3Com WL308 User Manual

Wireless LAN Ethernet Bridge
User Guide (Draft Copy)

Fully featured wireless local area networking made simple

Version 1.0

http://www.3com.com/
http://support.3com.com/warrantyregistration/register.pl

Published December 2001
Version 1.0

3Com Corporation
Bayfront Plaza
Clara, California

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Santa

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95052-8145

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5400

Copyright © 2001, 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.

3Com Corporation reserves the right to revise this documentation and to make changes in content from
time to time without obligation on the part of 3Com Corporation to provide notification of such revision or
change.

3Com Corporation provides this documentation without warranty, term, or condition of any kind, either
implied or expressed, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties, terms or conditions of
merchantability, satisfactory quality, and fitness for a particular purpose. 3Com may make improvements or
changes in the product(s) and/or the program(s) described in this documentation at any time.

If there is any software on removable media described in this documentation, it is furnished under a license
agreement included with the product as a separate document, in the hard copy documentation, or on the
removable media in a directory file named LICENSE.TXT or !LICENSE.TXT. If you are unable to locate a copy,
please contact 3Com and a copy will be provided to you.

UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT LEGEND

If you are a United States government agency, then this documentation and the software described herein
are provided to you subject to the following:

All technical data and computer software are commercial in nature and developed solely at private expense.
Software is delivered as “Commercial Computer Software” as defined in DFARS 252.227-7014 (June 1995)
or as a “commercial item” as defined in FAR 2.101(a) and as such is provided with only such rights as are
provided in 3Com’s standard commercial license for the Software. Technical data is provided with limited
rights only as provided in DFAR 252.227-7015 (Nov 1995) or FAR 52.227-14 (June 1987), whichever is
applicable. You agree not to remove or deface any portion of any legend provided on any licensed program
or documentation contained in, or delivered to you in conjunction with, this User Guide.

Unless otherwise indicated, 3Com registered trademarks are registered in the United States and may or may
not be registered in other countries.

3Com, AirConnect, and XJACK are registered trademarks and the 3Com logo is a trademark of
3Com Corporation.

Microsoft, Windows, and Windows NT are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. Wi-Fi is a
trademark of the Wireless Ethernet Compatibility Alliance.

All other company and product names may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are
associated.

EXPORT RESTRICTIONS: This product or software contains encryption code which may not be exported or

transferred from the US or Canada without an approved US Department of Commerce export license.

C

ONTENTS

1

NTRODUCTION

I

How Does a Wireless LAN Work? 5

Network Association 5
Roaming 5
Security 5
Ad Hoc Networks 5

Setting Up a 3Com Wireless LAN 6

All Wireless Networks 6
Wired/Wireless Networks 6

Product Registration and Support 7

I

NSTALLING

2

Requirements 9
Disk Factory 9
Inserting the Ethernet Bridge 10
Installing the Software 11
Windows Wizard Installation 11

Installing Files 11
Setting Up the Ethernet Bridge 12
Installing Utilities 12

Windows NT Installation with Networking Installed 13

Installing Under Service Pack 4 13
Installing Under Service Pack 5 and Above 13

Confirming the Installation 15
Custom Installation Options 16

WLAN Service Area 16
Security Settings 16

Installing the Documentation 18

W

THE

Installing Files 13
Installing CardWizard 14
Setting Up the Ethernet Bridge 14
Installing Utilities 15

40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi) Encryption 16
128-bit Shared Key Encryption 17
128-bit Dynamic Security Link Authentication 17

IRELESS

B

RIDGE

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SING

THE

3

About the 3Com Icon 20

W

IRELESS

LAN

Using the 3Com WLAN Configuration Utility 20
Using 3Com Administrator Utilities 21

C

4

ONFIGURING

Changing Network and Security Settings 23

Network Settings 23
Security Settings 24

40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi) Encryption Settings 24
128-bit Shared Key Encryption 25

128-bit Dynamic Security Link Settings 26
Setting up Auto Network Connect 26
Setting up an Ad Hoc Network 27

Starting an Ad Hoc Network Session 27
Joining an Ad Hoc Network Session 27

Ending an Ad Hoc Network Session 28
Changing Power, Traffic, and Address Settings 28
Changing Your Password 29
Running Diagnostics 29
Viewing Configuration Information 30

THE

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IRELESS

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LIENT

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ROUBLESHOOTING

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Diagnosing Problems 31
Using the Tools Window 32
Uninstalling Software Utilities 33
Updating Ethernet Bridge Driver Software 33

Windows 95, Windows 98, and Windows 98 SE 33

Windows Millenium Edition (Windows Me) 34

Windows 2000 34

Windows NT 35
Upgrading Ethernet Bridge Firmware 36

T

A

ECHNICAL

Online Technical Services 39

World Wide Web Site 39

3Com Knowledgebase Web Services 39

3Com FTP Site 39
Support from Your Network Supplier 40
Support from 3Com 40
Returning Products for Repair 42

S

UPPORT

EGULATORY

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OMPLIANCE

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NFORMATION

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1

I

NTRODUCTION

3Com wireless technology brings the benefits of a local area network (LAN) to
your office without the restraints and expense of network wiring. If your office
already has an Ethernet LAN, the 3Com 11 Wireless Ethernet LAN Bridge can
extend the network without adding more wires.

How Does a Wireless LAN Work?

Network Association Computers that are equipped for wireless LAN communication are called wireless

Roaming If the office space is large, you can set up multiple access points on the same

Security You can set up security to encrypt your wireless transmissions so that your data

Ad Hoc Networks Wireless clients can associate among themselves at close range without an access

In a traditional LAN, computers communicate through wires. Instead of wires, a
wireless LAN uses radio signals to communicate.

LAN

clients . The wireless communication is called network association . Clients

associate through one or more
act as wireless hubs.

An access point can be connected to a wired network device such as an Ethernet
hub, switch, or router to give clients access to the wired network where they can
share files and printers and gain access to the Internet.

network to increase coverage. When a wireless client begins to lose the signal as it
moves away from an access point, it can reassociate seamlessly with another
access point. This is called

cannot be deciphered if it is intercepted, and to prevent access to the network by
unauthorized clients.

point by using
network, for example, if a group is working away from the office, or if a group in
the office needs to share files apart from the LAN.

ad hoc (temporary) networks. You may wish to set up an ad hoc

access points , which are wireless base stations that

roaming .

HAPTER

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NTRODUCTION

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6

Setting Up a 3Com Wireless LAN

The type of network you decide to set up depends on the size of your office and
whether or not you require connection to a wired LAN. You can also set up
security for each of the different types of networks. Your setup will probably
resemble one or more of the following examples.

All Wireless Networks The simplest 3Com wireless LAN consists of several clients associating in an ad hoc

network without an access point.

A simple configuration consists of one access point and several clients. The clients
can associate with the wireless network anywhere within the coverage area of the
access point. The access point is not connected to any other network segments.

Wired/Wireless

Networks

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LES
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WIR
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O
P

For more complex requirements, you can configure several access points as
separate networks at the same site. The access points use different network
identifiers called

wireless LAN service areas ( WLAN service areas , also called

Extended Service Set Identities or ESSID ). Clients can roam within the coverage

areas of access points that have the same WLAN service areas. They cannot roam
to the coverage areas of access points that are configured with different WLAN
service areas.

An access point can be connected to a wired LAN with an Ethernet cable to create
a mixed wired/wireless network. In this configuration, the access point provides
the link between the wired network and wireless clients. Clients can move freely
throughout the service area of the access point and remain associated with the
larger network for services such as printing and Internet access.

Product Registration and Support 7

Multiple access points can be connected to an existing LAN to provide complete
wireless network coverage. Wireless clients can roam seamlessly between different
access points with the same WLAN service areas and remain associated with the
larger network.

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Product Registration and Support

To register your product with 3Com, go to the following Web page:

http://support.3com.com/registration/frontpg.pl

For support information, see “Technical Support” on page 39 or log on to the 3Com
Web site at http://www.3com.com and navigate to the product support page.

2

Requirements

I

NSTALLING

Installing a wireless client consists of inserting the 3Com Wireless Ethernet LAN
Bridge to your computer and installing the software driver and utilities. If you have
3Com Administrator Utilities installed on a wireless client, you can manage access
points or run a site survey.

Before you start the installation, make sure that you have the following items:

Computer
Operating System One of the following:

Web Browser

Interface
Installation Media One of the following 3Com CDs:

Other
Requirements

THE

Any computer with an Ethernet (RJ-45) port.

■

Windows 95

The 3Com Wireless Ethernet Bridge runs under Windows 95
version B or higher. If you do not know which version of Windows
95 is installed on your computer, you can display it as follows:

In the Control Panel, double-click System to display the System
Properties dialog box. Click the General tab to display the Windows
95 version information. Version B (also known as OSR 2) is
identified as 4.00.950b.

Windows 98

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Windows Millennium Edition (Windows Me)

Windows NT with Service Pack 4 or above (Service Pack 6 or

■

later recommended)

Windows 2000

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Internet Explorer version 4 required.

Internet Explorer version 5.5 recommended.

You can download Internet Explorer from www.microsoft.com

3Com Wireless Ethernet Bridge

3Com End User Utilities CD , which comes with the Ethernet Bridge

■

and contains utilities for users.

■

3Com Administrator Utilities CD , which comes with the 3Com

11 Mbps Wireless LAN access point 6000 and contains utilities for
users and tools for administrators.

■

The installation program may ask for the operating system
installation media (usually a CD supplied with your computer) or for
a path to the operating system files. If you have other networking
software installed on your computer, the installation program may
ask for its installation media.

■

If you need to install from diskettes, see “Disk Factory” below.

W

IRELESS

B

RIDGE

Disk Factory

If you are installing the software on a computer that does not have a CD-ROM
drive, or if you choose to install the drivers manually, you will have to make

HAPTER

C

2: I

NSTALLING

THE

IRELESS BRIDGE

W

diskettes from the 3Com CD. The setup application includes Disk Factory, a utility
for creating disks from CD. To use Disk Factory, you need access to a computer
with a CD-ROM drive and a floppy drive and eight or more diskettes. Make sure
you have enough diskettes on hand.

1 For the driver software, prepare two diskettes, one labelled NT Drivers, and the

other labelled 9X and 2K Driver.

For the application software, label diskettes numerically (Disk 1, Disk 2, Disk 3...).

2 Put the 3Com CD in the CD-ROM drive. The setup program should start

automatically. If it does not start, run it manually by selecting Run from the Start
menu and specifying the srsetup.exe program (for example, d:\srsetup.exe).

3 In the 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN menu, click Tools and Utilities.
4 In the Tools and Utilities menu, click Create Installation Diskettes.
5 In the Disk Factory window, click Next.
6 Select the software you want to transfer to diskette. Disk Factory displays the

required number of diskettes. Make sure you have that number of diskettes.

7 Select the action (for example, Create and Verify Disks), specify the destination

location, and click Next.

10

Inserting the Ethernet Bridge

Follow the prompts on the screen.

To install the drivers from diskette, use the driver diskettes when the setup wizard
prompts for drivers supplied by the manufacturer.

To install the application software from diskette, put application software Disk 1 in
the floppy drive and run the setup.exe program.

1 Turn on the computer.
2 Align the card with the computer Ethernet Bridge slot. Insert the card and make

sure it seats snugly.

3 Gently but firmly press and release the XJACK antenna to extend it.

CAUTION: Forcing the connector into the slot can damage the computer or the
card.

The antenna has two positions: extended and retracted. To extend or retract the
antenna, gently but firmly press and release it. The antenna must be extended to
make a network association. To prevent it from damage, the antenna should be
retracted when not in use, when you are inserting the card in your computer, or
when you are transporting the computer.

The figure at left below shows the Ethernet Bridge installed with its antenna
retracted. The figure at right shows the antenna extended.

To get the best reception:

■ Clear the area around the antenna of items that could block radio transmission,

such as metal objects, electronic devices, and cordless telephones.

Installing the Software 11

■ Even a slight change in antenna orientation can affect the network association.

If necessary, move your computer a few inches to find a better signal.

Installing the Software

Windows Wizard
Installation

Depending on how your computer is set up, the installation program may ask for
the operating system installation media (usually a CD supplied with your
computer) or for a path to the operating system files. If you have other
networking software installed on your computer, the installation program may ask
for the networking software installation media. Make sure that you have the
appropriate installation CDs or that you know the appropriate paths before you
begin installing the software.

If you need help during the installation, see “Troubleshooting” on page 31.

Follow the instructions for your operating system:

For this Windows version: See this procedure:

Windows 2000, Windows
Millennium Edition
(Windows Me), Windows 98,
Windows 95

Windows NT “Windows NT Installation with Networking Installed” on

“Windows Wizard Installation” below.

page 13, “Windows NT Installation Without Networking
Installed” on page 45, or “Windows NT Installation With
Softex Card Executive” on page 49.

Make sure that the computer is running and the Ethernet Bridge is inserted. The
driver installation process starts automatically when the Ethernet Bridge is
inserted.

Installing Files

1 Put the 3Com CD in the CD-ROM drive.
2 In the Add New Hardware Wizard window, click Next.
3 Respond to the instructions in the next windows:

a When the driver location is confirmed, click Next.
b Verify the driver name (3Com 3CRWE62092A Wireless Ethernet Bridge) and

click Next.

The installation program copies files from the 3Com CD and Windows
operating system.

This copying process may take a few moments, and the progress bar may seem
to update slowly.

The installation may prompt for your operating system installation CD, for a
path to the operating system, or for the installation CD of other installed
networking software. If it does, remove the 3Com CD and insert the
appropriate CD.

c When you are notified that the installation is complete, remove the CD and

click Finish.

4 At the prompt to restart the computer, click Yes .

12 CHAPTER 2: INSTALLING THE WIRELESS BRIDGE

Setting Up the Ethernet

Bridge

After the computer restarts, the 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Client Setup
window opens, in which you specify the Ethernet Bridge configuration.

1 In the 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Client Setup window, select Typical and

click Next.

A Typical configuration sets up the Ethernet Bridge with the following default
values:

WLAN Service Area—Attach to any WLAN Service Area automatically

Security Setting—No security (Open system)

If you want to customize the Ethernet Bridge configuration (to add security, for
example), select Custom. See “Custom Installation Options” on page 16 for
details on custom settings. For the fastest installation, it is recommended that you
use the typical settings. You can customize the configuration later as described in
“Configuring the Wireless Client” on page 23.

2 In the Summary window, review the Ethernet Bridge setup. To install the software

utilities, make sure that the Start client software installation when finished box is
checked.

If you are reinstalling the Ethernet Bridge and already have the software utilities
installed, this box is unchecked.

3 Click Finish to complete the Ethernet Bridge setup and start the software utilities

installation.

Installing Utilities

The 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Setup program starts.

If you are installing from diskettes, insert Disk 1 and run the setup.exe program to
start the software utilities installation.

1 Read the Welcome page and click Next.
2 Read the Software License Agreement and click Yes . (If you click No, the

installation stops.)

3 Select a destination folder for the software files and click Next.
4 In the Setup Type window, select the type of installation for the software:

Typical—Installs the software and documentation.

Compact—Installs the software, but not documentation.

Custom—Allows you to choose the components to install.

5 Follow the directions in the Select Program Folder window and click Next.
6 In the Desktop Icon Option window, click Yes.
7 In the Setup Complete window, click Finish.
8 If you are prompted to restart your computer, do so.

This completes the basic installation. To confirm the installation, see “Confirming
the Installation” on page 15.

Windows NT Installation with Networking Installed 13

Windows NT Installation with Networking Installed

Installing Under Service

Pack 4

Use one of the following procedures if you are running Windows NT and
networking is already installed on your computer. If networking is not already
installed, see “Windows NT Installation Without Networking Installed” on
page 45. If Softex Card Executive is already installed on your computer, see
“Windows NT Installation With Softex Card Executive” on page 49.

Either CardWizard or Softex Card Executive, which are utilities that help
Windows NT load and manage software, must be installed on your computer to
use the Ethernet Bridge. If the installation program does not detect one of the
utilities, it will ask whether you want to install CardWizard from the 3Com CD.

Internet Explorer version 4 is required to view help files. It is recommended that
you install Internet Explorer version 5 or later.

It is recommended that you upgrade to the latest service pack. If you are using
Service Pack 4, you must install CardWizard before inserting the Ethernet Bridge
into the computer. If you have Softex Card Executive installed, see “Windows NT
Installation With Softex Card Executive” on page 49 for more details. Otherwise,
follow this procedure:

1 Put the 3Com CD in the CD-ROM drive.
2 If the 3Com 11 Mbps WLAN Menu appears, click Exit.
3 From the Windows Start menu, select Start/Run.

Installing Under Service

Pack 5 and Above

4 In the run dialog box, type the path to the CardWizard installer on the 3Com CD.

For example: d:\cw\disk1\setup.exe

5 Follow the prompts to install CardWizard.

At the prompt to restart, shut down the computer.

6 Insert the Ethernet Bridge, restart the computer, and continue with the

installation.

Refer to “Installing Under Service Pack 5 and Above” for detailed instructions.

The installation procedure consists of installing files, installing CardWizard, setting
up the Ethernet Bridge, and installing utilities.

Installing Files

1 Make sure that the computer is running and the Ethernet Bridge is inserted.
2 Put the 3Com CD in the CD-ROM drive.

If the 3Com 11 Mbps WLAN Menu appears, click Exit.

3 From the Windows Start menu, select Settings/Control Panel.
4 In the Control Panel, double-click Network.
5 Click the Adapters tab.
6 In the Adapters tab, click Add.
7 In the Select Network Adapter window, click Have Disk.
8 In the Insert Disk window, make sure that the correct path to your CD-ROM drive

appears in the entry box (for example, d:) and click OK.

14 CHAPTER 2: INSTALLING THE WIRELESS BRIDGE

If you are installing from diskettes, enter the path to the diskette drive.

9 In the Select OEM Option window, select 3Com 3CRWE62092A Wireless Ethernet

Bridge and click OK.

10 In the Ethernet Bridge Setup window, accept the default settings and click OK.

The default settings work in most cases. However, you may need to specify values
for your installation.

Wait while the files are copied.

11 In the Adapters tab, click Close.
12 If the Microsoft TCP/IP Properties screen appears, enter the requested information

for your network environment.

Refer to the Windows NT documentation for assistance. If you choose the DHCP
server option, click Yes to the DHCP prompt. When you are finished entering the
appropriate TCP/IP information, click OK.

13 When prompted to restart the computer, click Yes .

Installing CardWizard

If CardWizard was already installed before you began installing the Ethernet
Bridge, the installation skips this portion and proceeds directly to “Setting Up the
Ethernet Bridge.”

1 At the prompt to install CardWizard, click Yes .

If you click No and you do not have CardWizard installed, the installation stops.

2 In the CardWizard window, click Next.
3 In the CardWizard welcome page, click Next.
4 Read the CardWizard Software License Agreement and click Yes .
5 When prompted to remove the Ethernet Bridge, eject the card and click Yes .
6 In the Select Type of Platform window, select your computer type and click Next.

If your computer type is not listed, select Other Notebook and click Next.

7 Respond to the prompts to install CardWizard.
8 When the CardWizard installation finishes, click the radio button to restart the

computer and click Finish.

9 Insert the Ethernet Bridge.

Setting Up the Ethernet Bridge

After the computer restarts, the 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Client Setup
window opens, in which you specify the Ethernet Bridge configuration.

1 In the 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Client Setup window, select Typical and

click Next.

The Typical comfiguration sets up the Ethernet Bridge with the following default
values:

WLAN Service Area—Attach to any WLAN Service Area automatically

Security Setting—No security (Open system)

Confirming the Installation 15

If you want to customize the Ethernet Bridge configuration (to add security, for
example), select Custom. See “Custom Installation Options” on page 16 for
details on custom settings. For the fastest installation, it is recommended that you
use the Typical settings. You can customize the configuration later as described in
“Configuring the Wireless Client” on page 23.

2 In the Summary window, review the Ethernet BridgeEthernet Bridge setup and

click Finish.

3 When prompted to run the Setup program, click OK.
4 Run the Setup program:

a From the Windows Start menu, select Run.
b In the Run dialog box, enter a path to the Setup program on the 3Com CD. For

example, d:\srsetup.exe.

The 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Setup program starts.

Installing Utilities

1 Read the Welcome page and click Next.
2 Read the Software License Agreement and click Yes . (If you click No, the

installation stops.)

Confirming the
Installation

3 Select a destination folder for the software files and click Next.
4 In the Setup Type window, select the type of installation for the software:

Typical—Installs the software and documentation.

Compact—Installs the software but not documentation.

Custom—Allows you to choose the components to install.

5 Follow the directions in the Select Program Folder window and click Next.
6 In the Desktop Icon Option window, click Yes.
7 In the next window, if the option to restart the computer appears, select it and

click Finish.

If you had a service pack installed before setting up the Ethernet Bridge, reinstall it
and restart the computer.

This completes the basic installation. To confirm the installation, see “Confirming
the Installation.”

When the Ethernet Bridge and software are installed correctly, you will see the
following items after you restart the computer:

■ The Ethernet Bridge LED is blinking.

■ The 3Com WLAN Launcher is running. This utility shows the status of your

network association.

■ The 3Com icon is in the Windows system tray.

■ The shortcut icon to the 3Com WLAN Launcher is on your desktop (unless you

specified no icon during the installation).

16 CHAPTER 2: INSTALLING THE WIRELESS BRIDGE

If you do not see the 3Com WLAN Launcher window, click the 3Com icon in the
Windows system tray to display it.

If the 3Com WLAN Launcher is not already running, you can start it by double
clicking the shortcut on your desktop, or, from the Windows Start menu, select
Start/Programs/3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN/3Com WLAN Launcher.

For more information, see “Using the Wireless LAN” on page 19.

Custom Installation Options

If you want to set up a custom configuration during installation, when the
installation program asks for the Setup Type, select Custom and click Next.

You can change the WLAN Service Area and Security settings.

WLAN Service Area Attach to any WLAN Service Area automatically—This option associates the client

automatically to the WLAN service area with the best signal strength.

Specify a WLAN Service Area—Select this option and enter the name of a WLAN
service area. The name must match the name of the access point WLAN Service
Area exactly.

For more information on these settings, see “Changing Network and Security
Settings” on page 23.

Security Settings In the Security settings window, select one of the options and click Next.

If you select No Security for no encryption, no further configuration is necessary.

The other options require you to configure encryption keys or authentication
settings in the next window. The settings must match those on the access point.
For more information on these settings, see “Security Settings” on page 24.

40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi) Encryption

40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi) security requires you to set up encryption keys using one
of the following:

■ An encryption string, which is a string of case-sensitive characters 6 to 30

characters long. The string is a combination of letters and numbers and is case
sensitive. The encryption string can be used only with other 3Com 11 Mbps
Wireless LAN clients and access points, and must match exactly across all
devices in the wireless network.

■ Hexadecimal keys (for use with compatible equipment from other

manufacturers). The key sequences must match exactly across all devices in the
wireless network.

Ask your system administrator for the encryption string or hexadecimal keys.

To enter an encryption string:

1 In the Security settings window, select 40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi) and click Next.
2 In the Encryptions Settings window, select Text Message.
3 Type the encryption string in the spaces provided.

Custom Installation Options 17

4 Click Next when finished.

To enter hexadecimal keys:

1 In the Security settings window, select 40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi) and click Next.
2 In the Encryptions Settings window, select Hexadecimal Keys.
3 Type the encryption key sequences in the spaces provided. You must enter key

sequences for all four keys.

4 Click one of the radio buttons to select a key to use for encrypting data from

your computer.

5 Click Next when finished.

128-bit Shared Key Encryption

128-bit Shared Key security requires you to set up encryption keys using one of
the following:

■ An encryption string, which is a string of case-sensitive characters 6 to 30

characters long. The string is a combination of letters and numbers and is case
sensitive. The encryption string can be used only with other 3Com 11 Mbps
Wireless LAN clients and access points, and must match exactly across all
devices in the wireless network.

■ Hexadecimal keys (for use with compatible equipment from other

manufacturers). The key sequences must match exactly across all devices in the
wireless network.

Ask your system administrator for the encryption string or hexadecimal keys.

To enter an encryption string:

1 In the Security settings window, select 128-bit Shared Key and click Next.
2 In the Encryptions Settings window, select Text Message.
3 Type the encryption string in the spaces provided.
4 Click Next when finished.

To enter hexadecimal keys:

1 In the Security settings window, select 128-bit Shared Key and click Next.
2 In the Encryptions Settings window, select Hexadecimal Keys.
3 Type the encryption key sequences in the spaces provided. You must enter key

sequences for all four keys.

4 Click one of the radio buttons to select a key to use for encrypting data from

your computer.

5 Click Next when finished.

128-bit Dynamic Security Link Authentication

128-bit Dynamic Security Link security can only be used with other
3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN clients and access points.

1 Ask your network administrator for the user name and password.
2 In the Security settings window, select 128-bit Dynamic Security Link and click Next.

18 CHAPTER 2: INSTALLING THE WIRELESS BRIDGE

3 In the Authentication Settings window, type the user name and password in the

spaces provided.

4 Enter the password again to confirm it.
5 Click Next when finished.

Installing the Documentation

Documentation in PDF and HTML formats is supplied on the 3Com CD and is
installed automatically during a typical installation. If you chose not to install
documentation when you installed the Ethernet Bridge and utilities, you can use
Add/Remove Programs in the Control Panel to install it.

1 From the Windows Start menu, select Start/Settings/Control Panel.
2 Double click Add/Remove Programs.
3 In the next window, select 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN and click Add/Remove.
4 In the Install Shield Wizard window, click the Modify radio button and click Next.
5 In the next window, check the boxes next to the documents that you want to

install and click Next.

A dialog box containing a document file name appears.

6 Insert the 3Com CD.
7 Browse to the path on the CD that contains the file name indicated in the dialog

box and click OK.

You need Acrobat Reader to read the documentation in PDF format and a Web
browser to read the documentation in HTML format. The English versions of
Acrobat Reader and the Internet Explorer Web browser are on the 3Com CD.

You can obtain versions of Acrobat Reader in languages other than English from
the Adobe Web site at www.adobe.com.

You can obtain versions of Internet Explorer in languages other than English
from the Microsoft Web site at www.microsoft.com.

3

USING THE WIRELESS LAN

The 3Com WLAN Launcher shows the status of your network association and
allows you to perform network association and configuration tasks.

To display the 3Com WLAN Launcher, click the 3Com icon in the Windows system
tray. If the 3Com WLAN Launcher is not already running, you can start it from the
Windows Start menu. Select Start/Programs/3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN/3Com
WLAN Launcher.

The functions of the 3Com WLAN Launcher buttons are:

Access
point

Computer Displays the Ad Hoc Network Login window, in which you can do

Padlock Displays the Network/Security tab of the 3Com WLAN

Hammer Displays the Tools tab of the 3Com WLAN Configuration utility.

Help Displays help.

Close Minimizes the 3Com WLAN Launcher window, but does not quit the

Refreshes the association with the access point when you are
associated with an access point.

When you are associated with an ad hoc network, this button ends the
ad hoc session and associates you to an access point.

the following:

■ When you are associated with an access point, you can end the

access point association and start an ad hoc session.

■ When you are associated with an ad hoc network, you can start a

new ad hoc session or edit the current ad hoc configuration.

Configuration utility.

application.

20 CHAPTER 3: USING THE WIRELESS LAN

About the 3Com Icon When the 3Com WLAN Launcher is running, the 3Com icon in the Windows

system tool tray displays the status of the network association:

Associating Blue magnifying glass indicates client is searching for a network association.
Associated Green radio waves indicate a good association with an access point.
Not Associated Red circle with a white X indicates no association with an access point.
Card Removed Yellow circle with a black X indicates that the computer does not detect a

If the 3Com WLAN Launcher is hidden, click the 3Com icon to display it. You can
also right-click the 3Com icon and select from these menu items:

Open Displays the 3Com WLAN Launcher.
Refresh AP Disconnects you from an ad hoc network session and reconnects

End AP/Start Ad hoc Displays the Ad Hoc Network Login window, where you can start

Cancel Association Ends client attempt at associating with a network. This menu

Security Settings Displays the Network/Security tab, where you can set up security.
Tools Displays the Tools tab, where you can run WLAN Launcher

Show Ethernet Link
Status

Show Launcher at
Startup

Exit Quits the WLAN Launcher program and any associated utilities

PC Card.

you to an access point.

or join an ad hoc network session.

option appears only while the client is trying to associate with a
network (that is, while the blue magnifying glass is visible in the
3Com icon).

applications.

Controls the Ethernet status display. This option appears only if
you are associating with a 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN access
point 6000.

Controls the display of the 3Com WLAN Launcher when you
turn on the computer. If you turn this option off, the 3Com
WLAN Launcher is hidden until you click the 3Com icon to
display it. This option is turned on by default.

that are running. After you exit, the 3Com icon no longer
displays in the Windows system tray unless you restart the WLAN
Launcher.

Using the 3Com WLAN
Configuration Utility

You can use the 3Com WLAN Configuration Utility window to customize the
wireless client set up after installation. If you have 3Com Administrator Utilities,
you can also launch administration tools. To display the 3Com WLAN
Configuration Utility window:

1 In the Windows system tray, click the 3Com icon to display the

3Com WLAN Launcher.

If the 3Com WLAN Launcher is not already running, you can start it from the
Windows Start menu. Select Start/Programs/3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN/3Com
WLAN Launcher.

2 In the 3Com WLAN Launcher, click the Padlock or the Hammer icon to display the

3Com WLAN Configuration Utility window. (The tab that appears on top depends
on the icon used to open the window.)

Using 3Com Administrator Utilities 21

Using 3Com Administrator Utilities

The 3Com WLAN Configuration Utility window contains these tabs:

■ Network/Security—See “Changing Network and Security Settings” on page 23

and “Setting up an Ad Hoc Network” on page 27.

■ Options—See “Changing Power, Traffic, and Address Settings” on page 28.

■ Tools—See “Changing Your Password” on page 29, “Running Diagnostics” on

page 29, or “Upgrading Ethernet Bridge Firmware” on page 36. If you have
3Com Administrator Utilities, you can also perform access point management
tasks.

■ Info— See “Viewing Configuration Information” on page 30.

The 3Com CD contains tools for managing the PC Card. With the tools installed
on a wireless client, you can change your password, check for firmware upgrades,
or perform a diagnostic test. To install the tools, use the 3Com CD when you install
the client on your computer. The installed tools are located on the 3Com WLAN
Configuration Utility window:

1 In the Windows system tray, click the 3Com icon to display the

3Com WLAN Launcher.

If the 3Com WLAN Launcher is not already running, you can start it from the
Windows Start menu. Select Start/Programs/3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN/3Com
WLAN Launcher.

2 In the 3Com WLAN Launcher, click the Hammer icon to display the Tools tab in

3Com WLAN Configuration Utility window.

22 CHAPTER 3: USING THE WIRELESS LAN

The Tools tab contains these tools:

■ Change Password—Changes the wireless client password. See “Changing Your

Password” on page 29.

■ Firmware Upgrade—Upgrades the firmware on the wireless client. See

“Upgrading Ethernet Bridge Firmware” on page 36.

■ Diagnostics—Runs diagnostics on the wireless client. See “Running

Diagnostics” on page 29.

4

CONFIGURING THE WIRELESS CLIENT

Changing Network and Security Settings

Network Settings Network settings determine the wireless network with which the client can

You can change security and network settings for the wireless client in the
Network/Security tab.

1 In the Windows system tray, click the 3Com icon to display the

3Com WLAN Launcher.

If the 3Com WLAN Launcher is not already running, you can start it from the
Windows Start menu. Select Start/Programs/3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN/3Com
WLAN Launcher.

2 In WLAN Launcher, click the Padlock icon.

In the top half of the Security/Network tab, you can change settings for an access
point network. In the lower half of the tab, you can configure settings for an
ad hoc network.

3 To configure settings for an access point network, see “Network Settings” and

“Security Settings” on page 24.

To configure settings for an ad hoc network, click Start Ad hoc. See “Setting up an
Ad Hoc Network” on page 27.

4 If your selection requires encryption key settings, click Encryption Key Settings and

enter the encryption key settings in the next window. (Ask your network
administrator for the encryption settings.) See “40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi)
Encryption Settings” on page 24 or “128-bit Shared Key Encryption” on page 25.

associate. Some wireless LANs are set up with different WLAN service areas.
Clients can roam within the coverage areas of access points that have the same
WLAN service areas. They cannot roam to the coverage areas of access points that
have different WLAN service areas.

To change the settings:

1 In the Windows system tray, click the 3Com icon to display the

3Com WLAN Launcher.

If the 3Com WLAN Launcher is not already running, you can start it from the
Windows Start menu. Select Start/Programs/3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN/3Com
WLAN Launcher.

2 In WLAN Launcher, click the Padlock icon.

24 CHAPTER 4: CONFIGURING THE WIRELESS CLIENT

3 In the Security/Network window, WLAN Service Area displays the name of the

wireless network with which the wireless PC client can associate. You can change
this setting as follows:

Attach to any WLAN Service Area automatically

Check this box to associate the client automatically to the WLAN service area with
the best signal strength. This is recommended.

Specify a WLAN Service Area

First uncheck the Attach to any WLAN Service Area automatically box. Then, you
can either enter the name of a service area (up to 32 characters long), or select
from recently used WLAN service areas or from all available WLAN Service Areas
within the range of the client.

Security Settings You can set the level of security used to protect the network communications

between the client and the access point from interception by unintended
recipients. The security settings must match those that the network administrator
has set up on the network. Some security levels require you to supply encryption
settings. The levels of security are:

No Security (Open System) No encryption is used. The network communications could

40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi) This option encrypts the wireless transmissions to protect

128-bit Shared Key This option encrypts the wireless transmissions to protect

128-bit Dynamic Security Link This option can only be used with a 3Com 11 Mbps

be intercepted by unintended recipients.

your data and is compatible with other Wi-Fi certified
wireless PC clients and access points from other
manufacturers.

your data and is compatible with wireless PC clients and
access points from other select manufacturers.

Wireless LAN access point 6000 units. It is the highest level
of security, in which you must enter a user name and
password. These must match the user name and password
set up by the administrator on the access points with which
you associate. Each network session automatically creates
a unique, one-time, 128-bit encryption key. You never
have to enter a key.

To maintain wireless association between clients and access points, follow these
guidelines:

■ The security setting on the client and the access points must match exactly.

■ For 40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi) or 128-bit Shared Key security, the encryption

settings on the client and the access point must match exactly.

■ For 128-bit Dynamic Security Link security, the user name and password on the

client and the access points must match exactly.

40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi) Encryption Settings

40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi) security requires you to set up encryption keys. Your
network administrator sets up encryption keys for the wireless network and gives
you an encryption string or hexadecimal keys.

■ An encryption string is a string of characters 6 to 30 characters long. The string

can be any combination of letters and numbers and is case sensitive. The

Changing Network and Security Settings 25

encryption string can be used only with other 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN
clients and access point 6000 units.

■ Hexadecimal keys are sequences of hexadecimal digits arranged into four keys.

A hexadecimal digit may be a letter from A to F or a number from 0 to 9. This
type of encryption is compatible with Wi-Fi certified equipment from other
manufacturers.

To enter an encryption string:

1 In the Security/Network window, select 40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi) from the Security

setting list.

2 Click Encryption Key Settings.
3 In the next window, select Specify Encryption String.
4 Type the encryption string in the space provided.
5 Click OK when finished.

To enter hexadecimal keys:

1 In the Security/Network window, select 40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi) from the Security

setting list.

2 Click Encryption Key Settings.
3 In the next window, select Specify Encryption Keys.
4 Enter the key settings.

You must enter settings for all four keys.

5 Click one of the radio buttons to select a key to use.
6 Click OK when finished.

128-bit Shared Key Encryption

128-bit Shared Key security requires you to set up encryption keys using one of
the following:

■ An encryption string, which is a string of case-sensitive characters 6 to 30

characters long. The string is a combination of letters and numbers and is case
sensitive. The encryption string can be used only with other 3Com 11 Mbps
Wireless LAN clients and access points, and must match exactly across all
devices in the wireless network.

■ Hexadecimal keys (for use with compatible equipment from other

manufacturers). The key sequences must match exactly across all devices in the
wireless network.

Ask your system administrator for the encryption string or hexadecimal keys.

To enter an encryption string:

1 In the Security settings window, select 128-bit Shared Key and click Next.
2 In the Encryptions Settings window, select Text Message.
3 Type the encryption string in the spaces provided.
4 Click Next when finished.

26 CHAPTER 4: CONFIGURING THE WIRELESS CLIENT

To enter hexadecimal keys:

1 In the Security settings window, select 128-bit Shared Key and click Next.
2 In the Encryptions Settings window, select Hexadecimal Keys.
3 Type the encryption key sequences in the spaces provided. You must enter key

sequences for all four keys.

4 Click one of the radio buttons to select a key to use for encrypting data from

your computer.

5 Click Next when finished.

128-bit Dynamic Security Link Settings

128-bit Dynamic Security Link security requires a user name and password. Ask
your network administrator for the user name and password.

Setting up Auto Network Connect

1 In the Network/Security window, select

128-bit Dynamic Security Link from the

Security setting list.

2 Click Apply.
3 In the next window, type the user name and password in the spaces provided.
4 Click OK when finished.

After you log in successfully the first time, Windows remembers the password the
next time you log in. Your network administrator may require you to log on
every time.

Auto Network Connect ensures network association even when traversing
subnets. The client automatically associates with the nearest access point that has
compatible encryption settings and automatically obtains a valid IP address.

This option requires a Dynamic Host Control Protocol (DHCP) server, and only
works when associating with a 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Access Point 6000.
The client’s network configuration must be set to obtain its IP address
automatically. For more information on DHCP, see the documentation for your
operating system.

Follow these steps to set up Auto Network Connect:

1 In the Windows system tray, click the 3Com icon to display the

3Com WLAN Launcher.

If the 3Com WLAN Launcher is not already running, you can start it from the
Windows Start menu. Select Start/Programs/3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN/3Com
WLAN Launcher.

2 In WLAN Launcher, click the Padlock icon.
3 In the Security/Network window, check the Attach to any WLAN Service Area

automatically box.

4 Click the Options tab.
5 In the Options window, check the Automatically release/renew the IP address box.
6 Click OK.

Setting up an Ad Hoc Network 27

Setting up an Ad Hoc Network

Starting an Ad Hoc

Network Session

An ad hoc network is useful when you are out of the range of an access point or
when you want to share files with others, but not with the entire network. When
two or more clients are in ad hoc mode and within range of each other, they can
communicate with each other directly through their 3Com Wireless LAN clients
without an access point. One client starts the ad hoc session and names it. Other
clients can then join the ad hoc network session.

1 In the Windows system tray, click the 3Com icon to display the

3Com WLAN Launcher.

If the 3Com WLAN Launcher is not already running, you can start it from the
Windows Start menu. Select Start/Programs/3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN/3Com
WLAN Launcher.

2 In WLAN Launcher, click the Computer icon.
3 In the Ad hoc Network Login window, type a new network name in the space provided.

This name identifies your ad hoc network to the rest of the clients.

4 Select a security setting.

You can select No Security (Open System) or 40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi). If you select
40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi), enter the required encryption information. (For details
on encryption settings, see “40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi) Encryption Settings” on
page 24.)

Joining an Ad Hoc

Network Session

This security setting only applies to this ad hoc network and only affects the
transmissions among the participating ad hoc clients. It does not affect security
settings for communication with access points.

5 Select the performance mode.

If only 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN clients will be participating in the ad hoc
network session, click the Enhanced radio button. If clients from other
manufacturers will be participating, click the Wi-Fi interoperable radio button.

6 Click OK.

The TCP/IP or NetBEUI protocol settings of clients participating in an ad hoc
network session must match. For example, TCP/IP must be configured on the
same subnet and NetBEUI must be configured with the same workgroup.

After a client has started an ad hoc network session, other clients may join it as follows:

1 In the Windows system tray, click the 3Com icon to display the

3Com WLAN Launcher.

If the 3Com WLAN Launcher is not already running, you can start it from the
Windows Start menu. Select Start/Programs/3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN/3Com
WLAN Launcher.

2 In WLAN Launcher, click the Computer icon.
3 In the Ad-hoc Network Login window, select the network name of the ad hoc

session you are joining from the drop-down list.

28 CHAPTER 4: CONFIGURING THE WIRELESS CLIENT

4 Set your security to match that of the client that started the ad hoc session.
5 Set the performance mode to match that of the client that started the ad hoc session.
6 Click OK.

Ending an Ad Hoc

Network Session

Changing Power,
Traffic, and Address
Settings

There are two ways to end an ad hoc network session and reassociate with an
access point:

■ Right-click the 3Com icon in the Windows system tray and select

End Ad Hoc/Connect to AP from the menu.

■ Display the WLAN Launcher and click the Access Point icon.

You can change power management, network traffic, and IP address settings
as follows:

1 In the Windows system tray, click the 3Com icon to display the

3Com WLAN Launcher.

If the 3Com WLAN Launcher is not already running, you can start it from the
Windows Start menu. Select Start/Programs/3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN/3Com
WLAN Launcher.

2 In WLAN Launcher, click either the Padlock or the Hammer icons.
3 In the WLAN Configuration Utility window, click the Options tab.

In the Options window you can change the settings described below.

Automatically manage power based on the detected power source

When this radio button is selected, and if your computer is able to detect its
power source automatically, the Ethernet Bridge automatically switches between
the following modes:

Power saving mode—Recommended when the computer is using battery power.

Continuous access mode—Gives faster network performance and is

recommended when the computer is using AC power.

Manually set the power management

When this radio button is selected, you can select the power mode manually. You
may want to select this mode, for example, if your computer cannot detect its
power source or if you want to improve performance by forcing continuous access
even though you are using battery power.

Windows NT users must select the power mode because the operating system
cannot detect its power source.

Network Traffic Accelerator

If only 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN equipment is being used, it is recommended
that you turn this option on to increase the rate at which traffic is handled.

Automatically release/renew the IP address

Your Internet Protocol address (IP address) contains the information that allows
network traffic to find its way to your computer.

Changing Your Password 29

This option requires a Dynamic Host Control Protocol (DHCP) server, and only
works when associating with a 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Access Point 6000.
The client’s network configuration must be set to obtain its IP address
automatically. For more information on DHCP, refer to the documentation for your
operating system.

When this box is checked, your computer automatically requests another
IP address if you travel outside of your subnet, so the network connection remains
active. Leave the box unchecked if your network does not have a DHCP server.

To force the system to release and renew an IP address, click Release/Renew Now.
You may want to click this button, for example, if you cannot establish association
with the network or if you roam in an installation that has multiple access points
and you lose network association.

Changing Your Password

The Change Password utility lets you update the password used in the access control
list of the access point with which the client is associated. This is only applicable if
you have configured the client to use 128-bit Dynamic Security Link security.

Because access points maintain separate User Access Lists, you must update the
password separately on each access point that you associate with.

1 In the Windows system tray, click the 3Com icon to display the

3Com WLAN Launcher.

If the 3Com WLAN Launcher is not already running, you can start it from the
Windows Start menu. Select Start/Programs/3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN/3Com
WLAN Launcher.

2 In WLAN Launcher, click the Hammer icon.
3 In the Tools window, double-click the Change Password icon.
4 In the Change Password dialog box, follow the instructions to change the

password and click OK.

Running Diagnostics The Diagnostics tool checks adapter presence, network connection, signal

strength, and link quality.

1 In the Windows system tray, click the 3Com icon to display the

3Com WLAN Launcher.

If the 3Com WLAN Launcher is not already running, you can start it from the
Windows Start menu. Select Start/Programs/3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN/3Com
WLAN Launcher.

2 In WLAN Launcher, click the Hammer icon.
3 In the Tools tab, double-click the Diagnostics icon.
4 Check the boxes next to the tests you want to run.
5 Click Start.

The tests run and the results appear in the status column of the Tools tab.

30 CHAPTER 4: CONFIGURING THE WIRELESS CLIENT

Viewing
Configuration
Information

The Info tab summarizes configuration information about the Ethernet Bridge and
the wireless LAN. To view configuration information:

1 In the Windows system tray, click the 3Com icon to display the

3Com WLAN Launcher.

If the 3Com WLAN Launcher is not already running, you can start it from the
Windows Start menu. Select Start/Programs/3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN/3Com
WLAN Launcher.

2 In WLAN Launcher, click either the Padlock or the Hammer icons.
3 In the WLAN Configuration Utility window, click the Info tab.

The following information appears in the Info tab:

Item Description

Driver version Useful for troubleshooting.

Firmware version Useful for troubleshooting.
MAC Address Unique hardware name for your Ethernet Bridge.

IP Address Your computer’s current IP address.

Card Type Type of client adapter; for example, PCMCIA or PCI.

Power Source AC power or battery power.

Network Type Access point or Ad hoc.
Security Settings Type of security set for the Ethernet Bridge. For information on

WLAN Service Area If the network type is access point, shows the currently associated

Channel Radio frequency (RF) channel.

Network Name If the network type is Ad hoc, shows the name of the ad hoc

Access Point MAC
Address

Power Management Power mode. For more information on power modes, see

Associated Signal
Strength

Data Rate Data transfer speed. For example, 11 Mbps, 5.5 Mbps, 2 Mbps, or

security, see “Security Settings” on page 24.

WLAN service area. For information on the WLAN service area, see
“Changing Network and Security Settings” on page 23.

If the network type is Ad hoc, this item does not appear in the list.

network. For information on ad hoc networks, see “Setting up an
Ad Hoc Network” on page 27.

If the network type is access point, this item does not appear in
the list.

Unique hardware name for the associated access point. If the
network type is Ad hoc, this field shows N/A.

“Changing Power, Traffic, and Address Settings” on page 28.

Indicates the strength of the radio signal. All light green indicates
the best signal; all dark green indicates no signal.

1 Mbps.

TROUBLESHOOTING

5

Diagnosing Problems The icons in the 3Com WLAN Launcher window indicate the network status and

can help you diagnose problems. To display the 3Com WLAN Launcher,
double-click the 3Com icon in the Windows system tray.

If you have difficulty using the Ethernet Bridge, try the solutions in the following
table. If you continue to experience difficulty, see “Upgrading Ethernet Bridge
Firmware” on page 36 .

Symptom Solutions

Ethernet Bridge LED is off. Make sure the card is properly inserted in the slot.

Check the Ethernet Bridge icon in the Windows control panel
and make sure that the card type can be recognized.

Ethernet Bridge LED is on, but
not blinking.

Ethernet Bridge installs as an
unknown device.

Installation program does not
finish. The driver fails to load.

Network association is
intermittent.

In the WLAN Launcher
window, the green dotted line
between associated devices
blinks to red with an X,
indicating that the radio signal
is weak.

The diagnostic signal strength
or link quality tests fail.

Computer operating system
does not recognize the card .

In the WLAN Launcher
window, you see a yellow X on
the client icon.

The diagnostic adapter
presence test fails.

Make sure the card is properly inserted in the slot .

Uninstall the card and reinstall it.

The Windows Add Hardware Wizard was unable to locate the
Ethernet Bridge drivers. You may have had no CD or the
wrong CD inserted in the drive, or the 3Com CD may not
have been ready when the wizard looked for the drivers.

Remove the unknown device and repeat the installation
procedure. Make sure that you insert the 3Com CD when the
installation calls for it and that you wait for it to come up to
speed in the drive.

There may be a resource conflict. Use the Device Manager to
resolve resource conflicts. Select System from the Control
Panel, and then click the Device Manager tab.

Make sure that the XJACK antenna attached to the end of
the card is extended. Try reorienting the antenna. For best
use of the antenna:

■ Keep the area around the antenna clear from materials

that could block radio transmission, such as metal objects,
electronic devices, and cordless telephones.

■ If the signal is weak, change the direction of the antenna

slightly.

■ If necessary, move your computer a few inches to find a

better signal.

Make sure the card is properly inserted in the slot .

Make sure that PCMCIA support is installed.

Check whether another client is already in use.

Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows Millennium Edition
(Windows Me), and Windows 2000: Check whether the
computer has a Plug and Play BIOS.

Windows NT: Make sure CardWizard or Softex Card
Executive is installed on your computer.

32 CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING

Symptom Solutions

Client cannot associate with an
access point.

In the WLAN Launcher
window, you see a red dotted
line with an X.

Diagnostic network connection
test fails.

There is no network association
when the computer becomes
active again after being in
sleep mode or after the client is
removed and reinserted.

Client cannot communicate
with the network.

Client is not working under
Windows NT.

Click the Padlock icon to display Security/Network settings.
Make sure that the WLAN Service Area set on the client
matches that set on the access point. Or, set the client to
Attach to any WLAN Service Area.

Make sure that encryption is set up correctly and matches
security set on the access point. See “Changing Network and
Security Settings” on page 23 and “40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi)
Encryption Settings” on page 24.

If you are associating with a 3Com AirConnect® access point,
make sure that the Short RF Preamble parameter is disabled
on the access point.

Log out and log in again, or restart the computer to restore
the connections.

Make sure that fixed IP settings are correct.

If you are connecting to a wired network, make sure that the
access point you are associated with is connected to the
wired network.

If you are using a DHCP server, release/renew the IP address.

Make sure CardWizard or Softex Card Executive is installed.

Using the Tools Window

The Ethernet Bridge LED indicates the following:

Condition Description

Off The computer does not recognize the Ethernet Bridge.

On, but not blinking The computer recognizes the Ethernet Bridge, but the card is not

functioning.

Blinking The Ethernet Bridge is operating. The blink speed ranges from

approximately once every 2.5 seconds to approximately 10 times per
second. Slow blinking indicates that the client is either not associated
to an access point or is associated at a slow rate. Fast blinking indicates
a good network association and fast transmission.

In the Tools window you can change your password, run diagnostics, or upgrade
the Ethernet Bridge firmware. If you have 3Com Administrator Utilities, you can
also connect to the access point and perform management administration
functions.

See the following topics for more information:

■ “Changing Your Password” on page 29

■ “Running Diagnostics” on page 29

■ “Upgrading Ethernet Bridge Firmware” on page 36

Uninstalling Software Utilities 33

Uninstalling Software Utilities

Updating Ethernet Bridge Driver Software

Windows 95,

Windows 98, and

Windows 98 SE

If you want to uninstall the 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN software utilities, you
can either use the standard operating system procedure for removing programs or
use the following shortcut procedure:

1 From the Windows Start menu, select Programs, then 3Com 11Mbps Wireless

LAN, then Uninstall 3Com 11Mbps Wireless LAN.

2 When prompted to confirm, click OK.

To update your Ethernet Bridge driver software, find your operating system below,
then follow the procedure.

1 Turn on the power to the computer and start Windows.
2 From the Windows Start menu, select Settings, then select Control Panel.
3 Double-click the System icon.
4 Select the Device Manager tab.
5 In the Device Manager Window, expand the Network Adapters list.
6 Select 3Com 3CRWE62092A and click Properties.
7 Select the Driver tab and click Update Driver.
8 In the Update Device Driver Wizard, follow the prompts to install the upgrade.
9 When prompted, click Restart for the changes to take effect.

After the computer restarts, the 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Setup window
appears, in which you specify the Ethernet Bridge configuration.

10 In the 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Client Setup window, select Typical and click

Next.

For the fastest installation, it is recommended that you use the typical settings.
You can customize the configuration later. Typical configures the Ethernet Bridge
with the following default values:

WLAN Service Area—Attach to any WLAN Service Area automatically

Security Setting—No security (Open system)

11 In the Summary window, review the Ethernet Bridge setup. To install the software

utilities, check the Start client software installation when finished box.

12 If the 3Com WLAN Launcher is already running, it is recommended that you exit it

and end the Ethernet Bridge service routine by doing the following:

a In the Windows system tray, right-click the 3Com icon and select Exit.
b Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete to bring up the Close Program window.
c In the Close Program window, select SR Services and click End Task.

13 Click Finish to complete the Ethernet Bridge setup and start the software utilities

installation.

The 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Setup program starts.

34 CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING

14 Read the Welcome page and click Next.
15 In the Setup Complete window, click Finish.
16 If you are prompted to restart your computer, do so.

Windows Millenium

Edition (Windows Me)

1 Turn on the power to the computer and start Windows.
2 From the Windows Start menu, select Settings, then select Control Panel.
3 Double-click the System icon, then select Device Manager.
4 In the Device Manager window, expand the Network Adapters list.
5 Select 3Com 3CRWE62092A and click Properties.
6 Select Driver and click Update Driver.
7 In the Update Device Driver Wizard, follow the prompts to install the upgrade.
8 When prompted, click Restart for the changes to take effect.

The software is now updated.

Windows 2000

9 If the 3Com WLAN Launcher is already running, it is recommended that you exit it

and end the Ethernet Bridge service routine:

a In the Windows system tray, right-click the 3Com icon and select Exit.
b Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete to bring up the Close Program window.
c In the Close Program window, select SR Services and click End Task.

10 Run the Setup program by doing the following:

a From the Windows Start menu, select Run.
b In the Run dialog box, enter the path to start the Setup program on the

3Com CD. For example: d:srsetup.exe.

The 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Setup program starts.

11 Read the Welcome page and click Next.
12 In the Setup Complete window, click Finish.
13 If you are prompted to restart your computer, do so.

The software is now updated.

1 Turn on the power to the computer and start Windows.
2 Log in to the Windows 2000 Administrator account.
3 From the Windows Start menu, select Settings, then Control Panel.
4 Double-click the System icon.
5 In the System Properties window, select the Hardware tab.
6 In the next window, click Device Manager.
7 In the Device Manager window, expand the Network Adapters list.
8 Double-click 3Com 3CRWE62092A.

Updating Ethernet Bridge Driver Software 35

9 In the next window, select the Driver tab.
10 Click Update Driver.
11 In the Upgrade Device Driver Wizard, follow the prompts to install the upgrade:

a In the Install Hardware Device Driver window, click the Display list of known

drivers so that I can choose a specific driver radio button and click Next.

b In the next window, click Have Disk. In the dialog box, specify the directory

where you downloaded the software and click Continue.

12 When the installation is finished, click Finish.

The 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Setup window appears, in which you specify the
Ethernet Bridge configuration.

13 In the 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Client Setup window, select Typical and

click Next.

For the fastest installation, it is recommended that you use the typical settings.
You can customize the configuration later. Typical configures the Ethernet Bridge
with the following default values:

WLAN Service Area—Attach to any WLAN Service Area automatically

Windows NT

Security Setting—No security (Open system)

14 In the Summary window, review the Ethernet Bridge setup. To install the software

utilities, check the Start client software installation when finished box.

15 If the 3Com WLAN Launcher is already running, it is recommended that you exit it

and end the Ethernet Bridge service routine:

a In the Windows system tray, right-click the 3Com icon and select Exit.
b Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete to bring up the Close Program window.
c In the Close Program window, select SR Services and click End Task.

16 Click Finish to complete the Ethernet Bridge setup and start the software

utilities installation.

The 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Setup program starts.

17 Read the Welcome page and click Next.
18 In the Setup Complete window, click Finish.
19 If you are prompted to restart your computer, do so.

The software is now updated.

1 Turn on the power to the computer and start Windows.

2 Log in to the Windows NT Administrator account.

3 From the Windows Start menu, select Settings, then select Control Panel.

4 Double-click the Network icon.

5 In the Network window, select the Adapters tab.

6 In the Adapters tab, click Update.

7 In the Windows NT Setup window, enter the path to the directory where you

downloaded the software and click Continue.

36 CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING

8 Follow the prompts to update the driver.
9 Restart the computer.

10 If the 3Com WLAN Launcher is already running, it is recommended that you exit it

11 Run the Setup program:

12 Read the Welcome page and click Next.
13 In the Setup Complete window, click Finish.
14 If you are prompted to restart the computer, do so.

and end the Ethernet Bridge service routine:

a In the Windows system tray, right-click the 3Com icon and select Exit.
b Press Ctrl+Alt+Delete to bring up the Close Program window.
c In the Close Program window, select SR Services and click End Task.

a From the Windows Start menu, select Run.
b In the Run dialog box, enter the path to start the Setup program on the

3Com CD. For example, d:srsetup.exe.

The 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Setup program starts.

Upgrading Ethernet Bridge Firmware

The software is now updated.

Firmware is the software that is installed on the Ethernet Bridge at the factory. Some
problems can be solved by installing a new version of the firmware (upgrading
firmware). The following firmware upgrade procedure describes how to download a
firmware update from the 3Com customer support Web site and install it on your
Ethernet Bridge.

1 Log on to the 3Com Web site at http://www.3com.com.
2 Navigate to the product support page.
3 Navigate to the software download page and locate the files you want

to download.

4 Follow the prompts to download the files into a directory on your computer.
5 Make sure that the computer is plugged into an AC power source and that the

Ethernet Bridge is inserted.

6 Double click the 3Com icon in the Windows system tray.
7 In WLAN Launcher, click the Hammer icon.
8 In the Tools tab, double click the Firmware Upgrade icon.
9 In the Firmware Upgrade Tool window, enter the firmware file location path in the

space provided. This is the directory name you selected when you downloaded the
firmware upgrade from the 3Com customer support Web site.

If you do not remember the file location, click Browse, locate the firmware
upgrade file you downloaded, and click OK. The file is loaded automatically into
the Firmware Filename space.

10 Click Upgrade.
11 Read the Firmware Upgrade Warning information and click OK.

Upgrading Ethernet Bridge Firmware 37

When the upgrade is finished, restart the computer.

38 CHAPTER 5: TROUBLESHOOTING

A

TECHNICAL SUPPORT

3Com provides easy access to technical support information through a variety of
services. This appendix describes these services.

Information contained in this appendix is correct at time of publication. For the
most recent information, 3Com recommends that you access the 3Com
Corporation World Wide Web site.

Online Technical Services

World Wide Web Site To access the latest networking information on the 3Com Corporation World

3Com Knowledgebase

Web Services

3Com FTP Site Download drivers, patches, software, and MIBs across the Internet from the 3Com

3Com offers worldwide product support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, through
the following online systems:

■ World Wide Web site

■ 3Com Knowledgebase Web Services

■ 3Com FTP site

Wide Web site enter this URL into your Internet browser:

http://www.3com.com/

This service provides access to online support information, such as technical
documentation and software library, as well as support options that range from
technical education to maintenance and professional services.

This interactive tool contains technical product information compiled by 3Com
expert technical engineers around the globe. Located on the World Wide Web at

http://knowledgebase.3com.com, this service gives all 3Com customers and

partners complementary, around-the-clock access to technical information on
most 3Com products.

public FTP site. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

To connect to the 3Com FTP site, enter the following information into your FTP
client:

■ Hostname: ftp.3com.com

■ Username: anonymous

■ Password: <your Internet e-mail address>

You do not need a user name and password with Web browser software, such as
Netscape Navigator and Internet Explorer.

40 APPENDIX A: TECHNICAL SUPPORT

Support from Your Network Supplier

If you require additional assistance, consult your network supplier. Many suppliers
are authorized 3Com service partners who are qualified to provide a variety of
services, including network planning, installation, hardware maintenance,
application training, and support services.

When you contact your network supplier for assistance, have the following
information ready:

■ Product model name, part number, and serial number

■ A list of system hardware and software, including revision levels

■ Diagnostic error messages

■ Details about recent configuration changes, if applicable

If you are unable to consult your network supplier, see the following section on
how to contact 3Com.

Support from 3Com 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, call the 3Com technical telephone
support phone number at the location nearest you.

When you contact 3Com for assistance, have the following information ready:

■ Product model name, part number, and serial number

■ A list of system hardware and software, including revision levels

■ Diagnostic error messages

■ Details about recent configuration changes, if applicable

Here is a list of worldwide technical telephone support numbers. These numbers
are correct at the time of publication. Refer to the 3Com Web site for updated
information.

Country Telephone Number
Asia, Pacific Rim

Australia
Hong Kong
India

Indonesia
Japan
Malaysia
New Zealand
Pakistan
Philippines
P.R. of China

Singapore
S. Korea
From anywhere in S. Korea:
From Seoul:
Taiwan, R.O.C.
Thailand

1 800 678 515
800 933 486
[phone] or

000800 6501111
001 800 61 009
03 5783 1270
1800 801 777
0800 446 398
[phone]
1235 61 266 2602
10800 61 00137 or

021 6350 1590 or

00800 0638 3266
800 6161 463
82 2 3455 6455
00798 611 2230
00798 611 2230
0080 611 261
001 800 611 2000

Support from 3Com 41

Country Telephone Number
Europe, Middle East, and Africa

From anywhere in these regions, call:

Europe and South Africa

From the following countries, you may use the toll-free numbers:

Austria
Belgium
Denmark
Finland
France
Germany
Hungary
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Luxembourg
Netherlands
Norway
Poland
Portugal
South Africa
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
U.K.

Latin America

Brazil
Mexico
Puerto Rico
Central and South America

North America 1 800 527 8677

[phone] phone
[phone] fax

0800 297468
0800 71429
800 17309
0800 113153
0800 917959
0800 1821502
06800 12813
1800 553117
1800 9453794
800 8 79489
0800 3625
0800 0227788
800 11376
00800 3111206
0800 831416
0800 995014
900 983125
020 795482
0800 55 3072
0800 966197

0800 13 3266
01 800 849CARE
800 666 5065
AT&T [phone]

42 APPENDIX A: TECHNICAL SUPPORT

Returning Products
for Repair

Before you send a product directly to 3Com for repair, you must first obtain an
authorization number. Products sent to 3Com without authorization numbers will
be returned to the sender unopened, at the sender’s expense. To obtain an
authorization number, call or fax:

Country Telephone Number Fax Number

Asia, Pacific Rim [phone] [phone]

Europe, South Africa, and
Middle East

Central and South America 525 201 0075

Argentina
Bolivia
Brazil

Caribbean
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Mexico
Paraguay
Peru
Uruguay
Venezuela

From the following countries, you may call the toll-free numbers; select option 2 and
then option 2:

Austria
Belgium
Denmark
Finland
France
Germany
Hungary
Ireland
Israel
Italy
Netherlands
Norway
Poland
Portugal
South Africa
Spain
Sweden
Switzerland
U.K.

U.S.A. and Canada 1 800 NET 3Com

[phone] [phone]

0810 222 3266
511 241 1691
0800 133266 or

55 11 5643 2700
525 201 0004
562 240 6200
525 201 0004
525 201 0004
525 201 0004
525 201 0004
511 241 1691
525 201 0004
525 201 0004

0800 297468
0800 71429
800 17309
0800 113153
0800 917959
0800 1821502
00800 12813
1800553117
1800 9453794
1678 79489
0800 0227788
800 11376
00800 3111206
0800 831416
0800 995014
900 983125
020 795482
0800 55 3072
0800 966197

(1 800 638 3266)

Enterprise Customers:
1 800 876 3266

1 408 326 7120
(not toll-free)

INDEX

Numbers

128-bit Dynamic Security Link 17, 24, 26
128-bit Shared Key Encryption 17, 25
3Com Administrator Utilities CD 9
3Com CDs 9
3Com End User Utilities CD 9
3Com icon, in Windows system tray 20
3Com Knowledgebase Web Services 39
3Com URL 39
3Com WLAN Configuration Utility 20
3Com WLAN Launcher 19
40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi) security 16, 24

A

access point 5
ad hoc network 5, 6, 27
antenna, adjusting 10
association 5
association, maintaining across

subnets

26

Auto Network Connect 26

B

base station 5
buttons, 3Com WLAN Launcher 19

C

changing passwords

user

29

clients, wireless, defined 5
computer requirements 9
configuration 6

ad hoc, defined 6
custom 16
examples 6

utility 20
configuring network settings 23
confirming the installation 15
connection (association) 5
continuous access mode 28
custom configuration 16

D

DHCP server 26, 29
disk factory 10
diskettes, installation from 10
Dynamic Security Link 24, 26

E

encryption 24

string 16, 17, 24, 25
Ethernet status display 20
Extended Service Set Identity (ESSID) 6

F

firmware upgrade 36

PC Card 36

G

guidelines, security 24

H

hexadecimal keys 25

I

improving reception 10
Info tab 21
installation 11

confirming 15
firmware

PC Card
making diskettes 10
media 9
typical 12, 14

installation media requirements 9
Internet Protocol address 28
IP address 28

releasing and renewing 29
setting 26, 28

36

L

LAN, wireless 5
launcher 19
LED

PC Card

32

M

making installation diskettes 10
MIBs, downloading 39

N

network 5

ad hoc 5, 6, 27
settings, configuring 23

network association, defined 5
network supplier support 40
Network/Security tab 21, 23
No Security 24

O

online technical services 39
open system 24
operating system requirements 9
Options tab 21

P

password

changing user

PC Card

LED

32

power management

continuous access mode
power saving mode 28
setting 28

product registration 7

29

28

R

reception 10
registration 7
requirements 9
returning products for repair 42
roaming, defined 5

S

security 5

128-bit Dynamic Security Link 17,

24, 26

128-bit Shared Key 17, 25
40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi) 16, 24
and network settings 23
guidelines 24
no security 24

settings 24
server, DHCP 26, 29
service area, defined 6
set up, wireless LAN 6
settings

encryption

network, configuring 23

security 24

security and network 23
starting the 3Com WLAN Launcher 19
status 19

display, Ethernet 20
string, encryption 25

24

T

technical support

3Com Knowledgebase Web

Services

39

3Com URL 39

network suppliers 40

product repair 42
Tools tab 21, 22
troubleshooting 31

PC Card firmware 36
typical installation 12, 14

U

upgrading

PC Card firmware

URL 39

36

W

warranty, registration 7
Web browser requirements 9
Windows system tray, 3Com icon 20
wireless 5

association (connection) 5

clients, defined 5
wireless LAN 5
wireless LAN service area 6, 23
WLAN Configuration Utility 20
WLAN launcher 19
WLAN service area 6

setting up 23
World Wide Web (WWW) 39

REGULATORY COMPLIANCE INFORMATION

FCC RADIO-FREQUENCY
E

XPOSURE NOTICE

FCC PART 15 NOTICE
(A

PPLICABLE TO USE WITHIN

THE USA)

MANUFACTURER’S
D

ECLARATION OF

C

ONFORMITY

This device generates and radiates radio-frequency energy. In order to comply with FCC radio-frequency radiation exposure
guidelines for an uncontrolled environment, this equipment has to be installed and operated while maintaining a minimum
body to antenna distance of 2.5 cm.

This product does not contain any user serviceable components. Any unauthorized product changes or modifications will
invalidate 3Com’s warranty and all applicable regulatory certifications and approvals.

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.

WARNING: This equipment 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 equipment 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 equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the
interference by one or more of the following measures:

■ Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

■ Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

■ Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from the one which the receiver is connected to.

■ Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

The user may find the following booklet prepared by the Federal Communications Commission helpful:

The Interference Handbook

This booklet is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402. Stock No. 004-000-00345-4.

3Com Corporation

5400 Bayfront Plaza
P.O. Box 58145
Santa Clara, CA 95054-8145
[phone]

Declares that the product:

Date: 1 December 2001
Brand Name: 3Com Corporation
Model Number: WL-308
Equipment Type: Wireless Ethernet LAN Bridge

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.

INDUSTRY CANADA NOTICE
(A

PPLICABLE TO USE WITHIN

C

ANADA)

AVIS DE CONFORMITÉ À LA
R

ÉGLEMENTATION

D’INDUSTRIE CANADA

EUROPEAN COMMUNITY - CE
N

OTICE

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

To prevent radio interference to the licensed service, this device is intended to be operated indoors and away from windows to
provide maximum shielding. Equipment (or its transmit antenna) that is installed outdoors is subject to licensing.

Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conform à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.

Pour empêcher que cet appareil cause du brouillage au service faisant l'objet d'une licence, cet appareil doit être utilisé à
l'intérieur seulement et devrait être placé loin des fenêtres afin de fournir un écran de blindage maximal.

Marking by the symbol:

indicates compliance of this equipment to the R&TTE Directive 1999/5/EC. Such marking is indicative that this equipment meets
or exceeds the following technical standards:

■ ETS 300 328 - Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum Matters (ERM); Wideband Transmission systems; data

transmission equipment operating in the 2,4 GHz ISM band and using spread spectrum modulation techniques

■ ETS 300 826 - Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum Matters (ERM); ElectroMagnetic Compatibility (EMC)

standard for 2,4 GHz wideband transmission systems and HIgh PErformance Radio Local Area Network (HIPERLAN)
equipment

■ ES 59005 - Considerations for the evaluation of human exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF's) from mobile

telecommunication equipment (MTE) in the frequency range 30 MHz - 6 GHz

■ EN 55022 - Limits and Methods of Measurement of Radio Interference Characteristics of Information Technology

Equipment. (CISPR 22 Class B).

■ EN 60950 - Safety of information technology equipment, including electrical business equipment.

SAFETY COMPLIANCE NOTICE This device has been tested and certified according to the following safety standards and is intended for use only in Information

Technology Equipment which has been tested and certified to these or other equivalent standards:

■ UL Standard 1950 / CSA C22.2 No. 950

■ IEC 60950

■ EN 60950

Published September, 2001

User Guide Version 2.0.3