3Com OfficeConnect 3CRWE254G72, User Manual

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Introduction
1
M101703V10
1 INTRODUCTION
Wireless LAN is local area networking without wires. Radio frequencies are used to
transmit and receive data between PCs and other network devices. You may use
wireless LANs to configure either independent networks (also known as Ad-hoc
networks), or infrastructure networks. Ad-hoc networks are suitable for small or
temporary peer-to-peer configurations. Infrastructure networks offer fully distributed
data connectivity via micro cells and roaming.
Your 3Com OfficeConnect Wireless 11g USB Adapter uses the innovative 802.11g
standard. This standard is five times faster than the 802.11b standard and allows you
to wirelessly network faster (up to 54Mbps) than ever. To obtain the most benefit
from your 3Com OfficeConnect Wireless 11g USB Adapter, please read this manual
carefully before using the adapter.
1.1 Features
With the 3Com OfficeConnect Wireless 11g USB Adapter, you can
• Establish a wireless connection without the hassles and cost of cabling.
• Operate in either Ad-hoc or Infrastructure mode.
• Utilize up to 128-bit WEP encryption.
• Enjoy high-speed data transfer rate up to 54 Mbps.
• Employ automatic data rate switching which offers maximum reliability,
throughput, and connectivity.
• Connect to the network at a range up to 100 meters indoors and 400 meters
outdoors.
• Monitor and configure the network via the supplied user-friendly application.
• Support WPA-PSK data encryption on Microsoft Windows XP.
1.2 Package Contents
Before starting the installation, please make sure you have the following items:
• One 3Com OfficeConnect Wireless 11g USB Adapter
• One CD-ROM for drivers and utilities installation
• Quick Start Guide
If any of the above items is missing or damaged, please contact your distributor.