StarTech.com WAP1055BG Instruction Manual

Wireless Access Point

WAP1055BG

Instruction Manual

Actual product may vary from photo

Wireless 802.11g 54 Mbits/sec. Access Point

FCC Compliance Statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the
user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.

• 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.

Use of Trademarks, Registered Trademarks, and other
Protected Names and Symbols

This manual may make reference to trademarks, registered trademarks, and other
protected names and/or symbols of third-party companies not related in any way to
StarTech.com. Where they occur these references are for illustrative purposes only and
do not represent an endorsement of a product or service by StarTech.com, or an
endorsement of the product(s) to which this manual applies by the third-party company in
question. Regardless of any direct acknowledgement elsewhere in the body of this
document, StarTech.com hereby acknowledges that all trademarks, registered
trademarks, service marks, and other protected names and/or symbols contained in this
manual and related documents are the property of their respective holders.

Table of Contents

1.0 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

1.1 Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

1.2 Before You Begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

1.2.1 System Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

1.2.2 Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

1.2.3 Ports and Indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

2.0 Pre-Configuration Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

2.1.1 Connecting the Local Computer to the WAP (Wired) . . . . . . . . . . . .3

2.1.2 Connecting the Local Computer to the WAP (Wireless) . . . . . . . . .4

2.1.3 Network Configuration for Windows 2000 and XP . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

3.0 Configuring the Wireless Access Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

3.1 Configuring Your Wireless Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

3.2.1 The Mode Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

3.2.2 Mode Tab: Client Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

3.2.3 Mode Tab: Access Point Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

3.2.4 Mode Tab: Repeater Mode Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

3.2.5 Mode Tab: P2P Mode Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

3.2.6 Mode Tab: PMP Mode Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

3.3.1 The Status Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

3.4.1 The Admin Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

3.5.1 The LAN Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

4.0 Configuring Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

4.1.1 WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

4.2.1 WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

5.0 Advanced Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

6.0 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

7.0 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

8.0 Accessory Products from StarTech.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

9.0 Support and Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

9.1 Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

9.2 Warranty Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

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1.0 Introduction

Thank you for purchasing a StarTech.com wireless access point. This product complies
with the 802.11g standard and can transmit data at up to 54 Mbits/sec. Its versatile
configuration options allow it to perform up to five different functions: a wireless access
point that bridges your wired and wireless infrastructure; a wireless client that allows a
computer to access your wireless network; a repeater that extends the range of your
existing wireless network; a bridge that links two wireless networks; and a concentrator
that allows you to bridge three or more access points into a single network. For added
flexibility, this product is backwards-compatible with 802.11b devices.

1.1 Features

• Unique configuration options actually make the access point 5 products in one

• Easy-to-use, Web-based interface

• Supports 802.11g speeds up to 54 Mbits/sec.; backwards-compatible with the

802.11b standard

• Advanced security features such as customizable user authentication, 64/128-bit
WEP encryption, WPA support, and access filtering

1.2 Before You Begin

1.2.1 System Requirements

• For configuration from a “wired” computer: a computer with an Ethernet network card,

whose operating system supports the TCP/IP protocol, and has a Web browser
installed

• For configuration from a wireless computer: a computer with a wireless network card
installed that supports the 802.11b or 802.11g wireless standards, whose operating

system supports the TCP/IP protocol, and has a Web browser installed

1.2.2 Contents

This package should contain:

•1 x WAP1055BG

•1 x Antenna

•1 x Power Adapter

•1 x Mounting Screws and Accessories

•1 x Manual

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1.2.3 Ports and Indicators

NOTE

: The phrases “WAP” and “access point” are used interchangeably throughout the

manual.

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Front Panel

Rear Panel

LED Status Description

PWR (Power) Lit The unit has power.

Off The unit is not powered.

WLAN (Wireless) Blinking The wireless antenna is sending/receiving data.

Off The wireless antenna is not sending/receiving data.

LAN (Wired) On A wired network connection is present.

Blinking Information is being sent/received over the wired connection.
Off No wireless link is established.

Port Description

12VDC (Power) Port for the power adapter (provided).
10/100M (Wired Network) RJ-45 connector (Ethernet) to connect the WAP to the wired network.
Reset Pressed and held for less than 5 seconds, resets the WAP but keeps settings.

Pressed and held for more than 5 seconds, resets the WAP to factory defaults.

Antenna Connects the WAP to the provided antenna or a third-party antenna that uses a

Reverse SMA connector.

NOTE

: Resetting the WAP to factory defaults deletes any changes you have made to configuration and security

settings. This should be used as a “last resort” troubleshooting method or when the access point is moved to a
new network, as it will necessitate repeating the initial setup process.

2.0 Pre-Configuration Requirements

Before you connect the WAP to your network, you must configure it so it is secure and
can be integrated with the rest of your equipment and setup. The easiest way to do this
is by connecting the access point to a computer that is not connected to the rest of your
network. If needed, you can temporarily disconnect a computer from the network and
connect it directly to the WAP.

Because network configurations can vary significantly, you should manually change the
network configuration on the computer you are using to configure the unit to work with
the WAP’s default settings. Note that you may need administrator authority for the
computer you are using in order to change the necessary settings, which may differ from
the network settings you use to connect to a server, domain, or workgroup. If you need
more information about your specific network configuration and security, contact your
System Administrator for assistance.

These instructions assume some basic familiarity with basic networking terms and
concepts. Consult your System Administrator or a computer networking professional for
additional assistance and guidance, if necessary.

2.1.0 Settings on the Local Computer

The detailed instructions provided below assume that you are using a computer
configured with Microsoft Windows 2000 or XP. For details that apply to the operating
system you are using, consult your documentation or System Administrator for more
information. These are the basic configuration requirements to connect to the WAP:

Protocol: TCP/IP
DHCP (automatic IP address): Disabled
Manual IP Address: Any value between 192.168.2.2 and 192.168.2.254
Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
Default Gateway/DNS/WINS/Routing: Leave blank or 0.0.0.0

Additional settings if connecting from a wireless connection:

SSID: Default
Channel: 6
Encryption/WEP: Disabled
Mode: Infrastructure

2.1.1 Connecting the Local Computer to the WAP (Wired)

1. Log the computer off from the LAN or current session, or power it down.

2. Place the access point near the local computer. Connect the power adapter
(included) to a wall outlet or other suitable power source. Connect the opposite end to
the port marked 12VDC on the WAP.

3. Disconnect the computer from the network connection. Using a standard patch cable,

connect the computer’s Ethernet port to the 10/100M port on the WAP.

4. Power on the computer (if necessary). Log into the local computer as an administrator
or other user with sufficient authority to change configuration settings. If you are using
Windows 2000 or XP, you can use the instructions below to configure the computer to
access the WAP. If you are using another operating system, use the settings
described above as a guide to configure the computer’s network connection.

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2.1.2 Connecting the Local Computer to the WAP (Wireless)

1. Log the computer off from the LAN or current session, or power it down.

2. Place the access point near the local computer. Connect the power adapter
(included) to a wall outlet or other suitable power source. Connect the opposite end to
the port marked 12VDC on the WAP.

3. Power on the computer (if necessary). Log into the local computer as an administrator
or other user with sufficient authority to change configuration settings. Using your
wireless network card’s configuration tool, select the WAP as the wireless network you
wish to join. You may need to change the wireless profile settings to match those
noted on page 3.

4.If you are using Windows 2000 or XP, you can use the instructions below to configure
the computer to access the WAP. If you are using another operating system, use the
settings described above as a guide to configure the computer’s network connection.

2.1.3 Network Configuration for Windows 2000 and XP

NOTE

: You should write down your existing network configuration settings so that you

can restore them later. You need to change your settings only to perform an initial
configuration of the access point; once the configuration is complete you can restore
your original settings to allow the local computer to rejoin the network.

1. Click the Start button. Click Control Panel. (For Windows 2000, click Start >

Settings > Control Panel.)

2. Double click the Network and Dial-up Connections icon.

3. Your existing network connections will be displayed. Right click the connection you

are using to configure the WAP and choose Properties from the menu. (The default
name is Local Area Connection wired connections or Wireless Connection for
wireless connections. However, these names may vary depending on your system
configuration.)

4. Highlight Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) from the list and click the Properties button.

5. Ensure that the Use the following IP address option is selected and enter the

following values:

IP address: 192.168.2.3
Subnet mask: 255.255.255.0
Default gateway: [leave blank]

6. The option Use the following DNS server addresses will be enabled by default;

leave both boxes blank. Click the OK button at the bottom of the window.

7. You will be returned to the Local Area Connection Properties window. Click the OK

button at the bottom of the window. There will be a slight pause while Windows
applies the new network settings.

Proceed with the configuration instructions for the WAP contained in the next section.

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3.0 Configuring the Wireless Access Point

Once you have configured the local computer using the settings above, you will be able
to access the WAP’s Web configuration interface.

NOTE

: If you normally connect to the Internet using a proxy server, you will need to

disable that setting before configuring the access point. If necessary, consult your
System Administrator or documentation for more information.

Start the Web browser on the local computer. The configurator works with virtually any
standard HTML browser, including Microsoft Internet Explorer, Netscape Navigator,
Opera, Mozilla Firefox, and others. Since that computer is not likely to have an Internet
connection, you may receive an error when the browser cannot load the home page; that
is normal. In the address bar (see above) type the following address: 192.168.2.1 and
press [Enter] on the keyboard. After a moment you will see a password prompt similar
to the following:

In the User Name field, enter admin as the login name. In the password field, enter
1234 and click OK. (These are the default passwords that the access point will use any
time it is reset to its factory default configuration.) Once you have entered the user and
password information successfully, the Web configurator will load.

NOTE

: If you see a blank page on the welcome screen or when moving between tabs in

the configurator, ensure you scroll down to the bottom of the Window. Some browsers
leave a blank space at the top of the page.

3.1.0 Configuring Your Wireless Connection

The first step in configuring your wireless access point is determining what role you
would like to play within your network. While most users will want it to function as an
access point--a way of allowing wireless computers and devices to access your wired
network--this product can be configured to one of five different settings. This section
describes each mode and the options available to configure it.

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Address Bar

3.2.1 The Mode Tab

The Mode tab allows you to select the wireless mode the WAP will use and configure the
options for that setting. An explanation of each mode, along with detailed configuration
instructions, is noted below.

3.2.2 Mode Tab: Client Configuration

This mode allows a computer without a wireless network card to join a wireless network.
In this mode, the WAP essentially functions as a wireless network card.

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The Welcome (Mode) Main Menu

The Client Mode Configuration Menu

The Site Survey Window

Scan: Re-scan to search for other wireless networks to join.
Join: Attempt to join the selected network. (Security

settings must match to be successful.)
Close: Close the window.

Station Mode: Selectable between 802.11b mode and 802.11g mode (default). In

802.11g mode the WAP will use all common speeds up to 54 Mbits/sec., including those

speeds supported by older 802.11b devices, to connect to a wireless network. If 802.11b
mode is selected, the router will only attempt to use IEEE 802.11b compliant speeds to
access the network, up to 11 Mbits/sec. In general, you should only select 802.11b
mode to solve compatibility issues between the WAP and the wireless device to which

you are connecting.
MAC Cloning Mode: When enabled, uses the MAC address of the computer to which it

is connected to access a wireless network. AMAC address is a unique hardware
identifier that is part of the hardware of every device on your network. You will not need
to enable this option unless your network enables security that relies on MAC address as
part of its authentication scheme.

SSID is short for S

ervice Set IDentifier, which is the name that the WAP will broadcast to
other wireless devices. This allows multiple wireless devices to co-exist on the same
network without confusion. The SSID can be up to 32 standard ASCII characters, and
can be any combination of your choosing as long there is not another wireless device in
the vicinity using that SSID.

Site Survey: When this button is pressed, the configurator will open the Site Survey
window (see previous page). You can join a wireless network by selecting a SSID from
the list and clicking Join. Note that the security settings (encryption type) on the WAP
must match the network you wish to join. For more information on configuring your
security settings, refer to section 4.0, “Configuring Security” on page 14.

Operation Mode: If Ad-Hoc is selected, the WAP will communicate directly with another
wireless device (i.e. computer) without using an access point, wireless router, or similar
device. If Infrastructure is selected, the WAP will join a wireless network using a
router/access point (default). In both modes, the network or device to be connected to is
selected from the Site Survey window.

Channel: Determines what channel the WAP will use to communicate with other
devices. A channel is a discrete radio frequency pre-approved by regulators. Devices
located within a single wireless network must all operate on the same channel. If you
are in Infrastructure operation mode (see above), the channel will be set automatically
by the WAP using the Site Survey tool. If you are operating in Ad-Hoc mode, you must
manually select the correct channel to use.

Security: Sets the level and type of encryption used for the wireless connection. For
more information on configuring your security settings, refer to section 4.0 “Configuring
Security”.

Preamble Type: This setting determines what proportion of a wireless transmission
segment (frame) will be used for non-data requirements such as error correction. The
default setting, Auto, allows the WAP to automatically switch between settings based on
the quality of the connection. You should only adjust this setting if specifically required to
connect to another device.

Transmit Rate: Forces the WAP to use a particular connection speed for a wireless
connection. The default (and recommended) setting, Auto, allows the unit to negotiate
the fastest possible speed automatically. Selecting another value from the list will force
the access point to use that speed only. Note that the wireless devices to which you are
connecting must support the speed you select, and that varying levels of interference

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may result in failed connections since the access point will not be able to adjust its speed
accordingly. If 802.11b is selected as the Station Mode, you will only be able to choose
from 802.11b-compliant connection speeds (up to 11 Mbits/sec.) from the Transmit Rate
menu.

☛ Click the Apply button at the bottom of the screen to save your changes and make

them active.

3.2.3 Mode Tab: Access Point Configuration

This option allows the WAP to function as a typical access point. In this mode, it is
designed to provide wireless access to your wired network infrastructure.

Mode is selectable between 802.11b, 802.11g, and MIxed (default). In Mixed mode the
WAP will support all common speeds up to 54 Mbits/sec., including those speeds
supported by older 802.11b devices, for requests to connect to a wireless network. If

802.11b is selected, the router will only attempt to use IEEE 802.11b compliant speeds to
access the network, up to 11 Mbits/sec. If 802.11g is selected, the router will only
attempt to use IEEE 802.11g compliant speeds to access the network, up to 54
Mbits/sec. In general, you should only select a setting other than Mixed to solve
compatibility issues between the WAP and wireless devices.

SSID: Short for S

ervice Set IDentifier, which is the name that the WAP will broadcast to
other wireless devices. This allows multiple wireless devices to co-exist on the same
network without confusion. The SSID can be up to 32 standard ASCII characters, and
can be any combination of your choosing as long there is not another wireless device in
the vicinity using that SSID.

Broadcast SSID: When set to Enable, wireless users will be able to scan available
networks (usually called a “site survey”) and select the WAP from a list. If set to Disable
users must know the SSID of the WAP to connect to the wireless network, and will not
appear in a site survey list.

Channel: Determines what channel the WAP will use to communicate with other
devices. A channel is a discrete radio frequency pre-approved by regulators. Devices
located within a single wireless network must all operate on the same channel.

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The Access Point Mode Configuration Menu

Security: Sets the level and type of encryption used for the wireless connection. For
more information on configuring your security settings, refer to section 4.0 “Configuring
Security”.

Advanced Settings: Detailed settings you can use to fine-tune your connection to the
wireless network. See section 5.0 “Advanced Settings” for more information.

Access Filter: See section 4.0 “Configuring Security” for more information on using the
access filter.

☛ Click the Apply button at the bottom of the screen to save your changes and make

them active.

3.2.4 Mode Tab: Repeater Mode Configuration

This option allows the WAP to function as a repeater that extends the range of your
existing wireless devices, such as another access point, router, etc.

Parent MAC Address: This is the unique hardware identifier of a wireless device you
wish to extend. The MAC address is often printed on the device itself (often near the
serial number or model information) or in the setup interface of the device. Consult your
documentation for specific details on locating the MAC address for the device.

Child MAC Address: If you are using another device to extend the range of this access
point, you must insert the MAC address of that access point, router, etc. here.

(Note: You will need to fill in both values only if the WAP will be in the middle of a “chain”
of other wireless devices. If you are using this product only to extend the range of
another device, you need only to fill in the “parent” MAC address.)

The following values are transferred automatically from the Access Point Mode
configuration screen. Any changes you make will automatically update those values.

Mode is selectable between 802.11b, 802.11g, and MIxed (default). In Mixed mode the
WAP will support all common speeds up to 54 Mbits/sec., including those speeds
supported by older 802.11b devices, for requests to connect to a wireless network. If

802.11b is selected, the router will only attempt to use IEEE 802.11b compliant speeds to

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The Repeater Mode Configuration Menu

access the network, up to 11 Mbits/sec. If 802.11g is selected, the router will only
attempt to use IEEE 802.11g compliant speeds to access the network, up to 54
Mbits/sec. In general, you should only select a setting other than Mixed to solve
compatibility issues between the WAP and wireless devices.

Broadcast SSID: When set to Enable, wireless users will be able to scan available
networks (usually called a “site survey”) and select the WAP from a list. If set to Disable
users must know the SSID of the WAP to connect to the wireless network, and will not
appear in a site survey list.

Channel: Determines what channel the WAP will use to communicate with other
devices. A channel is a discrete radio frequency pre-approved by regulators. Devices
located within a single wireless network must all operate on the same channel.

Security: Sets the level and type of encryption used for the wireless connection. For
more information on configuring your security settings, refer to section 4.0 “Configuring
Security”.

Advanced Settings: Detailed settings you can use to fine-tune your connection to the
wireless network. See section 5.0 “Advanced Settings” for more information.

Access Filter: See section 4.0 “Configuring Security” for more information on using the
access filter.

☛ Click the Apply button at the bottom of the screen to save your changes and make

them active.

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3.2.5 Mode Tab: P2P Mode Configuration

This option allows the WAP to function as a bridge that links together two networks using
wireless access points (called P2P, or point-to-point).

AP MAC Address: The MAC address (hardware identifier) of the wireless access point
on the network you wish to bridge. The MAC address is often printed on the device itself
(often near the serial number or model information) or in the setup interface of the
device. Consult your documentation for specific details on locating the MAC address for
the device.

The following values are transferred automatically from the Access Point Mode
configuration screen. Any changes you make will automatically update those values.

Mode is selectable between 802.11b, 802.11g, and MIxed (default). In Mixed mode the
WAP will support all common speeds up to 54 Mbits/sec., including those speeds
supported by older 802.11b devices, for requests to connect to a wireless network. If

802.11b is selected, the router will only attempt to use IEEE 802.11b compliant speeds to
access the network, up to 11 Mbits/sec. If 802.11g is selected, the router will only
attempt to use IEEE 802.11g compliant speeds to access the network, up to 54
Mbits/sec. In general, you should only select a setting other than Mixed to solve
compatibility issues between the WAP and wireless devices.

Channel: Determines what channel the WAP will use to communicate with other
devices. A channel is a discrete radio frequency pre-approved by regulators. Devices
located within a single wireless network must all operate on the same channel.

Security: Sets the level and type of encryption used for the wireless connection. For
more information on configuring your security settings, refer to section 4.0 “Configuring
Security”.

Advanced Settings: Detailed settings you can use to fine-tune your connection to the
wireless network. See section 5.0 “Advanced Settings” for more information.

☛ Click the Apply button at the bottom of the screen to save your changes and make

them active.

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The P2P Mode Configuration Menu

3.2.6 Mode Tab: PMP Mode Configuration

This option allows the WAP to function as a bridge that links together three or more
networks using wireless access points (called PMP, or point-to-multipoint).

APx MAC Address: The MAC address (hardware identifier) of a wireless access point
on a network you wish to bridge. The MAC address is often printed on the device itself
(often near the serial number or model information) or in the setup interface of the
device. Consult your documentation for specific details on locating the MAC address for
the devices you are bridging. You can bridge together up to 6 networks using the WAP.

The following values are transferred automatically from the Access Point Mode
configuration screen. Any changes you make will automatically update those values.

Mode is selectable between 802.11b, 802.11g, and Mixed (default). In Mixed mode the
WAP will support all common speeds up to 54 Mbits/sec., including those speeds
supported by older 802.11b devices, for requests to connect to a wireless network. If

802.11b is selected, the router will only attempt to use IEEE 802.11b compliant speeds to
access the network, up to 11 Mbits/sec. If 802.11g is selected, the router will only
attempt to use IEEE 802.11g compliant speeds to access the network, up to 54
Mbits/sec. In general, you should only select a setting other than Mixed to solve
compatibility issues between the WAP and wireless devices.

Channel: Determines what channel the WAP will use to communicate with other
devices. A channel is a discrete radio frequency pre-approved by regulators. Devices
located within a single wireless network must all operate on the same channel.

Security: Sets the level and type of encryption used for the wireless connection. For
more information on configuring your security settings, refer to section 4.0 “Configuring
Security”.

Advanced Settings: Detailed settings you can use to fine-tune your connection to the
wireless network. See section 5.0 “Advanced Settings” for more information.

☛ Click the Apply button at the bottom of the screen to save your changes and make

them active.

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The PMP Mode Configuration Menu

3.3.1 The Status Tab

The Status tab offers a way to view the setting and activity of the WAP at a glance. You
can’t edit any configuration settings from this menu, however you can view essential
settings including the wired and wireless MAC addresses of the WAP, IP address
settings, SSID, encryption settings, and more. For more information about any of the
information presented on this screen, consult the section of the manual that relates to
that item for a detailed description.

3.4.1

The Admin Tab

The Admin menu allows you to change the WAP’s login password (recommended) and
update the firmware (built-in software) as needed.

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The Status Menu

The Admin Menu

FW Version: The current firmware version of the WAP.
FW Upgrade: Allows you to upload a new firmware image to the WAP. You can use the

Browse feature to locate the file once you have saved it to a drive accessible to the

computer you are using. Once the filename appears in the box, click Apply to get the
WAP to upload the firmware change.

New Password: Replaces the default login password on the access point. You must
also type the new password into the Reconfirm Password box. Once you have
completed both steps, click Apply to activate the new password. The password can be
a maximum of 32 characters in length, and is case-sensitive.

3.5.1

The LAN T

ab

The LAN menu allows you to configure how the WAP will connect to your wired network.
Depending on other options you may wish to configure (i.e. security), you may wish to
use this menu as the last step of the configuration process. Changing these settings

may cause the WAP Web configurator to be inaccessible to the computer you are
using, depending on your network configuration. Once you have changed these

settings, and they are appropriate for your network, you can access the Web configurator
over the network using the settings you input here.

Device Name: This is a plain-text name that you can use to identify the WAP on your
network for easy identification. If does not affect the operation of the access point, as
long as the following two conditions are met: a) the name you assign is unique on the
network; b) your administrator has not implemented a security scheme that relies on a
device (also called computer or machine) name for authentication.

Automatic IP: When enabled, configures the WAP to request (or “lease”) an IP address
from a DHCP (Dynamic Host Connection Protocol) server, if present. While this makes
the configuration of the access point’s LAN settings automatic, it can make administration
more difficult since the WAP’s IP address is not fixed. It is highly recommended that you

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The LAN Menu

enable this setting only if you have easy access to your network’s DHCP log. See your
system administrator for more details if needed. (Clicking the Important button next to
this option displays this warning.)

Fixed IP: When enabled (default), the WAP will use IP address, subnet, and gateway
information that you enter into this menu. The WAP will then have a constant IP address
that you can use to enter the Web configurator. The Subnet Mask information must be
valid for the IP address you enter and be consistent with the rest of the network. (Note:
Only certain subnet mask values are applicable for a particular IP address. Contact your
network administrator for more information on these settings, if needed.) The Gateway is
the IP address of the device (i.e. computer, router) that provides Internet access to your
network.

☛ Click the Apply button at the bottom of the screen to save your changes and make

them active.

(Note: If you have changed the IP address of the WAP, you may need to manually re­enter that address in your Web browser once the new settings have been applied to
access the configurator.)

4.0 Configuring Security

While you could use the WAP after completing the steps in the previous section, it is
highly

recommended that you change the encryption settings from “open” (the default
setting, where no encryption is used) to active encryption using the WEP or WPA
protocols. That way, wireless clients must know the encryption “key” to access the
wireless network, preventing unauthorized users from compromising your systems. The
security configuration method is common to all modes (access point, P2P, etc.) but keep
in mind that all modes (with the exception of Access Point mode) will require you to know
the existing encryption settings for the other wireless devices on your network so that
they will be able to communicate. Consult your documentation or network administrator
if you need assistance in configuring your security settings to work with other devices.

If you are configuring the WAP as an access point, be sure to record your encryption
settings so that you can provide the key wireless clients will need to join the network.
You may also choose to limit wireless access to the WAP using the MAC address Access
Filter feature.

4.1.1 WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy)

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WEP Length:

WEP-64: Uses a 64-bit encryption key for good security and minimal speed
penalties.

WEP-128: Uses a 128-bit encryption key for bank-grade security with a slight
reduction in overall performance.

(Note: 64 and 128-bit keys are not interchangeable. If needed, ensure you
select the key strength that matches your existing network settings.)

Mode:

HEX: Allows you to enter an encryption key using a hexadecimal value. See
the information on the Keys setting below for more details.

ASCII: Allows you to create a more intuitive key using a plain-English phrase.
See the information on the Keys setting below for more details.

Passphrase: This makes creating a key easier. By entering a plain-English text phrase
that is easy to remember and clicking the Generate button, the WAP will automatically
create 4 WEP keys and populate the Key 1~4 fields. This allows you to easily configure
wireless devices that support passphrases, so that you do not have to remember or
transcribe unintuitive hex numbers when configuring clients for your network. (If other
wireless devices on the network use passphrases, you can enter the existing passphrase
to automatically match the encryption settings of other devices.) If you prefer, you can
manually create your own keys by following the instructions below.

Key 1 ~ Key 4: Most wireless devices support 4 encryption keys at any one time. While
only one can be active at a given moment, maintaining four keys allows you to rotate
keys more easily for greater security. If you are not using the passphrase feature to
create your keys, you must follow specific rules when manually entering values into
these fields based on the encryption strength and mode you have selected.

64-bit: If you have selected WEP-64 as your WEP key length, use the following
guidelines for the mode you have selected:

Hex: 10 digits using the values “A-F”, “a-f”, and “0-9” in any
combination. (i.e.: AF27b726gT)

ASCII: 5 digits in any combination. (i.e. test1)

128-bit: If you have selected WEP-128 as your WEP key strength, use the
following guidelines for the mode you have selected:

Hex: 26 digits using the values “A-F”, “a-f”, and “0-9” in any
combination. (i.e.: AF27b726gT8765T5AF27b626jv)

ASCII: 13 digits in any combination. (i.e. protection123)

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4.2.1 WPA(Wi-Fi Protected Access)

Authentication: This feature uses a method called Pre-Shared Keys (PSK) to

authenticate wireless clients and encrypt data. These keys are rotated automatically
between wireless clients for greater security. PSK is the only method you can choose
using WPA.

Passphrase: The passphrase is shared by all clients on the wireless network. It must
be at least 8 characters in length.

Group Re-Key Time: Enter the amount of time (in seconds) that WPA devices will wait
before generating a new common data encryption key. This setting should match other
WPA-enabled wireless devices on the network.

☛ Click the Apply button at the bottom of the screen to save your changes and make

them active.

4.3.1 Access Filter

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MAC Filtering: When enabled, allows you to allow or deny certain computers access to
the wireless network based on the MAC address the computer reports.

Filter Mode

Only deny PCs with MAC listed below to access this device: When

selected, excludes computers with a MAC addresses included in the list from
joining the wireless network. All other computers are permitted access.

Only allow PCs with MAC listed below to access this device: When
selected, allows only those computers whose MAC address appears in the list
to join the wireless network. All other computers are denied access.

(Note: When using this feature, be sure that you are adding MAC address for the
wireless card in the computer or device you are adding. Wireless computers that have
both wired and wireless networking capabilities will have a separate MAC address for
each.)

☛ Click the Apply button at the bottom of the screen to save your changes and make

them active.

5.0 Advanced Settings

(Note: The default values are generally adequate for most wireless networks. While
changing these settings may improve the performance or reliability of wireless
connections in some cases, they could also cause a connection to fail if improperly
adjusted. Only experienced users and administrators should modify these values.)

Beacon Interval: The time that elapses between beacon (synchronization) broadcasts
by the WAP, measured in milliseconds. Default is 100 msec.

RTS Threshold: Determines the minimum packet size for the router to use the Ready to
Send (RTS) and Clear to Send (CTS) transmission mechanism. Default is 2347.

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DTIM Interval: The time that elapses between Delivery Traffic Indication Message
(DTIM) broadcasts by the access point. Default value is 2.

Protection Mode: When enabled, improves performance if the access point will only be
connected to 802.11g devices. This may impede the performance of 802.11b devices.
Default setting is Disabled.

Transmit Rate: (This setting is replicated as the MODE setting on configuration
screens.) Sets a mandatory transmission speed for wireless connections. If the access
point is configured to use 802.11b speeds only, 1~11 Mbits/sec. speeds are selectable. If

802.11g is selected as the station mode, this value is selectable between 1~54
Mbits/sec. The default is Auto (recommended).

Preamble Type: The preamble block length determines how much of a transmission
frame will be devoted to non-data information such as connection settings. Default
setting is recommended.

6.0 Troubleshooting

This section addresses common problems with wireless connections. Please examine
this section and attempt the solutions offered before contacting technical support. Given
the complexity of some wireless networks, you may want to get assistance from your
System Administrator or other professional if you encounter difficulties achieving a stable,
secure wireless connection.

Problem: I cannot connect to my wireless network or the connection is slow.
Cause: Your security and/or encryption settings may not match those of the wireless

device to which you are trying to connect, or there may be an environmental
issue (distance, interference) that is compromising the connection.

Solution: 1) If a signal is present but extremely low, try reorienting the antenna of

the WAP or decrease the distance between the antenna and the device to
improve the signal strength.

2) If there is a great deal of potential interference-causing material between
the antenna and device (electrical cables, heavy machinery, solid walls) you
may wish to relocate the computer or the WAP.

3) Ensure that the MODE value is set to Mixed so that the WAP will negotiate
the best possible connection given your environment.

4) If no signal is present, adjust your encryption, authentication and other
settings to match your network.

Problem: The card connects to my wireless access device and network, but I cannot see

or browse other computers on my network or access the Internet.

Cause: There may be software (i.e. firewall) that is interfering with the operation of the

your wireless connection.

Solution: 1) Disable the Windows XP firewall (if applicable). Double-click the icon for

your wireless network connection in the System Tray (next to the clock). Click
the Advanced tab. If the checkbox next to Protect my computer and
network… under the Internet Connection Firewall menu is enabled,
uncheck it.

2) Disable or uninstall any third-party firewall software.

3) Verify that the properties (protocols, etc.) for the wireless network
connection are configured properly.

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7.0 Specifications

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Protocols/Speeds Supported IEEE 802.11g and 802.11b

54/48/36/24/18/12/11/5.5/2/1 Mbits/sec. supported
(Both modes support auto-fallback when enabled)

Encryption/Security Features 64 or 128-bit WEP encryption

WPA-PSK authentication and encryption
Access filtering by MAC address

Operating Modes Access Point

Wireless Client
Repeater
P2P Network Bridge
PMP Network Bridge

Frequency Use 2.4000-2.4835 GHz

(Industrial/Scientific/Medical band)

Antenna External, detachable dipole, RP-SMA connector

Typical Transmit Power: 16 dBM

Wired Network Connectivity RJ-45 Ethernet Connector (1)

10/100 Mbits/sec. with auto-negotiation

Operating Temperature 32 ~ 131°F (0 ~ 55°C)

10 ~ 90% rel. humidity (non-condensing)

Physical Characteristics Dimensions (H x W x D): 1.18” x 5.0” x 3.43” (30 x 127 x 87 mm)

Housing: Plastic

Power Adapter Input: 120V AC (60 Hz)

Output: 12V DC 500 mA (center positive)

Regulatory Certifications FCC Class B, CE

8.0 Accessory Products from StarTech.com

Contact your local StarTech.com dealer or visit www.startech.com for cables or other
accessories that will help you get the best performance out of your new product.

CEILING24

6dBi Ceiling mounted 2.4 GHz WLAN indoor antenna

DIPOLE24

8.5dBi Omni-directional 2.4 GHz WLAN indoor antenna

PANEL24

9.5 dBi Uni-directional 2.4 GHz WLAN indoor antenna

WLANREF

2.4 GHz WLAN reflector signal booster

CB555WG

802.11g Wireless Cardbus NIC Adapter

PCI555WG

802.11g Wireless PCI NIC Adapter

USB555WG

54 Mbps USB 802.11g Wireless Mini NIC Adapter

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9.0 Support and Warranty

9.1 Technical Support

StarTech.com’s lifetime technical support is an integral part of our commitment to provide
industry-leading solutions. If you ever need help with your product, visit
www.startech.com/support and access our comprehensive selection of online tools,
documentation, and downloads.

9.2 Warranty Information

This product is backed by a one-year warranty. In addition, StarTech.com warrants its
products against defects in materials and workmanship for the periods noted, following
the initial date of purchase. During this period, the products may be returned for repair, or
replacement with equivalent products at our discretion. The warranty covers parts and
labor costs only. StarTech.com does not warrant its products from defects or damages
arising from misuse, abuse, alteration, or normal wear and tear.

Limitation of Liability

In no event shall the liability of StarTech.com Ltd. and StarTech.com USA LLP (or their
officers, directors, employees or agents) for any damages (whether direct or indirect,
special, punitive, incidental, consequential, or otherwise), loss of profits, loss of business,
or any pecuniary loss, arising out of or related to the use of the product exceed the
actual price paid for the product.

Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential
damages. If such laws apply, the limitations or exclusions contained in this statement
may not apply to you.

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Revised: 22 February 2005 (Rev. A)

About StarTech.com

StarTech.com is “The Professionals’ Source for Hard-to-Find Computer
Parts”. Since 1985, we have been providing IT professionals with the
quality products they need to complete their solutions. We offer an
unmatched selection of computer parts, cables, server management
solutions and A/V products and serve a worldwide market through our
locations in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Taiwan.