® SpaceLink™ Access Point WL-300 User’s Manual
Copyright Information No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (“ASUS”).
Copyright Information ASUSTeK COMPUTER INC. (Asia-Pacific) Address: General Tel: General Fax: General Email: 150 Li-Te Road, Peitou, Taipei, Taiwan 112 +886-2-2894-3447 +886-2-2894-3449 info@asus.com.tw Technical Support MB/Others (Tel): +886-2-2890-7121 (English) Notebook (Tel): +886-2-2890-7122 (English) Desktop/Server (Tel): +886-2-2890-7123 (English) Support Fax: +886-2-2890-7698 Support Email: tsd@asus.com.tw Web Site: www.asus.com.tw Newsgroup: cscnews.asus.com.
Safety Statements Federal Communications Commission Statement This device complies with FCC Rules Part 15. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: • • This device may not cause harmful interference, and This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules.
Safety Information In order to maintain compliance with the FCC RF exposure guidelines, this equipment should be installed and operated with minimum distance 20 cm between the radiator and your body. Use only with supplied antenna. Unauthorized antenna, modification, or attachments could damage the transmitter and may violate FCC regulations. Any changes of modifications not expressly approved by the grantee of this device could void the users authority to operate the equipment.
Table of Contents 1. Introduction .......................................................................................... 8 The SpaceLink™ Family ....................................................................... 8 System Requirements ........................................................................... 8 The IEEE 802.11b Specification .......................................................... 11 Direct-Sequence Spread Spectrum .....................................................
Table of Contents 4. Wireless Performance ....................................................................... 39 Site Topography ................................................................................... 39 Site Surveys ........................................................................................ 39 Range .................................................................................................. 39 External Antenna Placement ....................................................
Chapter 1 - Introduction 1. Introduction Chapter 1 Thank you for choosing the SpaceLink™ Access Point, a member of ASUS’ SpaceLink™ wireless infrastructure family. The SpaceLink™ Access Point complies with the IEEE 802.11b wireless standard to provide wireless mobile clients with network connectivity at data rates of up to 11 Mbps. The stand-alone SpaceLink™ Access Point connects to a small Ethernet network to provide wireless access for wireless mobile clients.
Chapter 1 - Introduction The Product Package • • • • • • • • • • Chapter 1 Each SpaceLink™ Access Point comes with: One SpaceLink™ Access Point (WL-300) One power adapter (5 Volts DC, 1 Amp) One SpaceLink™ Access Point (WL-300) Quick Start Guide One SpaceLink™ Access Point (WL-300) User’s Manual One warranty card One installation CD (tools and documentation) One RJ-45 Ethernet cable One Bracket for ceiling mounting One Bracket for office partition mounting One Sticker for wall mounting alignment SpaceLin
Chapter 1 - Introduction SpaceLink™ Access Point Models Chapter 1 There are two models of the SpaceLink™ Access Point available. Both models offer the same functionality and have the same user interface. Basic Model is an SpaceLink™ Access Point that ships with an integrated antenna that provides diversity. For best results, stand the SpaceLink™ Access Point in the vertical position. The integrated antenna cannot be seen or removed from this model.
Chapter 1 - Introduction Chapter 1 The IEEE 802.11b Specification In 1997, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) adopted the 802.11 standard for wireless devices operating in the 2.4 GHz frequency band. This standard includes provisions for three radio technologies: direct sequence spread spectrum, frequency hopping spread spectrum, and infrared. Devices that comply with the 802.11 standard operate at a data rate of either 1 or 2 Mbps. In 1999, the IEEE created the 802.11b standard.
Chapter 1 - Introduction Direct-Sequence Spread Spectrum Chapter 1 Spread spectrum (broadband) uses a narrowband signal to spread the transmission over a segment of the radio frequency band or spectrum. Directsequence is a spread spectrum technique where the transmitted signal is spread over a particular frequency range. The Space Link Access Point uses Direct-Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) for radio communication.
Chapter 1 - Introduction Chapter 1 Wireless Operation The SpaceLink™ Access Point supports three modes of operation: • Access Point: The SpaceLink™ Access Point operates as a stand-alone device to provide network access to wireless mobile clients. • Access Point Client: The SpaceLink™ Access Point partners with another SpaceLink Access Point to provide network access to wireless mobile clients.
Chapter 1 - Introduction Chapter 1 Access Point will not forward the packet to the wireless mobile clients. The SpaceLink™ Access Point applies the same principles to determine if a packet received over its radio should be forwarded to the Ethernet network. The SpaceLink™ Access Point forwards all broadcast packets to wireless mobile clients. Given this, the SpaceLink™ Access Point can only support a limited amount of network traffic.
Chapter 1 - Introduction Roaming Guidelines • • • • An 802.11b PC Card can only roam between 802.11b Access Points. All SpaceLink™ Access Points must have the same SSID. All computers with SpaceLink™ PC card or CF card adapters must have the same SSID as the Access Points that they will roam between. If WEP encryption is enabled, then all SpaceLink™ Access Points and client adapters must use the same encryption level and WEP Key(s) to communicate.
Chapter 1 - Introduction SpaceLink™ Access Point LED Indicators Chapter 1 There are three LEDs on the front of the SpaceLink™ Access Point, as shown here. Power (Amber) Air (Green) Link (Green) Power LED The Power LED is the top LED and turns amber when the power adapter is connected and the power switch is turned ON. Air LED The Air LED is the middle LED and turns green when the wireless function is working.
Chapter 1 - Introduction Chapter 1 2. Installation This chapter describes the installation procedure for the SpaceLink Access Point and includes a description of the LEDs found on the unit. Installation Procedure Follow these steps to install the SpaceLink Access Point. 1. Determine the best location for the SpaceLink Access Point. Keep in mind the following considerations: • The length of the Ethernet cable that connects the Access Point to the network must not exceed 100 meters.
Chapter 2 - Installation 4. Attach one end of the AC power adapter, included in the product package, to the back of the SpaceLink Access Point and the other end to a power outlet. Chapter 2 Note: Use the Access Point only with the power adapter supplied in the product package. Using another power supply may damage the Access Point. The Power LED on the front of the Access Point will light up when the unit is powered ON.
Chapter 2 - Installation Step 1 After: Chapter 2 Before: 1 2 Step 2 Before: After: Note: Mounting brackets are provided for you to hang the SpaceLink Access Point on an office partition or office ceiling.
Chapter 3 - SpaceLink Access Point Manager 3. SpaceLink Access Point Manager This chapter describes how to access the SpaceLink Access Point Manager, which is used to configure SpaceLink Access Points. Installing the Access Point Manager Follow these steps to install the SpaceLink Access Point Manager in Windows: 1. Insert the support CD, select a lan- 2. Click Next after reading the Welguage if necessary, and click on Income message. stall WLAN AP Utilities. Chapter 3 3.
Chapter 3 - SpaceLink Access Point Manager Installing the Access Point Manager (Cont.) Chapter 3 5. Click Next after reading the set- 6. When setup is complete, click Fintings. ish to exit the setup wizard. 7. Launch ASUS AP Manager through “Start | Programs”.
Chapter 3 - SpaceLink Access Point Manager Connecting to SpaceLink Access Points Wired Ethernet Cable Besides using a network hub, you can also connect a LAN cable from your computer’s network card to the Access Point using either a straight or crossover cable because the SpaceLink Access Point RJ-45 port has autocrossover capability.
Chapter 3 - SpaceLink Access Point Manager Searching for SpaceLink Access Points The computer running the SpaceLink Access Point Manager must be on the same IP subnet as the SpaceLink Access Point in order to successfully find SpaceLink Access Points. 1. When you open the SpaceLink Access Point Manager, it automatically searches for SpaceLink Access Points on the same subnet.
Chapter 3 - SpaceLink Access Point Manager Searching for SpaceLink Access Points (Cont.) 3. Enter the default password asus (lower case) and click OK. The password is required to make setting changes. Note: If you cannot find any SpaceLink Access Points due to a problem in the IP settings, push and hold the “Reset to Defaults” over five seconds to restore factory default settings. When using the SpaceLink Access Point manager through a wireless connection, set your IP to 192.168.39.
Chapter 3 - SpaceLink Access Point Manager Using the SpaceLink Access Point Manager Once the IP address of the SpaceLink Access Point is configured correctly, the name of the SpaceLink Access Point will be shown in place of the default IP address. Information will be shown in each of the pages. You can see each of the pages by clicking on the tabs. General Click the General tab to view the SpaceLink Access Point Status screen.
Chapter 3 - SpaceLink Access Point Manager Buttons Search AP: Searches for compatible SpaceLink Access Points that are within your subnet. This function cannot search across gateways. If you cannot see your SpaceLink Access Point, use the “Reset to Defaults” on the back of the SpaceLink Access Point and try again. See Appendix for more information on connection problems.
Chapter 3 - SpaceLink Access Point Manager Connection Click the Connection tab to view the SpaceLink Access Point Radio Statistics screen. The Radio Statistics provide information concerning the number of packets sent and received by the SpaceLink Access Point every second. The following Radio Statistics are available for an 802.
Chapter 3 - SpaceLink Access Point Manager IP Config The SpaceLink Access Point Manager has many smart features including: • • • • • The SpaceLink Access Point can receive a dynamic IP address from a network DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server. The SpaceLink Access Point can be assigned a static IP address via the SpaceLink Access Point Manager.
Chapter 3 - SpaceLink Access Point Manager If you have a DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server on the network, then the DHCP server will automatically assign the SpaceLink Access Point an IP address when the SpaceLink Access Point is powered up. To determine what IP address has been assigned to the SpaceLink Access Point, review the IP address on the “General” page after clicking “Refresh AP Status”. Specify an IP Address The SpaceLink Access Point also accepts a static IP address.
Chapter 3 - SpaceLink Access Point Manager Wireless Config SSID The SSID is a string of up to 32 ASCII characters that must match on all communicating 802.11b devices within the same network. SSID stands for Service Set ID. The SSID is also referred to as the “ESSID” or “Extended Service Set ID.” All SpaceLink Access Points and SpaceLink 802.11b client adapters must have the same SSID to allow a wireless mobile client to roam between SpaceLink Access Points. By default, the SSID is set to “default”.
Chapter 3 - SpaceLink Access Point Manager Channel IEEE 802.11b devices are direct sequence spread spectrum devices that spread a radio signal over a range of frequencies. The range of frequencies used by a direct sequence device is called a Channel. The IEEE 802.11b specification supports up to 14 overlapping Channels for radio communication. But only 11 Channels are supported in the United States and therefore on the SpaceLink Access Point.
Chapter 3 - SpaceLink Access Point Manager Advanced This page is normally hidden unless you click the “Advanced” button from the “Wireless Config” page. RTS threshold This is the minimum packet size to require the RTS (Request To Send). For packets smaller than this threshold, an RTS is not sent and the packet is transmitted directly to wireless mobile client. The range is 64 to 2346 bytes Fragmentation Threshold This is the minimum size at which packets will be fragmented. The range is 64 to 2346 bytes.
Chapter 3 - SpaceLink Access Point Manager Encryption Security The IEEE 802.11b standard specifies an optional encryption feature, known as Wired Equivalent Privacy or WEP, that is designed to provide a wireless LAN with a security level equal to what is found on a wired Ethernet network. WEP encrypts the data portion of each packet exchanged on the 802.11b network using either a 64-bit or 128-bit encryption algorithm.
Chapter 3 - SpaceLink Access Point Manager Default Key The Default Key field lets you specify which of the four encryption keys you use to transmit data on your wireless LAN. As long as the SpaceLink Access Point or wireless mobile client with which you are communicating has the same key in the same position, you can use any of the keys as the default key.
Chapter 3 - SpaceLink Access Point Manager Authorization Table To add security, the SpaceLink Access Point has the ability to only associate with wireless mobile clients that have their MAC address entered into this page. In order to see the currently entered authorized MAC Address, you must click “Get from AP” and enter the SpaceLink Access Point password. Saving or Loading an Authorization List You can save the current authorization list to a text file and load it into another SpaceLink Access Point.
Chapter 3 - SpaceLink Access Point Manager Operational Mode Access Point The Operation Mode configures the SpaceLink Access Point for a specific purpose. By default, the SpaceLink Access Point is set to serve as an “Access Point” where a wireless mobile client can connect wirelessly to a wired Ethernet network.
Chapter 3 - SpaceLink Access Point Manager Access Point Client The “Access Point Client” mode allows one SpaceLink Access Point (the one on the right in the picture) to be used as a “client” in order to bridge a group of wired clients to another network (the one on the left). In this mode, the SpaceLink Access Point “client” (the one on the right) cannot serve wireless mobile clients so an additional SpaceLink Access Point must be installed if wireless mobile clients exist.
Chapter 3 - SpaceLink Access Point Manager Wireless Bridge The Wireless Bridge mode has two options; a Point to Point setting and a Point to MultiPoint setting. Point to Point With Point to Point, the SpaceLink Access Point can only communicate with one other SpaceLink Access Point that is also set to Wireless Bridge mode. This provides the best option to bridge to locations but it is recommended to get the optional external antenna for the rooftop to increase signal strength.
Chapter 4 - Wireless Performance 4. Wireless Performance This section provides the user with ideas for how to improve the performance of a SpaceLink 802.11b network. Site Topography For optimal performance, locate wireless mobile clients and SpaceLink Access Points away from transformers, heavy-duty motors, fluorescent lights, microwave ovens, refrigerators, and other industrial equipment. Signal loss can occur when metal, concrete, walls or floors block transmission.
Chapter 4 - Wireless Performance The IEEE 802.11b specification supports four data rates: 11 Mbps, 5.5 Mbps, 2 Mbps, and 1 Mbps. Operation at 1 Mbps provides greater range than operation at 11 Mbps. The SpaceLink Access Point will automatically adjust the data rate to maintain a usable radio connection. Therefore, a client that is close to the SpaceLink Access Point may operate at 11 Mbps while a client that is on the fringe of coverage may operate at 1 Mbps.
Chapter 4 - Wireless Performance Location of antenna connector Chapter 4 Slide the right side cover back to reveal the antenna connector. Note: Optional antenna kits are not currently available. Check with your local dealer for availability.
Chapter 5 -Troubleshooting 5. Troubleshooting The SpaceLink Access Point is designed to be very easy to install and operate. However, if you experience difficulties, use the information in this chapter to help diagnose and solve problems. If you cannot resolve a problem, contact Technical Support, as listed on the front of this manual.
Chapter 5 -Troubleshooting Problem The SpaceLink Access Point Manager still cannot find or connect to the SpaceLink Access Point after verifying the IP address and LAN cable, changes cannot be made, or password is lost. Solution In case the SpaceLink Access Point is inaccessible, you can restore the SpaceLink Access Point’s factory default settings.
Chapter 5 -Troubleshooting Problem My 802.11b PC Card will not associate with the SpaceLink Access Point. Solution Follow these steps: 1. Try to bring the devices closer together; the PC Card may be out of range of the SpaceLink Access Point. 2. Confirm that the SpaceLink Access Point and PC Card have the same SSID. 3. Confirm that the SpaceLink Access Point and PC Card have the same Encryption settings, if enabled. 4. Confirm that the SpaceLink Access Point’s Air and Link LEDs are solid green. 5.
Chapter 5 -Troubleshooting Problem I cannot find SpaceLink Access Points using the SpaceLink Access Point Manager. Solution To configure the SpaceLink Access Point through a wireless LAN card, your computer must be in the same subnet of the SpaceLink Access Point. You cannot find SpaceLink Access Points with subnet different from your computer within the same gateway. You must change your computer to the same subnet as the SpaceLink Access Point.
Appendix Updating the SpaceLink Access Point Firmware Run ASUS AP Live Update from Start | Programs | ASUS WLAN AP Utilities. Choose a method of updating the SpaceLink Access Point firmware. If you choose the update from Internet option, it will compare your version to determine if updating is necessary. If updating is not necessary, you will be prompted to exit the update utility. If you choose “Download Firmware from the Internet”, you will be asked for the destination.
Appendix When you update from disk, you will be asked to choose the SpaceLink Access Point you wish to update. You should close the SpaceLink Access Point Manager if opened. If it is opened, the update utility will not automatically detect the SpaceLink Access Point and you will be asked to enter the IP address manually. You will be asked to select the file containing the updates. It will compare to see whether the update is newer than your current version.
Appendix 6. Appendix IEEE 802.11b Direct Sequence Channels The IEEE 802.11b standard specifies 14 Channels within the 2.4 GHz frequency band. The following table lists the center frequency for each Channel. If operating multiple SpaceLink Access Points in the same vicinity, the distance between the center frequencies must be at least 25 MHz to avoid interference. There are three independent Channels that do not overlap: 1, 6, and 11.
Appendix Country Identification Codes Use the table below to select a Country Name, First Channel, Number (No.) of Channels, Default Channel, Maximum Transmit Power, Regulatory Domain, and Country ID. Update these values in the AP installation screen. Note: Contact a local representative for any country not listed. Country Name Country ID Channels Max.
Appendix Country Name Country ID Channels Power (dBm) Max. Tx Regulatory Domain First No.
Appendix Data Input Criteria Length 1-16 Criteria 1. All printable characters 2. Cannot be null string. IP address [field 1] [field 2] [field 3] [field 4] 1-223 0-255 0-255 1-254 Subnet mask [field 1] [field 2] [field 3] [field 4] 0-255 0-255 0-255 0-255 Gateway [field 1] [field 2] [field 3] [field 4] 0-223 0-255 0-255 0-254 SSID 1-32 1. All printable characters 2. Cannot be null string. Name 1-16 1. All printable characters 2. Cannot be null string. Passphrase 0-64 1.
Appendix SpaceLink Access Point Specifications The following technical specification is for reference purposes only. Actual product’s performance and compliance with local telecommunications regulations may vary from country to country. ASUS will only ship products that are type approved in the destination country. Ethernet Interface RJ45 for 10BaseT with auto crossover MDI/MDI-X Data Rate 11 Mbps with auto fallback to 5.5, 2 and 1 Mbps Modulation CCK (11Mbps, 5.
Appendix Supported OS Windows 98, 98SE, ME, NT4, 2000, XP SNMP Support MIB II, Proprietary Wireless MIBs LED Indicators Power, Wireless, Ethernet DC Power Adapter AC Input: 100V to 240V(50 to 60HZ) DC Output: 5V with max. 1 A current Operating Temp. 0ºC to 55ºC Storage Temp. -20ºC to 70ºC Humidity 5 to 95% (non-condensing) Emissions ETS 300 328 and ETS 300 826; CE Mark FCC Part 15C, Section 15.247 Size 40 mm (L) 138 mm (W) 150 mm (H) (± 0.
