NETGEAR MA101 User Manual

Reference Manual for
the Model MA101

802.11b Wireless PC
Card

NETGEAR, Inc.

4401 Great America Parkway
Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA

Technical Support

Please refer to the support information card that shipped with your product.

By registering your product at www.NETGEAR.com/register

, we can
provide you with faster expert technical support and timely notices of product and
software upgrades.

NETGEAR, INC.
Support Information
Phone: 1-888-NETGEAR (For US & Canada only)
For other countries see your Support information card.
E-mail: [e-mail]
Web site: www.NETGEAR.com

Statement of Conditions

In the interest of improving internal design, operational function, and/or
reliability, NETGEAR reserves the right to make changes to the products
described in this document without notice.

NETGEAR does not assume any liability that may occur due to the use or
application of the product(s) or circuit layout(s) described herein.

©2002 NETGEAR, Inc. NETGEAR, the Netgear logo, The Gear Guy and Everybody's
Connecting are trademarks or registered trademarks of Netgear, Inc. in the United States
and/or other countries. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation in the United States and/or other countries. Other brand and product names
are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Information is subject
to change without notice. All rights reserved

November 2002

.

Contents

Preface - About This Installation Guide

Chapter 1 - Introduction

About the MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter ...................................1

Key Features and Related NETGEAR Products ......................................1

What’s in the Box? ...................................................................................2

A Road Map for ‘How to Get There From Here’ .......................................3

Chapter 2 - Installing the MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter

What You Will Need Before You Begin ....................................................9

Verify System Requirements ...........................................................10

Observe Location and Range Guidelines ........................................10

Two Basic Operating Modes .................................................................. 11

MA101 Default Wireless Configuration Settings ....................................12

Using the MA101 to Connect to a Wireless Network Access Point in

Infrastructure Mode ................................................................................13

Setting Up the MA101 in Infrastructure Mode ........................................14

For Windows XP Users Installing a MA101 .....................................14

For Windows 98/Me Users Installing a MA101 ................................17

For Windows 2000 Users Installing a MA101 ..................................20

Using the MA101 to Connect in Ad-Hoc Mode ......................................23

Setting Up a MA101 in Ad-Hoc Mode ..............................................24

Interpreting System Tray Icon Colors .....................................................26

Troubleshooting Tips ..............................................................................27

Chapter 3 - Protecting Your Wireless Connection

Enabling Basic Wireless Security Features ...........................................29

Identifying the Wireless Network Name (SSID) and WEP Security

Settings ............................................................................................30

Setting the Wireless Network Name (SSID) ....................................31

i

Configuring WEP Encryption Security .............................................32

Appendix A - Technical Specifications

Appendix B - 802.11b Wireless Networking Basics

Related Publications ..............................................................................35

Wireless Networking ..............................................................................35

Wireless Network Configuration ......................................................36

Ad Hoc Mode (Peer-to-Peer Workgroup) ..................................36

Infrastructure Mode ...................................................................36

Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID) ...................................37

Authentication and WEP Encryption ................................................37

Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) ...............................................38

Wireless Channel Selection .............................................................38

Appendix C - Preparing Your PCs for Network Access

Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking ................................41

Configuring Windows 98 and Me for TCP/IP Networking ......................42

Install or Verify Windows Networking Components .........................42

Enabling DHCP to Automatically Configure TCP/IP Settings in Windows

98 and Me ........................................................................................44

Selecting Windows’ Internet Access Method ...................................46

Verifying TCP/IP Properties .............................................................47

Configuring Windows 2000 or XP for TCP/IP Networking .....................47

Install or Verify Windows Networking Components .........................47

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP or 2000 .................48

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP .............................48

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows 2000 ..........................51

Verifying TCP/IP Properties for Windows XP or 2000 .....................53

Index

ii

Preface

About This Installation Guide

Thank you for purchasing the NETGEAR® MA101 802.11b Wireless USB
Adapter.

Note: If you are unfamiliar with networking, routing, and wireless
communications, refer to Appendix B, “802.11b Wireless Networking

Basics,” to become more familiar with the terms and procedures used in

this guide.

This reference manual assumes that the reader has basic to intermediate computer
and Internet skills. However, basic computer network, Internet, and wireless
technologies tutorial information is provided in the Appendices.

This guide uses the following typographical conventions:

italics Media titles, UNIX files, commands, URLs, and directory

names.

bold times roman User input

Internet Protocol (IP)First time an abbreviated term is used.

courier font Screen text, user-typed command-line entries.

[Enter] Named keys in text are shown enclosed in square brackets.

The notation [Enter] is used for the Enter key and the
Return key.

[Ctrl]+C Two or more keys that must be pressed simultaneously are

shown in text linked with a plus (+) sign.

ALL CAPS DOS file and directory names.

iii

iv

Chapter 1

Introduction

This chapter introduces the features, package contents, and appearance of the
NETGEAR MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter. See “What You Will Need

Before You Begin” on page 9 for the minimum system requirements. Also, a

“road map” for achieving your installation objectives is provided on page 3.

About the MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter

The MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter gives you ultimate flexibility in your
office or home. It frees you from traditional Ethernet wiring and helps you create a
wireless network for sharing your broadband cable or DSL Internet access among
multiple PCs in and around your home. It is designed for computer computers
running Microsoft
at up to 11 megabits per second
speeds due to distance or electromagnetic interference limitations.

®

Windows®. Its auto-sensing capability allows packet transfer

(Mbps), and dynamic range shifting to slower

Key Features and Related NETGEAR Products

The MA101 USB Adapter provides the following features:

• Reliable IEEE 802.11b standard-based wireless technology.

• Supports roaming among access points if configured in Infrastructure mode.

• 11 Mbps maximum data transfer speed. Wireless nodes negotiate to operate at

the optimal data transfer rate. In a noisy environment or when the distance
between the wireless nodes is far, the wireless nodes automatically fall back to
operate to the lower transfer rate of one or two megabits per second.

1

• Highest level security with 128-bit Shared Key WEP data encryption. Lower

level data encryption or no data encryption options simplify network setup
and improve data transfer rates.

The following Netgear products can be configured to communicate with the
MA101 USB Adapter.

• WAB102 Dual Band Access Point

• MA401 802.11b Wireless PC Card

• ME102 802.11b Wireless Access Point

• MA311 802.11b Wireless PCI Adapter

• MR314 802.11b Wireless Cable/DSL Router

• MA701 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card

What’s in the Box?

The product package should contain the following items:

• MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter with a USB cable

• Reference Manual for the Model MA101 802.11b Wireless PC Card

•A Model MA101 Resource CD, including:

— Driver and Configuration Utility Software
— Reference Guide for the Model MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter in

Adobe Acrobat PDF file format

— Reference Guide for the Model MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter in

browser readable HTML format

• Warranty card

• Support information card

If any of the parts are incorrect, missing, or damaged, contact your NETGEAR
dealer. Keep the carton, including the original packing materials, in case you need
to return the product for repair.

2

A Road Map for ‘How to Get There From Here’

The introduction and adoption of any new technology can be a difficult process.
Wireless technology has removed one of the barriers to networking: running
wires. It allows more people to try networking while at the same time exposes
them to the inherent complexity of networking. General networking concepts, set
up, and maintenance can be difficult to understand. In addition, wireless
technology adds issues, such as range, interference, signal quality, and security to
the picture.

To help overcome potential barriers to successfully using wireless networks, the
table below identifies how to accomplish such things as connecting to a wireless
network, assuring appropriate security measures are taken, browsing the Internet
through your wireless connection, exchanging files with other computers, and
using printers in the combined wireless and wired network.

Table 1-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here ...

If I Want To... ? What Do I Do? What’s Needed? How Do I?

Connect to a
wireless
network

1. Identify the
wireless
network name
(SSID) and, if
used the
wireless
security
settings.

2. Set up the
MA101

802.11b
Wireless USB
Adapter with
the settings
from step 1.

1. A wireless network

2. A PC within the
operating range of the
wireless network. For
guidelines about the
range of 802.11b
wireless networks,
please see “Observe

Location and Range
Guidelines” on page 10.

To set up the MA101,
see Chapter 2,

“Installing the MA101

802.11b Wireless
USB Adapter” and

follow the
instructions
provided.

To learn about
wireless networking
technology, please
see Appendix B,

“802.11b Wireless
Networking Basics”

for a general
introduction.

3

Table 1-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here ...

If I Want To... ? What Do I Do? What’s Needed? How Do I?

Protect my
wireless
connection from
snooping,
hacking, or
information
theft.

Note: Secure
Internet sites
such as banks
and online
merchants
where the
address begins
with https:\\ ...
are using the
SSL encryption
security built
into browsers
like Internet
Explorer and
Netscape
security features
you might
implement in a
wireless
network are in
addition to those
already in place
on secure
Internet sites.

®

. Any

1. Assure that the
wireless
network has
security
features
enabled.

2. Configure my
MA101 with
the security
settings of the
wireless
network.

3. Use Windows
security
features.

1. A wireless network with
authentication and WEP
encryption enabled.

2. Wireless networking
equipment that supports
WEP encryption, such as
the MA101 and all
Netgear wireless
networking products.

To learn about
wireless networking
security, please see

“Authentication and
WEP Encryption” on
page 37.

To use WEP security
features, please see

“Enabling Basic
Wireless Security
Features” on page
29 and configure

your MA101
accordingly.

4

Table 1-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here ...

If I Want To... ? What Do I Do? What’s Needed? How Do I?

Connect to the
Internet over my
wireless
network.

1. Activate my
wireless link
and verify my
network
connection.

2. Open an
Internet
browser such
as Internet
Explorer or
Netscape
Navigator.

1. An active Internet
connection like those
from cable or DSL
service providers.

2. A wireless network
connected to the cable or
DSL Internet service
through a cable/DSL
router as illustrated in

“Using the MA101 to
Connect to a Wireless
Network Access Point in
Infrastructure Mode” on
page 13.

3. TCP/IP Internet
networking software
installed and configured
on my PC according to
the requirements of the
Internet service provider

4. A browser like Internet
Explorer or Netscape

Navigator.

To configure your
MA101 in
Infrastructure Mode,
please see “Setting

Up the MA101 in
Infrastructure Mode”
on page 14, and

locate the section for
your version of
Windows.

Please see

Appendix C,
“Preparing Your PCs
for Network Access”

for assistance with

configuring the

TCP/IP Internet
software on a PC.

5

Table 1-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here ...

If I Want To... ? What Do I Do? What’s Needed? How Do I?

Exchange files
between my
wirelessly
connected
computer and
other computers
in a combined
wireless and
wired network.

1. Use the
Windows
Network
Neighborhood
feature to
browser for
computers in
the combined
wireless and
wired network.

2. Browse the
hard drive of
the target
computer in
the network in
order to locate
the directory or
files you want
to work with.

3. Use the
Windows
Explorer copy
and paste
functions to
exchange files
between the
computers.

1. The computer I am using
to connect to the
wireless network needs
to be configured with the
Windows Client and File
and Print Sharing.

2. The computer I am using
to connect to the
wireless network needs
to be configured with the
same Windows
Workgroup or Domain
settings as the other
Windows computers in
the combined wireless
and wired network.

3. Any Windows networking
security access rights
such as login user name/
password that have been
assigned in the Windows
network or for sharing
particular files must be
provided when Windows
prompts for such
information.

4. If so-called Windows
‘peer’ Workgroup
networking is being
used, the drive, file
system directory, or file
need to be enabled for
sharing.

To get assistance
Windows networking
software, please see

Appendix C,
“Preparing Your PCs
for Network Access”

for typical
configuration
scenarios or refer to
the Help system
included with your
version of Windows.

Windows Domain
settings are usually
managed by
corporate computer
support groups.

Windows Workgroup
settings are
commonly managed
by individuals who
want to set up small
networks in their
homes, or small
offices.

To get assistance
with setting up
Windows
networking, refer to
the Help and
Support information
that comes with the
version of the
Windows operating
systems you are
using.

6

Table 1-1. A Road Map for How to Get There From Here ...

If I Want To... ? What Do I Do? What’s Needed? How Do I?

Use printers in a
combined
wireless and
wired network.

1. Use the
Windows
Printers and
Fax features to
locate
available
printers in the
combined
wireless and
wired network.

2. Use the
Windows Add
a Printer
wizard to add
access a
network printer
from the PC
you are using
to wirelessly
connect to the
network.

3. From the File
menu of an
application
such as
Microsoft
Word, use the
Print Setup
feature to
direct your
print output to
the printer in
the network.

1. The computer I am using
to connect to the
wireless network needs
to be configured with the
Windows Client and File
and Print Sharing.

2. The computer I am using
to connect to the
wireless network needs
to be configured with the
same Windows
Workgroup or Domain
settings as the other
Windows computers in
the combined wireless
and wired network.

3. Any Windows networking
security access rights
such as login user name/
password that have been
assigned in the Windows
network must be
provided when Windows
prompts for such
information.

4. If so-called Windows
‘peer’ networking is
being used, the printer
needs to be enabled for
sharing.

Windows Domain
settings are usually
managed by
corporate computer
support groups.

Windows Workgroup
settings are
commonly managed
by individuals who
want to set up small
networks in their
homes, or small
offices.

To get assistance
with setting up
Windows
networking, refer to
the Help and
Support information
that comes with the
version of the
Windows operating
systems you are
using.

To get assistance
with setting up
printers in Windows,
refer to the Help and
Support information
that comes with the
version of the
Windows operating
systems you are
using.

7

8

Chapter 2

Installing the

MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter

This chapter describes how to set up your MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter
for wireless connectivity on your Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN).

Note: Computers can connect over 802.11b wireless networks at a
range of as much as 500 feet or more indoors. With this distance, and
because walls do not always block wireless signals, others outside your
immediate area could access your network. It is important to take
appropriate steps to secure your network from unauthorized access. The
MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter provides highly effective
security features which are covered in “Enabling Basic Wireless

Security Features” on page 29. Deploy the security features appropriate

to your needs.

What You Will Need Before You Begin

You need to verify your computer meets the minimum system requirements and
identify the wireless network configuration settings of the WLAN where you will
connect before you can configure your wireless USB adapter and connect.

9

Verify System Requirements

Before installing the MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter, please make sure
that these minimum requirements have been met:

• You must have a Pentium® Class computer.

• An available USB port.

•A CD-ROM drive.

• 5 Mbytes of free hard disk space.

• Some versions of Windows may ask for the original Windows operating
system installation files to complete the installation of the MA101 driver
software.

Observe Location and Range Guidelines

Computers can connect over 802.11b wireless networks indoors at a maximum
range of approximately 500 feet. However, the operating distance or range of your
wireless connection can vary significantly based on the physical location of the
computer with the MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter. For best results, avoid
potential sources of interference, such as:

• Large metal surfaces

•Microwaves

• 2.4 GHz Cordless phones

In general, 802.11b wireless devices can communicate through walls. However,
the 802.11b wireless network effective range will decrease if such materials as
walls with concrete, metal, or metal mesh, are between the wireless devices.

10

Two Basic Operating Modes

The MA101 USB Adapter, like all 802.11b adapters, can operate in the following
two basic modes:

• Infrastructure Mode: An 802.11 networking framework in which devices
and computers communicate with each other by first going through an access
point (AP).

For example, this mode is used when computers in a house connect to an
Access Point that is attached to a router which lets multiple computers share a
single Cable or DSL broadband Internet connection.

• Ad-Hoc Mode: An 802.11 networking framework in which devices or
computers communicate directly with each other, without the use of an AP.

For example, Ad-Hoc Mode is used when two Windows computers are
configured with file and print sharing enabled and you want to exchange files
directly between them.

Both of these configuration options are available with the MA101 USB Adapter.

11

MA101 Default Wireless Configuration Settings

If this is a new wireless network installation, use the factory default settings to set
up the network and verify wireless connectivity. If this is an addition to an
existing wireless network, you will need to identify the wireless configuration and
security parameters already defined.

On Windows XP computers, your MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter does
not use factory default settings. On computers with other versions of Windows,
your MA101 factory default basic settings are as follows:

• Wireless Network Name (SSID): Wireless

Note: In order for the MA101 USB Adapter to communicate with a wireless
access point, a wireless adapter, or other 802.11b wireless devices, all devices
must be configured with the same SSID which is also know as the wireless
network name.

• Mode (Infrastructure or Ad-Hoc): Infrastructure

• WEP Encryption: Off

12

Using the MA101 to Connect to a Wireless Network Access Point in Infrastructure Mode

802.11b
Wireless Access Point

Cable/DSL Router

MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter
Connected to a Desktop Computer

Cable or DSL modem

Figure 2-1: MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter in Infrastructure Mode

This section provides instructions for setting up the MA101 802.11b Wireless
USB Adapter.

13

Setting Up the MA101 in Infrastructure Mode

Use the procedure below that corresponds to your version of Windows.

For Windows XP Users Installing a MA101

Connect the MA101 USB Adapter to your computer.

a. Power on your computer and let the operating system boot up

completely.

b. Locate an available USB port on the back of your computer.

c. Lift the antenna on the MA101.

d. Connect the USB cable from the MA101 USB Adapter to your

computer.

14

Install the MA101 driver
software.

a. After connecting the

MA101, the Found New
Hardware popup message
appears, then the Wizard
dialog displays.

b. Insert the Model MA101

Resource CD into your
CD-ROM drive.

c. After inserting the Model

MA101 Resource CD, the
Found New Hardware
Wizard appears. Click the
Next button to proceed with
the Wizard.

d. The wizard will install the

MA101 driver.

e. After the installation

completes, click Finish to

close the wizard.

Windows XP Wireless Found New
Hardware Popup Message

Windows Found New Hardware Wizard

15

Configure your wireless
network connection.

a. Click on the “Allow me to

connect to the selected
wireless network even
though this is not secure”
check box.

b. Click Connect. The

connection status popup
message appears.

Note: This procedure assumes
you are connecting to a
wireless network which is not
using WEP security. If your
network includes WEP
settings, click the Advanced
button and configure the
MA101 accordingly. For help
with these steps, click the
“Learn about...” link on the
Windows XP Local Area
Connection Wireless Networks

Properties tab page.

Windows XP Wireless Network Connection
Configuration Utility

Windows XP Wireless Network Connection
Popup Message

16

Verify wireless connectivity to your network.

Verify connectivity by accessing the Internet or network resources.

Note: If you cannot connect, please see the “Troubleshooting Tips” on

page 27. If you have problems with accessing network resources, the

Windows Client and File and Print Sharing software might not be
installed and configured properly on your computers. Please refer to

“Preparing Your PCs for Network Access” on page 41.

For Windows 98/Me Users Installing a MA101

Insert the Model MA101 Resource CD into your computer.

Note: Do not

connect the USB cable to your computer until after you

complete the installation of the software as described in step 2 below

a. Power on your computer and let the operating system boot up

completely.

b. Have the Windows 98 or Me operating system installation files

handy. Windows 98/Me needs these files to complete the installation

of new network adapter drivers.

Install the MA101 software.

a. Run the Setup.exe program

on the Model MA101
Resource CD.

b. Click Next and follow the

prompts to complete the
installation.

c. When the installation is

complete, click Finish to
close the wizard.

Netgear MA101 Setup Utility

17

Connect the MA101 to your
computer using the included
USB cable.

a. Lift the antenna on the

MA101.

b. Locate an available USB

port on the back of your
computer.

c. Connect the USB cable from

your computer to the
MA101.

Windows 98/Me prompts
for the location of the driver
software.

d. Click the CD-ROM drive

box and click Next to
proceed.

e. After the installation

completes, click Finish to
close the wizard.

Netgear MA101

Windows 98/Me Add Hardware Wizard

18

f. Click Ye s when asked if you

want to reboot the system.

g. You should now see the

Windows system tray icon
on the right in the lower
right portion of the

Windows task bar.

MA101 Configuration Utility SysTray Icon

Configure your wireless
adapter.

a. The MA101 default settings

are as follows:

•SSID: Wireless

• Mode (Infrastructure or
Ad-Hoc): Infrastructure

• WEP encryption not
enabled.

b. Double click on the System

Tray icon to run the wireless
LAN configuration utility
you just installed to verify
your settings.

Note: You will not get a
connection unless your
settings match those of the
wireless network. If your
wireless network settings
are different from the

Netgear.

MA101Configuration Utility

Verify wireless connectivity to your network.

Note: If you cannot connect, please see the “Troubleshooting Tips” on

page 27. If you have problems with accessing network resources, the

Windows Client and File and Print Sharing software might not be
installed and configured properly on your computers. Please refer to

“Preparing Your PCs for Network Access” on page 41.

19

For Windows 2000 Users Installing a MA101

Insert the Model MA101 Resource CD into your computer.

Note: Do not

connect the USB cable to your computer until after you

complete the installation of the software as described in step 2 below

a. Power on your computer and let the operating system boot up

completely.

b. Have the Windows 2000 operating system installation files handy.

Windows 2000 needs these files to complete the installation of new
network adapter drivers.

c. Insert the Model MA101 Resource CD into your CD-ROM

drive.

Note: You may need to be logged on to Windows 2000 with
administrator rights to complete the installation of new hardware to
your PC.

Install the MA101 software.

a. Run the Setup.exe program

on the Model MA101
Resource CD.

b. Click Next and follow the

prompts to complete the
installation.

c. When the installation is

complete, click Finish to
close the wizard.

20

Netgear MA101 Setup Utility

Connect the MA101 to your
computer using the included
USB cable.

a. Lift the antenna on the

MA101.

b. Locate an available USB

port on the back of your
computer.

c. Connect the USB cable from

your computer to the
MA101.

d. The Windows Found New

Hardware Wizard dialog
box displays. Click Next,
and Next again at the search
for the best driver screen.

e. If the Digital Signature Not

Found warning appears,
click Ye s to continue.
Netgear tested the MA101
for Windows 2000
compatibility. If asked,
insert the Windows 2000
CD and follow the prompts.

f. Click Finish to close the

wizard. Click Ye s to reboot
the system. You should now
see the Windows system
tray icon in the Windows

task bar.

Netgear MA101

Windows Found New Hardware Wizard

MA101 Configuration Utility SysTray Icon

21

Configure your wireless
adapter.

a. The MA101 default settings

are as follows:

•SSID: Wireless

• Mode (Infrastructure or
Ad-Hoc): Infrastructure

• WEP encryption not
enabled.

b. Double click on the System

Tray icon to run the wireless
LAN configuration utility
you just installed to verify
your settings.

Note: You will not get a
connection unless your
settings match those of the
wireless network. If your
wireless network settings
are different from the

Netgear.

MA101 Configuration Utility

22

Verify wireless connectivity to your network.

Verify connectivity by accessing the Internet or network resources.

Note: If you cannot connect, please see the “Troubleshooting Tips” on

page 27. If you have problems with accessing network resources, the

Windows Client and File and Print Sharing software might not be
installed and configured properly on your computers. Please refer to

“Preparing Your PCs for Network Access” on page 41.

Using the MA101 to Connect in Ad-Hoc Mode

802.11b Wireless PC Card
in a Notebook Computer

MA101 Wireless USB Adapter
Connected to a Desktop Computer

Figure 2-2: MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter in Ad-Hoc Mode

Ad-Hoc Mode is an 802.11 networking framework in which devices or computers
communicate directly with each other, without the use of an access point. For
example, Ad-Hoc Mode is used when two Windows computers are configured
with file and print sharing enabled and you want to exchange files directly
between them. This section provides instructions for setting up the MA101

802.11b Wireless USB Adapter in Ad-Hoc mode.

23

Setting Up a MA101 in Ad-Hoc Mode

Set up the MA101 USB Adapter for your computer.

Follow the instructions above for setting up the MA101 with the version
of the Windows operating system you are using.

Configure your wireless
adapters.

a. Double click on the System

Tray icon to run the wireless
LAN configuration utility to
make whatever configuration
changes may be needed.

b. Set the MA101 as follows:

•SSID: Wireless

• Mode (Infrastructure or
Ad-Hoc): Ad-Hoc

• WEP encryption: assure

MA101 Configuration Utility

that both computers are
configured with the same
WEP parameters, if
enabled.

Note: To connect computer- to-computer
(Ad-Hoc) but both computer-to­computer and access point
(infrastructure) networks are within
range of your computer, then select

Computer-to-computer (Ad-Hoc)

networks only.

24

Verify wireless connectivity between the computers.

Verify connectivity by accessing resources on either computer.

Note: If you cannot connect, please see the “Troubleshooting Tips” on

page 27. If you have problems with accessing network resources, the

Windows Client and File and Print Sharing software might not be
installed and configured properly on your computers. Please refer to

“Preparing Your PCs for Network Access” on page 41.

25

Interpreting System Tray Icon Colors

The SysTray (System Tray) resides on one end of the taskbar in the Microsoft
Windows desktop. The wireless LAN configuration utility installation for the
MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter adds a configuration and status reporting
utility icon in the SysTray.

Color Condition Description

Red The wireless USB adapter

has no connection to any
other wireless node.

Yellow The wireless USB adapter

has a connection with
another wireless node.

Green The wireless USB adapter

has a connection with
another wireless node.

26

The wireless USB adapter is not able to
link to any access point or the link
between the wireless USB adapter and the
access point is lost. Check your
configuration or try moving to a location
where the wireless signal quality is better.

The link condition between the Wireless
USB Adapter and the associated access
point is weak. Try moving to another
location where the wireless signal quality
is better, such as closer to the wireless
access point. Also, look for any possible
sources of interference such as a 2.4 GHz
cordless phone or a large metal surface.

The Wireless USB Adapter has
established good communication with an
access point and the signal quality is
strong.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you have problems getting wirelessly connected to your network, try the tips
below.

Symptom Cause Solution

The LED on the
wireless USB
adapter is off

I am connected
to a wireless
network
through an
access point,
but I cannot see
the other
computers on
the Ethernet
side of the
network.

The wireless USB
adapter cable is not
inserted into the
USB port properly
or the proper
MA101 USB
Adapter software is
not loaded.

This could be a
physical layer
problem or a
network
configuration
problem.

• Remove and reinsert the wireless USB
adapter USB cable.

• Check the device manager in Windows
to see if the wireless USB adapter is
properly recognized in the Windows
operating system. Reload the driver if
necessary.

• Try to install the MA101 on a different
USB port on your system if one is
available.

• Check to make sure that the access point
is connected to the Ethernet network.

• Make sure that the IP addresses and the
Windows networking parameters are all
configured correctly. Please refer to

“Preparing Your PCs for Network
Access” on page 41.

27

28

Chapter 3

Protecting Your Wireless Connection

The absence of a physical connection between nodes makes wireless links
vulnerable to information theft. This chapter describes how to use the basic
security features of the MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter to protect your
connection.

Enabling Basic Wireless Security Features

There are several ways you can strengthen the security of your wireless
connection.

• Enable Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) encryption of the wireless data
communications. For information on WEP, please see

WEP Encryption” on page 37.

• Change the factory default SSID setting of the MA101 802.11b Wireless USB
Adapter.

“Authentication and

In addition to the MA101 wireless security features, you should also configure
appropriate LAN network security features such as requiring a user name and
password to access the shared resources in your network.

At a minimum, configure your wireless network to use an SSID other than the
default setting.The procedures below identify how to change the SSID and WEP
encryption settings of your MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter.

29

Identifying the Wireless Network Name (SSID) and WEP Security Settings

Print this form, fill in the configuration parameters, and put it in a safe place for
future reference. For an existing wireless network, fill in the configuration
parameters. The person who set up or is responsible for the network will be able to
provide this information.

• Wireless Network Name (SSID): The Service Set Identification (SSID)
identifies the wireless local area network. Wireless is the default MA101
SSID. However, you may customize it by using up to 32 alphanumeric
characters. Netgear recommends that you write your customized SSID on the
line below.

Note: The SSID in the wireless Access Point is the SSID you configure in the
wireless USB adapter. For the access point and wireless nodes to
communicate with each other, all must be configured with the same SSID.

Wireless network name (SSID): ______________________________

• WEP Security Encryption key: The default WEP encryption key number is 1,
and the default key size is 64 bits.

Note: The key number as well as the authentication method used by both the
Wireless Access Point and wireless nodes must be the same. If they are
different, you will not be able to connect.

WEP Encryption Key Size, circle one: 64 or 128 bits

WEP Hexadecimal Numbers: ______________________________

The WEP Hexadecimal Numbers must be manually entered. Also, the
wireless network access point should be configured to authenticate in Shared
Key mode. That is, both the access point and the wireless device such as the
MA101 have been set up with the same authentication scheme and the same
key(s).

30

Setting the Wireless Network Name (SSID)

The MA101 USB Adapter allows you to restrict access to your wireless
communications based on the SSID and WEP keywords. These settings must
match the settings of the wireless Access Point. Follow the steps below to perform
this procedure.

1. Run the Configuration Utility and select the Configuration tab page.

Figure 3-1: Changing the SSID

2. To change the SSID, enter a new SSID.

Note: The characters are case sensitive.

3. Click Apply or OK for the changes to take effect.

31

Configuring WEP Encryption Security

The MA101 USB Adapter allows you to restrict access to your wireless network
based on WEP keywords. Following the steps below to perform this procedure.

1. Run the Configuration Utility and select the Security tab page.

Figure 3-2: Configuring WEP Encryption

2. Select the WEP encryption strength you will use. The characters are case

sensitive. Use the same values when configuring other wireless devices that
will communicate with this wireless USB adapter.

• 40/64-bit WEP data encryption

• 128-bit WEP data encryption

Note: A larger encryption key requires more processing to encode/decode
the messages. Larger encryption key lengths may slow the
communications process response times.

3. Click Apply then OK for the changes to take effect.

32

Appendix A

Technical Specifications

This appendix provides technical specifications for the MA101 USB Adapter.

Antenna 1 Integrated antenna and 1 external non-removable

antenna

Radio Data Rate 1, 2, 5.5, 11 Mbps (Auto Rate Sensing)

Frequency 2.4 GHz to 2.5 GHz Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum

(DSSS)

Maximum Range Outdoor Environment

1Mbps–1650 ft (503 m) 1Mbps–500 ft (152 m)
2Mbps–1320 ft (402 m) 2Mbps–400 ft (122 m)

5.5Mbps–1155 ft (352 m) 5.5Mbps–270 ft (82 m)
11Mbps–835 ft (255 m) 11Mbps–175 ft (53 m)

Emissions FCC, CE, C-TICK

Bus interface USB 1.1

Provided drivers Microsoft Windows XP, 98, Me, 2000

Dimensions L: 4.2 in (107 mm)

W: 3.4 in (87 mm)
H: 0.95 in (24 mm)

Weight 2.2 oz (67 g)

Status LED Wireless Link, Device Status

Operating Environment Operating temperature: 32-131 degrees F (0-55 degrees C)

Encryption 40-bit (also called 64-bit) and 128-bit WEP data encryption

Warranty Limited 3-year warranty

Indoor Environment

33

34

Appendix B

802.11b Wireless Networking Basics

This chapter provides an overview of IP networks, routing, and wireless
networking.

Related Publications

As you read this document, you may be directed to various RFC documents for
further information. An RFC is a Request For Comment (RFC) published by the
Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), an open organization that defines the
architecture and operation of the Internet. The RFC documents outline and define
the standard protocols and procedures for the Internet. The documents are listed
on the World Wide Web at www.ietf.org and are mirrored and indexed at many
other sites worldwide.

Wireless Networking

The MA101 USB Adapter conforms to the Institute of Electrical and Electronics
Engineers (IEEE) 802.11b standard for wireless LANs (WLANs). On an 802.11b
wireless link, data is encoded using direct-sequence spread-spectrum (DSSS)
technology and is transmitted in the unlicensed radio spectrum at 2.4 GHz. The
maximum data rate for the wireless link is 11 Mbps, but it will automatically back
down from 11 Mbps to 5.5, 2, and 1 Mbps when the radio signal is weak or when
interference is detected.

The 802.11b standard is also called Wireless Ethernet or Wi-Fi by the Wireless
Ethernet Compatibility Alliance (WECA, see http://www.wi-fi.net), an industry
standard group promoting interoperability among 802.11b devices.

35

Wireless Network Configuration

The 802.11b standard offers two methods for configuring a wireless network —
ad hoc and infrastructure.

Ad Hoc Mode (Peer-to-Peer Workgroup)

In an ad hoc network, computers are brought together as needed; thus, there is no
structure or fixed point in the network — each node can generally communicate
with any other node. There is no access point involved in this configuration. This
mode enables you to quickly set up a small wireless workgroup and allows
workgroup members to exchange data or share printers as supported by Microsoft
Networking in the various Windows operating systems. Some vendors also refer
to ad hoc networking as peer-to-peer group networking.

In this configuration, network packets are directly sent and received by the
intended transmitting and receiving stations. As long as the stations are within
range of one another, this is the easiest and least expensive way to set up a
wireless network.

Infrastructure Mode

With a wireless Access Point, you can operate the wireless LAN in the
infrastructure mode. This mode provides wireless connectivity to multiple
wireless network devices within a fixed range or area of coverage, interacting
with wireless nodes via an antenna.

In the infrastructure mode, the wireless access point converts airwave data into
wired Ethernet data, acting as a bridge between the wired LAN and wireless
clients. Connecting multiple access points via a wired Ethernet backbone can
further extend the wireless network coverage. As a mobile computing device
moves out of the range of one access point, it moves into the range of another. As
a result, wireless clients can freely roam from one access point domain to another
and still maintain seamless network connection.

36

Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID)

The Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID) is one of two types of Service
Set Identification (SSID). In an ad-hoc wireless network with no access points, the
Basic Service Set Identification
network which includes an access point, the ESSID is used, but may still be
referred to as SSID.

An SSID is a thirty-two character (maximum) alphanumeric key identifying the
wireless local area network. Some vendors refer to the SSID as network name. For
the wireless devices in a network to communicate with each other, all devices
must be configured with the same SSID.

(BSSID) is used. In an infrastructure wireless

Authentication and WEP Encryption

The absence of a physical connection between nodes makes the wireless links
vulnerable to eavesdropping and information theft. To provide certain level of
security, the IEEE 802.11 standard defines two types of authentication methods:

• Open System — Open System authentication is a null algorithm which
requires an system identifier but does not encrypt the wireless data. With
Open System authentication, a wireless PC can join any network merely by
providing the SSID and receive any messages that are not encrypted.

• Shared Key — Shared Key authentication is an algorithm where both the
transmitting node and the receiving node share an authentication key to
perform a checksum on the original message. With Shared Key
authentication, only those PCs that possess the correct authentication key can
join the network.

By default, IEEE 802.11 wireless devices operate in open system network mode.
That is, they do not encrypt the data being transmitted over the wireless network.

37

Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP)

Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) data encryption is utilized when the wireless
nodes or access points are configured to operate in Shared Key authentication
mode. There are two shared key methods implemented in most commercially
available products, 64-bit and 128-bit WEP data encryption.

The 64-bit WEP data encryption method, allows for a five-character (40-bit)
input. Additionally, 24 factory-set bits are added to the forty-bit input to generate
a 64-bit encryption key. The 24 factory-set bits are not user-configurable. This
encryption key will be used to encrypt/decrypt all data transmitted via the wireless
interface. Some vendors refer to the 64-bit WEP data encryption as 40-bit WEP
data encryption since the user-configurable portion of the encryption key is 40 bits
wide.

The 128-bit WEP data encryption method consists of 104 user-configurable bits.
Similar to the forty-bit WEP data encryption method, the remaining 24 bits are
factory set and not user configurable. Some vendors allow passphrases to be
entered instead of the cryptic hexadecimal characters to ease encryption key entry.

Wireless Channel Selection

IEEE 802.11 wireless nodes communicate with each other using radio frequency
signals in the ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) band between 2.4 GHz and

2.5 GHz. Neighboring channels are 5 MHz apart. However, due to spread

spectrum effect of the signals, a node sending signals using a particular channel
will utilize frequency spectrum12.5 MHz above and below the center channel
frequency. As a result, two separate wireless networks using neighboring channels
(for example, channel 1 and channel 2) in the same general vicinity will interfere
with each other. Applying two channels that allow the maximum channel
separation will decrease the amount of channel cross-talk, and provide a
noticeable performance increase over networks with minimal channel separation.

38

The radio frequency channels used are listed in Tabl e 3-1:

Table 3-1. 802.11 Radio Frequency Channels

Channel Center Frequency Frequency Spread

1 2412 MHz 2399.5 MHz - 2424.5 MHz

2 2417 MHz 2404.5 MHz - 2429.5 MHz

3 2422 MHz 2409.5 MHz - 2434.5 MHz

4 2427 MHz 2414.5 MHz - 2439.5 MHz

5 2432 MHz 2419.5 MHz - 2444.5 MHz

6 2437 MHz 2424.5 MHz - 2449.5 MHz

7 2442 MHz 2429.5 MHz - 2454.5 MHz

8 2447 MHz 2434.5 MHz - 2459.5 MHz

9 2452 MHz 2439.5 MHz - 2464.5 MHz

10 2457 MHz 2444.5 MHz - 2469.5 MHz

11 2462 MHz 2449.5 MHz - 2474.5 MHz

12 2467 MHz 2454.5 MHz - 2479.5 MHz

13 2472 MHz 2459.5 MHz - 2484.5 MHz

Note: The available channels supported by the wireless products in various

countries are different.

The preferred channel separation between the channels in neighboring wireless
networks is 25 MHz (5 channels). This means that you can apply up to three
different channels within your wireless network. There are only 11 usable wireless
channels in the United States. It is recommended that you start using channel 1
and grow to use channel 6, and 11 when necessary, as these three channels do not
overlap.

39

40

Appendix C

Preparing Your PCs for Network Access

This appendix describes how to prepare your PCs to connect to the Internet
through the MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter.

For adding file and print sharing to your network, please consult the Windows
help information included with the version of Windows installed on each
computer on your network.

Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking

Computers access the Internet using a protocol called TCP/IP (Transmission
Control Protocol/Internet Protocol). Each computer on your network must have
TCP/IP installed and selected as its networking protocol. If a Network Interface
Card (NIC) is already installed in your PC, then TCP/IP is probably already
installed as well.

Most operating systems include the software components you need for
networking with TCP/IP. Windows 95 or later includes the software components
for establishing a TCP/IP network.

In your TCP/IP network, each PC and the wireless access point must be assigned a
unique IP addresses. Each PC must also have certain other TCP/IP configuration
information such as a subnet mask (netmask), a domain name server (DNS)
address, and a default gateway address. In most cases, you should install TCP/IP
so that the PC obtains its specific network configuration information
automatically from a DHCP server during startup.

41

Configuring Windows 98 and Me for TCP/IP Networking

As part of the PC preparation process, you may need to install and configure

TCP/IP on your PC. Before starting, locate your Windows CD; you may need to
insert it during the TCP/IP installation process.

Install or Verify Windows Networking Components

To install or verify the necessary components for IP networking:

1. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start button, point to Settings, and then

click Control Panel.

2. Double-click the Network icon.

The Network window opens, which displays a list of installed components:

42

You must have an Ethernet adapter or an MA101, the TCP/IP protocol, and
the Client for Microsoft Networks.

Note: It is not necessary to remove any other network components
shown in the Network window in order to install the adapter, TCP/IP, or

Client for Microsoft Networks.

If you need to add TCP/IP:

a. Click the Add button.
b. Select Protocol, and then click Add.
c. Select Microsoft.
d. Select TCP/IP, and then click OK.

43

If you need to add the Client for Microsoft Networks:

a. Click the Add button.
b. Select Client, and then click Add.
c. Select Microsoft.
d. Select Client for Microsoft Networks, and then click OK.

If you need to add File and Print Sharing for Microsoft Networks:

a. Click the Add button.
b. Select Client, and then click Add.
c. Select Microsoft.
d. Select File and Print Sharing for Microsoft Networks, and then click OK.

3. Restart your PC for the changes to take effect.

Enabling DHCP to Automatically Configure TCP/IP Settings in Windows 98 and Me

After the TCP/IP protocol components are installed, each PC must be assigned
specific information about itself and resources that are available on its network.
The simplest way to configure this information is to allow the PC to obtain the
information from a DHCP server in the network.

You will find there are many similarities in the procedures for different Windows
systems when using DHCP to configure TCP/IP.

The following steps will walk you through the configuration process for each of
these versions of Windows.

44

Locate your Network Neighborhood icon.

• If the Network Neighborhood icon is on the Windows desktop,
position your mouse pointer over it and right-click your mouse
button.

• If the icon is not on the desktop,

•Click Start on the task bar located at the bottom left of the

window.

• Choose Settings, and then Control Panel.

• Locate the Network Neighborhood icon and click on it. This

will open the Network panel as shown below.

Verify the following
settings as shown:

• Client for Microsoft
Network exists

• Ethernet adapter is
present

• TCP/IP is present

• Primary Network
Logon is set to Windows
logon

Click on the Properties
button. The following
TCP/IP Properties window

will display.

45

By default, the IP Address
tab is open on this window.

• Verify the following:

Obtain an IP address
automatically is selected. If

not selected, click in the
radio button to the left of it
to select it. This setting is
required to enable the
DHCP server to
automatically assign an IP
address.

• Click OK to continue.

Restart the PC.

Repeat these steps for each
PC with this version of
Windows on your network.

Selecting Windows’ Internet Access Method

1. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start button, point to Settings, and then

click Control Panel.

2. Double-click the Internet Options icon.

3. Select “I want to set up my Internet connection manually” or “I want to

connect through a Local Area Network” and click Next.

4. Select “I want to connect through a Local Area Network” and click Next.

5. Uncheck all boxes in the LAN Internet Configuration screen and click Next.

6. Proceed to the end of the Wizard.

46

Verifying TCP/IP Properties

After your PC is configured and has rebooted, you can check the TCP/IP
configuration using the utility winipcfg.exe:

1. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start button, and then click Run.

2. Type winipcfg, and then click OK.

The IP Configuration window opens, which lists (among other things), your
IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway.

3. From the drop-down box, select your Ethernet adapter.

The window is updated to show your settings, which should match the values
below if you are using the default TCP/IP settings that NETGEAR
recommends for connecting through a router or gateway:

• The IP address is between 192.168.0.2 and 192.168.0.254

• The subnet mask is 255.255.255.0

• The default gateway is 192.168.0.1

Configuring Windows 2000 or XP for TCP/IP Networking

As part of the PC preparation process, you may need to install and configure

TCP/IP on each networked PC. Before starting, locate your Windows CD; you
may need to insert it during the TCP/IP installation process.

Install or Verify Windows Networking Components

To install or verify the necessary components for IP networking:

1. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start button, point to Settings, and then

click Control Panel.

2. Double-click the Network and Dialup Connections icon.

47

3. If an Ethernet adapter is present in your PC, you should see an entry for Local

Area Connection. Double-click that entry.

4. Select Properties.

5. Verify that Client for Microsoft Networks and Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) are

present. If not, select Install and add them.

6. Select Internet Protocol (TCP/IP), click Properties, and verify that Obtain an

IP address automatically is selected.

7. Click OK and close all Network and Dialup Connections windows.

8. Then, restart your PC.

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP or 2000

You will find there are many similarities in the procedures for different Windows
systems when using DHCP to configure TCP/IP.

The following steps will walk you through the configuration process for each of
these versions of Windows.

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP

Locate your Network Neighborhood icon.

• Select Control Panel from the Windows XP Start Menu.

• Select the Network Connections icon on the Control Panel. This will take

you to the next step.

48

Now the Network
Connection window
displays.

The Connections List that
shows all the network
connections set up on the
PC, located to the right of
the window.

• Right-click on the

Connection with the
wireless icon and choose

Status.

Now you should be at the
Local Area Network
Connection Status window.
This box displays the
connection status, duration,
speed, and activity
statistics.

Administrator logon access
rights are needed to use this
window.

• Click the Properties
button to view details
about the connection.

49

The TCP/IP details are
presented on the Support tab
page.

• Select Internet Protocol,
and click Properties to view
the configuration
information.

Verify that Obtain an IP
address automatically radio
button is selected and that the

Obtain DNS server address
automatically radio button is

selected.

• Click the OK button.

This completes the DHCP
configuration in Windows XP.

Repeat these steps for each
PC with this version of
Windows on your network.

50

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows 2000

After you install a network card, TCP/IP for Windows 2000 is configured and set
to DHCP without your having to configure it. However, if there are problems,
following the steps below to configure TCP/IP with DHCP for Windows 2000.

Click on the My Network Places icon on the Windows desktop. This will
bring up a window called Network and Dial-up Connections.

• Right click on Local Area Connection and select Properties.

The Local Area Connection
Properties dialog box
appears. Verify that you have
the correct Ethernet card
selected in the Connect
using: box and that the
following two items are
displayed and selected in the
box of “Components checked
are used by this connection:”

• Client for Microsoft

Networks and

• Internet Protocol (TCP/

IP)

Click OK.

51

With Internet Protocol (TCP/
IP) selected, click on
Properties to open the
Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)
Properties dialogue box.
Verify that

• Obtain an IP address

automatically is
selected.

• Obtain DNS server

address automatically
is selected.

Click OK to return to Local
Area Connection Properties.
Click OK again to complete
the configuration process for
Windows 2000.

Restart the PC. Repeat these
steps for each PC with this
version of Windows on your

network.

52

Verifying TCP/IP Properties for Windows XP or 2000

To check your PC’s TCP/IP configuration:

1. On the Windows taskbar, click the Start button, and then click Run.

The Run window opens.

2. Type cmd and then click OK.

A command window opens

3. Type ipconfig /all

Your IP Configuration information will be listed, and should match the values
below if you are using the default TCP/IP settings that NETGEAR
recommends for connecting through a router or gateway:

• The IP address is between 192.168.0.2 and 192.168.0.254

• The subnet mask is 255.255.255.0

• The default gateway is 192.168.0.1

4. Type exit

53

54

Numerics

2.5 GHz Cordless phones 2-10

802.11b B-37

A

Access Point 2-27

Ad Hoc 2-12

Ad-Hoc Mode 2-11

ad-hoc mode B-38, B-39

B

BSSID B-39

C

Channel B-40

Connect in Ad-Hoc Mode 2-23

D

Default Wireless Configuration Settings 2-12

Index

E

ESSID B-39

F

features 1-1

G

Green 2-26

I

I cannot see the other computers on the Ethernet side of the network. 2-27

1

IETF B-37

Infrastructure 2-12

Infrastructure Mode 2-11

infrastructure mode B-38, B-39

IP networking

for Windows C-44, C-49

L

Large metal surfaces 2-10

LED on the PC Card is off 2-27

Location and Range Guidelines 2-10

M

Microwaves 2-10

Modes 2-11

O

Open System authentication B-39

P

publications, related B-37

R

range 2-10

Red 2-26

S

Shared Key authentication B-39

sources of interference 2-10

SSID 1-3, 2-12, B-39

System Requirements 2-10

System Tray Icon Colors 2-26

2

T

TCP/IP properties

verifying for Windows C-49

Troubleshooting Tips 2-27

W

walls 2-10

WEP 1-4, 3-29, B-40

Wi-Fi B-37

Windows 2000 2-20

Windows 98/ME 2-17

Windows XP Users 2-14

Windows, configuring for IP routing C-44, C-49

winipcfg utility C-49

Wired Equivalent Privacy. See WEP

Wireless 2-12

Wireless Ethernet B-37

wireless network name 1-3

Y

Yellow 2-26

3

4

Certificate of the Manufacturer/Importer

It is hereby certified that the Model MA401 Wireless PC Card has been suppressed in accordance
with the conditions set out in the BMPT- AmtsblVfg 243/1991 and Vfg 46/1992. The operation of
some equipment (for example, test transmitters) in accordance with the regulations may, however,
be subject to certain restrictions. Please refer to the notes in the operating instructions.

Federal Office for Telecommunications Approvals has been notified of the placing of this equipment
on the market and has been granted the right to test the series for compliance with the regulations.

VCCI Statement

This equipment is in the Class B category (information equipment to be used in a residential area or
an adjacent area thereto) and conforms to the standards set by the Voluntary Control Council for
Interference by Data Processing Equipment and Electronic Office Machines aimed at preventing
radio interference in such residential areas. When used near a radio or TV receiver, it may become
the cause of radio interference. Read instructions for correct handling.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Compliance Notice:

Radio Frequency Notice

NETGEAR MA101 Wireless USB Adapter

Tested to Comply
with FCC Standards

FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE

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.

2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.

‹Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses,
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause
harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures: (1) Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna, (2) Increase the separation
between the equipment and receiver, (3) Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different
from that to which the receiver is connected, (4) Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV
technician for help.

Warning!

To comply with the FCC’s rf exposure requirements you

must maintain a distance of at least 1 cm from the anten-

na of this device while it is in use. This device should not

be co-located with other transmitters.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Radiation Exposure Statement

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled
environment. In order to avoid the possibility of exceeding the FCC radio frequency exposure
limits, human proximity to the antenna shall not be less than 20 cm (8 inches) during normal
operation.

Canadian Department of Communications Radio Interference Regulations

This digital apparatus (Model MA401 Wireless PC Card) does not exceed the Class B limits for
radio-noise emissions from digital apparatus as set out in the Radio Interference Regulations of the
Canadian Department of Communications.

NETGEAR, Inc.
4500 Great America Parkway
Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA
E-mail: [e-mail]
www.NETGEAR.com

R