Netgear MA701 DATASHEET

User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.1 1b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

NETGEAR, Inc.

4500 Great America Parkway Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA

M-10204-01 Version v2.0 August 2003

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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: support@netgear.com 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.

©2003 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

August 2003

Certificate of the Manufacturer/Importer

It is hereby certified that the Model MA701 Wireless PC Card has been sup pressed 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

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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.

FCC Information to User

This product does not contain any user serviceable components and is to be used with approved antennas only. Any product changes or modifications will invalidate all applicable regulatory certifications and approvals

FCC Guidelines for Human Exposure

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.

Declaration Of Conformity

We NETGEAR, Inc., 4500 Great America Parkway, Santa Clara, CA 95054, declare under our sole responsibility that the model MA701 Cardbus Card Wireless Adapter complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:

• This device may not cause harmful interference, and

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

Regulatory Compliance Information

This section includes user requirements for operating this product in accordance with National laws for usage of radio spectrum and operation of radio devices. Failure of the end-user to comply with the applicable requirements may result in unlawful operation and adverse action against the end-user by the applicable National regulatory authority.

NOTE: This product's firmware limits operation to only the channels allowed in a particular Region or Country .

Therefore, all options described in this user's guide may not be available in your version of the product.

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Compliance Notice: Radio Frequency Notice

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 rea sonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment 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 methods:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna

• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver

• Connect the equipment into an electrical outlet on a circuit different from that which the radio receiver is connected

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

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iii

NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

Tested to Comply with FCC Standards

Modifications made to the product, unless expressly approved byNETGEAR, Inc., could void the user's right to operate the equipment.

FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE

EN 55 022 Statement

This is to certify that the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701 is shielded against the generation of radio interference in accordance with the application of Council Directive 89/336/EEC, Article 4a. Conformity is declared by the application of EN 55 022 Class B (CISPR 22). Compliance is dependent upon the use of shielded data cables.

Export Restrictions

This product or software contains encryption code which may not be exported or transferred from the US or Canada without an approved US Department of Commerce export license.

Canadian Department of Communications Radio Interference Regulations

This digital apparatus (Model MA701 Wireless Compact Flash 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.

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Chapter 1 About This Manual

Audience, Conventions, and Scope ...............................................................................1-1

How to Use This Manual ................................................................................................1-2

How to Print this Manual .................................................................................................1-3

Chapter 2 Introduction

About the MA701 Wireless Compact Flash Card ...........................................................2-1

Key Features and Related NETGEAR Products ............................................................2-2

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

A Road Map for ‘How to Get There From Here’ .............................................................2-3

Chapter 3 Basic Setup for a PDA

What You Need Before You Begin ..................................................................................3-1

Verifying System Requirements ...............................................................................3-1

Observing Location and Range Guidelines ..............................................................3-2

Two Basic Operating Modes ...........................................................................................3-2

MA701 Default Wireless Configuration Settings .............................................................3-3

Basic Installation Instructions .........................................................................................3-4

MA701 Wireless Connection Indicators ..........................................................................3-8

Interpreting the LED on the MA701 ........................................... ... .... ... ... ..................3-8

Interpreting Windows CE System Tray Icon Colors .................................................3-9

Troubleshooting .................................................. .......................................................... 3-10

Basic Troubleshooting Tips ....................................................................................3-10

Troubleshooting Frequently Asked Questions .......................................................3-12

Chapter 4 Basic Setup for a Notebook PC

What You Need Before You Begin ..................................................................................4-1

Verifying System Requirements ...............................................................................4-1

Observing Location and Range Guidelines ..............................................................4-2

Two Basic Operating Modes ...........................................................................................4-2

Contents v

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MA701 Default Wireless Configuration Settings .............................................................4-3

Basic Installation Instructions .........................................................................................4-4

For Windows XP Users Installing a MA701 .............................................................4-4

For Windows 2000 & 98/Me Users Installing a MA701 ............................................4-8

MA701 Wireless Connection Indicators ........................................................................4-12

Troubleshooting .................................................. .......................................................... 4-13

Basic Troubleshooting Tips ....................................................................................4-13

Troubleshooting Frequently Asked Questions .......................................................4-14

Chapter 5 PDA Configuration

Understanding the Configuration Options ......................................................................5-1

Using Configuration Profiles ...........................................................................................5-1

Connecting to an Access Point in Infrastructure Mode ............................................5-2

How to Configure an Infrastructure Mode Profile ......................... ............................5-3

Connecting to Another PC in Ad-hoc Mode .............................................................5-6

How to Configure an Ad-hoc Mode Profile ......... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ..5-6

Enabling Wireless Security Features ........................ .................... ................... ...............5-9

Identifying the Wireless Network Name (SSID) and WEP Security Settings ...........5-9

How to Configure WEP Encryption Security ..........................................................5-10

Understanding the Advanced Settings Page ................................................................5-11

Understanding AP Browser Property Page ..................................................................5-12

Understanding the About Property Page ......................................................................5-13

Chapter 6 Notebook Configuration

Understanding the Configuration Options ......................................................................6-1

Using Configuration Profiles ...........................................................................................6-1

Connecting to an Access Point in Infrastructure Mode ............................................6-2

How to Configure an Infrastructure Mode Profile ......................... ............................6-3

Connecting to Another PC in Ad-hoc Mode ....................................................................6-5

How to Configure an Ad-hoc Mode Profile ......... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ..6-6

Enabling Wireless Security Features ........................ .................... ................... ...............6-8

Identifying the Wireless Network Name (SSID) and WEP Security Settings ...........6-9

How to Configure WEP Encryption Security ..........................................................6-10

vi Contents

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Appendix A Technical Specifications

Appendix B Wireless Networking Basics

Wireless Networking Overview .............................. ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... . B-1

Infrastructure Mode ................................................................................................. B-1

Ad Hoc Mode (Peer-to-Peer Workgroup) .................................. ... .... ... .................... B-2

Network Name: Extended Service Set Identification (ESSID) ................................ B-2

Authentication and WEP ........................... .... ... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... .............................. B-2

802.11 Authentication .............................................................................................. B-3

Open System Authentication .............................. .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ....................... B-3

Shared Key Authentication ...................................................................................... B-4

Overview of WEP Parameters ................................................................................ B-5

Key Size .................................................................................................................. B-6

WEP Configuration Options ......................... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... .... ... ... ... ... ........... B-6

Wireless Channels ....................... .... ... ... ... ..................................................................... B-7

Appendix C Preparing Your PCs for Network Access

Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking ......................................... ... .... ... ... . C-1

Configuring Windows 98 and Me for TCP/IP Networking ................... ...........................C-1

Install or V erify Windows Networking Components ................................................. C-1

Enabling DHCP to Automatically Configure TCP/IP Settings in Windows 98 and Me C-3

Selecting Windows’ Internet Access Method .......................................................... C-5

Verifying TCP/IP Properties .................................................................................... C-5

Configuring Windows 2000 or XP for TCP/IP Networking ............................................. C-6

Install or V erify Windows Networking Components ................................................. C-6

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP or 2000 ......................................... C-7

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows XP ..................................................... C-7

DHCP Configuration of TCP/IP in Windows 2000 .................................................. C-9

Verifying TCP/IP Properties for Windows XP or 2000 ........................................... C-11

Glossary

Numeric .........................................................................................................................D-1

A ....................................................................................................................................D-2

B ....................................................................................................................................D-2

C ..................................... ........................................................................... ....................D-3

Contents vii

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D ..................................... ........................................................................... ....................D-3

E ....................................................................................................................................D-4

G ..................................... .............................................. ................................................. D-4

I .................................... ............. .......... ............. ............. ............. ............. ............ ........... D-4

L ...................................... ................. ............. ................ ................ ................ ................. D-6

M ..................................... ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ................. D-6

N ..................................... ........................................................................... ....................D-7

P ....................................................................................................................................D-8

Q ..................................... .............................................. ................................................. D-9

R ..................................... ........................................................................... ....................D-9

S ....................................................................................................................................D-9

T ..................................................................................................................................D-10

U ..................................... ........................................................................... ..................D-10

W .................................................................................................................................D-10

Index

viii Contents

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

Chapter 1

About This Manual

Congratulations on your purchase of the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701. This section of the User Guide identifies how to use this publication.

Audience, Conventions, and Scope

This User Guide assumes that the reader has basic to intermediate computer and Internet skills. However, tutorial information is provided in the Appendices, on the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card Resource CD (SW-10040-01).

Note: Product updates are available on the NETGEAR web site at

www.netgear.com/support/main.asp. Documentation updates are available on the

NETGEAR, Inc. web site at www.netgear.com/docs.

This manual is written for the MA701 Wireless Compact Flash Card according to these specifications.:

Table 1-1. Manual Specifications

Product Version NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701 Manual Part Number M-10204-01 Manual Publication Date August 2003

This guide uses the following formats to highlight special messages:

Note: This format is used to highlight information of importance or special interest.

About This Manual 1-1

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

This guide uses the following typographical conventions:

Table 1. Typographical conventions

italics Emphasis.

bold times roman User input. [Enter] Named keys in text are shown enclosed in square brackets. The notation [Enter]

is used for the Enter key and the Return key.

SMALL CAPS

Note: Throughout this guide, only Pocket PC screen shots are displayed. Pocket PC screens will be functionally equivalent with various Windows CE systems.

DOS file and directory names.

How to Use This Manual

The HTML version of this manual includes these features.

Figure Preface -2: HTML version of this manual

1. Left pane. Use the left pane to view the Contents, Index, Search, and Favorites tabs.

To view the HTML version of the manual, you must have a version 4 or later browser with Java or JavaScript enabled. To use the Favorites feature, your browser must be set to accept cookies. You can record a list of favorite pages in the manual for easy later retrieval.

2 3

1-2 About This Manual

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

2. Toolbar buttons. Use the toolbar buttons across the top to navigate, print pages, and more.

–The Show in Contents button locates the currently displayed topic in the Contents tab. – Previous/Next buttons display the topic that precedes or follows the current topic. –The PDF button links to a PDF version of the full manual. –The E-mail button enables you to send feedback by e-mail to Netgear support. –The Print button prints the currently displayed topic. Using this button when a

step-by-step procedure is displayed will send the entire procedure to your printer--you do

not have to worry about specifying the correct range of pages. –The Bookmark button bookmarks the currently displayed page in your browser.

3. Right pane. Use the right pane to view the contents of the manual. Also, each page of the

manual includes a “PDF of This Chapter” link at the top right which links to a PDF file containing just the currently selected chapter of the manual.

How to Print this Manual

To print this manual you man choose one of the following several options, according to your needs.

• A “How To” Sequence of Steps in the HTML View. Use the Print button on the upper right

of the toolbar to print the currently displayed topic. Using this button when a step-by-step procedure is displayed will send the entire procedure to your printer--you do not have to worry about specifying the correct range of pages.

• A Chapter. Use the “PDF of This Chapter” link at the top right of any page.

– Click “PDF of This Chapter” link at the top right of any page in the chapter you want to

print. A new browser window opens showing the PDF version of the chapter you were

viewing. – Click the print icon in the upper left of the window. – Tip: If your printer supports printing two pages on a single sheet of paper, you can save

paper an printer ink by selecting this feature.

• The Full Manual. Use the PDF button in the toolbar at the top right of the browser window.

– Click PDF button. A new browser window opens showing the PDF version of the chapter

you were viewing. – Click the print icon in the upper left of the window. – Tip: If your printer supports printing two pages on a single sheet of paper, you can save

paper an printer ink by selecting this feature.

About This Manual 1-3

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

1-4 About This Manual

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

Chapter 2

Introduction

This chapter introduces the features, package contents, and appearance of the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701.

About the MA701 Wireless Compact Flash Card

The NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701 gives you ultimate mobility in your office or while you are traveling.

With this new Wireless Compact Flash Card, your Pocket PC (Windows CE 3.02.1 1 or abov e) and Handheld PC (Windows CE 3.0 or above) can take advantage of wireless access to your corporate LAN, surf the Internet, access e-mails, and communicate with other mobile devices enabled for IEEE 802.11b standard-based wireless LAN connectivity.

It is designed for notebook computers running Microsoft and 32-bit CardBus compatible and works in any available PCMCIA or CardBus slot.

Its auto-sensing capability allows high packet transfer at up to 11 Mbps for maximum throughput or dynamic range shifting to lower speeds due to distance or operating limitations in an environment with a lot of electromagnetic interference.

The MA701 Wireless Compact Flash Card provides reliable, standards-based 802.11b 11 Mbps WLAN connectivity that is protected with industry-standard security.

Introduction 2-1

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Windows®. It is both 16-bit PCMCIA

User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

Key Features and Related NETGEAR Products

The MA701 Wireless Compact Flash Card provides the following features:

• Reliable IEEE 802.11b standards-based wireless technology designed for multi-vendor compatibility.

• Fast data transfer speeds up to 11 Mbps.

• Easy installation on all Pocket PCs with Compact Flash Ty pe I or Type II card slots.

• Supports multiple data rates, including 1, 2, 5.5 and 11 Mbps, with an auto fallback feature to ensure dependable connectivity.

• Built-in privacy protection supports both 40/64 and 128-bit WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) encryption systems.

• Offers a wireless range up to 300 feet in an office environment.

• Supports roaming between access points when configured in Infrastructure mode.

The following NETGEAR products can communicate with the MA701:

– WGT624 108 Mbps Wireless Firewall Router – WG602 54 Mbps Wireless Access Point – WGR614 54 Mbps Wireless Cable/DSL Router – WAB102 Dual Band Access Point – WAB501 Dual Band PC Card – MA101 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter – ME102 802.11b Wireless Access Point – MA311 802.11b Wireless PCI Adapter – MR314 and MR814 802.11b Wireless Cable/DSL Routers

What’s in the Box?

The product package should contain the following items:

• NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

• Installation Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

• NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card Re source CD (SW-10040-01), including:

2-2 Introduction

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

— Driver and Configuration Utility Software — User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701 — Animated Network Properties Configuration Tutorial — PC Networking Tutorial

• 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.

The NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701 can be used in two ways:

• As a wireless compact flash card in Windows CE devices

• When used with a CF-to-PCMCIA adapter, as a PCMCIA Type I wireless adapter for notebook PCs

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, setup, 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.

Introduction 2-3

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

Table 2-1. 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

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

Note: Secure Internet sites such as banks and online merchants use encryption security built into browsers like Internet Explorer and Netscape. Any wireless networking security features you might impleme n t are in addition to those already in place on secure Internet sites.

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

2. Set up the NETGEAR

802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701 with the settings from step 1.

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

2. Configure my MA701 with the security settings of the wireless network.

3. Use Windows security features.

1. A wireless network

2. A PDA, or a notebook PC within the operating range of the wireless network. For guidelines about the range of wireless networks, see

“Observing Location and Range Guidelines” on page 3- 2.

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

2. Wireless networking equipment that supports WEP encryption, such as the MA701 and all NETGEAR wireless networking products.

To set up the MA701, see

Chapter 3, “Basic Setup” and

follow the instructions provided. To learn about wireless

networking technology, see

Appendix B, “Wireless Networking Basics” for a

general introduction.

To learn about wireless networking security, see

“Authentication and WEP” on page B-2.

To use WEP security features, see “Enabling Wireless Security

Features” on page 5-9 and

configure your MA701 accordingly.

2-4 Introduction

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

Table 2-1. 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.

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

“Connecting to an Access Point in Infrastructure Mode” on page 5-2.

3. TCP/IP Internet networking software installed and configured according to the requirements of the local network.

4. A browser.

To configure your MA701 in Infrastructure Mode, see “Basic

Installation Instructions” on page 3- 4.

For assistance with configuring the TCP/IP Internet software on a PC, see “Preparing Your

Computers for TCP/IP Networking” on page C-1 or refer

to the PC Networking Tutorial on the NETGEAR 802.1 1b Wireless

Compact Flash Card Resource CD (SW-10040-01) and the Help

information provided in the Windows system you are using. .

Introduction 2-5

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

Table 2-1. 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 a wirelessly connected Pocket or notebook PC and other computers in a my combined wireless and wired network.

1. Use the Windows Network Neighborhood feature to browse 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.

For assistance with Windows networking software, see

Appendix , “Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking” for 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.

For assistance with setting up Windows networking, refer to the PC Networking Tutorial on the

NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card Resource CD (SW-10040-01) and the Help

information provided in the Windows system you are using.

2-6 Introduction

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

Table 2-1. 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 to a network printer from the notebook 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.

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.

For assistance with setting up Windows networking, refer to the PC Networking Tutorial on the

NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card Resource CD (SW-10040-01) and the Help

information provided in the Windows system you are using.

For 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.

Introduction 2-7

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

2-8 Introduction

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Chapter 3

Basic Setup for a PDA

This chapter describes how to install your NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701 and set up basic wireless connectivity on your Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN). Advanced wireless network configuration is covered in Chapter 5, “PDA Configuration” in this manual.

Note: Indoors, computers can easily connect to 802.11 wireless networks at distances of several hundred feet. 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 NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701 provides highly effective security features which are covered in “Enabling Wireless Security Features” on page 5-9 in this manual. Deploy the security features appropriate to your needs.

What You Need Before You Begin

Verify that your computer meets the minimum system requirements. Also, identify the wireless network configuration settings of the wireless network where you will connect before you configure your wireless compact flash card.

Verifying System Requirements

Before installing the NETGEAR 802.11b W ireless Compact Flash Card MA701, please make sure that these minimum requirements have been met:

• You must have a Pocket PC 2000/2002 (P/PC) with a Compact Flash Type I or II slot.

Note: Pocket PC 2003 will be supported in a future release. Please check the Netgear support web site at http://www.netgear.com for upgrades.

• Windows CE should be version 2.11 or higher.

• The PDA should have at least 500 Kilobytes of free memory.

Basic Setup for a PDA 3-1

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

• You must have Microsoft ActiveSync software version V3.5 or above successfully installed on you desktop or notebook PC that will be used for installing the MA701 software to your PDA.

•A CD-ROM drive.

Observing Location and Range Guidelines

The range of wireless network connections indoors can vary significantly based on the physical location of the wireless devices. For best results, avoid potential sources of interference, such as:

• Large metal surfaces

•Microwaves

• 2.4 GHz Cordless phones

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

Two Basic Operating Modes

The MA701 Wireless Compact Flash Card 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 MA701 Wireless Compact Flash Card. Infrastructure configuration procedures for basic network connectivity are covered below. Advanced infrastructure configuration procedures and ad-hoc configuration are covered in

Chapter 5, “PDA Configuration” of this manual.

3-2 Basic Setup for a PDA

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

MA701 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, identify the wireless settings of the existing network.

Your NETGEAR 802.11b W ireless Compact Flash Ca rd MA701 fact ory default basic settings are:

• Network Name Service Set Identification (SSID): Any (first available network) Note: In order for the MA701 Wireless Compact Flash Card to communicate with a wireless

access point or wireless adapter, it must use the same wireless network name (SSID).

• Network Mode (Infrastructure or Ad-hoc): Infrastructure

• Data security WEP encryption: Disabled

The section below provides instructions for setting up the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701 for basic wireless connectivity to an access point.

Basic Setup for a PDA 3-3

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

Basic Installation Instructions

Note: Remove any previously installed MA701 utility and driver software from the PDA before proceeding.

Install the MA701 driver and configuration utility software.

a. Insert the Resource CD for the MA701

into your PC. The CD main page loads.

b. Click Install Driver & Utility For

Pocket PC Users.

Note: If the screen above does not automatically start, go to your Windows Start menu and choose Run, and type d:/Autorun.exe (“d” is the drive letter for the CD-ROM drive on your PC).

MA701 Resource CD

c. Follow the InstallShield Wizard steps. d. Click Finish when done to complete the

installation.

e. Disconnect the PDA from the host PC. f. Reset the PDA.

InstallShield Wizard

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

MA701 Wireless Compact Flash Card

Insert the MA701 flash card.

a. Hold the wireless compact flash card

with the NETGEAR logo facing you and insert it into the compact flash I/O slot.

b. After your PDA recognizes the MA701,

the LED will either flash or remain a solid green. Check the LED on the MA701:

• Solid Green: Associated with an access point or ad-hoc wireless device.

• Flashing:

Insert the MA701

– Power save mode (default from

power up or reset)

– Not associated with an access

point.

– Associated with an ad-hoc

network

• Off: No power applied to the card.

LED

Basic Setup for a PDA 3-5

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

Configure your MA701.

a. From the Start Menu, tap Settings, then

tap the Connections tab page, and finally, tap the Network Adapters option. The Network Adapters page will display.

b. Highlight the MA701 entry and tap

Properties.

c. Configure the IP address settings.

Usually, the default “Use serverassigned IP address” option is fine.

d. Click OK and exit the Settings utility. e. From Start Menu tap Settings, System,

PDA Settings

and then MA701 icon.The MA701 Configuration Utility opens to the Status page.

f. Tap the Configuration tab and

configure the wireless network settings to match your network.

Tip: As an alternative to typing in the SSID, you can use the drop-down list to view the available wireless networks, and choose the one you want.

Note: Generally, the Advanced default settings will work fine. Applying incorrect Advanced settings could prevent wireless communications.

g. Click Apply to activate the connection.

MA701 Configuration

Tip: Use the Profiles tab page to create profiles called work and home. Then, activate whichever one you need for your current location.

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

Verify wireless connectivity to your network.

a. Verify that the Status information matches your wireless network. b. Check the LED on the MA701:

– Solid Green: Associated with an access point or ad-hoc wireless device. – Flashing: Power save mode (default from power up or reset), not connected to an

access point, or associated with an ad-hoc network.

– Off: No power applied to the card.

c. Verify connectivity to the Internet or network resources.

Note: If you are unable to connect, see “Troubleshooting” on page 3-10.

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

MA701 Wireless Connection Indicators

The NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701 provides the following indicators which give you feedback on the status of your wireless connection:

• The LED on the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701 indicates the condition of wireless link.

• The color of the SysTray icon is on the System Tray portion of the taskbar in the Microsoft Windows desktop indicates the status of the connection.

Interpreting the LED on the MA701

LED

Figure 3-1: MA701 LED

The LED is described in this table.

Table 3-1: LED Descriptions

LED Meaning

Blinking • Not connected to an access point

• Power save mode (default from power up or reset)

• Associated with an ad-hoc network Solid Associated with a wireless access poi nt Off No power applied to the card

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

Interpreting Windows CE System Tray Icon Colors

The System Tray (SysTray) resides on one end of the taskbar in the Microsoft Windows desktop.

Color Condition Description

Red

Yellow

Green

The wireless card is not inserted in the device.

The wireless card has no connection to any other wireless node.

The wireless card has a poor connection with the other wireless node.

The wireless PC Card has a connection with another wireless node.

The wireless card is inserted. Check that the card is fully inserted.

The wireless card is not able to link to any other wireless node or the link is lost. Check your configuration or try moving to a location where the wireless signal quality is better.

The wireless card signal is weak and may drop. Try moving to a location where the wireless signal quality is better.

The wireless link is weak. You may deed to move to a better spot, such as closer to the wireless access point. Also, look for possible interference such as a 2.4 GHz cordless phone or large metal surface.

The wireless PC Card has established good communication with an access point and the signal quality is strong.

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User Guide for the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card MA701

Troubleshooting

Use the information below to solve common problems you may encounter. Also, please refer to the knowledge base on the NETGEAR web site at www.netgear.com/support/main.asp.

Also, for problems with accessing network resources, the Windows software might not be installed and configured properly on your computers. For assistance with configuring network settings on Windows PC, please refer to Appendix , “Preparing Your Computers for TCP/IP Networking” or see the tutorials on the NETGEAR 802.11b Wireless Compact Flash Card Resource CD (SW-10040-01).

Basic Troubleshooting Tips

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

Symptom Cause Solution

The wireless compact flash card LED is not lit.

The LED blinks and cannot connect to an access point.

I can connect to an access point, but I cannot connect to other computers on the network or the Internet.

The MA701 is not inserted into the slot properly or the MA701 software is not loaded.

The MA701 is attempting to connect to an access point, but cannot connect.

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

Reset the PDA. Remove and reinsert the MA701. Check the Windows device manager to see if the PC

Card is recognized and enabled. Reload the MA701 software, if necessary.

Reset the PDA. The access point may not be powered on. Or, the

access point and the wireless compact flash card are not configured with the same wireless parameters. Check the SSID and WEP settings.

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

Make sure that the IP addresses and the Windows networking parameters are all configured correctly.

Restart the cable or DSL modem, router, access point, and notebook PC.

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