex.com.sg

FCC NOTICE
This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This device generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this device does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Connect the computer into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. Increase the separation between the computer and receiver. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. Caution: Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the grantee of this device could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

ii

FCC Compliance Statement

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference, and 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Declaration of Conformity
Compex, Inc. declares the following: Product Name: Compex iWavePort 11 Mbps Wireless LAN USB Adapter Model No: WLU11A conforms to the following Product Standards: This device complies with the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (89/336/EEC) issued by the Commission of the European Community. Radiated Emission Standards: ETSI EN 300 328-2: July 2000; FCC: 47 CFR Part 15, Subpart B, ANSI C63.4-1992; 47 CFR Part 15, Subpart C (Section 15.247), ANSI C63.4-1992. Conducted Emission Standards: ETS 300 826: Nov. 1997. Immunity Standards: IEC 801-2; IEC 801-3; IEC 801-4 Low Voltage Directive: EN 60 950:1992+A1: 1993+A2: 1993+A3; 1995+A4; 1996+A11: 1997 Therefore, this product is in conformity with the following regional standards: FCC Class B following the provisions of FCC Part 15 directive; CE Mark following the provisions of the EC directive. This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

iii

Technical Support Information The warranty information and registration form are found in the Quick Install Guide. For technical support, you may contact Compex or its subsidiaries. For your convenience, you may also seek technical assistance from the local distributor, or from the authorized dealer/reseller that you have purchased this product from. For technical support by email, write to support@compex.com.sg. Refer to the table below for your nearest Technical Support Centre.

Technical Support Centres

Contact the technical support centre that services your location. Write

U.S.A., Canada, Latin America and South America

Compex, Inc. 4051 E. La Palma, Unit A Anaheim, CA 92807, USA Tel: +1 (714) 630-7302 (8 a.m.-5 p.m. Pacific time) Tel: +1 (800) 279-8891 (Ext.122 Technical Support) Fax: +1 (714) 630-6521 BBS: +1 (714) 630-2570 (24-hour access)

Call Fax

Europe
Write ReadyLINK Networktechnology Gmbh Albert Einstein Strae 34/M21 63322 Rdermark, Germany Tel: +49 (0) 6074 - 98017 (8 a.m.-5 p.m. local time) Fax: +49 (0) 6074 - 90668 BBS: +49 (0) 6074 - 93974 (24-hour access) Support Email: readylink@compex.com.sg

Call Fax

Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Middle East and the rest of the World
Write Compex Systems Pte Ltd 135, Joo Seng Road #08-01, PM Industrial Building Singapore 368363 Tel: (65) 6286-1805 (8 a.m.-5 p.m. local time) Tel: (65) 6286-2086 (Ext.199 Technical Support) Fax: (65) 6283-8337 BBS: (65) 6282-8854 (24-hour access) E-mail: support@compex.com.sg ftp.compex.com.sg FTPsite: http://www.cpx.com or http://www.compex.com.sg

Call Fax Internet access/ Website:

iv

About This Document

The product described in this document, Compex iWavePort 11 Mbps Wireless LAN USB Adapter WLU11A is a licensed product of Compex Systems Pte Ltd.

Information provided: This document contains instructions for installing, configuring and using Compex WLU11A. It also gives an overview of key applications and networking concepts relevant to the product. Audience: This documentation is intended for both network administrators and end users who possess some basic knowledge of networking structures and protocols. Assumptions: Procedures listed in the document are intended for Microsoft Windows users. If you are running a different operating system, you may need to refer to your operating systems documentation for relevant networking instructions. How to Use this Document If you want to get started without having to read everything: Skim through Chapter 2 to verify whether the setup requirements are met. Move on to Chapter 3 for the hardware setup procedure. Follow Chapter 4 for installing the driver and the utility. Tag on with Chapter 5 for further configuration of your WLU11A unit. The Table of Contents will guide you to specific topics. Conventions The Compex iWavePort 11Mbps Wireless LAN USB Adapter is often referred to as WLU11A or USB adapter or unit. Here is a list of icons used throughout the manual.

!
eXpert

This symbol alerts the user of an important notice to be heeded. The user is advised to read instructions carefully before proceeding further. This symbol characterises sections meant for advanced users or specific features meant for exceptional non-standard applications. The user is assumed to have sufficient relevant network knowledge to carry out the necessary configuration or understand the information given.

 Copyright 2004 Compex Systems Pte Ltd ...................................................... ii Trademark Information ....................................................................................... ii Disclaimer .......................................................................................................... ii Your Feedback................................................................................................... ii FCC NOTICE ..................................................................................................... ii FCC Compliance Statement...............................................................................iii Declaration of Conformity...................................................................................iii Technical Support Information .......................................................................... iv Technical Support Centres................................................................................ iv About This Document......................................................................................... v How to Use this Document................................................................................. v Conventions ....................................................................................................... v Chapter 1: Getting to know your product .......................................... 1 The Compex WLU11A ....................................................................................... 1 Key features....................................................................................................... 2
IEEE 802.11b Compliance............................................................... 2 Fast USB interface ......................................................................... 2 Cable-free .................................................................................... 2 Network Security........................................................................... 2 Adjustable antenna........................................................................ 2 Portability .................................................................................... 2

When to use which mode ................................................................................... 3

Ad-hoc mode ................................................................................ 3 Infrastructure mode....................................................................... 3

Chapter 2: Getting started ................................................................ 4 Package Content................................................................................................ 4 Hardware Requirements .................................................................................... 4 Software Requirements...................................................................................... 4 Setup Requirements .......................................................................................... 5 Configuration utility icon ..................................................................................... 5 Chapter 3: Hardware Installation..................................................... 6 Hardware Setup ................................................................................................. 6 Chapter 4: Software Installation ...................................................... 7 Driver Installation ............................................................................................... 7
vi

For Microsoft Windows 98/98SE/ME/2000 users ................................. 7 For Microsoft Windows XP users ...................................................... 9

Configuration Utility Installation ........................................................................ 11 Chapter 5: The Configuration Utility .............................................. 12 Quick overview of the Configuration utility........................................................ 12 Starting the configuration utility ........................................................................ 14 Display parameters .......................................................................................... 15 Searching for available wireless networks........................................................ 17
The Site Survey function .............................................................. 17

Creating a new profile ...................................................................................... 18

Alternative means of creating a new profile ..................................... 18 Profile Creation ........................................................................... 19 Common ........................................................................................................ 19 Connection .................................................................................................... 20 Security ........................................................................................................... 22 Advanced ...................................................................................................... 25 The Profiles function .................................................................... 26

Status Information ............................................................................................ 28

The Statistics function.................................................................. 28

Customizing your display ................................................................................. 30

The Customize function ................................................................ 30

About the System............................................................................................. 32

The Information tab..................................................................... 32

Chapter 6: Troubleshooting............................................................ 33 IP Address Conflicts......................................................................................... 33

For Microsoft Windows 98/98SE/ME users ....................................... 33 For Microsoft Windows 2000/XP users ............................................ 34

Appendix I: Driver Upgrade ........................................................... 35 Before Upgrading ............................................................................................. 35 Uninstalling the driver....................................................................................... 35 Uninstalling the Configuration utility ................................................................. 36 Appendix II: Windows XP Wireless Connectivity ........................... 38 Configuring XP Wireless Connectivity .............................................................. 38 Appendix III: Top Panel View & Description...................................40 Panel View ....................................................................................................... 40
vii

Panel Description ............................................................................................. 40 Appendix IV: Technical Specifications............................................ 41

viii

Chapter 1

Getting to know your product

Chapter 1: Getting to know your product

The Compex WLU11A

hank you for purchasing the Compex iWavePort WLU11A, yet another of Compexs high-speed wireless network access solutions.

Now, you wont have to drill holes in your walls and climb through the attic or cellar to get connected to the network. You wont even have to endure the cost or hassle of laying cables all over the building. Whether you are a desktop or a mobile user, simply plug the Compex iWavePort WLU11A into an available USB port, and enjoy swift access to high-speed Internet over the network or smooth sharing of network resources such as data, printers. You dont even have to be an expert to start using the Compex WLU11A. It is simple to install and offers plug-and-play operation as well as an easy-to-use configuration utility. Its small size makes it easy to carry, but the Compex WLU11A is also equipped with a retractable antenna which allows you to place your computer almost anywhere in the building. With Compex WLU11A, get connected the easy way!

Chapter 1

Getting to know your product

Key features
There are so many reasons why you should own at least one Compex WLU11A that we could not resist mentioning these few. IEEE 802.11b Compliance In adopting the IEEE 802.11b standards, the Compex WLU11A is able to support transmission speeds of up to 11 Mbps when matched up with other 802.11b wireless devices. Fast USB interface Conveniently fitted with a USB port, Compex WLU11A ensures plug-andplay installation and instant hardware recognition as per the USB specification. Cable-free The Compex WLU11A does not only establish wireless communication between your computer and your networks assets, the unit also draws its power from USB, hence, no additional effort or expenses for cable installation are incurred. Network Security In a wireless environment, data transmissions can be more easily intercepted unless an appropriate security scheme is enforced. With your security at stake, the Compex WLU11A has adopted the 64/128-bit WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) standard to restrict access only to those authenticated clients holding the same WEP key. Adjustable antenna Designed with a practical flip-up antenna, the Compex WLU11A can be placed anywhere, on a flat surface, to attain the best wireless signal reception available. Portability You can fold up the antenna of the WLU11A and fit it unobstrusively into your pocket or carrying case. Its small size contributes to make it a truly portable device.
2

Chapter 1

Getting to know your product

When to use which mode

Ad-hoc mode An unrestricted number of wireless clients can communicate directly with one another in an ad-hoc wireless LAN. However, since there is no access point in this peer-to-peer environment, clients have to be within each others range to be able to exchange data or to gain access to one anothers resources.

Infrastructure mode This mode allows a wireless LAN to be integrated into an existing wired network through an access point. Consequently, all communication has to be conducted through the networks access point, which acts as a base station for the wireless clients.

Chapter 2

Getting started

Chapter 2: Getting started

This chapter acts as a guideline for using the Compex WLU11A and includes the following: Overview of the WLU11A package content Hardware requirements Software requirements Setup requirements Description of the configuration utility icon

Package Content
Verify whether your Compex WLU11A retail package is complete by going through the checklist below: 1x Compex iWavePort WLU11A unit 1x Quick Install Guide with Warranty Registration Form 1x Product CD (inclusive of User Manual, driver and utility)

Hardware Requirements
The Compex WLU11A can connect to any available USB port compliant with USB Specification 1.1.

Software Requirements
Please also ensure that your computer subscribes to the following prerequisites: Windows 98/98SE/ME/2000/XP operating system At least 2 MB of hard disk space

NOTE You will need to install the Compex WLU11A driver on all the PCs or laptops on which you intend to use the USB adapter.

Chapter 2

Getting started

Setup Requirements
Please go through your network setup to check whether: Your LAN configurations include Dynamic IP addressing or Static IP addressing. TCP/IP protocol is installed and IP address parameters are properly configured on all your networks nodes.

Configuration utility icon

When the configuration utility of WLU11A has been installed, an icon will appear in the system tray at the bottom right corner of your Windows desktop, as follows.

Utility icon

There is also a colour coding scheme associated with the icon to assist you in quick monitoring of the link status. Icon Blinking from to LinkQuality None or poor. Good. Very good or excellent.

Chapter 3

Hardware Installation

Chapter 3: Hardware Installation

The Compex WLU11A is hot-swappable, which means that you can plug it into and out of the USB port of your computer without having to shut down the computer.

Hardware Setup
Before proceeding, ensure that you have the following items at hand: Your Compex WLU11A unit A USB cable A computer with an available USB port
Hardware Setup

1 2

Power up your computer and login. Using the USB cable, plug its smaller connector into the USB port of your WLU11A and fit the other end of the cable into the USB port of your computer. The PWR LED will light up indicating that WLU11A is receiving power from your computer. Your computer will automatically detect the USB device. NOTE In case your computer does not detect the Compex WLU11A, check whether the USB driver for your operating system is working properly. Else, you may need to re-install the USB driver of your computer.
6

Chapter 4

Software Installation

Chapter 4: Software Installation

This chapter includes: Driver installation procedure for: Microsoft Windows 98/98SE/ME/2000 users Microsoft Windows XP users Configuration utility installation procedure

Driver Installation
In case you are prompted for the Windows Operating System CD-ROM during the installation process: 1. Insert your Windows Operating System CD-ROM into the CDROM drive. 2. When Windows has finished copying the relevant files, remove the CD-ROM. For Microsoft Windows 98/98SE/ME/2000 users If your computer is running Windows 98/98SE/ME/2000, please follow the next steps in order to install the WLU11A driver.
Driver installation procedure for Windows 98/98SE/ME/2000 users

When your computer detects the USB device, the Add New Hardware Wizard page will appear as illustrated by the screen shot on the right. Click on the Next button to carry on.

1.

Select the Search for the best driver for your device (Recommended) radio button. Click on the Next button.

2.

Chapter 4

Software Installation

1. 2.

Select the CD-ROM drive check box. Click on Next.

Windows will automatically detect the driver which is located in X:\NETV5A8.INF, where X refers to your CD-ROM drive. Press the Next button to begin the installation process.

1. When the driver installation has completed: Click on the Finish button. 2. When prompted to restart you computer: Click on the Yes button.

To verify whether WLU11A has been successfully installed: 1. Right-click on the My Computer icon and select Properties. Select the Hardware tab and click on the Device Manager button. Check whether Compex iWavePort WLU11A appears in the list of Network adapters.

2.

3.

Chapter 4

Software Installation

For Microsoft Windows XP users If your computer is running Windows XP, the following steps will guide you in installing the WLU11A driver.
Driver installation procedure for Windows XP users

When your computer detects the USB device, the Found New Hardware Wizard page will appear as illustrated by the screen shot on the right. 1. Select the Install the software automatically radio (Recommended) button. Insert the product CD into the CD-ROM drive. Windows XP will automatically search for the WLU11A driver. However, if this process does not start automatically: Click on the Next button to carry on.

2.

1.

From the list of drivers displayed, select the one having location X:\NETVUSBR.INF, where X is your CD-ROM drive. Click on the Next button.

2.

Chapter 4

Software Installation

When the driver installation has completed, click on the Finish button.

To verify whether WLU11A has been successfully installed: 1. Right-click on the My Computer icon and select Properties. Select the Hardware tab and click on the Device Manager button. Check whether WLU11A appears in the list of Network adapters.

2.

3.

10

Chapter 4

Software Installation

Configuration Utility Installation

The following guidelines will illustrate how to install the configuration utility on a computer running Windows 98/98SE/ME/2000/XP.
Configuration utility installation for Windows 98/98SE/ME/2000/XP users

Insert the product CD into the CD-ROM drive. The Compex Product Information web page will run automatically.

1. 2. 3. 4.

Click on Drivers & Utility. Select the Save this program to disk radio button. Press the Ok button. Follow the instructions which are displayed on the screen.

When the utility installation has completed: Click on Finish to exit the setup wizard.

If the utility has been correctly installed: Its icon will appear in the system tray and it will start automatically .

NOTE If the web page does not appear, search the root directory of the CD-ROM for an HTML document labelled start.html and double-click on it.

11

Chapter 5

The Configuration Utility

Chapter 5: The Configuration Utility

This chapter includes the following: Starting the configuration utility Display parameters Searching for available wireless networks Creating a new profile Status info Customizing your display About the system Setting up client parameters

Quick overview of the Configuration utility

The configuration utility provides a convenient interface to set up the parameters of your client and enable it to accede to the wireless network without having to reboot your operating system at each setup. However, if you are using Windows XP and have enabled the Wireless Zero Configuration service, you can opt to bypass the configuration utility and to set up your wireless network connections via your operating system, as we further describe in Appendix II.

12

Chapter 5

The Configuration Utility

The default utility interface consists of a status bar.

two-paned window and a

Right-hand tabbed pane Left-hand pane

Status bar pane

The left-hand side of the menu consists of:

3 drop-down menus, namely: Adapters Profiles View Mode Status overview section 2 progress bars indicating Signal strength Link quality

The right-hand side of the menu is categorised into 5 different tabs:

Site Survey Profiles Statistics Customize Information

The status bar indicates the current state of WLU11A. Possible messages are listed below:
Scanning Authenticating Associating

13

Chapter 5

The Configuration Utility

Starting the configuration utility

Below, we describe alternative ways of starting the configuration utility.
Starting the client utility in Microsoft Windows 98/98SE/ME/2000/XP
From your Windows desktop: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Click on the Start button. Open the Programs folder. Select ATMEL 802.11 Wireless LAN. Open the Wireless Network Client folder. Click on Wireless Network Client.

ALTERNATIVELY

From the system tray: Double-click on the utility icon.

NOTE 1. If you right-click on the utility icon, a quick configuration pop-up menu will appear as below:

2. Select Exit from the pop-up menu to close the utility. Clicking on the top right button will only close the window menu, without exiting the utility.

14

Chapter 5

The Configuration Utility

Display parameters
Display parameters
The screen shot on the right illustrates the default menu of the utility.

If this has not already been done, please verify that Compex iWavePort WLU11A Mod3 is selected from the drop-down list of Adapters available on the PC.

The Profiles drop-down lists out network connection profiles that have been saved onto WLU11A. When you pick a profile from the Profiles list, its settings details will be loaded and displayed in the Status Overview window. Initially WLU11A operates under a Default profile. You can select Add new to create a new connection profile.

The Status Overview panel gives a synopsis of the connection settings for the particular profile that has been set.

15

Chapter 5

The Configuration Utility

The View Mode selection allows two options: Advanced Compact This view selection can also be made by picking Display mode from the pop-up menu which appears when right-clicking on the utility icon. By default, WLU11A runs in Advanced mode. the

When WLU11A is run in the Compact mode, only the lefthand utility pane will be visible, as illustrated below left.

Signal refers to the strength of the signal received by WLU11A, in terms of percentage of incoming data packets from the access point or from the wireless network. Link Quality indicates the percentage quality of the connection to other wireless hosts. In both cases, as the colour index shifts from red to green the greater will be the percentage of packets received by WLU11A.

16

Chapter 5

The Configuration Utility

Searching for available wireless networks

The Site Survey function The Site Survey tab consists of: A display window in which wireless networks and the strength of the signal received from them can be viewed. A Rescan button to search for wireless networks as well as refresh the display window.
Site Survey

The screen shot on the right illustrates the default Site Survey function display.

Display window

Press the Rescan button to initiate a search for all available wireless networks or to refresh the display window list of available wireless networks. When available networks have been detected, they are listed in the display window.

From the display window: 1. You can determine the strength of the signal received from all the networks detected by comparing their Signal progress bar. A stronger signal is indicated by a greater number of green rectangles. Hence, the maximum number of green rectangles, i.e., 5, indicates excellent signal strength. 2. Also, you can either mouse over a Wireless Network Name to view its configuration parameters, or click on it to create a profile based on this network.

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Chapter 5

The Configuration Utility

Creating a new profileeXpert

After having configured the parameters for a connection, you can save the connection settings as a profile. Alternative means of creating a new profile There are several means of creating a new profile.
Alternative methods for creating a new profile

From the left-hand menu pane. 1. 2. Click on the Profiles drop-down list. Select Add new to create a new connection profile.

From the Site Survey tab. If you want to create a profile based on one of the available wireless networks that are listed in the display window: Click on its Network Name. Wireless

We illustrated by clicking on the wireless network named compex.

From the Profile tab. Click on the Add button to create a new connection profile.

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Profile Creation Although you are offered optional means of creating a profile, the profile creation process is similar. This process covers 4 successive pages: Common Connection Security Advanced Common The following illustrates the first stage of profile creation.
Profile Creation: Common

1. To designate the new profile: You can choose to either key in a name of your own or to or to select one of the predetermined ones from the Profile Name list. 2. If you want this new profile to take effect upon creation: Enable the Launch this profile after creation checkbox. 3. Click on the Next button. In case you do not enter any profile name: A default name, Profile_1 will be assigned.

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Chapter 5

The Configuration Utility

Connection The second stage configuration.

of

profile

creation

consists

in

connection

Profile Creation: Connection

The default Connection page is illustrated by the screen shot on the right.

The Network Mode section allows you to activate the network as either: Peer-to-peer (Ad-hoc) Access Point (Infrastructure) In an Infrastructure architecture, there is at least one access point in the wireless network, whereas an ad-hoc architecture means that there is no access point in the wireless network.

To connect to a specific network when WLU11A is in Peer-to-Peer mode only: Either key in the SSID or select one of the predetermined ones from the drop-down list. Otherwise, if WLU11A is operating in Access Point mode only, you can enable the Connect to any Access Point checkbox in order to access any available wireless network.

SSID (Service Set Identifier) refers to a unique name identifying hosts of the same wireless network.

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The Power Saving property is available in Access Point mode only. If enabled, the Power Save feature creates a balanced trade-off between performance and battery life. It reduces the power consumption of WLU11A by powering it off for short periods. When WLU11A runs in Peer-to-Peer mode, Power Save is set to Off.

In Access Point mode, all available channels are scanned for traffic, so there is no need to specify a channel. But peer-to-Peer networks run on a single communications channel. The Channels list is only enabled in the Peer-to-Peer mode to allow you to specify the channel on which your adapter communicates.

Different countries utilize different Frequency Channels: Channels Country 1 to 4 France 1 to 11 US & Canada (FCC) 1 to 13 China & Europe

If enabled, International Roaming allows your WLU11A to roam from one access point to another without losing its connection. It is therefore available in Access Point mode only. The Enable Radio is checked by default to turn the radio frequency on. If the checkbox is disabled, the radio frequency will be turned off.

Pressing the Defaults button will cause WLU11A to revert to its default settings. When you have completed your Connection configuration: Click on the Next button.

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The Configuration Utility

Security The following will guide you in setting your security parameters, which is the next stage in profile creation.
Profile Creation: Security

The default Security page is illustrated by the screen shot on the right.

In an Open system, which is the default mode, the sender and the recipient do not share a secret key. Each party generates its own key-pair and asks the receiver to accept the (usually randomly) generated key. Once accepted, this key is used for a short time only; then a new key is generated and agreed upon. In the Shared mode, the wireless client needs to share the same encryption key as the acces point. Both units can use this key for an extended length of time. We do not recommend using the key since any eavesdropper who discovers the key may decipher all packets exchanged usingl that key. The WPA mode supports the Wi-Fi Protected Access standard for stronger encryption and authentication.

The Association Mode section is enabled in Access Point mode only. It defines how the wireless client authenticates with the access point.

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By default, data encryption is disabled. TKIP or Temporal Key Integrity Protocol, is available in Access Point WPA mode only. To initialise the pre-shared secret key: Click on Set Passphrase. In the pop-up dialog box: 1. Enter the pre-shared key, which should be between 8 to 64 characters in length. Click on OK.

2.

WEP or Wired Equivalent Privacy encryption is available in all modes but is compulsory in Access Point Shared mode. To start configuring WEP: Click on the Set Keys button. The Key format allows you to define whether your WEP key should be in ASCII characters or in Hexadecimal digits(hex digits). At the Security Level section: If you have defined 64 bit encryption: Keys should consist of 5 ASCII characters or 10 hex digits. Else if you are using 128-bit encryption: Keys should consist of 13 ASCII characters or 26 hex digits. In order to set a particular WEP key: 1. Enable its corresponding checkbox, after which you will then be able to amend its value. 2. 3. Select the key number from the Tx Key drop-down list. Click on the OK button.

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Chapter 5

The Configuration Utility

In the section:

Server

Authentication

Enabling the Use Server Authentication checkbox allows you to: 1. Key in a Login Name or to pick one from the dropdown list. 2. 3. Enter the login Password. Confirm your login password by re-typing it in the Verify Password field. Pick a selection from the Certificate drop-down list. Click on the View Certificate button for more details on the certificate.

4.

5.

You can choose an Authentication Method by selecting its corresponding radio button. Click on the Edit button for further configuration.

6.

When you have completed your Security configuration: Click on the Next button.

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Chapter 5

The Configuration Utility

Advanced
Profile Creation: Advanced

The default Advanced page is illustrated by the screen shot on the right. Pressing the Defaults button below left will cause WLU11A to revert to its default advanced settings.

The Fragmentation Threshold sets the maximum data packet size allowed before getting fragmented. It ranges between 256 to 2346 bytes. The RTS/CTS Threshold specifies the size of the Request To Send (RTS) and of the Clear To Send (CTS) packets. Its range: 1 to 2347 bytes. To set these values: You can either slide along the rules or directly key the value in the corresponding text box. In the Preamble section: You can either enable the Auto Selection or alternatively, select the radio button for Long or Short preamble. Likewise section. in the Link Speed

You can slide along the ruler to specify a value ranging between 5 to 100 mW for the Tx Power Level. When you have completed your Advanced configuration: Click on the Finish button.

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Chapter 5

The Configuration Utility

The Profiles function This function allows you to edit the existing profiles, to delete those which have become superfluous and to create new appropriate ones.
Profiles

The illustration on the right features the default Profiles menu. Initially, there exists a single Default profile as shown in the Existing Profiles display window.

To delete a profile which has become redundant: 1. 2. 3. Select the profile name to delete. Click on the Delete button. When the Confirm Profile Deletion pop-up window appears: Pick the Yes or the No button to proceed. You will return to an updated view of the Existing Profiles display window.

4. 5.

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Chapter 5

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To edit the parameters of profile: 1. 2. 3.

connection an existing

Select the profile name to edit. Click on button. the Edit

The Profile Name cannot be changed as demonstrated by the screen shot on the right. However, the rest of the profile properties are available for amending.

4.

To add a new profile: 1. 2. Click on the Add button. Fill up the next pages that appear on the screen for further configuring the properties of the profile.

From the pop-up menu obtained when right-clicking the utility icon: 1. You can click on Profile to specify in which profile to run WLU11A. The utility menu will then be displayed, operating under the profile you have opted for.

2.

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Chapter 5

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Status Information
The Statistics function The Statistics page displays information on the current status of your connection to the wireless LAN.
Statistics

The illustration on the right features the default Statistics menu. Here: Tx refers to packets transmitted by WLU11A whereas Rx refers to packets received by WLU11A.

In this section: Data Tx/Rx Succeeded refers to the number of data packets which have been successfully transmitted/received, in this instance, 301 and 146 respectively. Data Tx/Rx Failed refers to the number of data packets which have been unsuccessfully transmitted/received, which are both 0 here. Management Tx/Rx Succeeded refers to the number of management packets which have been successfully transmitted/received, here 4 and 46261. Management Tx/Rx Failed refers to the number of data packets which have been unsuccessfully transmitted/received, both 0 in this illustration

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The Other Statistics section records: Rejected Tx Packets: The number of transmitted packets that have been rejected, here 0. Rejected Rx Packets: The number of received packets that have been rejected, in this case 0. Matching Beacons: The number of matching beacons, which are special identification packets. In this instance, 346.

The WPA Statistics record the: MIC Errors Double MIC Errors Replay Errors APs Black List

To re-initialise all the Statistics values: Press the Clear button. As illustrated on the right, all the values will be reverted to zero.

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Chapter 5

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Customizing your display

The Customize function This feature allows you to tailor the information displayed by the utility window to your needs.
Customize

The illustration on the right features the default Customize menu.

At this section: Enable the checkboxes corresponding to the entries you would prefer the Status Overview Panel to display. Accordingly, disable the checkboxes of the entries whose display you do not require.

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The Options section includes: Screen Refresh Interval determines the time period, in seconds, after which your screen will refresh. As you slide the rule towards a greater value, the time lag between each refresh will be longer. If the Start Minimised in Taskbar checkbox is enabled, the utility icon only will appear in the taskbar when the utility s started. The Auto Switch Profiles feature allows quick implementation of a profiles settings when changing from one profile to another. The Initial Dialog drop-down list allows you to select which tab you would like to have on display when the utility menu is opened. It is set to Last Displayed by default so that when you open the utility menu, the last tab window that was viewed will be on display.

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Chapter 5

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About the System

The Information tab
Customize

The screen shot on the right illustrates the Information page. You can refer to this page to verify such information as: Version number of the driver installed. The current version of your Firmware. WLAN DLL version Regulatory Domain MAC address of your WLU11A. IP address of WLU11A.

32

Chapter 6

Troubleshooting

Chapter 6: Troubleshooting
IP Address Conflicts
You may encounter IP address conflicts while configuring the Compex WLU11A on a network where IP addresses are administered by a DHCP server When an IP address conflict is detected, a message box such as that illustrated below, will appear:

For Microsoft Windows 98/98SE/ME users

For Windows 98/98SE/ME users
1. 2. Click on the Start button. Select the Run command.

1.

In the Run dialog box, enter the command: winipcfg Press the Ok button.

2.

1.

Click on the Release All button. Your TCP/IP settings return to 0.0.0.0 will

2.

Click on the Ok button and restart your computer.

33

Chapter 6

Troubleshooting

For Microsoft Windows 2000/XP users

For Windows 2000/XP users

Run the Command Prompt.

1. 2.

At the prompt, type: ipconfig/release Press the Enter key.

1. 2. 3.

Key in: ipconfig/renew Press the Enter key. The screen illustrated below right will then appear.

34

Appendix I

Driver Upgrade

Appendix I: Driver Upgrade

Before Upgrading
Prior to installing the new driver of your USB adapter, the previous driver and its configuration utility have to be removed. After having removed the preceding driver and its corresponding configuration utility, you may then follow the usual procedure described in the earlier chapters to install the new driver and its corresponding utility.

Uninstalling the driver

The screen shots were based on a Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional operating system.
Procedure for uninstalling the driver

1.

From your Windows desktop, right-click on the My Computer icon. Select Properties.

2.

From the menu: 1. 2.

System the

Properties Hardware

Select tab.

Click on the Device Manager button.

Click on the plus sign to the left of the Network adapters icon to expand its list. Your display will be similar to the screen shot on the right.

35

Appendix I

Driver Upgrade

1.

Right-click on the entry for the Compex iWavePort Wireless LAN USB Adapter. Select Uninstall.

2.

1.

When the operating system displays a confirmation window warning that you are about to remove this device from your system: Click on the Ok button. If a dialog box appears asking if you want to restart your computer: Click on the No button. Close the System Properties window.

2.

3.

Uninstalling the Configuration utility

The screen shots were based on a Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional operating system.
Procedure for uninstalling the Configuration utility

1.

From your Windows Start button, open the Control Panel window. Double-click Add/Remove icon. on the Programs

2.

1. 2.

Select the entry for the Wireless Network Client. Click on the Change/Remove button.

36

Appendix I

Driver Upgrade

When the InstallShield Wizard has started: 1. Select the Remove radio button. 2. Click on button. the Next

Click on the Ok button to confirm that you want to initiate the uninstall process.

When the uninstall process has completed: Click on the Finish button to return to your Windows desktop.

37

Appendix II

Windows XP Wireless Connectivity

Appendix II: Windows XP Wireless Connectivity

If your computer is running under the Microsoft Windows XP operating system, you can opt to configure the Wireless Network Connection from your Windows XP operating system, instead of from the utility.

Configuring XP Wireless ConnectivityeXpert

From your Windows taskbar: Click on the Wireless Network Connection icon.

Procedure for configuring Windows XP Wireless Connectivity

If you want to connect to one of the Available wireless networks: 1. Scroll down the list of Available wireless networks. 2. Select the network you want to connect to. 3. Enter the Network key for that particular network. 4. Confirm the key be keying it again in the Confirm network key field. 5. You can additionally opt to enable the IEE 802.1x authentication checkbox. 6. Click on button. the Connect

Otherwise To connect to your Preferred network: Click on the Advanced button and follow the guidelines in the next step to configure the relevant parameters.

38

Appendix II

Windows XP Wireless Connectivity

1. Specify the Network name (SSID). 2. If your network uses WEP, enable the Data encryption (WEP enabled) checkbox. 3. Key in the Network key. 4. Confirm the key be keying it again in the Confirm network key field. 5. 6. Enter 0 as the Key index (advanced). In an ad hoc infrastructure, enable the This is a computer-to-computer (ad hoc) network; wireless access points are not used checkbox, otherwise, leave it unchecked. Click on the Ok button.

7.

39

Appendix III

Top Panel View & Description

Appendix III: Top Panel View & Description

Panel View

1 2

Panel Description
Label 1 2 3 4 Component LINK LED PWR LED USB Port Dipole antenna Description Green: Denotes the ability receive and transmit data to

Red: Indicates that power is being supplied to WLU11A. Connects to your USB cable. Allows RF reception. transmission and

40

Appendix IV

Technical Specifications

Appendix IV: Technical Specifications

The following table summarises the technical specifications of the Compex iWavePort WLU11A. Specification
Industry Standards

iWavePort Compex WLU11A

IEEE 802.11b USB Specification v1.1 CE Mark, FCC Class B, Gost, C-Tick Mini USB, USB V1.1 Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) 2400 ~ 2483.5MHz (US, Canada) 2400 ~ 2497MHz (Europe, Japan) 4 Channels (France) 11 Channels (US & Canada) 13 Channels (China & Europe) Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Avoidance (CSMA/CA) 11 Mbps, 5.5 Mbps, 2 Mbps, 1 Mbps BPSK, QPSK, CCK 1 x In-built dielectric Antenna 1 x External Dipole Antenna 64-bit or 128-bit WEP (Users option) Windows 98/98SE/ME/2000/XP 5V DC, 480mA TX, 200mA RX 17 dBm (typical) -81 dBm (typical) About 130 g 101mm x 65 mm x 14 mm Operating : 0C to 55C ; Storage : -20C to 70C Operating : 10% to 70%; Storage : 5% to 90%

Host Interface Radio Technology Frequency Band Operating Channels

Media Access Method Data Rate Modulation Antenna Data Encryption Compatibility Power Consumption Transmit Power Output Receive Sensitivity Net Weight Dimension (L x W x H) Temperature Relative Humidity

41