Sony PCWAC700 Users Manual

4-672-859-12(1)

Operating Instructions

© 2003 Sony Corporation

IEEE802.11a/b Dual Band
Wireless PC Card

PCWA-C700

WARNING
To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not

expose the unit to rain or moisture.

Owner’s Record

The model and serial numbers are located on the
back of the unit. Record the serial number in the
space provided below. Refer to them whenever
you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this
product.

Model No. PCWA-C700
Serial No.______________

CAUTION

Any changes or modifications not expressly
approved in this manual could void your warranty.

FCC ID: AK8PCWAC700
Exposure to Radio Frequency Radiation.
The radiated output power of the Wireless LAN

PC Card is far below the FCC radio frequency
exposure limits.

Nevertheless, the Wireless LAN PC Card shall be
used in such a manner that the potential for human
contact during normal operation is minimized.

– Connect the equipment into an outlet on a

circuit different from that to which the receiver
is connected.

– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV

technician for help.

Declaration of Conformity

Trade Name: Sony
Model No: PCWA-C700
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.
Address: 680 Kinderkamack Road,

Oradell, NJ 07649 USA
Telephone: [phone]
This phone number is for FCC-related matters

only.
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC

Rules.
Operation is subject to the following two

conditions:
(1) This equipment may not cause harmful

interference, and
(2) this equipment must accept any

interference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.

Only use the product indoors when using it
with 802.11a (5 GHz).

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 or communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does
cause harmful interference to 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:
– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
– Increase the separation between the equipment

and receiver.

2

You are cautioned that any changes or
modifications not expressly approved in this
manual could void your authority to operate this
equipment.

Safety Information
WARNING

• Opening the product, for whatever reason,
could lead to damages that are not covered by
the warranty.

• Do not use this product on hospital premises.
Doing so may cause medical devices to
malfunction.

• If using the product near a pacemaker, make
sure it is at least 9 inches (22 cm) away from
the pacemaker.

• Do not use this product in an aircraft, as doing
so could cause the aircraft's equipment to
malfunction. Make sure you remove the
equipment from the PC card slot before
carrying your computer onto an aircraft.

• Do not apply unnecessary physical strain on the
product when it is inserted in your computer as
this could damage the product and/or your
computer.

• The use of optical instruments with this product
will increase eye hazard.

FCC RF Exposure

Install and connect this product by following
descriptions in its Operating Instructions before
using it.

This equipment generates and radiates radio
frequency energy.

SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) for this device
was measured in accordance with
FCC OET Bulletin 65. Supplement C and
guidelines established in IEEE C95.1-1991.

In order to comply with FCC RF exposure limits
please maintain at least 3 mm spacing between the
user and the antenna of this device while it is in
use.

This product can only be used with desktop
computers and laptop (notebook) computers with
side mounted PCMCIA slots.

This device cannot be used with other types of
host devices, such as PDAs.

Users are not permitted to make changes or
modify the system in any way.

About the supplied software

THE SUPPLIED SOFTWARE IS SUPPLIED
PURSUANT TO THE APPLICABLE END­USER LICENSE AGREEMENT.

• Copyright laws prohibit reproducing the
software or the software manual in whole or in
part, or renting the software without the
permission of the copyright holder.

• In no event will SONY be liable for any
financial damage or loss of profits, including
claims made by third parties, arising out of the
use of the software supplied with this product.

• In the event a problem occurs with this software
as a result of defective manufacturing, SONY
will replace it at SONY’s option or issue a
refund; however, SONY bears no other
responsibility.

• The software provided with this product cannot
be used with equipment other than that which is
designated for use with.

• Please note that, due to continued efforts to
improve quality, the software specifications
may be changed without notice.

Sony, VAIO, and the VAIO logo are trademarks
of Sony Corporation.

Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks
of Microsoft Corporation in the United States of
America and other countries.

MMX and Pentium are registered trademarks of
Intel Corporation.

Ehternet is a registered trademark of Xerox Co.,
Ltd.

All other trademarks are trademarks of their
respective owners.

Notes

• The user interface of the Sony supplied
software may differ slightly from that shown in
this manual.

• This manual is written based on the assumption
that you are familiar with basic operations of
the Windows operating system. For computer
operations, refer to manuals that come with
your computer.

• In this manual, Microsoft® Windows
Millennium Edition is referred to as Windows
Me.

• In this manual, Microsoft® Windows® 2000
Professional is referred to as Windows 2000.

• In this manual, Microsoft® Windows® XP
Professional and Microsoft® Windows® XP
Home Edition are referred to as Windows XP.

®

Program © 2001, 2002, 2003 Sony Corporation,
© 2000-2003 Atheros Communications, Inc., All
Rights Reserved

Documentation © 2003 Sony Corporation

3

Table of contents

Overview ............................................... 5

Capabilities.................................... 5

System requirements ..................... 9

Documentation and Help file...............10

Getting started

Unpacking............................................11

Supplied software........................ 11

Names of parts ..................................... 12

Inserting the Wireless LAN PC Card .. 13

To remove the Wireless LAN

PC Card ................................... 14

If your computer has two

PC Card slots ........................... 14

Software setup

Installing the supplied software........... 15

Wireless LAN connection

Configuring the wireless LAN

environment .................................... 17

Windows Me or

Windows 2000......................... 17

Windows XP ............................... 27

Checking the communication status .... 39

Checking the wireless signal

strength .................................... 39

Checking network information ... 39

Using the Wireless Panel..................... 40

Opening the Wireless Panel ........ 40

Additional information

Manually installing, verifying, and

removing the supplied software...... 49

Installing the Wireless LAN

PC Card driver manually ......... 49

Installing the Wireless Panel

manually .................................. 57

Verifying Wireless LAN PC Card

driver installation ..................... 59

Uninstalling the Wireless LAN

PC Card driver ......................... 67

Uninstalling the Wireless Panel .. 70

Precautions .......................................... 73

Specifications ...................................... 74

Getting help ......................................... 74

Glossary ............................................... 75

Troubleshooting................................... 77

4

Overview

Capabilities

The IEEE802.11a/b Dual Band Wireless PC Card PCWA-C700*1 is a PC
Card type wireless network card. With this card, you can build a wireless
LAN, allowing multiple computers to communicate and exchange data
without needing any physical connection. The supplied Wireless Panel
software lets you easily configure the card for multiple networks. For
example, you can store different settings required for networking at the
office and at home, or quickly switch between Access Point (Infrastructure)
Network connection mode and Peer to Peer (Ad-Hoc) Network connection
mode. This greatly facilitates use of the card in various environments and
for a range of applications.

z Hints

• The network mode can be easily switched using the supplied Wireless Panel software.

• To use the card in Access Point Network connection mode, a separately available

802.11a/b Wireless LAN Access Point*2 is required.

With Windows Me or Windows 2000:

Access Point (Infrastructure) Network
connection mode

Peer to Peer (Ad-Hoc) Network
connection mode

*1

In this documentation, the IEEE802.11a/b Dual Band Wireless PC Card PCWA-C700
is referred to as the Wireless LAN PC Card.

*2

If using the separately available 5GHz Wireless LAN Access Point PCWA-A500
(February, 2003), refer also to the “Quick Start Guide” supplied with the unit.

5

With Windows XP:

Available Wireless Networks

Windows XP Service Pack 1:

Available Wireless Networks

6

Accessing the Internet from various points within your
home (Access Point Network connection mode)

With a separately available Access Point you can easily build a wireless
network. By connecting a DSL modem, cable modem, or ISDN router to
the Access Point, you can access the Internet from the living room,
bedroom, or any other convenient location in the house. Equipping multiple
computers with a Wireless LAN PC Card also allows you to exchange files
between the computers via the Access Point.

Internet

Access Point

P
O

WE

R

MES

S

A
G
E

W
I
R

E
LES

S

NETW

O

R
K

1

N
E

TW

O
R
K

2

ISP

DSL modem
Cable modem
ISDN router

z Hint

The illustration above shows an example of a system configuration using Access Point
Network connection mode. Two computers with Wireless LAN PC Cards communicate
with the Access Point that is connected to an Ethernet LAN via a hub.

7

Smooth movie streaming playback*
(in Peer to Peer Network connection mode)

The Peer to Peer Network connection mode enables computers equipped
with Wireless LAN PC Cards to communicate directly. This allows
playback of streaming data and file sharing in locations where the Wireless
LAN Access Point is not present.

Notes

• Poor signal conditions may cause movie playback interruptions.

• Smooth movie streaming playback is only possible when using 802.11a (5 GHz).

* A method of playing a file while the download is still in progress.

8

System requirements

To use the supplied software, the following system requirements must be
met:

❑Windows PC:

– 128 MB RAM or more
– Card Bus compliant PC Card slot
– CD-ROM drive (for software installation)

❑Operating system:

– Microsoft
– Microsoft
– Microsoft
– Microsoft

❑Display:

High color (16 bit color) or higher, 800 × 400 pixels or higher

Notes

• Correct operation is not assured for all computers, even if satisfying the above system
requirements.

• Correct operation in an OS upgrade environment is not assured, except for factory
provided Windows XP upgrade packages for Sony VAIO series computers.

• For Internet access via the wireless LAN, a 802.11a/b Wireless LAN Access Point
(available separately) is required.

• An Internet Service Provider (ISP) is required for Internet access.

®

Windows® Millennium Edition

®

Windows® 2000 Professional

®

Windows® XP Home Edition

®

Windows® XP Professional

9

Documentation and Help file

This product comes with the following documentation and help files.

❑Operating Instructions (this document)

Explains how to install the Wireless LAN PC Card and how to configure
all settings of the card.

❑Wireless LAN Quick Guide

Contains detailed information about the Wireless Panel software and
instructions for setting up a Peer to Peer network. This guide provides
information on configuring and changing advanced settings.

❑Troubleshooting Guide

Contains answers to frequently asked questions and commonly
encountered problems. Go through the points in this guide before
contacting the Sony Customer Information Services Center.

❑Wireless Panel Online Help

This is the Online Help of the supplied Wireless Panel software. Refer to
it for instructions on how to use the software. Access the Wireless Panel
Online Help as follows:

1 Install the Wireless Panel software, following the instructions in this

manual.

2 Start the Wireless Panel.
3 Right-click the Wireless Panel icon on the taskbar and select Help

from the shortcut menu.

10

z Hint

You can also access Help by clicking the icon on the Wireless Panel title bar.

Unpacking

Your Wireless LAN PC Card comes with the following items:

• Wireless PC Card PCWA-C700

• PC Card case

Supplied software

The supplied CD-ROM contains the following software.

❑Wireless LAN PC Card driver

This device driver is necessary to the operation of the Wireless LAN PC
Card.

❑Wireless Panel

Wireless Panel is a utility software that lets you configure the computer
for the wireless LAN and monitor the communication status. The
software is also used to switch between networks.

Normally, the Wireless Panel appears as an icon in the taskbar, which
shows the communication status.

Getting started

• CD-ROM (Setup disc)

• Wireless LAN Quick Guide

• Troubleshooting Guide

• Operating Instructions

• Warranty Card

When using the card for the first time, see page 15 for
information on how to install the Wireless LAN PC Card driver
and the Wireless Panel.

Notes

• To install the supplied software on a computer running Windows 2000, log on with a
user account listed in “Administrators”. To install the supplied software on a computer
running Windows XP, log on with a user account with administrator access privileges.
You cannot install the software or modify settings when logged on with any other
account.

• To change any of the Wireless Panel settings on a computer running Windows 2000,
log on with a user account listed in “Administrators”. You cannot modify settings when
logged on with any other account.

11

Names of parts

1

1 Indicator

Indicator modes and operation status

Color Lighting pattern Status

Rapid flashing Communication in progress

*1

Green

Rapid flashing Communication in progress

*2

Orange

Red Flashing (PC Card is functioning properly, but

Off PC Card is not powered

Communication standby

Lit (Communication is possible but no data

are being sent or received.)

Communication standby

Lit (Communication is possible but no data

are being sent or received.)
Connection not established

connection to network has not been
established.)

12

*1

802.11b (2.4 GHz) wireless LAN operation

*2

802.11a (5 GHz) wireless LAN operation

Inserting the Wireless LAN PC Card

This section explains how to insert the Wireless LAN PC Card into your
computer and how to remove it.

You do not need to turn off your computer when inserting or removing the
Wireless LAN PC Card.

Proceed as follows.

1 If your computer has a PC card slot protector, remove it.

(Some computers have such a protector to prevent damage
to the PC card slot while not in use.)

2 Insert the Wireless LAN PC Card in the PC card slot.

Note

If your computer has two PC Card slots, insert the Wireless LAN PC Card into the
top slot. If inserted into the bottom slot, the antenna of the Wireless LAN PC Card
will block the top slot. See section “If your computer has two PC Card slots” on
page 14.

Push the Wireless LAN PC Card into the slot until it is firmly seated. If
the card does not fit easily, do not force it in. Take the card out and try
reinserting it.

Getting started

Insert in arrow
direction

To PC Card slot

13

To remove the Wireless LAN PC Card

1 Exit any software that uses the wireless LAN.
2 Safely remove the hardware according to the documentation

of your computer.

3 Remove the Wireless LAN PC Card according to the

documentation of your computer.

If your computer has two PC Card slots

Notes

• When using a computer which has two PC Card slots arranged vertically (one above the
other), insert the Wireless LAN PC Card into the top slot. If inserted into the bottom
slot, the antenna of the Wireless LAN PC Card will block the top slot.

• If you insert the Wireless LAN PC Card into a slot other than the one you usually use,
the computer treats the card as a new device and automatically begins installing device
drivers for it. Completing the driver installation makes it possible to use the Wireless
LAN PC Card in that slot. Installation is performed automatically by the installation
wizard. (For instructions on how to uninstall the Wireless LAN PC Card driver, see
page 67.)

14

z Hint

If you are using Windows Me or Windows 2000, you can register up to 32 networks for
each PC card slot. However, you have to register each network individually. You cannot
share the settings across slots.

Installing the supplied software

This section explains how to install the Wireless LAN PC Card driver and
Wireless Panel.

Before you start

Make sure that you can use your CD-ROM drive.

Important

Computer Firewall Functions

When using Windows XP’s “Internet Connection Firewall”

Enabling the Windows XP “Internet Connection Firewall” may prevent you from
being able to access your computer through wireless communication. (This function
is inactive under Windows XP default settings.) Because of this function, you may
not be able to connect to your network when you change your Access Point settings.
If this happens, deactivate the “Internet Connection Firewall” function, connect to
the network, and then reactivate the function. For details, refer to Windows XP
Help.

Note

Network security is an important issue. You are urged to consider carefully how best to protect your
computer.

When using a personal firewall function provided by virus scanning
or network security software

Virus scanning and network security software sometimes includes a function called
a “personal firewall” that is designed to prevent illegal access by outside entities.
Depending on the software, the security level of this function may be initially set to
a high level. If this high security level setting is left in effect, it may be impossible
for an outside entity to access your computer. This can cause problems such as not
being able to connect to the network when changing the Access Point’s settings. In
this event, lower the security level in order to permit the network connection. For
details, refer to the manuals provided with your software.

Software setup

Notes

• Pay special attention to security issues.

• For questions regarding firewall functions, please contact your firewall software manufacturer.

15

Note

When using Windows 2000, log on with a user account listed in “Administrators”.
When using Windows XP, log on as a user with administrator access privileges.

1 Insert the supplied CD-ROM into the CD-ROM drive of your

computer.

The installation wizard starts.

2 Click “Install Driver and Software Utility”.

Follow the instructions of the wizard to complete the installation of the
Wireless LAN PC Card driver and Wireless Panel.

z Hints

• For information about how to insert the Wireless LAN PC Card, see page 13.

• For details about how to confirm the driver installation, and how to remove the

driver and Wireless Panel, see pages 67 and 70.

What to do next

Configure the LAN environment.
When using Windows Me or Windows 2000, proceed to page 17.
When using Windows XP, the Wireless Easy Setup Wizard does not

appear. Proceed to page 27.

16

Configuring the wireless LAN environment

Windows Me or Windows 2000

After installation of the supplied software is complete, the Wireless
Connection Easy Setup Wizard starts automatically. This wizard makes it
easy to configure your wireless network.

Wireless LAN connection

z Hints

• If you want to exit the wizard, click “Cancel”.

• Any settings you configure with the wizard can be easily changed later using the

Wireless Panel. For information on how to use the Wireless Panel, see page 40.

• You can also configure the card without using the wizard. Refer to the Wireless LAN
Online Help for details.

• You can also start the wizard at any time other than immediately after installation of the
Wireless Panel. To do this, double-click “InitSetup.exe” in the folder where you
installed the Wireless Panel. (The default location is “C:\Program Files\Sony\Wireless
Panel”.)

• To use the product in Access Point Network connection mode, see page 18.

• To use the product in Peer to Peer Network connection mode, see page 25.

17

Using the product in Access Point (Infrastructure)
Network connection mode

1 Check the box “Use Easy Setup Wizard” and click “Next”.

The “Connection mode” screen appears.

2 Select “Access Point Network”, and click “Next”.

18

The following screen appears.

3 Configure the “Network Name (SSID)” and “WEP” items.

1

2

An explanation of
the respective item
is shown here.

1Network Name (SSID)

This is a unique ID used to identify wireless networks. The setting
can be made individually for Access Point Network connection
mode and Peer to Peer Network connection mode. When connecting
to an existing network, consult your network administrator
regarding the proper settings. For Peer to Peer Network connection
mode and when changing an existing Network Name, you can use
up to 32 alphanumeric characters (including symbols).

z Hints

• Opening the “Network Name” drop-down list will show the Network Names
of any Access Points within range. You can then select a Network Name from
the list.

• When using the Sony 5GHz Wireless LAN Access Point PCWA-A500, the
default Network Name (SSID) of the Access Point is shown on the ID label of
the Access Point. For details on the position of the label and other information,
refer to the manuals provided with the Access Point.

Wireless LAN connection

19

2WEP

If Data Encryption (WEP) is enabled for the Access Point to which
you connect, check this item. When this item is checked, you also
need to enter the encryption key (WEP key) in the “Key” field.
The data encryption function serves to prevent unauthorized access
to the network. For security reasons, it is strongly recommended
that you enable this feature. The setting can be configured
individually for Access Point Network connection mode and Peer to
Peer Network connection mode. When connecting to an existing
network, consult your network administrator regarding the proper
settings. For information on how to control this setting at the Access
Point, refer to the manuals of the Access Point. When configuring a
Peer to Peer network, the setting must be the same for all computers
on the network.

Key

If data encryption (WEP) is enabled for the Access Point, enter the
encryption key (WEP key) here. Because this key functions as a
password that enables communication with the network, the key
entered here must be exactly the same as that set for the Access
Point. Only computers for which the key has been configured
correctly can join the network. The number of characters depends
on the “ASCII/Hex” and “Length” settings (see table below).

ASCII/Hex Length Number of characters

ASCII

Hex

40 bits 5 characters
104 bits 13 characters

40 bits 10 characters
104 bits 26 characters

20

z Hint

This product supports a function called “roaming” which allows the creation of a
wireless network with multiple Access Points for wider coverage. When using
this function, configure all Access Points to the same Network Name (SSID) and
Data Encryption (WEP) settings.

4 When all the items are configured, click “Next”.

A confirmation screen showing the selected settings appears.

5 Verify that all settings are as desired, and click “Next”.

When connection is complete, the Wireless Connection Easy Setup
Wizard completion screen appears.

Note

If an error message is shown, read the message carefully and click “Back” to correct
the settings.

Wireless LAN connection

21

6 Click “Finish”.

The Wireless Panel starts automatically, and the icon appears in the
taskbar.

If the Access Point has already been configured, the setup procedure is
now complete.
the manuals of the Access Point for information on how to proceed.
When using the Sony 5GHz Wireless LAN Access Point PCWA-A500,
proceed to step 7.

If you want to change the Access Point settings, refer to

22

Note

To use an Access Point to connect to the Internet, you must change the Access Point
default settings.

7 When using the Sony 5GHz Wireless LAN Access Point

PCWA-A500, click the “AP Setting” button on the “Status”
tab of the Wireless Panel.

For information on how to open the Wireless Panel, see page 40. For
information on the “AP Setting” button, see page 44.

Your Web browser starts and displays the Access Point home page
(setup page).

Notes

• If you are using Internet Explorer, any proxy setting will automatically be disabled
for the IP address of the Access Point. When using another browser, make sure
that the browser does not use a proxy server for the Access Point IP address. (The
default IP address of the PCWA-A500 is 192.168.11.1.)

• The content of the Access Point home page (setup page) differs depending on the
firmware version. (The illustration below shows an example for the PCWA-A500.)

Wireless LAN connection

23

8 Configure the Access Point according to the on-screen

instructions.

z Hints

• For details on how to configure the Access Point, refer to the manuals of the
Access Point or its Online Help.

• Help regarding Access Point settings can be opened by clicking .

Note

If you change the Network Name (SSID) and Data Encryption (WEP) settings of the
Access Point, the settings will no longer match those of the computer and
communication will be interrupted. To resume communication, the settings of the
computer must be changed accordingly.

9 When Access Point settings are completed, double-click the

icon in the system tray.

The Wireless Panel screen appears.

10

Click the “Network List” tab, select a wireless network from
the list, and click “Register”.

24

The “Register Network” dialog box appears.

11

If you have enabled Data Encryption (WEP) for the Access
Point in step 8, check the box “WEP” and enter the
encryption key (WEP key) in the “Key” field.

z Hint

This dialog box appears only when “Dialog Format” is selected in “Add/Edit/
Register Network” on the "Setting" tab of the “Wireless Panel” dialog box.

12

Click “Connect”.

This completes the setup procedure.

Using the product in Peer to Peer Network connection
mode

1 When the Wireless Connection Easy Setup Wizard starts,

check the box “Use Easy Setup Wizard” and click “Next”.

2 Select “Peer to Peer Network”, and click “Next”.

Wireless LAN connection

3 Configure the “Network Name (SSID)”, “Channel”, and

“WEP” items.

1

2

3

An explanation of the respective item is shown here.

25

1Network Name (SSID)

See page 19 for details.

2Channel

A drop-down list appears which lets you select the radio channel to
use.

z Hints

• You can leave this setting at “Auto”, but to ensure low-interference
transmission, you may want to use the “Network List” tab (page 44) of the
Wireless Panel to verify the channels used by networks operating within
communication range of your computer, and select a channel with low usage.

• When connecting to an existing Peer to Peer network, changing the channel
has no effect. The channel automatically will revert to the one used by the Peer
to Peer network.

3WEP

See page 20 for details.

4 When all items are configured, click “Next”.

A confirmation screen showing the selected settings appears.

5 Verify that all settings are as desired, and click “Next”.

The network settings are activated. This process may require up to
several minutes. Please wait until it is complete.

26

6 When the Wireless Connection Easy Setup Wizard

completion screen appears, click “Finish”.

The wizard closes.

7 Configure the same settings at all computers participating in

Windows XP

the network.

This completes the setup procedure.

z Hint

For information on how to share files and printers on the network, refer to the
Windows Help and documentation.

Note

Before configuring the Wireless LAN PC Card

Perform the following steps to confirm that the “Use Windows to configure my wireless
network settings” check box is selected. This option is selected by default.

1 Click “Start”, “Control Panel”, and double-click “Network

Connections”.

z Hint

If “Network Connections” is not displayed, click “Switch to Classic View”.

2 Right-click “Wireless Network Connection *” (“*” is a

number that differs according to the computer settings),
and select “Properties” from the shortcut menu.

3 Click the “Wireless Network” tab.
4 Confirm that the box “Use Windows to configure my

wireless network settings” is checked. If not, place a check
mark in the box.

• To use the product in Access Point Network connection mode, see below.

• To use the product in Peer to Peer Network connection mode, see page

33.

Using the product in Access Point Network connection
mode

Wireless LAN connection

1 Click “Start”, and click “Connect To” – “Show all

connections”.

The “Network Connections” window appears.

27

2 Right-click “Wireless Network Connection *” (“*” is a number

that differs according to the computer settings), and select
“View Available Wireless Networks” from the shortcut menu.

The “Connect to Wireless Network” dialog box appears.

z Hints

• If the computer is not connected to a wireless network, an “x” is shown for the
“Wireless Network Connection *” icon in the “Network Connections” window.

• If you have installed Windows XP Service Pack 1, see page 29.

28

3 From the “Available Wireless Networks” list in the “Connect

to Wireless Network” dialog box, select the Access Point to
which you want to connect.

z Hint

The “Available Wireless Networks” list shows the names of Access Points within
communication range of the computer. When using the Sony 5GHz Wireless LAN
Access Point PCWA-A500, the default Network Name (SSID) of the Access Point is
shown on the ID label of the card. For details on the position of the label and other
information, refer to the manuals of the Access Point. Because the Network Name of
an Access Point may have been changed, consult your network administrator if you
are not sure.

4 If Data Encryption (WEP) is enabled for the Access Point,

enter the encryption key (WEP key) in the “Network key”
field.

The key entered here must be exactly the same as that set for the
Access Point. The number of characters depends on the “Key format”
and “Key length” settings (see table below).

Key format Key length Number of characters

ASCII

Hex

z Hint

The data encryption (WEP) function serves to prevent unauthorized access to the
network. When the function is enabled, only computers configured with the correct
encryption key (WEP key) can join the network. For security reasons, it is strongly
recommended that you enable this feature. The setting can be made individually for
Access Point Network connection mode and Peer to Peer Network connection mode.
When connecting to an existing network, consult your network administrator
regarding the proper settings. For information on how to control this setting at the
Access Point, refer to the manuals of the Access Point.

40 bits 5 characters
104 bits 13 characters

40 bits 10 characters
104 bits 26 characters

Wireless LAN connection

❑ When using Service Pack 1

If you have installed Windows XP Service Pack 1, steps 3 and 4 must
be performed as follows.

3 From the “Available Wireless Networks” list in the

“Connect to Wireless Network” dialog box, select the
Access Point to which you want to connect.

29

4 Depending on the Data Encryption (WEP) settings of the

Access Point, proceed as follows.

• Data Encryption (WEP) at selected Access Point is

enabled

Enter the encryption key (WEP key) in the “Network key” field.
(The input is shown only as asterisks.) For verification, the same
string must be entered once more in the “Confirm network key”
field.

• Data Encryption (WEP) at selected Access Point is

disabled

Select “Allow me to connect to the selected wireless network, even
though it is not secure” check box. (For security reasons, enabling
data encryption is recommended.)

30

5 Click “Connect”.

Connection to the Access Point is established.
If the Access Point has already been configured, the setup procedure is

now complete.
If you want to change the Access Point settings, refer to the manuals of

the Access Point for information on how to proceed.

When using the

Sony 5GHz Wireless LAN Access Point PCWA-A500, proceed to step

6.

Note

To use an Access Point to connect to the Internet, you must change the Access Point
default settings.

6 When using the Sony 5GHz Wireless LAN Access Point

PCWA-A500, click the “AP Setting” button on the “Status”
tab of the Wireless Panel.

For information on how to open the Wireless Panel, see page 40. For
information on the “AP Setting” button, see page 44.

Your Web browser starts and displays the Access Point home page
(setup page).

Notes

• If you are using Internet Explorer, any proxy setting will automatically be disabled
for the IP address of the Access Point. When using another browser, make sure
that the browser does not use a proxy server for the Access Point IP address. (The
factory default IP address of the PCWA-A500 is 192.168.11.1.)

Wireless LAN connection

31

•

The content of the Access Point home page (setup page) differs depending on the
firmware version. (The illustration below shows an example for the PCWA-A500.)

32

7 Configure the Access Point according to the on-screen

instructions.

z Hints

• For details on how to configure the Access Point, refer to the manuals of the
Access Point or its Online Help.

• Help regarding Access Point settings can be opened by clicking .

Note

If you change the Network Name (SSID) and Data Encryption (WEP) settings of the
Access Point, the settings will no longer match those of the computer and
communication will be interrupted. To resume communication, the settings of the
computer must be changed accordingly.

8 When Access Point settings are completed, right-click the

“Wireless Network Connection” icon in the taskbar, and
select “View Available Wireless Networks” from the shortcut
menu.

9 If you have enabled Data Encryption (WEP) for the Access

Point in step 7, enter the encryption key (WEP key) in the
“Network key” field.

When Windows XP Service Pack 1 is installed, the same string must
be entered once more in the “Confirm network key” field.

10

Click “Connect”.

This completes the setup procedure.

Using the product in Peer to Peer Network connection
mode

1 Click “Start”, and click “Connect To” – “Show all

connections”.

The “Network Connections” window appears.

2 Right-click “Wireless Network Connection *” (“*” is a number

that differs according to the computer settings), and select
“View Available Wireless Networks” from the shortcut menu.

The “Connect to Wireless Network” dialog box appears.

z Hint

If the computer is not connected to a wireless network, an “x” is shown for the
“Wireless Network Connection *” icon in the “Network Connections” window.

Wireless LAN connection

33

With Windows XP Service Pack 1

3 Click “Advanced”.

The “Wireless Network Connection * Properties” dialog box appears.
(“*” is a number that differs according to the computer settings.)

34

With Windows XP Service Pack 1

4 Click “Add”.

The “Wireless Network Properties” dialog box appears.

Wireless LAN connection

35

With Windows XP Service Pack 1

5 Enter the Network Name (SSID) for this network

(alphanumeric characters or symbols can be used).

The Network Name (also called SSID) is a unique ID that identifies the
network. When connecting to a Peer to Peer network , all computers
must use the same Network Name. The Network Name can be up to 32
characters long. When connecting to an existing network, consult your
network administrator regarding the proper settings.

36

6 Check the box “Data encryption (WEP enabled)” and

remove the check mark from the box “The key is provided
for me automatically”.

Note

The data encryption (WEP) function serves to prevent unauthorized access to the
network. When the function is enabled, only computers configured with the correct
encryption key (WEP key) can participate in the network. For security reasons, it is
strongly recommended that you enable this feature.

7 Enter the encryption key (WEP key) in the “Network key”

field.

Notes

• When creating a new Peer to Peer Network, you can enter any character string to
use as a key. When connecting to an existing network, consult your network
administrator regarding the proper settings. The number of characters for the key
depends on the “Key format” and “Key length” settings (see table below).

Key format Key length Number of characters

ASCII

Hex

• With Windows XP Service Pack 1, you cannot select “Key format” or “Key
length”.

“Network key”

If data encryption (WEP) is enabled, enter the encryption key (WEP
key) here. Because this key functions as password that enables
communication with the network, the key entered here must be exactly
the same as that set for the Access Point. Only computers for which the
key has been configured correctly can join the network. The number of
characters depends on the “Key format” and “Key length” settings (see
table above).

40 bits 5 characters
104 bits 13 characters

40 bits 10 characters
104 bits 26 characters

Wireless LAN connection

“Key format”

This is the format for entering the password (WEP key) required. You
can select either ASCII (alphanumeric characters, including symbols)
or Hex (hexadecimal notation).

“Key length”

This is the length (bit length) of the WEP key (password) required
when connecting to networks where WEP is enabled. You can select
from 40 bits or 104 bits. Generally, the longer the bit length, the better
the security.

8 Check the box “This is a computer-to-computer (ad hoc)

network; wireless access points are not used”, and click
“OK”.

The “Wireless Network Connection * Properties” dialog box appears.

37

9 Click “Advanced”.

The “Advanced” dialog box appears.

10

Check the box “Computer-to-computer (ad hoc) networks
only” and click “Close”.

The “Wireless Network Connection * Properties” dialog box appears.

11

Click “OK”.

The setting are saved, and the computer automatically connects to the
newly registered network.

z Hint

For additional information on the wireless network capabilities of Windows XP,
refer to Windows XP “Help and Support”. (Click “Start”, and click “Help and
Support”, enter “wireless” into the Search field, and click the green arrow icon.)
You may also wish to consult the Windows XP documentation.

38

Checking the communication status

Checking the wireless signal strength

The communication status is shown by the signal level indicator in the
taskbar.

Signal level indicator

Meaning of indicator appearance

Excellent

Good

Poor

Out of range

Wireless LAN connection

Card not inserted
(Wireless LAN PC Card is not inserted or not

recognized correctly)
Peer to Peer

(Communicating in Peer to Peer Network connection
mode)

Checking network information

To obtain information about the network to which you are connected,
proceed as follows.

Double-click the signal level indicator in the taskbar.
The Wireless Panel main screen appears, and information about the

network connection is shown. For details about the various items, see the
section “Opening up the Wireless Panel” (page 40).

39

Using the Wireless Panel

The Wireless Panel is a software application that shows information about
the communication status of the computer connected to the wireless
network. Normally, the Wireless Panel runs in the background and only
shows the radio signal condition by means of the signal level indicator in
the taskbar. The main screen of the Wireless Panel contains more detailed
information. When running under operating systems other than Windows
XP, communication setup and network switching are also performed using
the Wireless Panel. For more information, refer also to the “Wireless LAN
Quick Guide”.

Notes

• To use the Wireless Panel under Windows 2000 for modifying communication settings,
log on with a user account listed in “Administrators”. You cannot modify settings when
logged on with any other account.

• On a computer running Windows XP, communication setup and network switching are
not performed with the Wireless Panel but with built-in functions of Windows XP.
However, the Wireless Panel can be used to check the communication status.

Opening the Wireless Panel

To open the Wireless Panel, proceed as follows.
Double-click the signal level indicator in the taskbar.
The Wireless Panel appears.

40

z Hints

• For information on the signal level indicator, see “Checking the wireless signal
strength” on page 39.

• When you move the mouse pointer over an item in the Wireless Panel screen, a short
description of that item appears.

There are three tabs on the main screen of the Wireless Panel.

•“Status” tab (page 41)

•“Network List” tab (page 44)

•“Setting” tab (page 47)

“Status” tab

1
2

Wireless LAN connection

7

3
4

5
6

1 Status indicator icon

The icon type indicates the type of network to which the computer is
connected.

Network mode

Data encryption Access Point Peer to Peer

Network Network

Off

On

8
9

41

2 Status

Shows the communication status of the wireless network.

“Network Name”

Unique ID for the wireless network to which the computer is
connected. Also called SSID.

“Frequency”

Indicates the communication channel and frequency currently being
used.

“Signal Level”

Indicates the signal level as a bar graph.
Install the computer and Access Point so that the signal level
displayed here is as high as possible.

“IP Address”

Indicates the computer’s IP address.
In Access Point Network connection mode, if an IP address starting

with “169.254. ...” or if “0.0.0.0” is shown here, the Access Point

and computer are not linked, or the Access Point is not connected to
the Internet. For details, refer to the “Wireless LAN Quick Guide”
or the “Troubleshooting Guide”.

“Frames Sent”

Shows the total number of network data frames that have been sent.

“Frames Received”

Shows the total number of network data frames that have been
received.

42

“Link Rate (TX)”

Shows the transmission rate.

“Link Rate (RX)”

Shows the reception rate.

“Throughput (TX)”

Shows the current transmission rate and maximum transmission rate
of the session in the format “Current Mbps/Max. Mbps”. The
maximum value update frequency corresponds to the time width of
the status graph.

“Throughput (RX)”

Shows the current reception rate and maximum reception rate of the
session in the format “Current Mbps/Max. Mbps”. The maximum
value update frequency corresponds to the time width of the status
graph.

3 Wireless ON/OFF

Wireless signal transmission can be switched on/off independently for
the 802.11b (2.4 GHz) and 802.11a (5 GHz) bands. Select the On/Off
status according to the environment you are in. Take special care if you
are using your computer in locations where radio emissions are
prohibited, such as outdoors (802.11a band) or within an aircraft
(802.11a and 802.11b bands). Be sure to set wireless signal
transmission to Off with these buttons in such cases.

4 “Streaming Mode” button

This button is shown only when using Windows XP. It allows you to
temporarily suspend the Windows XP wireless configuration functions
(Wireless Zero Configuration service) in order to optimize throughput
for real-time playback of streaming data.

5 Graph scale

This is a scale for transmission and reception link rate and throughput.
Normally, the transmission and reception throughput will be about half
the link rate.

6 Status indicator graph

Shows the signal level, RX link rate, and TX throughput. These
parameters are useful for finding the optimum location of computer
and Access Point, and for measuring throughput.

Wireless LAN connection

7 “Renew IP” button

Clicking this button causes the computer to release the currently
assigned IP address and obtain a new IP address.

Notes

• When a fixed IP address has been assigned to the computer, this function cannot
be used.

• Under Windows Me, this function cannot be used.

43

8 “AP Setting” button

Clicking on this button starts your Web browser and displays the
Access Point home page (setup page). This page lets you configure the
Access Point and display status information. In Peer to Peer Network
connection mode, this button cannot be used.

Note

The “AP Setting” button can only be used when you are using the Sony 5GHz
Wireless LAN Access Point PCWA-A500* or another 5GHz Wireless LAN Access
Point which supports this feature. (* As of February, 2003)

9 “Show Graph/Hide Graph” button

Lets you turn the status graph on an off. The default setting is off.

“Network List”

The “Network List” tab shows a list of 802.11a/b wireless networks
operating within communication range of the computer. You can select a
network from this list to connect to, and you can register networks for the
computer.

1

44

2 3 4

1 Network List

All wireless networks operating within communication range are
shown.

“Status”

The status of registered networks is shown as an icon.
Access Points within communication range are shown as colored
icons, and Access Points outside communication range are shown as
gray icons.

Network mode

Status Access Point Peer to Peer

Network Network

Data encryption

On

Connected

Data encryption

Off

Data encryption

Off

Not connected

Wireless LAN connection

Data encryption

Off

“Registered”

If the network has been registered with the Wireless Panel, a check
mark is shown here.

Note

This is shown only under Windows Me and Windows 2000.

45

“Network Name (SSID)”

Shows the unique network ID.

z Hint

The Sony 2.4GHz Access Point PCWA-A100/A200 can be configured not to show
the Network Name (SSID). (This is referred to as a “closed system”.) For a closed
system Access Point, the “Network Name (SSID)” field in the network list will be
blank.

To connect to a closed system, obtain information about the Network Name
(SSID) and encryption key (WEP key) from the network administrator and use this
information to register the network. When connected, the Network Name (SSID) is
shown in the network list.

“Signal Level”

Shows the signal level (field strength) of the received radio signal.
Higher numbers mean a better signal.

“Channel”

Shows the channel used by the respective network. If multiple
networks use the same channel, communication may be impaired.

2 Wireless ON/OFF

Wireless signal transmission can be switched on/off independently for
the 802.11b (2.4 GHz) and 802.11a (5 GHz) bands. Select the On/Off
status according to the environment you are in. Take special care if you
are using your computer in locations where radio emissions are
prohibited, such as outdoors (802.11a band) or within an aircraft
(802.11a and 802.11b bands). Be sure to set wireless signal
transmission to Off with these buttons in such cases.

46

3 “New”/“Register”/“Edit”/“Delete” button

“New”

This is used when no network is selected from the list. If “Dialog
Format” is selected in “Add/Edit/Register Network” on the
“Setting” tab of the “Wireless Panel” dialog box, when you click
this button the “Registering Network” dialog box appears, letting
you register a new network and connect to it.

“Register”

When you select a network from the list, the button caption changes
to “Register”. If “Dialog Format” is selected in “Add/Edit/Register
Network” on the “Setting” tab of the “Wireless Panel” dialog box,
when you click this button the “Registering Network” dialog box
appears, letting you register the selected network. You can register
up to 32 networks.

“Edit”

When you select a registered network from the list, the button
caption changes to “Edit”. If “Dialog Format” is selected in “Add/
Edit/Register Network” on the “Setting” tab of the “Wireless Panel”
dialog box, when you click this button the “Registering Network”
dialog box appears, letting you change the registered settings.

“Delete”

This can be used when a registered network is selected from the list.
Clicking the button brings up a confirmation message, letting you
delete a registered network. (The currently connected network
cannot be deleted.)

Note

This function is available only under Windows Me and Windows 2000.

4 “Scan” button

Clicking this button causes the computer to scan again for 802.11b
(2.4 GHz)/802.11a (5 GHz) wireless networks operating within
communication range. The network list is updated according to the
results of the scan.

“Setting” tab

The “Setting” tab lets you configure the Wireless Panel.

1
2

3

Wireless LAN connection

4
5

1 Task Tray Icon

Lets you change the icon in the taskbar.

47

2 Add/Edit/Register Network

This item lets you select whether various procedures such as
registering a wireless network are performed by a wizard or in a dialog
box (as in this manual).

Note

This function is available only under Windows Me and Windows 2000.

3 “Reset” button

Clicking this button returns all items under the “Setting” tab to their
defaults.

4 Auto-Connect Mode

When this box is checked, the computer automatically connects to the
registered network with the strongest signal if the current connection is
interrupted.

Clicking
automatic connection.

Note

This function is available only under Windows Me and Windows 2000.

brings up a list in which you can specify the priority for

48

5 Change the TCP/IP setup when Wireless LAN setup is

changed

Check this box if you want to automatically switch TCP/IP settings (as
set under “Advanced” in the “Registering Network” dialog box) when
you switch the wireless network.

Note

This function is available only under Windows Me and Windows 2000.

Manually installing, verifying, and removing the supplied software

Installing the Wireless LAN PC Card driver manually

Notes

• When using Windows 2000, log on with a user account listed in “Administrators”.
When using Windows XP, log on with a user account with administrator privileges.

• Exit all other Windows programs.

1 In the Sony Wireless LAN Setup Wizard dialog box, click

“Exit”.

2 If your computer has only one PC card slot and it is currently

used, copy the “setup” folder from the supplied CD-ROM to
the hard disk of your computer before inserting the Wireless
LAN PC Card.

The following explanation assumes that a folder called “Temp” was
created on drive D and that the data was copied to this folder.

3 Insert the Wireless LAN PC Card into the PC Card slot of the

computer.

See page 13 for details.

4 Install the Wireless LAN PC Card driver.

The actual procedure differs slightly, depending on whether you are
using Windows Me, Windows 2000, or Windows XP. See the section
specific to your operating system.

Additional information

49

Windows Me:

1 Select “Specify the location of the driver” and click “Next”.

2 Check the box “Specify a location”.

50

3 Click “Browse” and specify the location of the driver in the

dialog box that appears.

z Hint

If the “WirelessLAN” folder from the CD-ROM has been copied to the “Temp”
folder on drive D, enter “D:\Temp\WirelessLAN”.

4 Click “OK”.
5 Click “Next”.

Additional information

51

6 Click “Next”.

The driver is installed.

7 Click “Finish”.

52

Restart the computer.

Windows 2000:

1 Click “Next”.

2 Select “Search for a suitable driver for my device” and click

“Next”.

3 Check the box “Specify a location” and click “Next”.

Additional information

4 Click “Browse” and specify the location of the driver in the

dialog box.

z Hint

If the “WirelessLAN” folder from the CD-ROM has been copied to the “Temp”
folder on drive D, enter “D:\Temp\WirelessLAN”.

5 Click “OK”.

53

6 Click “Next”.

The driver is installed.

7 Click “Finish”.

54

Windows XP:

1 Select “Install from a list or specific location” and click

“Next”.

2 Check the box “Include this location in the search” and

click “Browse”.

Additional information

55

3 In the dialog box that appears, select the folder that

contains the driver and click “OK”.

z Hint

If the “WirelessLAN” folder from the CD-ROM has been copied to the “Temp”
folder on drive D, select “D:\Temp\WirelessLAN”.

4 Click “OK”.
5 Click “Next”.

56

6 Click “Finish”.

Installing the Wireless Panel manually

Note

When using Windows 2000, log on with a user account listed in “Administrators”. When
using Windows XP, log on with a user account with administrator access privileges.

Before installation

• Install the Access Point and connect it to a power outlet when using the

Access Point Network connection mode.

• Complete installation of the Wireless LAN PC Card driver. (See page 49)

• Exit all other Windows programs.

Additional information

1 Go to the “WirelessLAN” folder copied from the CD-ROM

and double-click “Setup.exe”.

Depending on your computer’s settings, the file name “Setup.exe” may
be displayed as “Setup”. If there are multiple files named “Setup” in
the same folder, double-click the one with the following icon:

2 Click “Next”.

57

3 The “License Agreement” dialog box appears. Click “Yes” to

accept.

The “Choose Destination Location” dialog box appears.

4 Click “Next”.

The Wireless Panel software is installed.

5 Click “Finish”.

Under Windows Me and Windows 2000, the message “Installation is
completed. Wireless Connection Easy Setup Wizard will be launched”
appears.

z Hint

In the following cases, the Wireless Connection Easy Setup Wizard does not appear.

• If the driver for the Wireless LAN PC Card PCWA-C500 is already installed and
enabled.

• If the Wireless LAN PC Card PCWA-C700 was installed and enabled, and then
the Wireless Panel only was uninstalled and is now being reinstalled.

Under Windows XP, the Wireless Panel starts automatically and the

icon appears in the taskbar. Under Windows XP, installation of the

Wireless Panel is now complete.

6 Click “OK” to start the Wireless Connection Easy Setup

Wizard.

Under Windows Me and Windows 2000, the Wireless Connection
Easy Setup Wizard starts after Wireless Panel installation is completed.

58

What to do next

Configure the wireless LAN environment.
When using Windows Me or Windows 2000, proceed to page 17
When using Windows XP, the Wireless Connection Easy Setup Wizard

does not appear. Proceed to page 27.

Verifying Wireless LAN PC Card driver installation

To verify that the Wireless LAN PC Card driver has been installed
properly, perform the following steps.

Windows Me:

1 Click “Start”, and click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.

Control Panel appears.

2 Double-click the “System” icon.

z Hint

If the “System” icon is not shown, select “View all Control Panel options”.

3 Click the “Device Manager” tab.
4 Click “View devices by type”.
5 Double-click “Network adapters”.

Additional information

59

6 Double-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”.

The “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter Properties” dialog
box appears.

Note

The Wireless LAN PC Card is not working properly in the following cases:

•“Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter” is shown with an “X” or “!” symbol.
c Click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter” and click “Remove” to

uninstall the driver. Then repeat the installation process.

• Double-clicking “Network Adapters” does not display “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless
Network Adapter”.

c Remove the Wireless LAN PC Card. Then repeat the installation process.

• Double-clicking “Other devices” displays “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network
Adapter”.

c Click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”, then click “Remove” to

uninstall the driver. Repeat the installation process.

60

7 Confirm that the message “This device is working properly.”

is displayed under “Device status”.

Note

If “This device is working properly.” is not shown, the Wireless LAN PC Card is not
working correctly. Perform steps 1 - 5, click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network
Adapter”, then click “Remove” to uninstall the driver. After uninstalling, restart the
computer and repeat the installation process.

8 Click “OK” to close the “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network

Adapter Properties” dialog box.

The “System Properties” dialog box appears.

9 Click “OK” to close the “System Properties” dialog box.

Control Panel appears.

10

Click to close Control Panel.

If the computer you are using incorporates another Ethernet interface
besides the Wireless LAN PC Card, disable the other interface as follows.

1 Click “Start”, and click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.

Control Panel appears.

2 Double-click the “System” icon.

z Hint

If the “System” icon is not shown, select “View all Control Panel options”.

3 Click the “Device Manager” tab and double-click “Network

adapters”.

Additional information

4 Double-click the network adapter to disable.
5 Click the “General” tab, then select the “Disable in this

hardware profile” check box.

6 Click “OK” to close the Properties dialog box for the network

adapter to disable.

The “System Properties” dialog box appears.

7 Click “OK” to close the “System Properties” dialog box.

Control Panel appears.

8 Click to close Control Panel.

61

Windows 2000:

1 Click “Start”, and click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.

Control Panel appears.

2 Double-click the “System” icon.

The “System Properties” dialog box appears.

3 Click the “Hardware” tab, then click “Device Manager”.

The “Device Manager” window appears.

4 In the “View” menu, click “View devices by type”.
5 Double-click “Network adapters”.
6 Double-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”.

The “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter Properties” dialog
box appears.

62

Note

The Wireless LAN PC Card is not working properly in the following cases:

•“Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter” is shown with an “X” or “!” symbol.
c Right-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter” and click “Remove”

to uninstall the driver. Then repeat the installation process.

• Double-clicking “Network Adapters” does not display “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless
Network Adapter”.

c Remove the Wireless LAN PC Card. Then repeat the installation process.

• Double-clicking “Other devices” displays “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network
Adapter”.

c Right-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”, then click “Remove”

to uninstall the driver. Repeat the installation process.

7 Confirm that the message “This device is working properly.”

is displayed under “Device status”.

Note

If “This device is working properly.” is not shown, the Wireless LAN PC Card is not
working correctly. Perform steps 1 - 5, right-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless
Network Adapter”, then click “Remove” to uninstall the driver. After uninstalling,
restart the computer and repeat the installation process.

8 Click “OK” to close the “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network

Adapter Properties” dialog box.

The “Device Manager” window appears.

9 Click to close the “Device Manager” window.

The “System Properties” dialog box appears.

10

Click “OK” to close the “System Properties” dialog box.

Control Panel appears.

11

Click to close Control Panel.

Additional information

63

If the computer you are using incorporates another Ethernet interface
besides the Wireless LAN PC Card, disable the other interface as follows.

1 Click “Start”, and click “Settings” – “Network and Dial-up

Connections”.

The “Network and Dial-up Connections” window appears.

2 Select the network adapter to disable.
3 On the “File” menu, click “Disable”.

4 Click to close the “Network and Dial-up Connections”

window.

Windows XP:

1 Click “Start”, and click “Control Panel”.

Control Panel appears.

2 Double-click the “System” icon.

The “System Properties” dialog box appears.

64

z Hint

If the “System” icon is not displayed, click “Switch to Classic View”.

3 Click the “Hardware” tab, then click “Device Manager”.

The “Device Manager” window appears.

4 On the “View” menu, click “View devices by type”.
5 Double-click “Network adapters”.

6 Double-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”.

The “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter Properties” dialog
box appears.

Note

The Wireless LAN PC Card is not working properly in the following cases:

•“Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter” is shown with an “X” or “!” symbol.
c Right-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter” and click “Remove”

to uninstall the driver. Then repeat the installation process.

• Double-clicking “Network Adapters” does not display “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless
Network Adapter”.

c Remove the Wireless LAN PC Card. Then repeat the installation process.

• Double-clicking “Other devices” displays “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network
Adapter”.

c Right-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”, then click “Remove”

to uninstall the driver. Repeat the installation process.

Additional information

7 Confirm that the message “This device is working properly.”

is displayed under “Device status”.

Note

If “This device is working properly.” is not shown, the Wireless LAN PC Card is not
working correctly. Perform steps 1 - 5, right-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless
Network Adapter”, then click “Remove” to uninstall the driver. After uninstalling,
restart the computer and repeat the installation process.

65

8 Click “OK” to close the “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network

Adapter Properties” dialog box.

The “Device Manager” window appears.

9 Click to close the “Device Manager” window.

The “System Properties” dialog box appears.

10

Click “OK” to close the “System Properties” dialog box.

Control Panel appears.

11

Click to close Control Panel.

If the computer you are using incorporates another Ethernet interface
besides the Wireless LAN PC Card, disable the other interface as follows.

1 Click “Start”, and click “Connect To” – “Show all

connections”.

The “Network Connections” window appears.

2 From “LAN or high-speed Internet”, select the network

adapter to disable.

66

3 On the “File” menu, click “Disable”.
4 Click to close the “Network Connections” window.

Uninstalling the Wireless LAN PC Card driver

To uninstall the Wireless LAN PC Card driver, proceed as follows.

z Hint

For information on how to install the Wireless LAN PC Card driver, see page 49.

Windows Me:

1 Click “Start”, and click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.

Control Panel appears.

2 Double-click the “System” icon.

The “System Properties” dialog box appears.

z Hint

If the “System” icon is not shown, select “View all Control Panel options”.

3 Click the “Device Manager” tab.
4 Click “View devices by type”.
5 Double-click “Network adapters”.
6 Click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”, then click

“Uninstall”.

The “Confirm Device Removal” dialog box appears.

7 Click “OK” to uninstall.

The message “To finish removing your hardware, you must restart
your computer. Do you want to restart your computer now?” appears.

Additional information

67

8 Remove the Wireless LAN PC Card from its slot, then click

“Yes”.

The computer restarts. This completes uninstallation of the driver.

Windows 2000:

Notes

• In Windows 2000, only users with administrator access privileges can uninstall drivers.
Log onto Windows 2000 with a user account listed in “Administrators”.

• Exit all programs before running the uninstall process.

1 Click “Start”, and click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.

Control Panel appears.

2 Double-click the “System” icon.

The “System Properties” dialog box appears.

3 Click the “Hardware” tab, then click “Device Manager”.

The “Device Manager” window appears.

4 On the “View” menu, click “View devices by type”.

68

5 Double-click “Network adapters”, and double-click “Sony

802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”.

The “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter Properties” dialog
box appears.

6 Click the “Driver” tab, then click “Uninstall”.

The “Confirm Device Removal” dialog box appears.

7 Click “OK”.

The Device Manager window appears.

8 Click to close the “Device Manager” window.

The “System Properties” dialog box appears.

9 Click “OK” to close the “System Properties” dialog box.

Control Panel appears.

10

Click to close Control Panel.

Windows XP:

Notes

• In Windows XP, only users with administrator access privileges can uninstall drivers.
Log onto Windows XP with a user account with administrator access privileges.

• Exit all programs before running the uninstall process.

1 Click “Start”, and click “Control Panel”.

Control Panel appears.

2 Double-click the “System” icon.

The “System Properties” dialog box appears.

z Hint

If the “System” icon is not displayed, click “Switch to Classic View”.

3 Click the “Hardware” tab, then click “Device Manager”.

The “Device Manager” window appears.

Additional information

4 On the “View” menu, click “View devices by type”.
5 Double-click “Network adapters”, and Double-click “Sony

802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”.

The “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter Properties” dialog
box appears.

6 Click the “Driver” tab, then click “Uninstall”.

The “Confirm Device Removal” dialog box appears.

7 Click “OK”.

The Device Manager window appears.

69

8 Click to close the Device Manager window.

The “System Properties” dialog box appears.

9 Click “OK” to close the “System Properties” dialog box.

Control Panel appears.

10

Click to close Control Panel.

Uninstalling the Wireless Panel

To uninstall the Wireless Panel, proceed as follows.

Note

Exit the Wireless Panel with the icon in the taskbar before proceeding.

z Hint

For information on how to install the Wireless Panel, see page 57.

Windows Me:

Note

Exit all programs before running the uninstall process.

70

1 Click “Start”, and click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.

Control Panel appears.

2 Double-click the “Add/Remove Programs” icon.

The “Add/Remove Programs Properties” dialog box appears.

3 Select “Wireless Panel” and click “Add/Remove”.

The “Confirm File Deletion” dialog box appears.

4 Click “OK”.

The software uninstall process is carried out.

5 Click “Finish”.

The uninstall process is complete.

Windows 2000:

Notes

• In Windows 2000, only users with administrator access privileges can uninstall
software. Log onto Windows 2000 with a user account listed in “Administrators”.

• Exit all programs before running the uninstall process.

1 Click “Start”, and click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.

Control Panel appears.

2 Double-click the “Add/Remove Programs” icon.

The “Add/Remove Programs” dialog box appears.

3 Select “Wireless Panel” and click “Change/Remove”.

The “Confirm File Deletion” dialog box appears.

4 Click “OK”.

The software uninstall process is carried out, and then the InstallShield
completion dialog box appears.

5 Click “Finish”.

The uninstall process is complete.

Additional information

71

Windows XP:

Notes

• In Windows XP, only users with administrator access privileges can uninstall software.
Log onto Windows XP with a user account with administrator access privileges.

• Exit all programs before running the uninstall process.

1 Click “Start”, and click “Control Panel”.

Control Panel appears.

2 Double-click the “Add or Remove Programs” icon.

The “Add or Remove Programs” window appears.

z Hint

If the “Add or Remove Programs” icon is not displayed, click “Switch to Classic
View”.

3 Select “Wireless Panel” and click “Change/Remove”.

The “Confirm File Deletion” dialog box appears.

4 Click “OK”.

The software uninstall process is carried out, and then the maintenance
completion dialog box appears.

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5 Click “Finish”.

The uninstall process is complete.

Precautions

Safety

Do not drop or cause a mechanical shock
to the Wireless LAN PC Card, as this may
damage the unit.

Installation

Do not expose the Wireless LAN PC Card
to the following conditions:

• Unstable surfaces

• High humidity or poor ventilation

• Excessive dust

• Direct sunlight or extreme heat

• Closed cars

• Magnetized location (near magnets,

speakers, or televisions)

• Locations exposed to frequent vibration

• Locations where the transmission of

radio waves may be obstructed by metal
plates or concrete walls

Cleaning

Clean the casing with a soft cloth, lightly
moistened with water or a mild detergent
solution. Do not use any type of abrasive
pad, scouring powder, or solvent such as
alcohol or benzene as it may damage the
finish of the casing.

Additional information

Operation

If the Wireless LAN PC Card is moved
directly from a cold location to a warm
locations, or if it is placed in a very damp
environment, moisture may condense on
the parts inside. The Wireless LAN PC
Card may not operate properly if moisture
condensation occurs.

73

Specifications

Getting help

Protocol support

TCP/IP compliant

Standard compliance

IEEE 802.11a/IEEE 802.11b

Radio frequency

5 GHz wireless network:

5.15 to 5.35 GHz (IEEE 802.11a)

2.4 GHz wireless network:

2.4 to 2.4835 GHz (IEEE 802.11b)
(ISM band: IEEE 802.11b)

Modulation

OFDM (IEEE 802.11a compliant)
DS-SS (IEEE 802.11b compliant)

General

Power requirements

3.3 V DC (supplied from the computer
through the PC card adapter)

Current

Peak current at transmission: 660 mA
Peak current at reception: 380 mA

Connector

PC Card CardBus

Dimensions

Approx. 2.2 × 0.2 × 4.7 inches
(Approx. 54 × 5 × 119 mm) (W × H × D)
(Antenna height: 0.5 inches (Approx. 11 mm))

Mass

Approx. 1.7 oz. (Approx. 47 g)

Operating temperature

41°F to 95°F (5°C to 35°C) (not condensed)

Environment temperature

–4°F to 140°F (–20°C to 60°C) (not condensed)

Supplied accessories

See “Unpacking” on page 11.

Design and specifications are subject to change
without notice.

This section describes how to get help and
support from Sony, as well as
troubleshooting tips for your Wireless
LAN PC Card.

About Sony’s Support Options

Sony provides several support options for
your Wireless LAN PC Card.

❒Operating Instructions explains

how to use your Wireless LAN PC
Card.

❒Troubleshooting Guide contains

answers to frequently asked questions
and solutions to common problems.

❒Wireless LAN Quick Guide

describes the Wireless Panel software
and explains how to set up a Peer to
Peer network in detail, and provides
information on configuring and
changing specific settings.

❒Wireless Panel Online Help

explains how to use the Wireless Panel
utility software provided.

❒The Sony Wireless LAN products

support Web site
http://www.sony.com/
wirelesslansupport provides the

latest information on your Wireless
LAN products.

❒The Sony e-mail support service

answers your questions by electronic
mail. Just send your question in an e­mail message and a customer service
representative will reply. To send a
question to Sony e-mail support, fill out
the e-mail form at

http://www.ita.sel.sony.com/
support/pc/email.html

74

❒The Sony fax-back service provides

you with answers to commonly asked
questions. You can use this automated
service to request a list of available
topics then select the topics you want to
receive. To contact the Sony fax-back
service, call 1-877-760-7669.

❒The Sony Customer Information

Services Center offers information

about your Wireless LAN products and
other Sony products that work with your
computer. To contact the Sony
Customer Information Services Center,
call 1-877-760-7669.

Open 24 hours/day, 7 days/week.

Glossary

Access Point (Infrastructure)
Network mode

A method of building a wireless network
using one or more Access Points. For
details, see “Capabilities” on page 5.

Channel

A part of the frequency spectrum to be
used for wireless communication.

Only client computers and Access Points
set to the same channel can communicate
with each other.

Additional information

Client

A computer connected to a LAN (Local
Area Network). Also may be called a
client computer.

DHCP (Dynamic Host
Configuration Protocol)

DHCP lets network administrators centrally
manage and automate assignment of client
computer IP addresses.

DNS (Domain Name System)

A system that translates host names into
IP addresses.

Networks that use the TCP/IP protocol,
such as the Internet, use a set of numbers
like 192.168.0.1 (IP address) to identify a
computer. However, since the IP address
is hard to memorize, DNS was developed
to allow a name like “www.sony.com” to
identify a computer for convenience. DNS
servers manage these translations from
host names into IP addresses.

75

LAN (Local Area Network)

WAN (Wide Area Network)

A network which is accessible only to its
members, unlike the Internet which is
open to an unlimited number of people. A
LAN may be built for different purposes.
For example, you can build an office LAN
that is accessible only to members of the
same department or a home LAN that is
accessible only to family members.

Network Name (SSID)

A wireless LAN group identifier
according to the IEEE 802.11 standard.
SSID stands for “Service Set ID”. The
Network Name can be set individually for
each Access Point and Peer to Peer
Network to connect to. When roaming
among multiple Access Points is used, all
Access Points must be configured for the
same Network Name (SSID) and WEP
encryption key.

TCP/IP (Transmission Control
Protocol/Internet Protocol)

TCP/IP is the network communications
protocol that is used to communicate over
the Internet. TCP is a connection-oriented
protocol for establishing reliable,
sequenced data transfer. TCP ensures that
data reaches its destination.

IP assembles and addresses data packets
for transmission to their network
destinations.

A network that interconnects remote
LANs through the Internet or telephone
lines.

76

Troubleshooting

Read the Troubleshooting section of this guide before calling Sony
Customer Information Services. If you still cannot resolve your issue after
reading this section, call Sony Customer Information Services.

Symptom Cause/Remedy

My computer does not
detect the Wireless
LAN PC Card.

I cannot access the
Internet.

The Wireless LAN PC Card may not be properly inserted
into the PC card slot of your computer.

c Check that the Wireless LAN PC Card is inserted in the

proper direction, then push it in as far as it will go.
The Access Point is not connected.
c Follow the instructions in the Access Point Operating

Instructions to connect it properly.
The Wireless LAN PC Card is not properly inserted into

your computer.
c See the instructions on page 13 of this manual to insert it

properly.
Communication between the Access Point and your

computer are not established.
c Check the communication status using the Wireless Panel.

For details on how to check the status, see “Checking the

communication status” (page 39).
The Access Point is not properly configured.
c Configure the Access Point with the connection method of

your choice.
Distance between computer and Access Point is too great.

The maximum allowable distance is about 150 feet for

802.11a and 100 feet for 802.11b line of sight, but this will
vary depending on usage conditions.

c Check the signal level indicator in the taskbar. If the level

is low, bring the computer and Access Point closer

together.

Additional information

77

Symptom Cause/Remedy

Data transfer speed is
slow

I cannot remember the
WEP Key.

Distance between
Access Point and
computer is less than
150 feet (IEEE 802.11a)
and 100 feet (IEEE

802.11b), but
communication is not
possible.

There is interference with other Access Points.
c Try changing the Access Point channel setting.
The network is handling a large amount of simultaneous

traffic.
c Try again when the network load is lower.
Communication distance is long.
c Reduce the communication distance.
There are obstacles (objects blocking radio transmission)

within the communication range.
c Remove the obstacles or change the installation location.
Channel 14 is used for the IEEE 802.11b band.

c Channel 14 is limited to 2 Mbps.
c When using an Access Point, reset the Access Point to its

defaults. For further information about how to reset the
Access Point, see the Access Point Operating Instructions.

c When using a Wireless LAN PC Card in Peer to Peer

Network connection mode, delete the network settings
registered on each computer connected to the network,
then reconfigure the computer’s wireless network settings.

The actual communication distance depends on the
installation site and surrounding conditions.

c Move your computer closer to the Access Point.

78

❒ The Sony Wireless LAN products support Web site

http://www.sony.com/wirelesslansupport provides the

latest information on your Wireless LAN products.

❒ The Sony e-mail support service answers your questions

by electronic mail. Just send your question in an e-mail message
and a customer service representative will reply. To send a
question to Sony e-mail support, fill out the e-mail

http://www.ita.sel.sony.com/support/pc/email.html

❒ The Sony fax-back service provides you with answers to

commonly asked questions. You can use this automated service
to request a list of available topics and then select the topics you
want to receive. To contact the Sony fax-back service, call
1-877-760-7669.

❒ The Sony Customer Information Services Center offers

information about your Wireless LAN products and other Sony
products that work with your computer. To contact the Sony
Customer Information Services Center, call

1-877-760-7669.
Open 24 hours/day, 7 days/week.

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