D-Link DWL-AG520 User Manual
Manual
Building Networks for People
Tri-mode Dualband
DWL-AG520
D-Link
Air Xpert
TM
Wireless PCI Adapter
2
Contents
Package Contents ................................................................................3
Introduction............................................................................................4
Wireless Basics ....................................................................................6
Getting Started ....................................................................................10
Using the Configuration Utility ..............................................................13
Networking Basics ..............................................................................20
Troubleshooting...................................................................................33
Technical Specifications ...................................................................... 38
Contacting Technical Support ..............................................................40
Warranty and Registration ................................................................... 41
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Contents of Package:
D-Link Air Xpert DWL-AG520
Tri-mode Dualband Wireless PCI Adapter
Manual, Warranty and Drivers on CD
Printed Quick Installation Guide
Package Contents
If any of the above items are missing, please contact your reseller.
System Requirements for Configuration:
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An 802.11a, 802.11b or 802.11g Access Point (for Infrastruc-
ture Mode) or another 802.11a, 802.11b, or 802.11g wireless
adapter (for Ad-Hoc; Peer-to-Peer networking mode).
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At least 128 MB of memory and a 500 MHz processor
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Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows Me, or Windows 98SE
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A desktop computer with an available 32-bit PCI 2.2
slot, with an operating voltage of 5V
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The versatile 802.11a/b/g compatible DWL-AG520 gives you an immediate way to expand
to your existing 802.11b network and protect your overall wireless network investment.
When you add an 802.11a/b/g access point (D-Link Air Xpert DWL-7000AP) or router (DLink Air Xpert DI-774), your network will be capable of handling up to four times the user
load of your current 802.11b network.
Introduction
The D-Link Air Xpert DWL-AG520 Tri-Mode Dualband Wireless PCI Adapter, when
installed into your desktop PC, provides you a versatile way to wirelessly connect to any
one of three available wireless networks - 802.11b and the newer, faster 802.11g and
802.11a that operate in two discrete, non-interfering frequency bands, 2.4GHz and 5GHz.
Along with compatibility to earlier 802.11b networks, the DWL-AG520 also offers the
robust speed (up to 54Mbps) of the newer 802.11g and 802.11a standards, so that
everyone can work faster and more efficiently. Additionally, the 802.11a 5GHz band
offers a way to quickly transfer data in a frequency range that does not experience
interference or interruptions from cordless phones, microwave ovens and other devices
that use the 2.4GHz frequency band.
In addition to offering faster data transfer speeds when used with other 802.11a or
802.11g products, the DWL-AG520 has the newest, most advanced security features
available today, using the draft 802.11i security standard. These additional security
features are optional. You may choose to continue using the familiar WEP security, or
you may not wish to utilize security features at all. However, if you do choose to use the
DWL-AG520’s powerful security features with other WPA (WiFi Protected Access) and
802.1x compatible products in a network with a RADIUS server, the security features
will include:
WPA*: A new security feature, Wi-Fi Protected Access authorizes and identifies users
based on a secret key that changes automatically at a regular interval.
WPA uses TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol) to change the temporal
key every 10,000 packets (a packet is a kind of message transmitted over a
network). This ensures much greater security than the standard WEP security.
(By contrast, the older WEP encryption required the keys to be changed
manually).
802.1x: Authentication is a first line of defense against intrusion. In the Authentication
process the server verifies the identity of the client attempting to connect to the
network. Unfamiliar clients would be denied access.
*WPA will be available Q3 2003 as a driver download
TM
Users that choose not to incorporate a RADIUS server in their network may also use the
optional enhanced security features, or they may wish to continue using the standard
WEP security, or they may choose to use no security at all. However, if you do wish to
experience the enhanced security of the DWL-AG520 in conjunction with other draft
802.11i compatible products, without a RADIUS server, the Pre Shared Key mode of
WPA will assign a new security key every time the DWL-AG520 connects to the draft
802.11i Access Point. If you choose to enable the enhanced security features of the
DWL-AG520, you need only to input your encryption information once in the configuration
menu. No longer will you have to manually change the WEP key to ensure security with the DWL-AG520, you will automatically receive a new key every time you connect,
vastly increasing the safety of your communications.
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Features
*WPA will be available Q3 2003 as a driver download
LEDs
LED stands for Light-Emitting Diode. The DWL-AG520 has the following
LEDs:
LED
LED Activity
A blinking light indicates data is being transmitted
A steady light indicates a connection to an Access Point
Activity
Power
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User-friendly configuration and diagnostic utilities
32-bit PCI Performance/Plug & Play Connectivity -The DWL-AG520 is a
powerful 32-bit PCI adapter that installs quickly and easily into desktop PCs,
and when used with other D-LinkAirXpert ABG products will automatically
connect to the network out of the box.
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Compatible with 802.11a, 802.11b and 802.11g Devices - Fully compatible
with the IEEE 802.11a, 802.11b and 802.11g standards, the DWL-AG520
can connect with existing 802.11b routers, access points and cards. That means
you can still communicate with colleagues and friends while you have the ability
to link to even more wireless networks.
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Dualband versatility - With the DWL-AG520, you have the option of using one
of two frequencies. If the 2.4GHz frequency band is experiencing interruptions
and interference from cordless phones, and microwave ovens, you have the option of using the 5GHz band with 802.11a enabled devices.
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Better Security with 802.1x and WPA* -With the DWL-AG520 in your desktop
PC you can securely connect to a wireless network using 802.1x for wireless
authentication, as well as WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) providing you a much
higher level of security for your data and communications than has previously
been available. To use the DWL-AG520’s 802.1x security features, your Operating System and all the devices in your network must support it. Windows XP
supports 802.1x and a free 802.1x upgrade is available for Windows 2000. Check
the manufacturer’s website for available 802.1x upgrades for other operating systems.
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D-Link wireless products are based on industry standards to provide easy-touse and compatible high-speed wireless connectivity within your home, business
or public access wireless networks. D-Link wireless products will allow you
access to the data you want, when and where you want it. You will be able to
enjoy the freedom that wireless networking brings.
A WLAN is a cellular computer network that transmits and receives data with
radio signals instead of wires. WLANs are used increasingly in both home and
office environments, and public areas such as airports, coffee shops and
universities. Innovative ways to utilize WLAN technology are helping people to
work and communicate more efficiently. Increased mobility and the absence of
cabling and other fixed infrastructure have proven to be beneficial for many
users.
Wireless Basics
Wireless users can use the same applications they use on a wired network.
Wireless adapter cards used on laptop and desktop systems support the same
protocols as Ethernet adapter cards.
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Wireless Basics (continued)
People use WLAN technology for many different purposes:
Mobility - Productivity increases when people have access to data in any
location within the operating range of the WLAN. Management decisions based
on real-time information can significantly improve worker efficiency.
Low Implementation Costs – WLANs are easy to set up, manage, change
and relocate. Networks that frequently change can benefit from WLANs ease
of implementation. WLANs can operate in locations where the installation of
wiring may be impractical.
Installation and Network Expansion - Installing a WLAN system can be
fast and easy and can eliminate the need to pull cable through walls and ceilings.
Wireless technology allows the network to go where wires cannot go - even
outside the home or office.
Inexpensive Solution – Wireless network devices are as competitively priced
as conventional Ethernet network devices.
Scalability – WLANs can be configured in a variety of ways to meet the needs
of specific applications and installations. Configurations are easily changed
and range from peer-to-peer networks suitable for a small number of users to
larger infrastructure networks to accommodate hundreds or thousands of
users, depending on the number of wireless devices deployed.
The DWL-AG520 is compatible with the following wireless products:
D-Link Air Xpert DWL-AG650, D-Link AirPro DWL-A650, D-Link
AirPlus DWL-650+, D-Link AirPlus Xtreme G DWL-G650,
D-Link AirPro DWL-AB650
Wireless Cardbus Adapters used with laptop computers
D-Link AirPro DWL-A520 and D-Link AirPlus DWL-520+,
D-Link AirPlus Xtreme G DWL-G520, another D-Link Air Xpert
DWL-AG520, and D-Link AirPro DWL-AB520
Wireless PCI cards used with desktop computers
D-Link AirPlus DWL-900AP+, D-Link AirPlus Xtreme G DWL-
2000AP and D-Link Air Xpert DWL-7000AP
Wireless Access Points
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D-Link AirPlus DI-614+, D-Link AirPlus Xtreme G DI-624 and
D-Link Air Xpert DI-774
Wireless Broadband Routers
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Standards-Based Technology
The DWL-AG520 Wireless Cardbus Adapter utilizes the 802.11a, 802.11b and
802.11g standard.
The IEEE 802.11g standard is an extension of the 802.11b standard. It
increases the data rate up to 54 Mbps within the 2.4GHz band. The 802.11a
standard also increases the data rate up to 54 Mbps, but within the 5GHz band.
Both 802.11a and 802.11g utilize OFDM technology.
This means that in most environments, within the specified range of this device,
you will be able to transfer large files quickly or even watch a movie in MPEG
format over your network without noticeable delays. This technology works by
transmitting high-speed digital data over a radio wave utilizing OFDM (Orthogonal
Frequency Division Multiplexing) technology. OFDM works by splitting the radio
signal into multiple smaller sub-signals that are then transmitted simultaneously
at different frequencies to the receiver. OFDM reduces the amount of crosstalk
(interference) in signal transmissions. The D-Link DWL-AG520 will automatically
sense the best possible connection speed to ensure the greatest speed and
range possible.
The DWL-AG520 offers the most advanced network security features available
today, including: WPA and 802.1x.
In addition to its compatibility with 802.11g and 802.11a devices, the DWLAG520 is compatible with 802.11b devices. This means that if you have an
existing 802.11b network, or a network with a mixture of 802.11g, 802.11a and
802.11b, the devices in that network will be compatible with the DWL-AG520.
Wireless Basics (continued)
WPA will be available Q3 2003 as a driver or firmware download
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Wireless Basics (continued)
Installation Considerations
The D-Link Air Xpert DWL-AG520 lets you access your network, using a
wireless connection, from virtually anywhere within its operating range. Keep
in mind, however, that the number, thickness and location of walls, ceilings, or
other objects that the wireless signals must pass through, may limit the range.
Typical ranges vary depending on the types of materials and background RF
(radio frequency) noise in your home or business. The key to maximizing
wireless range is to follow these basic guidelines:
1.
Keep the number of walls and ceilings between the DWL-AG520 and
other network devices to a minimum - each wall or ceiling can reduce
your D-Link wireless product’s range from 3-90 feet (1-30 meters.) Position
your devices so that the number of walls or ceilings is minimized.
2. Be aware of the direct line between network devices. A wall that is
1.5 feet thick (.5 meters), at a 45-degree angle appears to be almost 3
feet (1 meter) thick. At a 2-degree angle it looks over 42 feet (14 meters)
thick! Position devices so that the signal will travel straight through a wall or
ceiling (instead of at an angle) for better reception.
3. Building materials can impede the wireless signal - a solid metal door or
aluminum studs may have a negative effect on range. Try to position wireless
devices and computers with wireless adapters so that the signal passes
through drywall or open doorways and not other materials.
4. Keep your product away (at least 3-6 feet or 1-2 meters) from electrical
devices or appliances that may generate extreme RF noise.
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Getting Started
Infrastructure – using an Access Point or Wireless Router,
such as the DWL-7000AP or DI-774.
Ad-Hoc – directly connecting to another computer, for peer-topeer communication, using wireless network adapters on
each computer, such as two or more DWL-AG520 wireless
network PCI adapters.
On the following pages we will show you an example of an Infrastructure
Network and an Ad-Hoc Network.
An Infrastructure network contains an Access Point or a Wireless Router.
The Infrastructure Network example shown on the following page contains
the following D-Link network devices (your existing network may be
comprised of other devices):
A wireless Router - D-Link Air Xpert DI-774
A laptop computer with a wireless adapter -
D-Link Air Xpert DWL-AG650, D-Link AirPlus Xtreme G DWLG650, D-Link AirPro DWL-AB650,or D-Link AirPlus DWL-650+
A desktop computer with a wireless adapter -
D-Link Air Xpert DWL-AG520
A Cable modem - D-Link DCM-200 or DCM-201
There are basically two modes of networking:
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You will need broadband Internet access (a Cable or DSL-subscriber line into
your home or office)
Consult with your Cable or DSL provider for proper installation of the modem
Connect the Cable or DSL modem to your broadband router (see the Quick
Installation Guide included with your router).
Install the D-Link Air Xpert DWL-AG520 wireless PCI adapter into an available
PCI slot on your desktop computer.
(See the Quick Installation Guide included with the network adapter).
If you are connecting a laptop computer to your network, you can install the
drivers for the D-Link DWL-AG650 wireless Cardbus adapter into a laptop
computer. You may also install the DWL-A650, DWL-G650, DWL-AB650 or
other compatible D-Link wireless Cardbus adapter.
(See the Quick Installation Guide included with the wireless Cardbus adapter).
Getting Started
For a typical wireless setup at home (as shown above), please do the
following:
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Setting up a Wireless Infrastructure Network
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2
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3
DWL-AG650
DWL-AG520
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Getting Started
Setting up a Wireless Ad-Hoc Network
Install the D-Link DWL-AG520 Wireless PCI adapter into a desktop
computer.
(See the Quick Installation Guide included with the product for
installation instructions).
Install a DWL-AG650 into a laptop computer, or you can install
another DWL-AG520 wireless PCI adapter into a desktop computer.
(See the Quick Installation Guide included with the product).
Set the wireless configuration for the adapters to Ad-Hoc mode, set
the adapters to the same channel, and assign an IP Address to
each computer on the Ad-Hoc network. (See Box below)
When assigning IP Addresses to the computers on the network, please
remember that the IP Address for each computer must be in the same
IP Address range as all the computers in the network, and the subnet
mask must be exactly the same for all the computers in the network.
For example: If the first computer is assigned an IP Address of 192.168.0.2
with a Subnet Mask of 255.255.255.0, then the second computer can be
assigned an IP Address of 192.168.0.3 with a Subnet Mask of 255.255.255.0,
etc.
IMPORTANT: If computers or other devices are assigned the same IP
Address, one or more of the devices may not be visible on the network.
IP Address
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Using the Configuration Utility
Before you use the configuration utility for the DWL-AG520, you must install the
drivers and the configuration utility from the CD-ROM that came with the
DWL-AG520. (Please see the Quick Installation Guide that came with the
product.) After you have completed this installation and restarted your computer, you can access the Configuration Utility at any time by clicking on this
icon that will appear on your desktop.
If you wish to change the default settings or optimize the performance of the
DWL-AG520, D-Link has included a configuration utility for this purpose. However, in Windows XP, you can use either the Zero Configuration Utility or you
can use the D-Link Configuration utility.
To use the D-Link configuration utility with XP, click on the Zero Configuration
Utility icon in the taskbar in the lower corner of your computer screen and
uncheck the box in the Properties window that enables Windows configuration.
After you have done this, you can then use the D-Link Configuration utility with
XP.
After double-clicking the icon on the desktop (shown at right),
the Link Info window shown on the next page will appear:
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Status: Displays
the MAC Address of
the Access Point
that is associated
with the DWLAG520.
SSID: The Service
Set Identifier is the
name assigned to
the wireless
network. The factory
SSID setting is set
to default.
Frequency: The
DWL-AG520 is a tri-mode, dualband wireless PCI adapter. In this instance
802.11b indicates that the DWL-AG520 is communicating in the 2.4GHz band.
Wireless Mode: Either Infrastructure or Ad-Hoc will be displayed here.
Encryption: You can see if WEP is enabled or disabled here
TxRate: The default setting is Auto; TxRate settings are automatically
determined by the DWL-AG520 depending on the distance from the access
point at this default setting.
Channel: Displays the channel information. By default, the channel is set to
Auto and selection is automatically determined by the DWL-AG520.
Signal Strength: The Signal Strength represents the wireless signal between
the access point and the DWL-AG520. The percentage coincides with the
graphical bar.
Packet Count: Displays the statistics of data packets transmitted and
received.
Configuration Utility
Link Info
default
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SSID - (Service Set Identifier) is a
name that identifies a wireless
network. Access Points and
wireless clients attempting to
connect to a specific WLAN
(Wireless Local Area Network)
must use the same SSID. The
default setting is default.
Wireless Mode - Click on the pulldown menu; select from the
following options:
Infrastructure - connecting
the WLAN using an Access
Point.(The default setting).
Ad-Hoc – wireless mode used when
connecting directly to a computer
equipped with a wireless adapter in a
peer-to-peer environment.
Configuration Utility
D-Link AirPlus DWL-650+ 2.4GHz Wireless Cardbus
Adapter
Configuration
default
Data Encryption – select Enabled or
Disabled
Authentication – choose one of the following
modes:
Open Authentication – the DWLAG520 is visible to all devices on the
network
Shared Authentication – allows
communication only with other
devices with identical WEP settings
Auto – will automatically adjust to the
Authentication mode of the wireless
access point or router
Key Length – select the key length and either ASCII (e.g., a word) or hexadecimal
format.
Keys 1-4 - select the default key
IP Settings - Click IP Settings and the screen above will appear. You can configure
the IP Settings in this window.
Click Apply to save the changes.
Hexadecimal digits consist of the numbers 0-9 and the letters A-F
ASCII (American Standard Code for Information Interchange) is a code for
representing English letters as numbers from 0-127
IP Settings
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Configuration Utility
Advanced
Frequency - Select the Frequency here. Auto is the default setting.
Starting Ad-Hoc Network – Each wireless adapter communicating in
Turbo Mode - To enable Turbo mode, all devices must have the same setting
, Ad-Hoc mode
must have the same setting here.
Ad-Hoc Channel - All devices in the Ad-Hoc network must have the same channel
Encryption Type– Select the Encryption type
Profile IP Settings -You can Enable or Disable the IP Settings portion of your
profile here. If you select Disable you will need to configure the IP Address
information each time you connect to a network. If you select Enable you will
maintain the same IP Address information that you have configured each time you
connect to a network.
Launch Utility on Startup– Select Enable or Disable
Data Packet Parameter - Select the parameters here
Fragmentation Threshold - This value should remain at its default setting of 2346.
If you experience a high packet error rate, you may slightly increase your
Fragmentation Threshold within the value range of 256 to 2,346. Setting the
Fragmentation Threshold too low may result in poor performance.
RTS Threshold - This value should remain at its default setting of 2346. If
inconsistent data flow is a problem, only a minor modification should be made.
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