Contec FX-DS-110-PCC User Manual

FX-DS110-PCC

FLEXLAN-DS110 Series

PC Card

User’s Guide

Copyright

Copyright 2001 CONTEC Co., LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
No part of this document may be copied or reproduced in any form

by any means without prior written consent of CONTEC Co., LTD.

CONTEC Co., LTD. makes no commitment to update or keep
current the information contained in this document.
The information in this document is subject to change without
notice.

All relevant issues have been considered in the preparation of this
document. Should you notice an omission or any questionable
item in this document, please feel free to notify
CONTEC Co., LTD.

Regardless of the foregoing statement, CONTEC assumes no
responsibility for any errors that may appear in this document nor
for results obtained by the user as a result of using this product.

Trademarks

MS, Microsoft, Windows, Windows NT, and MS-DOS are
registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the
U.S.A. and other countries.

Netscape Navigator is a registered trademark of Netscape
Communications.

Other names of companies and products used in this document
trademarks or registered trademarks of the related companies.
This document does not use the symbols ™, ®, © etc.

FX-DS110-PCC i

Product Configuration

- FX-DS110-PCC …1

- Floppy disk …1
Disk: driver - UtilitySoft
Note: Back up the contents of the disk before use.

- User’s Manual (this booklet)…1

WIRELESS LAN CARD

FX-DS110-PCC

User's Manual

User's Manual

Disk

Check the contents to make sure that you have everything listed
above. If you do not have all the items, contact your distributor
or CONTEC group office where you purchased.

FX-DS110-PCCii

Table of Contents

Copyright............................................................................i

Trademarks ........................................................................i

Product Configuration ..................................................... ii

1. Introduction .............................................................1

Features.........................................................................1

Terminology/Abbreviations...........................................2

Limited One-Year Warranty.........................................3

How to Obtain Service..................................................3

Liability.........................................................................3

Handling Precautions...................................................4

Precautions for Use.......................................................4

Notes on Radio Interference.........................................5

Precautions Related to Electromagnetic

Interference...................................................................5

About the Manual.........................................................6

2. Overview.................................................................. 7

Component Locations........................................................7

List of Options...................................................................9

Outline of the FLEXLAN-DS110 series.........................10

Features of the FLEXLAN-DS110 series...................10

Production introduction to the FLEXLAN-DS110

series............................................................................11

3. Installation of a driver ............................................ 13

Plugging the FX-DS110-PCC..........................................13

Unplugging the FX-DS110-PCC.....................................14

Installation in a network................................................15

Features of the wireless network...............................15

Operating environment and radio waves..................15

Constructing a network..............................................17

Operation of the FLEXLAN-DS110...........................18

FX-DS110-PCC iii

4. Installation of a driver ............................................ 21

Driver software ...............................................................21

Installing for Windows Me .............................................22

Installing for Windows 98...............................................23

Installing for Windows 95...............................................24

Installing for Windows 2000...........................................26

Installing for Windows NT.............................................27

Uninstallation of hardware........................................28

Uninstalling the driver in Windows Me/98/95..........28

Uninstalling the driver in Windows 2000 .................28

Uninstalling the driver in Windows NT....................28

5. Using and Setting up the Utility Software ................ 29

Installing and uninstalling the utility software............29

Installation..................................................................29

Uninstallation.............................................................30

Using and setting up the utility software......................31

Task Bar Icons ............................................................31

Communication settings .............................................32

RSSI indicating the signal strength of a radio station

.....................................................................................33

Editing the name of a radio station...........................34

6. Troubleshooting...................................................... 35

Cannot detect the LAN card automatically ...................35

When Communication Fails...........................................37

7. Appendix................................................................ 39

Product Specifications.....................................................39

Glossary...........................................................................40

FX-DS110-PCCiv

List of Figures

Figure 2.1. Component Locations............................................... 7

Figure 2.2. User unit..................................................................11

Figure 2.3. Access point............................................................11

Figure 2.4. Micro access point.................................................. 12

Figure 3.1. Infrastructure Mode................................................ 18

Figure 3.2. ADHOC Mode....................................................... 19

List of Tables

Table 2.1. LED states during normal operation............................ 8

Table 5.1. Task Bar Icons .......................................................... 31

Table 5.2. Main communication settings.................................... 32

Table 7.1. FX-DS110-PCC........................................................ 39

FX-DS110-PCC v

FX-DS110-PCCvi

1. Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the FLEXLAN-DS110series PC-Card
FX-DS110-PCC.

This product is a wireless LAN PC card that operates in the 2.4
GHz band using direct sequence spread spectrum (DSSS). It
complies with the IEEE 802.11B wireless LAN standard and can
use 1 to 11 or 13 channels.

This document explains how to use the FX-DS110-PCC. Be sure to
read it carefully so that you can use the product correctly.

Features

IEEE 802.11b compliant wireless LAN in the 2.4 GHz band

This product is a wireless LAN card using the 2.4 GHz band,
requiring no license for use.
The product complies with the IEEE 802.11b wireless LAN
standard.

Providing a wireless network environment

The product can connect your PC to the LAN without cabling. It
provides a mobile environment even for a battery-powered device
such as a notebook PC while reducing the wiring cost.

Introduction

Providing transmission in the 2.4 GHz band using direct
sequence spread spectrum (DSSS)

Spread spectrum makes it very difficult to perform radio tapping,
compared to other general radio communication systems. It also
has a characteristic of being highly immune to electromagnetic
interference.

Data transfer rate of 11 Mbps

The product switches its data rate automatically to 11, 5.5, 2, or 1
Mbps depending on the radio conditions.

Offering up to 11 or 13 channels available

As the Wireless Telegraphy Act was amended, the frequency band
available to wireless LAN was widened and maximum number of

FX-DS110-PCC 1

Introduction

channels available increased to 11(FCC model) or 13(CE model).
Using different channels for adjacent wireless networks prevents
radio interference, thereby improving the throughputs of the
network.

Capable of inter-channel roaming
PC Card (TYPE II) compliant interface

Using an option of the PC-CARD(PC)H or either the
FX-PCI-EXT2 or FX-PCI-WOL allows the FX-DS110-PCC to be
connected to an ISA or PCI bus slot.

Capable of constructing a network only with the
FX-DS110-PCC

You can use multiple FX-DS110-PCC cards to construct a Peer-to­Peer ad hoc network.

Thin, flat antenna

The FX-DS110-PCC fits even a notebook PC.

Terminology/Abbreviations

The following terms and abbreviations are used in this manual for
convenience.

Full term Term used in this manual

FX-DS110-APL Access point/AP/APL
FX-DS110-PCC,FX-PCI-EXT2 User unit
or a PC containing the above
FX-DS110-APL Wireless terminal
or a device containing the above
Personal computer PC

FX-DS110-PCC2

Limited One-Year Warranty

CONTEC Interface boards are warranted by CONTEC Co., LTD. to
be free from defects in material and workmanship for up to one year
from the date of purchase by the original purchaser.

Repair will be free of charge only when this device is returned
freight prepaid with a copy of the original invoice and a Return
Merchandise Authorization to the distributor or the CONTEC group
office, from which it was purchased.

This warranty is not applicable for scratches or normal wear, but
only for the electronic circuitry and original boards. The warranty
is not applicable if the device has been tampered with or damaged
through abuse, mistreatment, neglect, or unreasonable use, or if the
original invoice is not included, in which case repairs will be
considered beyond the warranty policy.

How to Obtain Service

For replacement or repair, return the device freight prepaid, with a
copy of the original invoice. Please obtain a Return Merchandise
Authorization Number (RMA) from the CONTEC group office
where you purchased before returning any product.

Introduction

* No product will be accepted by CONTEC group without the

RMA number.

Liability

The obligation of the warrantor is solely to repair or replace the product.
In no event will the warrantor be liable for any incidental or
consequential damages due to such defect or consequences that arise
from inexperienced usage, misuse, or malfunction of this device.

FX-DS110-PCC 3

Introduction

Handling Precautions

Take the following precautions when handling this product.

- Before inserting this PC card, check the configuration of the PC
card slot and make sure the card is oriented properly. Improper
insertion may result in a bad connection or damage to the card or
connector.

- Do not apply excessive force to the PC card connector as doing so
may result in a bad connection or damage to the card or
connector.

- This product contains precision electronic elements and must not
be used in locations subject to physical shock or strong vibration.

- Do not attempt to modify this device. The manufacturer will
bear no responsibility whatsoever for the device if it has been
modified.

- Do not use or store this device where it is exposed to direct
sunlight or near stoves or other sources of heat. (Operating
temperature range: 0° to 50°C)

- Do not use or store this device where it is exposed to dust or high
humidity. (Operating humidity range: 10 to 90%)

- Do not use or store this device near strong magnetic fields or
devices emitting electromagnetic radiation.

- Be careful not to let the external supply voltage or drive current
exceed the rating.

Precautions for Use

This product is classified as "wireless equipment for stations of
low-power data transmissions systems" under the Wireless
Telegraphy Act, and does not require a radio transmission license.
The law prohibits modification of the interior of this product.
Note also that this product is approved by the Japanese Wireless
Telegraphy Act and is not intended for use overseas.

FX-DS110-PCC4

Notes on Radio Interference

The frequency band used by this product covers the operating
frequencies of mobile-identification local radio stations (requiring
the license) and specific low-power radio stations (requiring no
license) as well as industrial, scientific, and medical equipment
such as microwave ovens.

1. Before using this product, make sure that there is no mobile-

identification local radio station or specific low-power radio
station operating near the product.

2. If the product should cause radio interference with any mobile-

identification local radio station or specific low-power radio
station, immediately change the operating frequency to avoid
the radio interference.

3. Contact your local retailer or CONTEC if the product has

trouble such as recurrent radio interference with mobile­identification local radio stations or specific low-power radio
stations.

Introduction

2.4 DS 4

This product operates in the 2.4 GHz band
and uses DSSS for modulation. The
interfering distance is 40 mm.

Precautions Related to Electromagnetic Interference

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.

This equipment complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Any changes or
modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void
the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

CAUTION: To comply with FCC RF exposure compliance
requirements, a separation distance of at least 5 cm must be
maintained between this device and all persons.

FX-DS110-PCC 5

Introduction

About the Manual

This manual consists of the following chapters:
Chapter 1 Introduction

Chapter 2 Overview

Chapter 3 Installation of a hardware

Chapter 4 Installation of a driver

Chapter 5 Using and setting up the utility software

Gives an overview of the FX-DS110-PCC.

Describes how to install the FX-DS110-PCC on your
PC.

Describes the contents of the driver floppy disk for the
FX-DS110-PCC and the procedures for installing the
driver.

Describes the basic settings required for using the
FX-DS110-PCC and how to use and set up the utility
software.

Chapter 6 Troubleshooting

Describes possible problems with the FX-DS110-PCC
and the solutions.

Chapter 7 Appendix

Lists product specifications and provides a glossary of
terms.

FX-DS110-PCC6

2. Overview

The FX-DS110-PCC is the product to be plugged into a PC Card
slot to construct a wireless network. This chapter provides an
overview of this product.

Component Locations

PC-Card Interface LED Indicators Flat antenna

Figure 2.1. Component Locations
Flat antenna

This product transmits and receives radio waves via the antenna.
Since the antenna is connector-coupled with the body of the
FX-DS110-PCC, an optional antenna can be connected.

Overview

WIRELESS LAN CARD

Note!

Use the original combination of the flat antenna and the PC Card
unit. Be careful not to apply force to the antenna in either of the
directions of the arrows, or the joint section may break.

antenna

PC-Card Interface

The FX-DS110-PCC has the PC Card interface for plugging into a
PC Card slot.

FX-DS110-PCC 7

Overview

LED Indicators

The FX-DS110-PCC has two LEDs to indicate its operation status.
The LEDs appear as follows when the PC Card is operating
normally.

Table 2.1. LED states during normal operation

Position

of

LED

Outside

Inside Orange Lighting

Color State

Yellowish

green

Blink Searching for an AP

Lighting Logging into the AP

ADHOC (Simple) Mode

Always on

The contents of a display

Infrastructure (Standard
Brouter) Mode

Power on

For the ADHOC (Simple) Mode and Infrastructure (Standard
Brouter) Mode, see the “Operation of the FLEXLAN-DS110” in
Chapter 3.

FX-DS110-PCC8

List of Options

Desktop PC adapter

The desktop PC adapter allows the user unit (FX-DS110-PCC) to be
used on a desktop PC.

There are three types of desktop PC adapters available:
PC-CARD(PC)H as the ISA bus adapter, FX-PCI-EXT2 as the PCI bus
adapter, and FX-PCI-WOL as the PCI bus adapter for Wake-on-LAN.

Antenna

An extension antenna can be used depending on the operating
environment and application. Use the one in a poor communication
state, for example, with the user unit blocked by an obstacle.

Overview

FX-PCI-EXT2PC-CARD(PC)H FX-PCI-WOL

There are three types of extension antennas: FX-ANT-P2 as the
device embedded antenna, FX-ANT-P3 for notebook PC, and
FX-ANT-P4 for desktop PC.

FX-ANT-P3 FX-ANT-P4FX-ANT-P2

FX-DS110-PCC 9

Overview

Outline of the FLEXLAN-DS110 series

The FLEXLAN-DS110 series is a line of three items: the user unit
and two types of access points.

Features of the FLEXLAN-DS110 series

IEEE 802.11b compliant, 2.4 GHz band wireless LAN

This product is a wireless LAN device operating in the 2.4 GHz
band, which can be used with no license. It complies with the
IEEE 802.11b wireless LAN standard.

Direct sequence spread spectrum (DSSS) offering good noise
immunity

The product employs direct sequence spread spectrum (DSSS),
enabling stable communication not susceptible to noise. It also
has a feature of avoiding easy interception of radio waves.

Data transfer rate of 11 Mbps

The product switches its data rate automatically to 11, 5.5, 2, or 1
Mbps depending on the radio conditions.

PC Card, ISA bus, or PCI bus interface to the user unit
Access point FX-DS110-APE providing advanced features

The FX-DS110-APE provides advanced features. It allows for a
variety of forms of operation and is best suited even for a large­scale network.

Easy setup from within a web browser

Since the FX-DS110-APE has a web server, you can set and
manage it easily over the LAN using your favorite web browser.

SNMP installed

The product is SNMP compliant, supporting MIB II and private MIB.

Tunneling function

The product enables communication without changing settings even
for roaming after moving to a segment different in IP over beyond
the rooter.

FX-DS110-PCC10

Overview

Production introduction to the FLEXLAN-DS110 series

User unit (FX-DS110-PCC)

The user unit is equivalent to the LAN card for a wired LAN. It is
plugged into the PC for use.

The FX-DS110-PCC is the PC Card (TYPE II) type. The
PC-CARD(PC)H, FX-PCI-EXT2, and FX-PCI-WOL are the ISA
bus adapter, PCI bus adapter, and PCI bus adapter for Wake-on­LAN, respectively, available as options.

FX-DS110-PCC

WIREL ESS LAN CARD

Figure 2.2. User unit
Access point (FX-DS110-APE)

The access point is used to manage the wireless network, relay
messages, and serve as the bridge to a wired LAN. It has
advanced functions such as routing and tunneling.

FX-DS110-APE

Figure 2.3. Access point

FX-DS110-PCC 11

Overview

Micro access point (FX-DS110-APL)

The micro access point can be used as an access point in a small­scale wireless LAN system or as a station (between the Ethernet and
wireless converter).

You can construct a wireless LAN easily by connecting the micro
access point to an Ethernet built-in device with an UTP cable.

RX

LINK

WRX

WLINK

POWER

FX-DS110-APL

Figure 2.4. Micro access point

FX-DS110-PCC12

3. Installation of a driver

This chapter describes how to install the FX-DS110-PCC on your
PC.

Plugging the FX-DS110-PCC

Follow the procedure below to plug the FX-DS110-PCC on your
PC. To use the PC Card under Windows NT 4.0, shut down the
PC before plugging it in the PC card slot.

(1) Make sure that your PC has a PC Card (TYPE II) slot.
(2) Plug the FX-DS110-PCC into the PC Card slot with the

inserting direction mark s face up.

Notes!

- Check the orientation of the card and insert the PC Card slowly.
Applying excessive force to it may break the connector.

- The antenna can be detached so that an optional antenna can be
attached instead. Do not detach or
attach the antenna inadvertently as
doing so degrades its performance.

Do not use the PC Card with no
antenna attached, or the PC Card can
come out of order.

- To the Card Bus slot user
When you use the PC Card in a Card Bus slot on a PC with
incomplete PC Card compatibility, the operation may be
unstable. If this is the case, use the PC Card in the PC Card
dedicated slot.

Installation of a driver

FX-DS110-PCC 13

Installation of a driver

Unplugging the FX-DS110-PCC

The system may run out of control if you unplug the FX-DS110-PCC
with Windows 95, 98, or 2000 running without following the
procedure below. If your PC is under Windows NT 4.0, shut down
the PC before unplugging the PC Card.

(1) In Windows, open the Start Menu and select “Settings” and

then “Control Panel”. Double-click on the “PC Card” icon in
the Control Panel

(2) On the “Socket Status” sheet in the “PC Card Properties”

dialog box, select “CONTEC FX-DS110-PCC” and click on
“OK”.

(3) When the confirmation message has appeared, unplug the

FX-DS110-PCC. Wait for a while until the message appears.

Warning

Handle the unplugged PC Card with care as it may be hot.

FX-DS110-PCC14

Installation in a network

This section describes how to install the FLEXLAN-DS110 series
to construct a network with improved performance and discusses
the general features and radio characteristics of the wireless LAN as
well as the guidelines for constructing the network.

Features of the wireless network

The most prominent feature of the wireless network is that it uses
radio waves as its medium, eliminating the need for cabling. The
wireless network thus requires no cabling cost and has other
advantages as listed below:

- Quick construction of a LAN

- Temporary installation of a LAN

- Higher flexibility in layout of connected PCs (terminals)

- Assured mobility of connected PCs (terminals)

On the other hand, the wireless network has the following drawbacks
from the operational point of view due to the nature of radio waves:

- Signal attenuation

- Signal interference

Installation of a driver

Operating environment and radio waves

When using this product to construct a network, install and operate
it considering the radio environment to optimize the performance.

Is allowed to use radio equipment at the installation location?

In some medical institutions and laboratories, radio-sensitive
precision instruments are used and it may be prohibited to use radio
equipment.

Radio waves are attenuated.

Although a radio wave is attenuated naturally as it travels from its
transmission source, it may also be attenuated by an object existing in
its way. Major obstacles that attenuate radio waves are as follows:

- Concrete wall

- Metal wall

FX-DS110-PCC 15

Installation of a driver

Obstacles blocking radio waves include metal walls and walls
containing a metal firewall.

RSSI (Receive Signal Strength Indication) utility is available as a
means of knowing the signal strength of an incoming radio wave.
Placing this product for a greater RSSI value makes the
communication state more stable. If the RSSI value is small and
slightly moving the position of the product does not increase the
RSSI value, it indicates radio wave attenuation either to the distance
or by an obstacle.

Note!

Pay attention to radio interference.

Radio interference with this product indicates any disturbance to
reception, caused by that radio wave in the frequency band of this
product which is generated outside the local network. Listed
below are major examples of sources of interfering radio waves
generated in general environments excluding plants and factories:

- 2.4 GHz band wireless network

- Other sources

- Microwave ovens

- Security gates
(Installed near the entrances of some department stores and
rental shops)

- Copiers

Where there is a large metal wall such as in a warehouse, the radio
wave generated from the sender is reflected, resulting in those radio
waves reaching the receiver which have taken different routes
(thereby phase-shifted). This has the similar effect as the generation
of interfering radio waves, possibly slowing down data transfer.

Most of the interfering radio wave sources other than wireless
networks have local and/or temporary effects, not so affecting
network performance. Rarely, however, the date rate is reduced
and, in the worst case, communication is disabled temporarily. In
such cases, change the location of this product and the channel
used for communication. This may solve the problem.

Radio interference by a wireless network can be removed by
changing the channel used. Note, also, that dividing the same
network into groups different in channel may increase the data rate.

FX-DS110-PCC16

Installation of a driver

Constructing a network

Given below are the guidelines and notes on constructing a network:
(1) The operating distance of the FX-DS110-PCC between the AP

and user unit is about 150 m in indoor space with no obstacle
or about 50 m in indoor space with few obstacles.

(2) This product enables communication via a total of 11(FCC

model) or 13(CE model) channels from channels 1 to 11 or 13.
Channels selected at intervals of five consecutive channels can
be used for communication without mutual radio interference
(except channel 11). When more than one channel is used,
radio waves can be utilized most efficiently using channels 1, 6,
and 11.

(3) The operation mode and software settings such as ESS ID must

be selected depending on the operation form. (See Chapter 5.)

(4) The operating range for communication with another terminal

is about 50 m in indoor space free of radio wave attenuation
caused by an obstacle or radio interference, covering almost
the entire area of small- and medium-scale offices and plants.
Note, however, that extending the communication distance
beyond a certain degree increases the number of transmission
and reception errors.

(5) When installing the PC Card, use the FLEXLAN-DS110 utility

to check the RSSI value. In general, a remote party’s RSSI
value of 70 or more assures stable communication. Even
when the RSSI value is 70 or more, however, communication
may not be stable, due to multipath for example, depending on
the operating environment. Communication cannot be
performed normally when the RSSI value is 50 or less.

After checking the RSSI value, run some applications that you
usually use to check whether actual communication can be
performed. In the TCP/I environment, for example, you can
use PING in Windows. To ping, invoke the MS-DOS prompt
and enter the PING command as shown below. In this
example, the IP address of the target AP is 10.168.132.15.

C:\>ping 10.168.132.15

(6) Wireless terminals placed near to each other may fail to

communicate with each other because of mutual interference.
Allow a minimum spacing of 1 m between user units and that

FX-DS110-PCC 17

Installation of a driver

of 3 m between each AP and user unit.

(7) When this product is used in the ADHOC (Simple) Mode,

network performance is degraded unless all the terminals exist
within the operating range for communication. (See "Hidden
Terminal Problem” in Chapter 7.)

Operation of the FLEXLAN-DS110

This section describes the types of networks configurable with the
FX-DS110-PCC, using basic examples. This product has two
operation modes: ADHOC (Simple) Mode and Infrastructure
(Standard/Brouter) Mode for different network models. To
construct a network with the FX-DS110-PCC only, use it in the
ADHOC (Simple) Moe. When the FX-DS110-APE, the AP
(access point) in the FLEXLAN-DS110 series, is used with the
FX-DS110-PCC, use it in the Infrastructure (Standard/Brouter)
Mode.

Infrastructure (Standard , Brouter) Mode

In this mode, communication is performed always via the AP. The
AP has features (100BASE-TX and 10BASE-T) for connection to
Ethernet, enabling connection between the wireless and wired
networks. The AP has advanced features such as routing and
roaming and allows you to perform all setup and management
easily from within the web browser over the LAN. As the AP has
the SNMP agent feature, network management software such as an
option of “SNMPc” can be used for management.

Ethernet

FX-DS110-PCC

Loading PC

HELPER

LAN

FX-PCI-EXT2

FX-DS110-PCC

Loading PC

FX-DS110-PCC18

AP

Installation of a driver

Figure 3.1. Infrastructure Mode
ADHOC (Simple) Mode

In this mode, all wireless terminals communicate with one another
on a par basis. Since wireless terminals communicate directly
with each other, the most part of setup at installation is not required
and faster communication can be expected than in the AP­centralized configuration. When installing the terminals, place
them all within their operating distance for communication (to
prevent the hidden terminal problem). In the following example,
the terminals can be connected to Ethernet via the AP (operating in
simple mode). Although the network can be constructed only with
the FX-DS110-PCC, no terminal can be connected to Ethernet in
that case.

Ethernet

LANHELPER

AP (ADHOC Mode)

Figure 3.2. ADHOC Mode

FX-DS110-PCC 19

FX-DS110-PCC

Loading PC

Installation of a driver

FX-DS110-PCC20

4. Installation of a driver

This chapter shows the contents of the driver floppy disk for the
FX-DS110-PCC and describes the procedure for installing the
driver. Before proceeding to install the driver, read Chapter 2
“Installing the Hardware” to plug the FX-D110-PCC on your PC.

This chapter contains the driver installation procedures for
Windows Me, Windows 98, Windows 95, Windows 2000, and for
Windows NT 4.0.

Driver software

The “Driver Disk #1” floppy disk is supplied with this product.
Back it up before using the copy and keep the original disk in a safe
place.

The floppy disk contains the following LAN drivers:

- NDIS driver for Windows Me

- NDIS driver for Windows 98

- NDIS driver for Windows 95

- NDIS driver for Windows 2000

- NDIS driver for Windows NT

Installation of a driver

FX-DS110-PCC 21

Installation of a driver

Installing for Windows Me

(1) Windows Me detects the FX-DS110-PCC as a new piece of

hardware at startup and invokes the “Add New Hardware
wizard” with its dialog box.

(2) Insert the “Driver Disk #1” floppy disk into the floppy disk

drive.
This procedure assumes the floppy disk drive as drive A.

(3) Select “Automatic search for a better driver”, then click on

“Next”.

(4) Make sure that the CONTEC-FX-DS100-PCC driver will be

searched for, then click on “Next”.

(5) When prompted with the message “Please Insert the disk

labeled Windows Me CD-ROM and then click OK”, follow the
instruction and click on “OK”.
If your PC is a Windows preinstalled machine without the
Windows Me CD-ROM bundled, specify the following path in
the hard disk. This procedure assumes the hard disk drive as
drive C.

C:\WINDOWS\OPTIONS\CABS

(6) If the message ”File ds110.sys could not be found” is displayed

during copying of files, specify “A:”.
If the message “The xxx file in the Windows Me CD-ROM
could not be found” is displayed, specify the path to the
Windows Me CD-ROM or the path in (5) above.

(7) When copying files has been completed, click on “Finish” to

finish installing the driver, then restart Windows. Set up the
network depending on the operating environment.

FX-DS110-PCC22

Installing for Windows 98

(1) Windows 98 detects the FX-DS110-PCC as a new piece of

hardware at startup and invokes the “Add New Hardware
wizard” with its dialog box.

(2) Select “Search for the best driver for your device”, then click

on “Next”.

(3) In the search loca tion select dialog box that appears, check

“Floppy Disk Drives” and “Specify a location”. Insert the
"Driver Disk #1" floppy disk into the floppy disk drive, specify
the drivepath as follows, then click on “Next”.

A:\

(4) Make sure that the CONTEC-FX-DS100-PCC driver will be

searched for, then click on “Next”.

(5) When prompted with the message " Please Insert the disk

labeled Windows 98 CD-ROM and then click OK ", follow the
instruction and click on "OK".
If your PC is a Windows preinstalled machine without the
Windows 98 CD-ROM bundled, specify the following path in
the hard disk. This procedure assumes the hard disk drive as
drive C.

C:\WINDOWS\OPTIONS\CABS

Installation of a driver

(6) If the message " The xxx file in the Windows 98 CD-ROM

could not be found " is displayed during copying of files,
specify " A ". If this message is displayed, specify the path to
the Windows 98 CD-ROM or the path in (5) above.

(7) When copying files has been completed, click on “Finish” to

finish installing the driver, then restart Windows. Set up the
network depending on the operating environment.

FX-DS110-PCC 23

Installation of a driver

Installing for Windows 95

For Windows 95, the procedure for installing the FX-DS110-PCC
driver varies a little depending on the version of the OS.

Note!

Use the FX-DS110-PCC under Windows 95 OSR2 or later.
It does not operate under an earlier version of Windows 95.

(1) Windows 95 detects the FX-DS110-PCC as a new piece of

hardware at startup and displays a dialog box. Click on “Next”.

In another dialog box that appears, click on the “Next” button.
(2) Click on the “Locate” button.
(3) Insert the "Driver Disk #1" floppy disk into the floppy disk drive,

specify the drive path as follows, then click on the “OK” button.

This procedure assumes the floppy disk drive as drive A.

A:\

(4) Click on the “Finish” button.
(5) If this is the first time for your machine to be networked, the

“Network” dialog box appears. Enter the computer name and

workgroup name, then click on the “Close” button.

Note!

A workgroup requires a workgroup name assigned by the
network administrator.

(6) During copying of files, you will be prompted to insert the

Windows 95 CD-ROM. The next step to take varies

depending on the machine environment. Take the appropriate

step to continue the installation.

- If you have a set of Windows 95 FDs, insert the Windows 95
install FD into the floppy disk drive and click on “OK” as
instructed.

- If you have the Windows 95 CD-ROM, insert it in the CD­ROM drive and click on “OK”.

- If your PC is a Windows preinstalled machine without the
Windows 95 CD-ROM bundled, specify the following path in
the hard disk. This procedure assumes the hard disk drive as
drive C.

C:\WINDOWS\OPTIONS\CABS

FX-DS110-PCC24

Installation of a driver

(7) The message " DS110.sys could not be found " will be

displayed during copying of files, specify the file copy source
as follows and click on “OK”.

A:\

(8) Eject the floppy disk, then restart the system for the system

settings to take effect.

FX-DS110-PCC 25

Installation of a driver

Installing for Windows 2000

(1) Windows 2000 detects the FX-DS110-PCC as a new piece of

hardware at startup and invokes the “Add New Hardware
wizard” with its dialog box. Click on “OK”.

(2) The “Install Hardware Device Drivers” dialog box will appear.

Select “Search for the best driver for your device”, then click
on “Next”.

(3) Select “Search for a suitable driver for my device”, then click

on “Next”.

(4) Check “Floppy disk drive” to “identify the driver file”. Insert

the "Driver Disk #1" floppy disk into the floppy disk drive,
then click on “Next”.

(5) The driver will be detected. Click on “Next” to install the

driver.

(6) Although the message “Digital Signature Not Found” appears,

there is no problem. Click on “Yes” to continue installing the
driver.

(7) Upon completion of copying the required files, the message

“Completing the Wizard” is displayed. Click on the “Finish”
button. You have now finished installing the driver.

FX-DS110-PCC26

Installing for Windows NT

(1) Click on the “Start” button and select “Settings” and then

“Control Panel”.

(2) Double-click on the “Network” icon in the Control Panel.

Install Windows NT Networking if it has not been installed.

(3) Click on the “Adapters” tab in the “Network” dialog box, then

select the “Add” button ”.

(4) Select the “Have Disk” button in the “??Select Network

Adapter??” dialog box.

(5) Insert the driver floppy disk into the flopp y disk drive, enter

the drive path as follows, then click on the OK button.

A:\

(6) Make sure that “CONTEC FX-DS110-PCC Adapter” has been

selected in the “Select OEM Options” dialog box, then click on
the OK button.

(7) The dialog box for advanced settin gs will be displayed.

Check if the PC Card is in contention with an existing device
for the same I/O port addresses, IRQ, or memory addresses
(refer to the Windows NT document). When there is no
contention, click on the OK button to proceed.
If the PC card is in contention for any of the resources, specify
the start number for the I/O port address range to occupy at
least 64 consecutive bytes and an unassigned IRQ number,
then click on the OK button.

Installation of a driver

(8) Make sure that the CONTEC FX-DS110-PCC Adapter has

been displayed in the “Network adapters” list box, then select
the “Close” button.

(9) When the “Microsoft TCP/IP Properties” dialog box has

appeared, make settings to your network environment and
select the OK button.

(10) Eject the floppy disk, then rest art the system for the settings to

take effect.

FX-DS110-PCC 27

Installation of a driver

Uninstallation of hardware

Uninstalling the driver in Windows Me/98/95

(1) Click on the “Start” button and select “Settings” and then

“Control Panel”.

(2) Double-click on the “System” icon, then select the “Device

Manager” tab.

(3) Select “CONTEC FX-DS110-PCC Adapter” under Network

Adapters and click on the Delete button. Click on the OK
button in the message window confirming your action to delete
the device.

Uninstalling the driver in Windows 2000

(1) Click on the “Start” button and select “Settings” and then

“Control Panel”.

(2) Double-click on the “System” icon, then select the “Hardware”

tab.
(3) Select “Device Manager ”.
(4) Select “CONTEC FX-DS110-PCC Adapter” under Network

Adapters and click on the Delete button. Click on the OK

button in the message window confirming your action to delete

the device.

Uninstalling the driver in Windows NT

(1) Click on the “Start” button and select “Settings” and then

“Control Panel”.
(2) Double-click on the “Network” icon.
(3) Click on the “Adapters” tab and select “CONTEC

FX-DS110-PCC Adapter” in the “Network Adapters” columns.
(4) Click on the “Delete” button, and you will be asked whether to

continue. Click on “Yes”.
(5) Click on the “Close” button.

FX-DS110-PCC28

Using and Setting up the Utility Software

5. Using and Setting up the Utility

Software

This chapter describes the basic settings required for using the
FX-DS110-PC and how to use and set up the utility software.

Installing and uninstalling the utility software

Installation

Follow the procedure below to install the utility software for the
FLEXLAN-DS series. Terminate all the applications running and
prepare the floppy disk supplied with this product.

(1) Insert the floppy disk into drive A, then double-click on “My

Computer”. This procedure assumes the floppy disk drive as

drive A.
(2) Double-click on the “3.5-inch FD” icon and then the

“setup.exe” icon. The InstallShield wizard will be invoked.
(3) Click on the “Next” button.
(4) The “Choose Destination Location” dialog box appears. By

default, the utility software is installed in the following

directory.

C:\Program Files\wlan\rssi

Click on the “Next” button to install the utility software in the

default directory.

To install the utility software in any other directory, click on

the “Browse” button, specify the desired install directory, then

click on the “Next” button.

The wizard starts copying files.
(5) Click on the OK button.
(6) You have now finished installing the utility software.

FX-DS110-PCC 29

Using and Setting up the Utility Software

Uninstallation

Follow the procedure below to uninstall the utility software for the
FLEXLAN-DS series. Terminate all the applications running.

(1) Click on the “Start” button and select “Settings” and then

“Control Panel”.
(2) Double-click on the “Add/Remove Programs” icon.
(3) Select “FLEXLAN-DS Series Utility”, then click on the

“Add/Remove” button.
(4) You will be prompted to confirm your action to delete files.

Click on the OK button.
(5) The system will start deleting files. When the uninstall

completion message appears, click on the OK button.
(6) You have now finished uninstalling the utility software.

FX-DS110-PCC30

Using and Setting up the Utility Software

Using and setting up the utility software

For using the utility software, refer to its online help.

Task Bar Icons

When the FLEXLAN-DS series utility is started, the icon appears in
the Windows system tray. The icon changes its display depending
on the operation status of the PC Card.

Table 5.1. Task Bar Icons

Operation statusIcon display

ADHOC (Simple) Mode

Sending to another device in the FLEXLAN-DS series.
Receiving from another device in the FLEXLAN-DS series.
Sending/receiving to/from another device in the FLEXLAN-DS series.

Infrastructure (Standard, Brouter) Mode

Indicates that the RSSI value of the logged-in AP is between 50 and 70.
Indicates an RSSI value of 50 or less.
Sending to the AP.
Receiving from the AP.
Sending/receiving to/from the AP.

Common

Indicates that the radio signal strength (RSSI value) of the logged-in
AP is 70 or more.

Indicates that the FX-DS110-PCC has not been plugged in the PC Card
slot or not been operating.

FX-DS110-PCC 31

Using and Setting up the Utility Software

Communication settings

To make communication settings, invoke the utility and click on the
“Configuration” button. When you have finished making the
settings, click on the OK button. You will then be prompted to
restart the system. Terminate the other applications and restart the
system.

Table 5.2. Main communication settings

Setting item Initial value

The name of the wireless LAN to which the
terminal belongs. Wireless terminals with

ESS ID

Network

mode

Data

encryption

Channel

different ESS IDs cannot communicate
with each other. You can break up a
network by assigning different ESS IDs to
the terminals.

The operation mode set to fit the form of
the LAN to be used. The ADHOC (Simple)
and Infrastructure (Standard/Brouter)
Modes are described in “Operation of the
FLEXLAN-DS110” in Chapter 3.

Option to enable or disable encryption of
wireless data. Note that encryption­enabled and encryption-disabled terminals
cannot communicate with each other.

Channel to be used for communication. It
is recommended to use channels 1, 6, and
11 to prevent radio interference.

Description Setting method

A string of up to 32
single-byte
alphanumeric
characters. The
string is case
sensitive.

Select ADHOC or
Infrastructure.

Check box OFF

Check box 1

Local Group

(half size)

ADHOC

FX-DS110-PCC32

Using and Setting up the Utility Software

RSSI indicating the signal strength of a radio station

RSSI is data used when the FX-DS110-PCC is installed, indicating
the strength of the radio signal being received. The RSSI value of
each radio station is displayed in association with the MAC address
or the terminal name if assigned. Note that RSSI values are
displayed only for terminals having the same ESS ID.

The “RF Signal Strength” table lists only the APs (excluding those
serving as stations) when this product is operating in the
Infras tructure (Standard/Brouter) Mode. When the product is
operating in the ADHOC (Simple) Mode, the table lists both of APs
and user units.

RSSI is displayed in a bar chart. In the bar, the blue, yellow,
yellowish green, and cyan portions indicate the terminals whose
RSSI value is 0-50, 50-70, 70-100, and 100-150, respectively.

This product should be placed for an RSSI value of 70 to obtain
stable communication quality. When the RSSI value is 50 or

less, it is highly possible that communication is disabled.

FX-DS110-PCC 33

Using and Setting up the Utility Software

Editing the name of a radio station

The FLEXLAN-DS series utility displays each wireless terminal
using the MAC address when the radio station name has not been
edited. Once the MAC address is assigned a name by the radio
station name edit function, the wireless terminal is displayed with
that name, making it easy to identify the terminal.

To register a new wireless terminal, click on the “Add” button, enter
or select the MAC address of the terminal, then enter the name.
The name can be up to 22 single-byte characters or 11 double-byte
characters long. It accepts kanji characters.

The terminal registration information (the combination of the MAC
address and name) can be filed, saving the time and labor for
registration. To read registration information from a file, click on
the “Import” button. To file registration information, click on th e
“Export” button.

Once registration information has been saved, it stays retained even
after the FLEXLAN-DS series utility has been terminated. Up to
100 sets of MAC address and name can be registered.

FX-DS110-PCC34

Troubleshooting

6. Troubleshooting

This chapter describes common problems that may occur with this
product and what to do about them. If any problems occur that are
not described here, check to confirm that the re-occur, then contact
the store where you purchased the product, or the CONTEC
information center.

Cannot detect the LAN card automatically

When this product is plugged for the first time, Windows 95 or
Windows 98 usually detects it automatically as a new piece of
hardware. In some cases, however, the product may not be
detected automatically for some reason.

Already registered as one of <Other devices>

Open the [Device Manager] sheet.
Check if “CONTEC FX-DS110-PCC” is listed under [Other

devices]. If it is, delete the entry according to “Uninstallation of
hardware” in Chapter 4 and install the driver over again.

Possible causes are as follows:

- Windows 95 or Windows 98 was installed with this product

already plugged.

Do not plug the PC Card before installing the OS.

- This state may be caused by aborting the installation process by

clicking the “Cancel” button prematurely.

PCMCIA socket not working normally

Open the [Device Manager] sheet. Check < PCMCIA Controller >
under < PCMCIA Socket >.

If “x” or “!” is displayed, the PCMCIA socket does not work
normally.

Follow the procedure below to install the PCMCIA socket:
(1) Open the [Device Manager] sheet. Select < PCMCIA

Controller > under < PCMCIA Socket > and click on the

[Delete] button.

FX-DS110-PCC 35

Troubleshooting

(2) Double-click on the [Add New Hardware] icon in the Control

(3) When the hardware has been detected, the [Advanced] button

(4) In the [PC Card Wizard] dialog box, click on the [Next] button.
(5) The completion message will be displayed. Click on the

(6) Restart your computer for the settings to take effect.

Panel. In the Hardware Wizard, click on [Next].

is displayed.

Click on the [Advanced] button, and the device deleted above

appears in the < Detected Hardware > column. Check it, then

click on the [Finish] button

[Finish] button.

FX-DS110-PCC36

When Communication Fails

Check this section if communication is disabled while the driver has
been installed normally.

Check hardware

- Check if the antenna is loose or if there is any shielding object

covering the antenna.

- Check whether the PC Card has been plugged deep into the PC

Card slot.

Check software

- Check whether the operation mode has been set correctly. For

communication with the AP, also check its settings. To use the
user unit in the ADHOC (Simple) Mode, place the AP in the
simple mode. To use the user unit in the Infrastructure
(Standard/Brouter) Mode, place the AP in any mode other than
the simple mode.

- Check whether the ESS ID is the same as that of the recipient.

- Check whether the data encryption setting is the same as that of

the recipient.

- Check whether the driver has been installed normally. Check

the properties of the “CONTEC FX-DS110-PCC” under Network
Adapters in Device Manager.

- Check whether the channel being used matches that of the

recipient.

Troubleshooting

Check the peripheral environment and place of installation

- A nearby source of electromagnetic interference can prevent

communication. In general locations (excluding factories) the
following may be sources of electromagnetic emissions.

- Another wireless network using the 2.4 GHz band

- Microwave ovens

- Security gates

- Copiers

- Elevator motors

Most electromagnetic sources other than wireless networks are
local and not continuous, and therefore by moving the location of
the unit (the PC containing this product or the recipient) and
waiting briefly, communication may be possible.

FX-DS110-PCC 37

Troubleshooting

- Sometimes communication is hindered by attenuation of electric

Interference caused by a wireless network can be avoided by
changing the channel used. Note, also, that dividing the
terminals in the same network into groups different in channel
may improve the data rate.

waves. Attenuation occurs naturally as distance from the source
of transmission increases, but may also be caused by objects in
the path of the transmission. The objects primarily responsible
for attenuation are the following.

- Concrete walls

- Metallic surfaces around antennas

FX-DS110-PCC38

7. Appendix

Guaranteed number of times of plugging/

Product Specifications

Table 7.1. FX-DS110-PCC

Wireless LAN unit

Transmission format IEEE 802.11b standard DS spectrum diffusion
Data transmission speed 11, 5.5, 2, 1Mbps (Switched automatically)
Access method CSMA/CA + ACK (RTS/CTS)
Transmission packet IEEE 802.11b frame
Wireless category ISM Baud 2400 to 2483.5 MHz
Aerial power 10mW/MHz or less
Security Proprietary scramble/WEP

External Dimensions (mm) 114 x 54 x 5

unplugging the antenna connector
Weight 42g
Power consumption transmission 1.6W Reception 1.25W
Operating temperature 0 to 50°C
Operating humidity 10 to 90% (no condensation)

Appendix

FX-DS110-PCCSpecification

500times

FX-DS110-PCC 39

Appendix

Glossary

IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)

"I-triple-E," involved in a wide range of fields from
communications and computer to medicine and biology, with
primary activities related to publishing articles and sponsoring
conferences, but also recommending and setting of standards. The
organization sponsoring Committee 802, which is responsible for
LAN related matters.

SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol)

A function necessary for network control, provides three functions:
Get (acquire), Set (modify), and Trap (notify event). Conceived as
an easily installable control protocol that places as little load on the
network as possible.

LAN (Local Area Network)

A network configured from mutual connections between computers
within a limited area. Also called an "intranet" or "business or
regional data communications network."

Peer-To-Peer

A network in which two or more nodes can communicate directly
with each other without going through another device.

AP (ACCESS POINT)

Access point. In the FLEXLAN-DS110 series, the access point is
used as a bridge between wired and wireless networks and provides
advanced features such as the inter-segment brouter function and IP
tunneling, serving as an indispensable component for a versatile and
large-scale wireless network.

User Unit

In the FLEXLAN-DS110 series, the user unit indicates the
FX-DS110-PCC or the unit containing it.

FX-DS110-PCC40

Appendix

Roaming

This means the same as roaming of a mobile telephone or PHS.
The AP serves as the component commonly called as “antenna/base
station” in mobile telephone and PHS terminology; the
FX-DS110-PCC serves as the telephone itself.

IP tunneling

One of the features of the FX-DS110-APE. Using this feature enables
mail transmission and reception and database access without changing
the PC settings even at a roaming destination beyond the router.

Spectrum diffusion transmission

A method of transmission in which signals that are normally
transmitted over a given limited frequency band undergo narrow
band modulation (primary modulation), then again diffuse
modulation (secondary modulation) to intentionally diffuse the
signal over a broad frequency spectrum.

DS (Direct Sequence)

A type of spectrum diffusion signal using narrow band modulation
with phase modulation, in which the diffusion is by means of phase
modulation using a broad band diffusion signal (pseudo random
strings).

CSMA/CA (Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision
Avoidance)

CSMA is a method of avoiding collision by which wireless
terminals listen before transmitting and do not transmit if they can
year transmissions from other wireless terminals. CSMA/CA is
CSMA plus additional collision avoidance functions.

Hidden Terminal Problem

When wireless terminals are farther apart then their electric signals
can reach, or their signals are obstructed by objects, neither may be
able to receive the other's signals. Any two such wireless
terminals are said to be hidden from each other. In Ad Hoc mode,
because the carrier sense function is not effective between hidden
terminals there is a higher probability of collisions and throughput
(the volume of information sent in a given time interval) is reduced.

FX-DS110-PCC 41

Appendix

RTS (Request To Send)

In communication via AP, transmission is controlled by CSMA/CA
plus RTS. In RTS, a wireless terminal asks the AP if it is all right
to transmit, and only transmits after an OK-to-send
acknowledgement signal is returned. This serves to avoid
unnecessary collisions when hidden terminals exist because hidden
terminals cannot transmit.

RSSI (Receive Signal Strength Indication)

A numeric indicator of incoming signal strength.

ESS ID (Extended Service Set ID)

In the FLEXLAN DS110 series, the ESS ID is like a name assigned
to the wireless LAN network to which a unit belongs. The same
name must not be given to more than one wireless terminal.
Conversely, a wireless network can be partitioned by using different
ESS ID names.

Channel

This term has the same meaning as a television or radio channel.
In the ISM band used by this product, the IEEE 802.11 standard
provides for division into 11(FCC model) or 13(CE model).
channels numbered 1 to 11 or 13. Even on the same network,
wireless devices operating on different channels cannot
communicate with each other.

Multipath

Multiple versions of a radio wave emitted to be used for
communication, which are received after being reflected by
buildings and walls. Some of them are received after being
reflected several times repeatedly. A strong multipath effect
results in distortion of the signal in the directly received radio wave,
degrading the communication quality and disabling stable
communication

FX-DS110-PCC42

Appendix

FX-DS110-PCC 43

A-46-552

LYAH251

021025[010927]

CONTEC Group

JAPAN : Headquarters

CONTEC Co., LTD.
3-9-31, Himesato, Nishiyodogawa-ku, Osaka 555-0025, Japan
Tel : [phone] Fax : [phone]
E-mail : [e-mail]

U.S.A. : CONTEC MICROELECTRONICS U.S.A. INC.

744 South Hillview Drive, Milpitas, CA 95035 U.S.A.
Tel : [phone] Fax : [phone]
E-mail : [e-mail]

EUROPE : CONTEC MICROELECTRONICS EUROPE B.V.

Binnenweg 4, 2132 CT, Hoofddorp, The Netherlands
Tel : [phone] Fax : [phone]
E-mail : [e-mail]

KOREA : HYOJIN CONTEC Co., LTD.

Ki-im Bldg. #399, Shindolim-Dong, Kuro-ku, Seoul, Korea
Tel : [phone] Fax : [phone]
E-mail : [e-mail]

CHINA : INTERNATIONAL CONTEC TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.

B-8F, Hua Tong Building, No. B19, Che Gong Zhuang West Road,
Hai Dian District, Beijing 100044, China
Tel : [phone] Fax : [phone]
E-mail : [e-mail]

SHANGHAI CONTEC MICROELECTRONICS CORP.
No. 481 Gui Ping Road, Cao He Jing Hi-Tech Park Shanghai, 200233, China
Tel : [phone] Fax : [phone]
E-mail : [e-mail]

SHENYANG CONTEC MICROELECTRONICS Co., LTD.
No. 169, Qingnian Street, Shenhe District, Shenyang 110015, China
Tel : [phone] Fax : [phone]

TAIWAN : MACROMATE CORP.

8F, Universal Center, No.179, Ta-Tung Rd., Sec.1 Hsi-Chih, Taipei Hsien, Taiwan,
R.O.C
Tel : [phone] Fax : [phone]
E-mail : [e-mail]

A-46-368 Ver. 2001. 02. 06