User’s Guide
Compaq Wireless LAN MultiPort W200
July 2002
This guide provides information on installing and setting up the
Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 as well as tips on solving
common problems.
© 2002 Compaq Information Technologies Group, L.P.
Compaq and t he Compaq logo are trademarks of Compaq Information
T echnologies Group, L.P . in the U.S. and/or other countries.
Microsoft, Windows, and Windows NT are trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries.
All otherproduct names mentioned hereinmaybe trademarks of theirrespective
companies.
Compaq shall not be liable for technical or editorial errors or omissions
contained herein. The information is provided “as is” without warranty of any
kind and is subject to change without notice. The warranties for Compaq
products are set forth in the express limited warranty statements accompanying
such products. Nothing herein should be construed as constituting an additional
warranty.
User’s Guide
First Edition (J uly 2002)
1 Getting Started
Introduction . . . ................................ 1–1
UsingaWirelessLocalAreaNetwork........... 1–1
FeaturesandRequirements ....................... 1–2
SelectingaNetworkMode........................ 1–3
Peer-to-PeerNetwork........................ 1–3
BaseStationNetwork........................ 1–3
2 Installing Software & Hardware
Beforeyoustart................................ 2–1
PreparingforInstallation......................... 2–2
InstallingSoftware.............................. 2–3
InstallingtheWirelessLANMultiPortW200......... 2–7
RemovingtheMultiportCover................. 2–7
■ Notebookcomputers....................... 2–7
■ Desktopcomputers........................ 2–7
Contents
MountingtheWirelessLANMultiPortW200..... 2–8
■ Notebookcomputers....................... 2–8
■ Desktopcomputers........................ 2–8
CompletingtheInstallation.................... 2–9
3 Using the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200
Introduction . . . ................................ 3–1
RadioAntennas............................. 3–1
Maintenance................................ 3–1
User’s Guid e iii
UsingtheClientManager ........................ 3–2
StartingClientManager....................... 3–2
ViewWirelessLinkQuality................... 3–2
View/ModifyWirelessSettings................. 3–3
DisableRadio .............................. 3–4
EnableRadio............................... 3–5
RemovingtheWirelessLANMultiPortW200..... 3–5
■ Notebookcomputers....................... 3–6
■ Desktopcomputers........................ 3–6
FindingInformation............................. 3–7
4 Advanced Operations
Introduction . . . ................................ 4–1
SetupandManageUserProfiles................... 4–2
Manage Profiles with Windows XP ............. 4–2
Manage Profiles with Windows 98/2000 ......... 4–3
■ CreateaWirelessConfigurationProfile........ 4–4
■ Customize your Wireless Configuration Profiles . 4–7
■ ActivateWirelessConfigurationProfiles....... 4–8
Disable/EnabletheWirelessLANMultiPortW200.... 4–9
SecureyourWirelessNetwork.................... 4–10
EncryptionOptions......................... 4–10
■ EncryptionKeyFormats................... 4–11
■ EncryptionKeyDistribution................ 4–12
Diagnostic Options............................. 4–13
Basic Diagnostics .......................... 4–13
Advanced Diagnostics. ...................... 4–13
■ Card Diagnostics. . . ...................... 4–14
■ LinkTest............................... 4–14
■ SiteMonitor ............................ 4–14
DisplayVersionInformation.................. 4–14
iv User’sGuide
A Specifications
PhysicalSpecifications...........................A–1
PowerCharacteristics ........................A–1
NetworkingCharacteristics....................A–1
RegulatoryInformation..........................A–2
RadioCharacteristics.........................A–2
B Troubleshooting
UsingtheWorldWideWeb.......................B–1
Preparing to Call Technical Support .............B–1
SolvingCommonProblems.......................B–2
User’s Guid e v
Getting Started
Introduction
The Compaq Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 allows you to
access wireless L ocal Area Networks, share a local printer and
files with others in your network, access the Internet, and roam
about the office—wire-free.
This wireless Local Area Network solution is designed for both
large and small businesses, and it is scalable so that you can add
users and new network features as your networking needs grow.
Using a Wireless Local Area Network
1
This product is a Local Area Network ( LAN) de vice. A LAN is
two or more computers that are connected to each other in order
to share files or common equipment such as a printer or a modem.
A wireless LAN provides the same functionality of a wired
network, but it eliminates the need to install networking cables
and other networking equipment. Not only is a wireless LAN
easier to deploy, but it also allows for “roaming.”
For example, when using a notebook computer with a Wireless
LAN MultiPort W200, you can roam from a conference room to
an office without being disconnected from the network.
User’s Guid e 1-1
Getting Started
Features and Requ irements
This wireless LAN product includes the following features:
■ Support for the IEEE 802.11b Standard
■ 2.4-GHz band operation
■ Network speeds up to 11 Mbps
■ Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption
To participate in a wireless LAN, you need the following items:
■ Compaq Wireless LAN MultiPort W200
■ Software CD containing application, drivers, software
reference guide, and help file
■ A computer with a MultiPort bay, a CD drive, and Microsoft
Windows98 SE,Windows2000 Professional, or WindowsXP
Professional or Hom e Edition.
The Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 is WiFi (Wireless Fidelity)
certified and will work with any other WiFi certified base station
or wireless client adapter.
1-2 User’s Guide
Selecting a Network Mode
A wireless LAN can be configured for two different modes of
operation. While each method has its advantages, one may be
better suited for your needs. R eview the following configurations
to determine which mode is best for you.
■ “Peer-to-Peer Network”
■ “Base Station Network”
Peer-to-Peer Network
Also called “ad hoc” network. This mode is the easiest to deploy
and is ideal for small offices. As a user on this type of network,
you are able to share files with other e mployees, print to a shared
office printer, and access the Internet through a shared modem.
However, with peer-to-peer networking your computer is only
able to communicate with other wireless computers that are
within range and in your wireless workgroup.
Getting Started
Characteristics • Networked computers send data di rectly to
each other
Advantages • Simple to set up
• Cost-efficient
Disadvantages • Communication is limited to those who are in
range
Base St ation Network
Also called “infrastructure” network.The key difference between
a wireless Base Station network and a peer-to-peer network is the
addition of one extra element—the base station or access point.
Additionally, the wireless Base Station can provide access to an
existing wired LAN. This link allows computers on the
infrastructure wireless LAN to access the other wired LAN’s
resources and tools, including Internet access, electronic mail
delivery, file transfer, and printer sharing.
User’s Guid e 1-3
Getting Started
Characteristics Networked computers communicate with each
Advantages Extended range: The access point extends the
other through a dedicated base station.
All data transmitted between the computers on
this wireless LAN passes through the base
station.
range of the wireless LAN. Each computer can
communicate with other computers equipped
for wireless networking that are within the
range of the access point.
Roaming: As you move throughout the
building, the Wireless LAN M ultiPort W200
determines the best access point to use to
ensure continuous communication with the
network.
Network connectivity: An access point can
provide wireless LAN access to an existing
wired network by br idging the two networks
together. This gives users of the wireless LAN
access to all the functions of a wired
network—from file serveraccess to electronic
mail and the Internet.
Disadvantages Because this network mode offers m ore
features, i t requires additional components and
setup time to deploy.
Requirements One base station, such as the:
• WL310 Wireless Home Office Gateway
• WL410 Wireless SMB Access Point
• WL510 Wireless Ent erprise Access Point
1-4 User’s Guide
2
Installing Software & Hardware
Before you start
Read and follow these guidelines where applicable:
■ New Computers—Before installing the Wireless LAN
MultiPort W200, complete the system software setup process
and ensure that your operating system is fully operational.
Refer to the Ge tting Started guide included with your
computer for instructions.
■ Existing Computers—If you previously installed a wireless
LAN device, such as a WL110 Wireless PC Card or WL215
Wireless USB Adapter, you must uninstall the wireless LAN
drivers and software according to the device manufacturer’s
instructions.
User’s Guid e 2-1
Installing S oftware & H ardw are
Preparing for Installation
The Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 Software CD includes a
wizard that will guide you through the installation and install the
correct drivers and software for your computer.
To ensure a successful installation, follow these guidelines.
1. Ask your network administrator for the settings that apply in
your wireless network.
Alternatively:
❏ Consult your peers for this information.
❏ Consult the documentation that came with your base
station equipment for its default settings.
2. Install Software before Hardware (page 2-3).
3. Turn off the computer and install the Wireless LAN
MultiPort W200 (page 2-7).
4. Turn on the computer again and complete the system
software setup process.
After completing the installation, refer to the Microsoft Windows
operating system manual, included with your computer, for
information on sharing network resources such as printers.
2-2 User’s Guide
Installing Software
1. Turn on your computer.
2. Insert the Compaq Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 Software
CD into the CD drive of your computer.
The CD-ROM will start automatically and display the screen
pictured below.
Installing Softw are & Hardwa re
If the CD-ROM does not start automatically, consult “ Solving
Common Problems” on page B-2.
3. Click the button “Start”.
Some screens in the wizard look different for computers running
Microsoft Windows XP Professional or Home Edition.
This is because the architecture of this operating system behaves
differently when compared to Windows 98 SE or Windows 2000
Professional. If your c omputer runs Windows XP, skip steps 4
through 8 and continue with step 9 on page 2-6.
4. Select “Identify Settings” (not applicable for Windows XP).
Follow the instructions on your screen and:
❏ Click the button “Next” to proceed to the next step.
User’s Guid e 2-3
Installing S oftware & H ardw are
❏ Clickthebutton“Back”toreturntothepreviousscreen.
5. Select the type of network to whichyou wish to connect your
computer.
Consult the section page 1-3 ‘Selecting a Network Mode’ for
more information.
6. Enter the name of your wireless network.
The Network Name is also referred to as Service Set
Identification Designator (SSID).
7. Select the Security Settings
2-4 User’s Guide
Installing Softw are & Hardwa re
To secure your wireless communications, use this screen to
enable data encryption and enter the Encryption Key.
Your selection on this window must match the values of the
Base Station or your peer-to-peer group partners.
Valid values are:
❏ 5 or 13-digit alphanumeric keys
❏ 10 or 26-digit hexadecimal keys, preceded by 0x.
For more information about encryption keys, consult the
electronic user’s guide provided on the CD-ROM.
8. Click the “Next” button to return to the screen “Setup
Overview for Windows”.
User’s Guid e 2-5
Installing S oftware & H ardw are
9. Click the link “Install Driver & Client Manager”.
This will install the correct drivers for your computer and the
Client Manager tool.
10. Now close the installation wizard and continue with page
2-7 ‘Installing the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200’ .
2-6 User’s Guide
Installing Softw are & Hardwa re
Installing the Wireless LAN Mu l tiP ort W200
Removing the Multiport Cover
1. Turn off your computer.
2. Disconnect all external devices connected to the c omputer,
including AC power.
If you have a notebook c omputer, remove all battery pack(s)
from the computer.
3. Perform the following steps according to your computer
model.
Notebook computers Desktop computers
a. Remove the Phillipsscrew securing the M ultiPort cover
to the computer.
b. Slide the cover from its position:
■ For notebooks, slide toward the front of the
computer.
■ For desktops, slide toward the back of the computer.
c. Finally slide the cover to the right to remove it from
your computer.
Save the cover so you can reinstall it on the computer if you
choose to remove the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 at a later
date.
User’s Guid e 2-7
Installing S oftware & H ardw are
Mounting the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200
Perform the following steps according to your computer model.
Notebook computers Desktop computers
1. Place the module in the MultiPortbay,making sure to rest the
tabs on the back of the module against the rear wall of the
MultiPort bay.
2. Press down on the left rear corner of the Wireless LAN
MultiPort W200
.
3. Slide the Wireless LAN M ultiPort W200 into position until
the connectors are seated:
❏ For notebooks, slide towards the back of the computer
❏ For desktop models slide towards the front of the
computer.
CAUTION: Do not slide the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 any further
than the lengthof the tabs on the backedge of the module. Doing so can
damage t he connectors inside the module and computer.
4. Install the Phillips screw to secure the Wireless LAN
MultiPort W200 to the computer.
5. Reconnect all external devices, including AC power.
If you have a notebook computer, reinstall the battery pack(s).
2-8 User’s Guide
6. Turn on the computer and continue with page
2-9 ‘Completing the Installation’ .
Completing the Installation
When you turn on your c omputer, the Windows operating system
will find a new USB device and start the “New Hardware
Wizard”. Allow it to guide you through the driver installation
process.
If you are using a notebook computer and Windows does not find
the device, press
W200.
A steady green Power LED on the Wireless LAN MultiPort
W200 indicates:
Fn+F2 to turn on the Wireless LAN M ultiPort
Installing Softw are & Hardwa re
■ The module is properly connected to your computer
■ The driver has been installed and loaded correctly.
If the LED is not gr een consult the section “Troubleshooting”.
If the LED is green but you are not able to connect to the
network, the default Encryption Key index number as set by the
Compaq Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 wizard may not match
the one of the Base Station devices in your network.
To resolve this mismatch:
a. Consult your LAN Administrator for the default index
number of the transmit key.
b. Skip to page 3-3 ‘View/Modify Wireless Settings’ for
instructions to adjust the transmit key value for your
wireless adapter.
User’s Guid e 2-9
Usin g the Wireless LAN
Introduction
This chapter provides general information on how to use your
Compaq Wireless LAN MultiPort W200.
It also shows you how to use the Client Manager tool to:
■ View Wireless Link Quality
■ View/Modify Wireless Settings
■ Disable/Enable the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 radio.
Radio Antennas
3
MultiP ort W200
The built-in radio and antennas of your Wireless LAN MultiPort
W200 performbest in an open environment with as few obstacles
as possible. To achieve the maximum range for wireless
communications, do not cover the Wireless LAN MultiPort
W200 device with any objects.
Maintenance
To clean the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200, gently wipeit with a
soft (damp) cloth. To avoid damage to the Wireless LAN
MultiPort W200 do not use a brasive materials,or rinse the device
with liquids.
User’s Guid e 3-1
Using the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200
Using the Client Manager
You can use the Client Manager to:
■ Verify the quality of your wireless connection to the network.
■ View/Modify the settings of your wireless connection.
■ Disable the radio of the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200
The Client Manager icon resides in the “System Tray” of your
Windows task bar at the right-bottom side of your screen.
■ Click the icon once with your left m ouse button to retrieve a
more detailed status overview.
■ Click the icon once with your rightmouse button to display a
menu with more options.
Starting Client Manager
The Client Manager will start automatically every time you
power up your computer.
If your Client Manager icon is not visible:
1. Click the Start button from the Windows task bar.
2. Select Programs, and then select the Compaq Wireless
LAN program group.
3. Next select Client Manager to start the program.
View Wireless Link Quality
The Client Manager icon indicates the wireless link quality of
your network connection.
3-2 User’s Guide
Icon Color Description
Green Excellent radio connection
Green Good radio connection
Yellow Marginal radio connection:
The radio signal is weak. Move closer to the Base
Station
Red Poor radio connection:
The radio signal is very weak. Save your files and
move closer to the Base Station.
Red No radio connection because:
• Looking for initial connection, or
• You have moved out of range of the network.
Blank No wireless interface detected or Peer-to-Peer
network connection.
Using the Wi reless LAN M ulti Port W2 00
View/Modify Wireless Settings
Some screens in the Client Manager look different for computers
running Microsoft Windows XP Professional Edition or
Windows XP Home Edition. This is because the architecture of
this operating system behaves differently when compared to
Windows 98 SE or Windows 2000 Professional.
1. Right-click on the Client Manager icon.
2. From the menu, select Configuration Profile and select:
❏ Add/Edit Profileto add a new profile or to modify an
existing profile.
❏ One of the existing profiles (ifpresent)toselectanother
profile without viewing or modifying the settings.
Note: This option is not available for computers running
Windows XP Professional Edition or Home Edition.
User’s Guid e 3-3
Using the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200
Alternatively you can change the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200
settings via the Control Panel:
1. Click the Start button from the Windows task bar.
2. Point to Settings, and click Control Panel.
3. In the ControlPanel window, double-click the Wireless USB
Network icon.
4. (Optional) Change the parameters you would like to modify,
and click:
❏ the OK button to confirm your changes, or
❏ the Cancel button to ignore your modifications.
Disable Radio
Local safety regulations may restrict the use of wireless
equipment in specific locations. For example on-board of a plane
or in a hospital environment.
If such regulations require you to switch off radio equipment:
1. Right-click the Client Manager icon on your task bar.
2. SelectDisable Radioto disableyour WirelessLAN MultiPort
W200.
3-4 User’s Guide
Using the Wi reless LAN M ulti Port W2 00
CAUTION: When you disable the radio you will lose your
connection to the network. Before youdisable theradio, make sure
you have closed all files and network applications (such as E-mail).
Enable Radio
To enable the radio again:
1. Right-click the Client Manager icon on your task bar.
2. SelectEnable Radioto activateyour WirelessLAN MultiPort
W200.
Removing the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200
If you do not nee d the wireless connectivity of your Wireless
LAN MultiPort W200, you can disconnect and remove the
Wireless LAN MultiPort W200.
CAUTION: When you remove the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 you will
lose your connection to the network. Before you remove the Wireless
LAN MultiPort W200, make sure you have closed all files and network
applications (such as E-mail).
Before you start, turn off the computer, disconnect all external
cables (including AC power), and remove all battery packs.
See the following illustrations and perform the following steps
according to your computer model.
User’s Guid e 3-5
Using the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200
Notebook computers Desktop computers
1. Remove the Phillips screw securing the Wireless LAN
MultiPort W200 to the computer.
2. Press the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 release button.
3. Slide the Wireless LAN M ultiPort W200 from its position:
❏ For notebooks, slide toward the front of the computer.
❏ For desktops, slide toward the back of the computer.
4. Slide the Wireless LAN M ultiPort W200 to the right to
remove it.
CAUTION: Do not slide the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 any further
than the length of the tabs on the back of the module. Doing so can
damage t he connectors inside the module and computer.
5. Reinstall the MultiPort cover and secure it to the computer
using the Phillips screw.
3-6 User’s Guide
Finding Information
For more information than contained in this User ’s Guide, please
consult one of the following options:
■ The Compaq Wireless LAN on-line help system:
a. Right-click the Client Manager icon on your task bar.
b. Select Help Contents
■ http://www.compaq.com/products/wireless - for frequently
asked questions (FAQ’s) and Software Updates.
■ The user’s guide provided on the CD-ROM.
■ The Microsoft Windows operating system manual, included
with your computer, for information on sharing network
resources such as printers.
Using the Wi reless LAN M ulti Port W2 00
User’s Guid e 3-7
Introduction
This chapter provides detailed information on how to use your
Compaq Wireless LAN MultiPort W200.
It also shows you how to use the Client Manager tool to:
■ Set up and Manage Use r P rofiles
■ Secure your Wireless Network
■ Diagnostic Options
■ Disable/Enable the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200.
Some screens and procedures in this chapter will look different
for computers running Microsoft Windows XP Professional
4
Advanced Operations
Edition or Windows XP Home Edition. This is because the
architecture of this operating system behaves differently when
compared to Windows 98 SE or Windows 2000 Professional.
The tablebelow provides the differencesbetween both systems at
aglance.
Feature MS-Windows XP MS-Windows 98 SE/2000
Multiple Wireless
Configuration Profiles
Detect Wireless Networks Automatically Via Scan button on the
Signal Quality/Access to
Configuration Profiles
Connect to Profile Automatically
802.1x Support Includedwithoperating
Yes, referred to as
Preferred Network
•viaNetworkIconon
task bar
• via Client Manager
accordingtoorderin
list of Preferred
Networks
system
Yes, referred to as
Configuration Profile
Configuration Panel
via Client Manager
Manually at user’s choice
via Client Manager
Available via third-party
supplicants
User’s Guid e 4-1
Advanced Operations
Set up and Manage User Profiles
If you use your wireless computers on different sites or locations,
Wireless Configuration Profiles can help you to:
■ Store the settings that apply on different locations
■ Switch between these profiles.
The process of managing Configuration Profiles differs between
computers running Microsoft Windows XP Professional and
Home edition, and the other Windows versions.
Manage Profiles with Windows XP
In Windows XP the Wireless Configuration Profiles are referred
to as “Preferred Networks”. To create or modify your profiles:
1. Right-click on the Client Manager icon.
2. From the menu, select Configuration Profile, Add/Edit
Profile
This will open the “Wireless Network Connection
Properties” Window.
3. For more information about managing your profiles click the
help button for Microsoft online help.
Alternatively you can use the following procedure:
1. Click the Start button from the Windows task bar.
2. Point to Connect to,andclickWireless Network
Connection
3. On the “Wireless Network Connection Status” window,
click the button Properties.
4. Next, select the tab Wireless Network.
5. For more information about managing your profiles click the
help button for Microsoft online help.
4-2 User’s Guide
Adva n ced Oper at io ns
Manage Profiles with Windows 98/2000
1. Right-click on the Client Manager icon.
2. From the menu, select Configuration Profile, Add/Edit
Profile
This will open the “Add/Edit Configuration Profile” window
that allows you to:
❏ Add new Wireless Configuration Profiles
❏ Edit existing Wireless Configuration Profiles
❏ Remove Wireless Configuration Profiles.
In MS-Windows 98 and MS-Widows 2000 you can assign your
own names to Wireless Configuration Profiles.
If you followed the instructions of the CD-Wizard on the
CD-ROM of your Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 CD-ROM, the
first profile with the name “default” is already installed and
active.
To add/edit profiles, consult your LAN Administrator for settings
that apply within your network.
User’s Guid e 4-3
Advanced Operations
Create a Wireless Configuration Profile
1. Open the “Add/Edit Configuration Profile” window as
described in the previous section.
2. Click the button “Add”.
This will open the “Edit configuration Window”
3. Enter a name for the new profile, and select the type of
connection for this profile:
❏ Select Access Point to connect to Base Station devices
like the Compaq WL410 Access Point or WL510 Access
Point
❏ Select Residential Gateway to connect to a Base Station
device like the WL310 Home Office Gateway
❏ Select Peer-to-Peer to connect to a Peer-to-Peer
Group.devices.
See page 1-3 for more information about network types.
4. Click “Next” to identify the settings that apply for your
network.
4-4 User’s Guide
Adva n ced Oper at io ns
5. On the Network Name window, enter the Network Name
(SSID) that applies in your network.
❏ Valid values are any alphanumeric string in the range of
a-z, A-Z, 0-9 with a maximum of 32 characters. The
Network Name is case sensitive and may also include
special characters or spaces.
❏ Optionally click the “Scan” button to display a list of all
wireless networks within range of your computer.
6. Click “Next” to proceed to the Security Settings window.
User’s Guid e 4-5
Advanced Operations
Valid values are:
■ 5 or 13-digitalphanumeric keys in ASCII characters
■ 10 or 26-digit hexadecimal keys.
See also “Secure your Wireless Network” on page 4-10.
7. Click “Next” to open the Power Management Settings
window.
8. Select the option of your c hoice and click “Next” to continue.
4-6 User’s Guide
Adva n ced Oper at io ns
9. On the TCP/IP behavior window, select the option of your
choice.
❏ If your Wireless Configuration Profiles connect to
networks that use different IP Address ranges and
subnets, enable the tick box.
❏ If all your profiles connect to wireless networks that use
identical IP Address ranges, you can clear this tick box.
10. Click “Next” to return to the “Add/Edit Profile window”.
11. Click “OK” to activate the highlighted profile.
Customize your Wireless Configuration Profiles
To view/modify a profile:
1. Open the “Add/Edit Profiles” window as described on
page 4-3.
2. From the list of available profiles, select the profile of your
choice and click the “Edit” button.
3. Repeat steps 3 through 11 of the previous section.
User’s Guid e 4-7
Advanced Operations
To remove a profile:
1. Open the “Add/Edit Profiles” window as described on
page 4-3.
2. From the list of available profiles, select the profile of your
choice and click the “Delete” button.
3. Click “OK” to confirm your choice and activate the
highlighted profile.
Activate Wireless Con f iguration Profiles
On computers running Ms-Windows 98 SE or Windows 2000
Professional Edition, the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 will
only switch between Wireless Configuration Profiles at user
command.
See page 3-3 of this document f or information on how to activate
another configuration profile.
4-8 User’s Guide
Adva n ced Oper at io ns
Disable/Enable the Wireless LAN MultiPort
W200
If you are using the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 on a
battery-powered computer, you may wish to:
■ Disable the Wireless LAN M ultiPort W200 to safe battery
power, for example when you are working out of range of a
wireless network.
■ Enable the Wireless LAN M ultiPort W200 to (re-)establish a
wireless connection.
CAUTION: When you disable the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 you will
lose your connection to the network. Before you disable the module,
make sure you have closed all files and network applications (such as
E-mail).
■ To disable the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200, press the two
keyboard keys Fn and F2 simultaneously.
The LED on the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 will go out.
■ To enable the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200, press the two
keyboard keys Fn and F2 aga in.
The LED on the Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 will turn
green.
User’s Guid e 4-9
Advanced Operations
Secure your Wireless Network
In a wireless LAN, data can travel through the air inside and
outside buildings. Most wireless LAN systems allow you to use
the equipment with or without security.
■ Without security options, it is easy to setup a wireless
connection, but anyone with compatible wireless LAN
equipment can capture data and eavesdrop on wireless LAN
information.
■ With security options, you can shield your wireless data from
unauthorized users. Note however that for optimal security
you will also need to apply additional security measures like:
❏ Proper Management of User Names and Passwords for
the networking operating system.
❏ Proper management of access rights when using the
MS-Windows features to share files and printers, or
internet connections.
This section will describe the Encryption features of your
Wireless LAN MultiPort W200.
Consult the user documentation that came with your wireless
Base Station devices for information about:
■ Using “Closed System” mode as supported by the Compaq
WL410 Access Point and WL510 Ac cess Point.
■ Access Control based on static MAC Address filtering at the
Base Station or dedicated RADIUS Server.
■ IEEE 802.1x dynamic encryption key distribution.
Encryption Options
The Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 supports two types of
security:
■ Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption based on 64-bit
encryption keys (also referred t o as 40-bit keys).
■ 128-bit encryption keys based on the RC4 algorithm (also
referred to as 104-bit keys).
4-10 User’s Guide
Adva n ced Oper at io ns
Encryption is the process of encoding data before the radio of
your Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 or the Base Station will
transmit the data.
Each wireless computer or Base Station in the network needs to
know the correct key to decode and interpret the data correctly.
Encryption Key Formats
You can enter the encryption key in two manners:
■ 5-digit or 13-digit alphanumeric values
■ 10-digit or 26-digit hexadecimal values.
Which key length and notation you should choose depends on:
■ The level of security you need, and
■ The other equipment used within your network.
13/26-digit keys provide more security than 5/10 digit keys.
Hexadecimal keys allow for more variation in key values.
When your network includes wireless network equipment from
different hardware vendors, consult the user documentation that
came with the hardware to determine what type of encryption
keys are supported.
The Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 installation CD includes a
conversion tool that can help you converting Alphanumeric keys
to hexadecimal keys and vice versa.
You can f ind this tool in the folder \xtras\wepcnvrt\wepcnvrt.exe.
User’s Guid e 4-11
Advanced Operations
Encryption Key Distribution
There are two ways to obtain the correct encryption keys for your
Wireless LAN MultiPort W200.
■ Manual distribution by the LAN Administrator
■ Automatic Distribution via a de dicated IEEE 802.1x
infrastructure.
Manual distribution of e ncryption keys is very common in most
networkenvironments. I n these cases the LANAdministrator sets
the encryption keys manually in each Base Station device and
wireless client.
Automatic key distribution is more secure as it allows the LAN
Administrator to change keys dynamically. This distribution
mechanism minimizes:
■ The effort of the LAN Administrators to ensure every
Wireless Client and Base Station device use a matching set of
keys.
■ The change that unauthorized users capture key values by
eavesdropping information or breaking into an individual
computer.
Automatic distribution of encryption keys requires an
infrastructure of Wireless Clients, Base Station devices and
dedicated servers that support the IEEE 802.1x EAP/TLS or
equivalent standards.
IEEE802.1x compliant server andclient softwarecan be obtained
from Microsoft or other third party vendors.
4-12 User’s Guide
Diagnostic Options
The Client Manager program that was installed together with the
drivers of your Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 allows you to:
■ Diagnose the communications quality of your wireless
connection.
■ Display the version information of your wireless LAN
software and drivers.
Basic Diagnostics
The Client Manager icon resides in the “System Tray” of your
Windows task bar at the right-bottom side of your screen.
See page 3-2 for:
■ A description of the different colors that the icon may show
Adva n ced Oper at io ns
■ Information how to start Client Manager if your Client
Manager icon is not visible.
Advanced Diagnostics
To access the advanced diagnostic options of Client Manager:
1. Click the icon once with your left m ouse button to retrieve
the detailed status overview.
2. From the m enu bar select the option Advanced to activate the
option of your choice:
❏ Card Diagnostics
❏ Link Test
❏ Site Monitor
This section will briefly introduce each of the Advanced
Diagnostic options of the Client Manager. For more details,
consult the online help system of the Client Manager application.
User’s Guid e 4-13
Advanced Operations
Card Diagnostics
Card Diagnostics allows you to perform a hardware test on your
wireless LAN adapter. It allows you to:
■ Obtain an online advice on the status of your adapter by
clicking the Advice button that will be enabled upon
completion of the test.
■ Generate a report in ASCII text format which you can send to
your technical support representative in case you e ncounter
problems using your wireless adapter.
Link Test
The Link Test allows you to perform a detailed test on the
wireless link with the Base Station on Peer-to-Peer Network
partner to which you are currently connected.
This option will prove useful to locate possible sources of radio
interference or heavy network traffic in the signal path between
your computer and one other wireless device.
Site Monitor
The Site Monitor is a tool that allows you to display the
communications quality of your c omputer with all Base Station
devices within range of your computer.
You can use this tool to perform a site survey to determine or
optimize the correct placement of Base Station devices within
your network to ensure seamless wireless connectivity.
Display Version Information
1. Click the Client Manager icon on the Windows task bar with
your right mouse button.
2. From the pop-up menu select Version Info.
This will display windows with all information about your
wireless LAN hardware and software. To capture this
information to a file, use the option Card Diagnostics.
4-14 User’s Guide
Specificat ions
Physical Specifications
Dimensions (LxWxH) 165 x 65 x 14 mm
Weight 50 gram
Temperature & Humidity (non condensing)
Operation 0° to 55° C maximum humidity 95%
Transit -40° to 80° C humidity 15 to 95%
Storage -40° to 80° C humidity 10 to 90%
Power Characteristics
Standby Mode 1mA
Receive Mode 225 mA (Nominal)
Transmit Mode 320 mA (Nominal)
Power Supply 5V and 3.3 V
A
Networking Characteristics
Compatibility • IEEE 802.11 Standard for Wireless LANS (DSSS)
• WiFi (Wireless Fidelity) certified by the Wireless
Ethernet Compatibility Alliance (WECA).
• Universal Serial Bus Revision 1.1. specification
Host Operating
System
Media Access
Protocol
• Microsoft Windows® 98 SE
• Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional
• Microsoft Windows Professional Edition
• Microsoft Windows Home Edition
CSMA/CA (Collision Avoidance) with Acknowledgment
(ACK)
User’s Guid e A-1
Specific ations
Regulatory Information
Wireless communication is often subject to local ra dio
regulations. Although wireless networking products have been
designed for operation in the license-free 2.4 GHz band, local
radio regulations may impose a number of limitations to the use
of wireless communication equipment.
Refer to the flyer “Information to the User” for more regulatory
information that may apply in your country.
Radio Characteristics
R-F Frequency Band 2.4 GHz (2400-2500 MHz)
sub-channels 1 2412
2 2417
3 2422
4 2427
5 2432
6 2437
7 2442
8 2447
9 2452
10 2457
11 2462
12 2467 ETSI approved countries
13 2472
14 2484 Japan only
Spreading 11-chip Barker Sequence
Nominal Output Power 15 dBm
Encryption 128-bit (RC4), also supports 64-bit RC4/WEP
(Wired Equivalent Privacy)
and Japan only
A-2 User’s Guide
Specification s
Modulation Technique Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum
CCK CCK DQPSK DBPSK
Range/Transmit Rate 11 Mb/s 5.5 Mb/s 2 Mb/s 1 Mb/s
Open Office 160 m
(525 ft.)
Semi-Open Office 50 m
(165 ft.)
Closed Office 25 m
(80 ft.)
Receiver Sensitivity
(Bit Error Rate 10Delay Spread
(FER of <1%)
5)
-82 dBm -87 dBm -91 dBm -94 dBm
65 ns 225 ns 400 ns 500 ns
270 m
(885 ft.)
70 m
(230 ft.)
35 m
(115 ft.)
400 m
(1300 ft.)
90 m
(300 ft.)
40 m
(130 ft.)
550 m
(1750 ft.)
115 m
(375 ft.)
50 m
(165 ft.)
The range of the wireless signal is related to the Transmit Rate of
the wireless communication. Communications at lower Transmit
Rates will travel larger distances.
■ The range of your wireless devices can be affected when the
antennas are placed near metalsurfaces and solidhigh-density
materials.
■ Range is alsoimpacted due to “obstacles” in the signal path of
the radio that may either absorb or reflect the radio signal.
The listed r ange values listed are typical distances as measured at
the Compaq laboratories. These values may provide a rule of
thumb for indoor installations, and may vary according to the
actual radio conditions at the location where the product will be
installed.
■ In Open Office environments, antennas can “see” each other,
i.e. there are no physical obstructions between them.
■ In Semi-open Office environments, work space is divided by
shoulder-height, hollow wall elements; antennas are at
desktop level.
■ In Closed Office environments, work space is separated by
floor-to-ceiling brick walls.
User’s Guid e A-3
Troubleshooting
UsingtheWorldWideWeb
Support services are available on the Internet through the
Compaq support forum. You can either browse the postings as a
guest, or register as a user and submit your own questions.
Compaq responds to questions within one business day.
To access the Compaq support forum, go to the Compaq Web site
http://www.hp.com/.
at
Preparing to Call Technical Support
If you cannot solve a problem using the troubleshooting tips in
this section, you may need to call technical support. To receive
the fastest possible solution when you call, run the computer’s
B
diagnostic utility. Refer to your c omputer documentation for
information on running diagnostics. Refer to the Worldwide
Telephone Numbers guide included with the computer for
information about contacting a Com paq authorized dealer,
reseller, or service provider. Have the following information
available before calling Compaq:
■ Compaq Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 serial number and
model name and number
■ Applicable error messages
■ Add-on options
■ Operating system
■ Third-party hardware or software
■ Detailed questions
■ Technical Support Registration number, if you have
previously called Compaq Technical Support for assistance
with your product (this number is assigned to you the first
time you call Technical Support)
User’s Guid e B-1
Troubleshooting
Solving Common Problems
The following tablelists possible problemsand the recommended
solutions.
Solving Problems
Problem Solution
Installation CD-ROM does
not start
Cannot connect t o one of the
users in the network.
• Open Windows Explorer
• NavigatetotheCD-ROMdrive
• Double-click the file “
• Make sure each network client is up and
running.
• Make sure your Network Name (SSID)
settings are correct.
• Make sure your WEP settings are correct.
• Move your computer closer to the base
station or other network client.
• Make sure the network client you need to
reach is within range, or within range of an
access point.
• Make sure the network settings ar e correct
for your local area network.
• On a notebook computer, the Wireless LAN
MultiPort W200 may not be enabled. Press
EZSetup.exe”.
Fn+F2 to enablethe Wireless LAN MultiPort
W200.
• Make sure the Wireless LAN MultiPort
W200 status light is solid green.
Contact your network administrator for other
networking issues.
B-2 User’s Guide
Solving Problems (Continued)
Problem Solution
Troubleshooting
Windows 98 SE & Windows
2000 Professional:
The Client Manager icon
does not appear in the
system tray.
Windows 98 SE & Windows
2000 Professional:
The Client Manager icon in
the system tray is always
red.
• Make sure the Wireless LAN MultiPort
W200 is seated correctly. Ref er to Chapter
2 for instructions.
• Make sure the Wireless LAN MultiPort
W200 status light is solid green. If you are
using a notebook computer and the
Wireless LAN MultiPort W200 status light is
not on, press
LAN MultiPort W200.
• Make sure the dr ivers are installed. Select
Start > Settings > Control Panel >
Network and see i f the Compaq Wireless
LAN MultiPort W200 is listed as a network
adapter.
• Refer to Chapter 2 for more information.
• The wireless LAN software may not be
installed. Refer to Chapter 2 for more
information.
• Make sureyour computer and each network
client to which you are trying to connect
have the same Network Name (SSID). The
Network Name is case sensitive.
• Make sure your WEP settings are correct.
• Make sure you are within range of an
access point or network client.
Fn+F2 to enable the W ireless
For more information consult the user’s guide provided on the
CD-ROM.
User’s Guid e B-3
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