ZyXEL Communications ZyAir G-100, User Manual, Page: 17 / 52

ZyAIR G-100 User’s Guide
Using the ZyAIR Utility 2-1
Chapter 2
Using the ZyAIR Utility
This chapter shows you how to configure the ZyAIR using the ZyAIR Utility.
2.1 About Your ZyAIR
The ZyAIR is an IEEE 802.11g compliant wireless LAN PC card that fits into any 32-bit
CardBus slot. With the ZyAIR, you can enjoy wireless mobility within the coverage area. The
IEEE 802.11g technology provides greater range and offers transmission rate at up to 54 Mbps.
The following lists the main features of your ZyAIR.
• Your ZyAIR can communicate with other IEEE 802.11b/Wi-Fi compliant wireless
devices.
•
Automatic rate selection.
•
Data transmission rates up to 54 Mbps.
•
Offers 64-bit and 128-bit WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy) data encryption for network
security.
•
Low CPU utilization allowing more computer system resources for other programs.
•
A built-in antenna
•
Power and Link LEDs
•
Driver support for Windows XP/2000/Me/98 SE
2.2 Benefits of a Wireless LAN
Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) systems offer a number of advantages over traditional
wired systems. WLANs are flexible, easy to set up and manage. They are also more economical
than wired LAN systems.
Access to network services in areas otherwise hard or expensive to wire, such as
historical buildings, buildings with asbestos materials and classrooms.
Doctors and nurses can access a complete patient’s profile on a handheld or notebook
computer upon entering a patient’s room.
It allows flexible workgroups a lower total cost of ownership for networks that are
frequently reconfigured.
Conference room users can access the network as they move from meeting to meeting-
accessing up-to-date information that facilitates the ability to communicate decisions “on
the fly”.
It provides campus-wide networking coverage, allowing enterprises the roaming
capability to set up easy-to-use wireless networks that transparently covers an entire
campus.
2.3 Notes on Wireless LAN Setup
When setting up a wireless LAN, be sure to note the following points:
Optimize the performance of the WLAN by ensuring that the distance between access points is
not too far. In most buildings, most WLAN adapters operate within a range of 100 ~ 300 feet,
depending on the thickness and structure of the walls.
Radio waves can pass through walls and glass but not metal. If there is interference in
transmitting through a wall, it may be that the wall has reinforcing metal in its structure. Install
another access point to circumvent this problem.