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Chapter 1 About the 802.11b/g USB Dongle
1-1 Introduction
The 802.11b/g USB Dongle allows you to access Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs), share a
local files with others in your network, access the Internet, and roam about the office—wirelessly.
This wireless Local Area Network solution is designed for both large and small businesses, and it is
scalable so that you can add users and new network features as your networking needs grow.
The USB Dongle is a WLAN device that allows for access to 2.4GHz WLAN technologies. The
USB Dongle will operate with at a maximum data rate of 11Mbps with 802.11b (2.4GHz), 54Mbps
with 802.11g (2.4GHz) wireless networks. The RF Module will automatically detect and
seamlessly roam between 802.11b (2.4GHz), 802.11g (2.4GHz) wireless networks
1-2 Using a Wireless Local Area Network
A wireless LAN provides the same functionality of a wired network, but it eliminates the need to
install networking cables and other networking equipment. Not only is a wireless LAN easier to
deploy, but it also allows for mobility through “roaming.” For example the USB Dongle can roam
from a conference room to an office without being disconnected from the network.
1-3 Features and Requirements
The 802.11b/g USB Dongle with USB 2.0 interface supports the following features:
Wireless Features
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Compatible with IEEE 802.11b/g standard.
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IEEE802.11g provides data rate of up to 54 Mbps with auto fallback to 48, 36, 24, 18, 12, 9
and 6 Mbps. IEEE802.11b provides data rate of up to 11 Mbps with auto fallback to 5.5, 2
and 1 Mbps
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Supports wireless data encryption with 64, 128, 256-bit WEP, WPA, WPA2, 802.11i and
802.1x supplicant for security.
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Allows auto fallback data rate for optimized reliability, throughput and transmission range.
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Drivers supports auto-installation in Windows Vista/XP
Interoperability
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WiFi certified at 2.4GHz to ensure wireless interoperability with other WiFi (802.11b)
certified devices.