AirConnect® 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Access Point User Guide Version 2.0 Part No.
3Com Corporation ■ 5400 Bayfront Plaza ■ Santa Clara, California ■ 95052-8145 Copyright © 2000, 3Com Corporation. All rights reserved. No part of this documentation may be reproduced in any form or by any means or used to make any derivative work (such as translation, transformation, or adaptation) without written permission from 3Com Corporation.
CONTENTS 1 OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING Introduction 9 AirConnect Network Topologies 9 Peer-To-Peer Network 9 Same-Site Separate Networks 10 Single AP Bridge 11 Multiple-AP Full Coverage Network 12 AirConnect Access Point 12 AP Features 13 PowerBASE-T 13 Radio Basics 14 Cellular Coverage 15 Wireless LAN Service Area 16 802.
2 INSTALLING ACCESS POINT HARDWARE Introduction 27 Precautions 27 Package Contents 27 Requirements 27 Network Connection 28 10BASE-T UTP 28 Single Cell 28 Power Options 28 Mounting the AP 29 Flat Surface 29 Wall Mount 29 Ceiling Mount 30 Using the PowerBASE-T 32 LED Indicators 33 Troubleshooting 34 Verify AP Operation 34 Verify Network Wiring and Topology Setting Up Wireless Clients 35 3 35 MONITORING STATISTICS Introduction 37 System Properties 37 Interface Statistics 37 Forwarding Counts 37 Ethernet S
Installing the Access Point 45 Adding Additional Gateways 45 Configuring the AP 46 Security 46 Adding Allowed Wireless Clients 46 Adding or Deleting a Range of Allowed Wireless Clients 46 Adding or Deleting Disallowed Wireless Clients 46 Enabling or Disabling Encryption 47 Encryption Upgrade Access Codes 47 Special Configuration Considerations 47 Disable Short Preamble 47 System Parameters 48 Radio Frequency Parameters 49 Configuring the SNMP Agent 50 Configuring PPP/Modem 51 Configuring the Originating Mod
Access Point Installation 62 Configuring the AP 63 System Parameters 63 Radio Parameters 64 Configuring PPP 66 PPP Direct 66 Establishing a Connection 66 PPP with Modems 66 Originating AP 67 Answering AP 67 Configuring the SNMP Agent 68 Configuring the Access Control List 69 Range of Wireless Clients 69 Adding Allowed Wireless Clients 70 Removing Allowed Wireless Clients 70 Enable/Disable the ACL 70 Removing All Allowed Wireless Clients 70 Load ACL from Wireless Client List 71 Filtering 71 Address Filtering
A ACCESS POINT SPECIFICATIONS B TECHNICAL SUPPORT Online Technical Services 83 World Wide Web Site 83 3Com FTP Site 83 Support from Your Network Supplier Support from 3Com 84 Returning Products for Repair 85 83 INDEX WARRANTY AND REGULATORY COMPLIANCE 3Com Corporation Limited Warranty 91 Regulatory Compliance Information 93 3Com End User Software License Agreement 94
1 Introduction OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING AirConnect® from 3Com is made up of a series of products that work together to deliver high-speed digital wireless networking. This technology provides connectivity between wireless clients and network nodes in a variety of indoor environments, and also provides bridging architecture between wired and wireless network segments. AirConnect is based on the IEEE 802.11B standard, and delivers 11 Mbps data transfer rates.
CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING Same-Site Separate Networks In this scenario, as shown in the following figure, Multiple APs can coexist as separate networks at the same site without interference using different network identifiers (wireless LAN service areas).
AirConnect Network Topologies Single AP Bridge 11 Another possible AirConnect topology is a single AP bridging an Ethernet and wireless network. As shown in the next figure, the AP, wired to a network server or LAN through an Ethernet cable, serves as a network node and provides the link between the server and the wireless clients. The wireless clients can move freely throughout the coverage area of the AP while remaining connected to the server.
CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING Multiple-AP Full Coverage Network AirConnect Access Point This network topology will be used in most enterprise environments: multiple APs wired to an existing LAN to provide complete wireless network coverage. In this scenario, as shown in the following figure, wireless clients can roam seamlessly between different coverage areas and remain connected to the network.
AirConnect Access Point 13 A wireless client communicating with an AP appears on the network as a peer to other network devices, rendering the wireless interface transparent. The AP receives data from its wired interfaces and forwards the data to the proper interface. The AP has connections for wired networks, built-in antennas, and a power supply. It attaches to a wall or ceiling, or can be placed on a flat surface, depending on installation-site requirements.
CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING For details concerning the installation of your PowerBASE-T, see “Using the PowerBASE-T”. Radio Basics AirConnect devices use radio signals to transmit and receive data without wires. You can communicate with the network by establishing radio links between wireless clients and APs. AirConnect uses Quadative Phase Shift layered modulation (QPSK) to transmit digital data from one device to another.
Radio Basics 15 AirConnect devices, like other Ethernet devices, have unique, hardware-encoded Media Access Control (MAC), or IEEE, addresses. MAC addresses determine the device sending or receiving data. A MAC address is a 48-bit number written as six hexadecimal bytes separated by colons. A typical MAC address might be: 00:A0:F8:24:9A:C8 The AP MAC address is printed on the bottom of the unit, as shown below.
CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING APs with the same WLAN service area define a coverage area. The wireless client searches for APs with a matching wireless LAN service area and synchronizes with an AP to establish communications. This allows wireless clients within the coverage area to roam between AP cells. As you roam from cell to cell, your wireless client switches APs.
Theory of Operation Site Topography 17 For optimal performance, place wireless clients and APs away from transformers, heavy-duty motors, fluorescent lights, microwave ovens, refrigerators and other industrial equipment. Signal loss can occur when metal, concrete, brick, walls or floors block transmission. Locate antennas in open areas or add additional APs as needed to improve coverage.
CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING Filtering and Access Control The AP provides facilities to limit the wireless clients that associate with it and the data packets that can forward through it. Filters provide network security or improve performance by eliminating broadcast/multicast packets from the radio network. The Access Control List (ACL) contains MAC addresses for wireless clients allowed to associate with the AP. This provides security by preventing unauthorized access.
Theory of Operation 19 The DB-9, 9-pin, RS-232 serial port provides a User Interface (UI) or a Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP) connection. The UI provides basic management tools for the AP. The PPP provides a link between APs using a serial connection. The serial link supports short haul (direct serial) or long haul (telephone line) connections. The AP is a Data Terminal Equipment (DTE) device with male pin connectors for the RS-232 port.
CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING PPP Connection Connecting an AP and a computer with a direct serial link requires the use of a null-modem serial cable. Connecting an AP and computer with modem devices requires the use of straight-through cables between the APs and modems. Using modems requires a telephone line for as long as the link remains active. When using a modem connection, one AP represents the originating AP and the other represents the answering AP.
Theory of Operation Direct-Sequence Spread Spectrum 21 Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) uses a high-speed, non-information bearing signal to spread the transmitted information over a segment of the radio frequency band or spectrum. The AirConnect access point uses DSSS for radio communication. Direct-sequence systems communicate by continuously transmitting a redundant pattern of bits called a chipping sequence.
CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING and the addition of the AP to the AP table with a proximity classification. An unsuccessful AP packet transmission generates another wireless client probe on the same channel. If the wireless client fails to receive a probe response within the time limits, it repeats the probe process on the next channel in the sequence. This process continues through all channels in the range. A wireless client can roam within the coverage area by switching APs.
Theory of Operation 23 Enabling the extended roaming feature is like giving an individual a local post office forwarding address when leaving home for an extended period. When mail arrives for the individual home address, it is forwarded by the local post office to the current care-of-address. Using this method, only the local post office requires notification of the individual current address.
CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING them to the wireless client and the wireless client goes back to sleep. A DTIM field, also called a countdown field, informs wireless clients of the next window for listening to broadcast and multicast messages. The AP sends the messages following the nth beacon where n is the DTIM interval defined in the AP. When the AP has buffered broadcast or multicast messages for associated wireless clients, it sends the next DTIM with a DTIM Interval value.
Theory of Operation 25 Changing one AP does not affect the configuration of other APs on the network. Make configuration changes to APs individually. Each AP requires an individual IP address. Programmable SNMP Trap Support The SNMP protocol defines the method for obtaining information about networks operating characteristics and changing router and gateway parameters.
CHAPTER 1: OVERVIEW OF DIGITAL WIRELESS NETWORKING Using the User Interface The User Interface (UI) is a text-based maintenance tool integrated into the AP. It provides statistical displays, AP configuration options, and firmware upgrades. Access to the UI requires one of the methods listed in the following table: Method Description Telnet Client Gain access to the AP built-in Telnet server from any AP interface including remote Ethernet connections. Refer to “Using Telnet” on page 57.
2 INSTALLING ACCESS POINT HARDWARE Introduction To install an AP, you will have to connect the AP to your network, mount the AP in a location best suited for reception, and provide power to the AP. Precautions Before installing the AP, review the following guidelines and precautions. Package Contents ■ Ensure that you have performed the preinstallation procedure outlined in the Access Point Quick Start Guide. ■ Do not install the AP in wet or dusty areas without additional protection.
CHAPTER 2: INSTALLING ACCESS POINT HARDWARE Network Connection Locate the Ethernet port and power plug on the back of the AP, as shown by items 2 (power plug) and 3 (Ethernet port) in the figure below. Item 1 is the serial port. Ethernet configurations vary according to the environment. Determine the Ethernet wiring to connect the AP, 10BASE-T UTP, or single cell. 10BASE-T UTP Use a 10BASE-T connection for multiple APs or an AP attached to a wired UTP Ethernet hub. Normal 10BASE-T limitations apply.
Mounting the AP Mounting the AP 29 The AP can be mounted in any number of locations, some of which are shown below. Flat Surface To mount an AP on a flat surface, place the AP so that it rests on the four rubber pads on its underside. The surface should be clear of debris and away from traffic. Wall Mount To mount an AP on a wall: 1 Attach the mounting bracket to the AP by lining up the raised flanges in the center of the bracket with the mounting holes on the bottom of the AP.
CHAPTER 2: INSTALLING ACCESS POINT HARDWARE Ceiling Mount To mount an AP on a ceiling: 1 Attach the mounting bracket to the AP by lining up the raised flanges in the center of the bracket with the mounting holes on the bottom of the AP. 2 Firmly press the rounded ends of the flanges into both mounting holes, and then push forward until the flanges slide into the holes and the bracket locks into place. 3 Attach both t-rail grips to the outer flanges of the mounting bracket with the t-rail wingnuts.
Mounting the AP 31 The power adapter connects to the rear of the AP and to a power outlet. 1 Plug the power adapter cable into the socket at the back of the AP. 2 Plug the adapter into an outlet. The AP is functional when the Status indicator on the front of the AP flashes consistently, and the Wireless LAN Activity indicator begins flickering (see “LED Indicators” for more details). This indicates that the AP is ready for wireless clients to associate with it.
CHAPTER 2: INSTALLING ACCESS POINT HARDWARE Using the PowerBASE-T The PowerBASE-T allows you to power the AP using the Ethernet cable. If you are forced to mount the AP in an area where access to an electrical outlet is limited, the PowerBASE-T can be used to power the AP. The PowerBASE-T can be located at any point between the AP and the hub or switch, where a convenient AC outlet exists. To connect the PowerBASE-T, use the following procedure. 1 Connect the power adapter cable to the power supply.
LED Indicators LED Indicators 33 The top panel LED indicators provide a status display indicating transmission, error condition, and other activity. LED Off On Blinking Power No power Power on During boot sequence LAN No power No network connection Link to hub, but no LAN traffic is detected. The network traffic heavier the traffic, the faster the blinking. WLAN No power No radio signal No associated wireless clients Radio traffic is detected.
CHAPTER 2: INSTALLING ACCESS POINT HARDWARE Troubleshooting Check the following symptoms and their possible causes before contacting the 3Com Support Center. Verify AP Operation 1 If the AP does not power up, you may be experiencing one of the following: ■ Faulty AP power supply ■ Failed AC supply ■ Electrical Management System (EMS) operating outlet 2 After the AP resets and hardware is initialized, it performs an SRAM test. If the test passes, all three LEDs turn on.
Troubleshooting 35 Verify Network Wiring and Topology 1 Verify network wiring and topology for proper configuration: ■ Check that the cables used have proper pinouts and connectors. ■ Verify router configuration and filtration setting. ■ Check that network band use does not exceed 37% of bandwidth. ■ Verify wireless client operations. ■ Confirm AP operation. ■ Confirm AP and wireless client wireless LAN service area. ■ Check that the radio driver loaded properly.
3 MONITORING STATISTICS Introduction The AirConnect AP keeps statistics of its transactions during operation. These statistics include traffic, transmission success, and the existence of other radio network devices. This chapter discusses the statistics that can be monitored. All statistics can be cleared as needed.
CHAPTER 3: MONITORING STATISTICS Select any other item or click Access Point at the top of the navigation pane to exit. Ethernet Statistics The AP keeps Ethernet performance statistics, including packet transmission and data retries, until it is reset. To view or change Ethernet statistics, select Statistics-->Ethernet Statistics. Statistic Definition Packets Seen Packets received on the Ethernet interface. Packets Forwarded Packets forwarded from the Ethernet interface to other interfaces.
Miscellaneous Statistics Miscellaneous Statistics 39 The AP keeps statistics on WNMP and SNMP packets, filtering violations, and serial port use in the Miscellaneous Statistics window. to display the Misc System Statistics window, select Main Menu→Misc Statistics. Type Name Definition WNMP Echoes Echo requests received by the AP. Pings Ping requests received by the AP. Passthrough Echoes Echoes for wireless clients associated with the AP.
CHAPTER 3: MONITORING STATISTICS Clearing Statistics To clear statistics, do the following: 1 Select Configuration from the Main Menu. 2 Select Clear All Statistics. 3 Select Perform Function. The AP zeroes out all statistics. Resetting the AP also clears statistics. Known APs The AP displays a list of the known APs derived from AP-to-AP communication. The list includes the MAC and IP addresses and configuration information for each AP. The first AP on the list provides the information.
4 CONFIGURING THE ACCESS POINT USING A WEB BROWSER Introduction Software configuration requires setting up a connection to the Access Point (AP) and gaining access to the User Interface (UI). Gaining Access to the User Interface (UI) Using a Web Browser In order to configure an AP, you need access to the Web and you need to know the IP address of the AP. In the address/URL text box of your browser, type IP address of the AP and press Enter.
CHAPTER 4: CONFIGURING THE ACCESS POINT USING A WEB BROWSER 5 Make sure the server WWW service is running. 6 Select Properties-->Service Properties to display the WWW service properties for the server. The WWW Service Properties window opens. 7 Select the Directories tab. 8 Click Add to open the Directories dialog box. 9 Type the complete path to the directory created in step one. 10 Select Virtual Directory. 11 Type the folder alias (i.e., AirConnectHelp). 12 Click OK.
Gaining Access to the User Interface (UI) Using a Web Browser 43 4 Select Save [F1] to save the configuration. You must always reset the AP after you make configuration changes if you want the changes to be initiated. To reset the AP, follow the procedure below. 1 Select Special Functions. 2 Select Reset AP. 3 Select Yes at the confirmation prompt. To enable Help file access, change the Help URL parameter using the following procedure. 1 Select Special Functions.
CHAPTER 4: CONFIGURING THE ACCESS POINT USING A WEB BROWSER 5 Turn off the caching function for the browser to view configuration, function, or option changes on the Web page(s). ■ For Netscape a Select Edit-->Preferences from the menu bar. b Select Advanced-->Cache when the Preferences dialog box opens. c Select Every time under the Document in cache is compared to document on network item. ■ For Internet Explorer a Select View-->Internet Options from the menu bar.
Installing the Access Point Installing the Access Point 45 AP Easy Setup is the program in which you set basic parameters for an AirConnect wireless network. These parameters include designating a gateway address that enables message forwarding across routers on the wired Ethernet. To install an AP, follow the procedure below. 1 Select Easy Setup-->Easy Setup. The parameters in the Access Point Easy Setup window are explained in the list below.
CHAPTER 4: CONFIGURING THE ACCESS POINT USING A WEB BROWSER Configuring the AP Security The AP has many configuration parameters. This section discusses all the AP parameters and how to set them. One of the first tasks you need to accomplish is to set AP security. By doing so, you define the system password, enable your Access Control List (ACL), determine which wireless clients have access to an AP and which do not, and enable or disable encryption. 1 Select Configuration-->Security.
Special Configuration Considerations 47 5 Click Clear Entry if you decide to remove a wireless client from disallowed status with the AP. 6 Repeat step 4 for as many wireless clients as you wish. 7 Click Security Home Page when you have completed your entry on this page. Enabling or Disabling Encryption The encryption configuration requirements are as follows: ■ The encryption level (open, 40-bit, or 128-bit) must be the same on the wireless client and the access point.
CHAPTER 4: CONFIGURING THE ACCESS POINT USING A WEB BROWSER System Parameters The AP has configuration options to operate the unit, including security access and interface control. Some parameters do not require modification. To configure the system parameters, follow the procedure below. 1 Select Configuration-->System The System Setup page displays 2 Type the AP’s name in the Unit Name text box. 3 Enter the appropriate value for Channel.
Special Configuration Considerations 49 9 Click Clear Entries to reinstate the default settings. 10 Click Save Settings to save your entries on this page. Radio Frequency Parameters The AP automatically configures most radio parameters. Exercise extreme caution when you adjust radio parameters for the AP since these parameters affect system operations. Options in the RF Configuration window fine-tune the radio and WLAP functions. To configure the radio parameters: 1 Select Configuration→RF.
CHAPTER 4: CONFIGURING THE ACCESS POINT USING A WEB BROWSER 10 Do nothing with the RTS Threshold setting. RTS/CTS operation is not supported at this time. 11 Click Clear Entries to reinstate the default settings. 12 Click Save Settings to save your entries on this page. Configuring the SNMP Agent An SNMP manager application gains access to the AP SNMP agent if the management application has the AP’s IP address.
Special Configuration Considerations Configuring PPP/Modem 51 To use a Point-to-Point (PPP) connection, choose the appropriate hardware connection (direct or modem). On the System Configuration page, select PPP for Default Interface. The PPP interface provides a connection using modems over a telephone line. Connect modems to the APs with straight-through serial cables. Designate one AP as the Originating AP and the other AP as the Answering AP.
CHAPTER 4: CONFIGURING THE ACCESS POINT USING A WEB BROWSER 11 Enter the time in seconds for Maximum PPP Terminates. This setting controls the PPP-terminate requests an AP issues when a PPP-linked AP does not respond to a terminate request. The AP closes the PPP connection after issuing PPP-terminate requests for the maximum time specified. The default is 10 seconds from a 0-255-second range. 12 Click Modem Dialout to dial the modem.
Special Configuration Considerations 53 Removing Filtered Packet Types (Networking Protocols) You may have set up particular type of packets for discarding or forwarding by the AP. If you chose to remove packet types from your list, do the following. 1 Highlight the hex number representing the packet type you want to delete. 2 Click Delete Filter. 3 Click Clear Entries to reinstate the default settings. 4 Click Save Settings to save your entries on this page.
CHAPTER 4: CONFIGURING THE ACCESS POINT USING A WEB BROWSER 7 A message box appears to tell you that the AP will reboot after the HTML file upgrade. Click OK to continue. 8 Return to the Main Menu. To check the upgrade status, return to the Firmware Download page and check Status of last update. The status displays successful. Special Functions The configuration items under Special Functions perform housekeeping functions on APs that are explained in the following table.
5 MONITORING WIRELESS CLIENTS Introduction The AP keeps statistics of its transactions during operation. These statistics indicate traffic, transmission success, and the existence of other radio network devices. Clear statistics as needed. Wireless Clients Wireless Client statistics provide information on wireless clients associated with an AP. The statistics include information on data sent and received, activity and association.
CHAPTER 5: MONITORING WIRELESS CLIENTS Variable Description V Indicates a 3Com voice-enabled device. 5 Select Start Refresh to have the AP automatically update the display every two seconds.
CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE 6 Introduction Software configuration consists of setting up a connection to the Access Point (AP) and gaining access to the User Interface (UI). Before configuring the AP, you should upgrade the AirConnect firmware to the latest version. Refer to “Manually Updating AP Firmware” on page 73. The dot in front of certain parameters, functions, or options (.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE 3 Press ESC. The AP displays the Main Menu. If the session is idle (due to no input, for example) for the configured time, the session terminates. To manually terminate the session, press CTRL+D. 4 Select the Set System Configuration option to set the System Password. Using a Direct Serial Connection To use the ASCII interface with a direct serial connection, follow the instructions in the AP Quick Start Guide, included in your package.
Navigating the UI 59 ■ You can use function keys to enable commands in some windows. For example, statistic windows include Refresh [F1] and Timed [F2] command/key combinations to update the display. ■ Some options listed at the bottom of screens indicate possible commands for a selected item. For example, in the Known APs window, highlighting an AP on the list and pressing F1 brings up the Ping function to ping that AP. ■ To exit from submenus, press Esc.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE Changing the Access to the UI To prevent unauthorized Telnet access, change the configuration access to the UI. This includes enabling or disabling the Telnet Logins or changing the System Password. To change Telnet access to the AP, do the following: 1 Select Set System Configuration from the Main Menu. 2 Select Telnet Logins. 3 Press the space bar or left/right arrow to toggle between Enabled and Disabled.
Navigating the UI 61 Configure the other settings as required on the AP. The table below explains the other settings. Setting Description Answer Wait Time The time waiting for a remote connection before dropping the attempt. The default is 60 seconds. Modem Speaker AP sends a command to the modem to turn on/off the modem speaker. The default is On. Inactivity Timeout The inactivity time on the UI that causes the AP to terminate the connection while using a modem. The default is 5 minutes.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE Access Point Installation The AP UI includes an AP Installation window in which you can set basic parameters for an AirConnect wireless network. These parameters include designating a gateway address that enables message forwarding across routers on the wired Ethernet. To install an AP, follow the procedure below. 1 Enter Admin Mode. 2 Select AP Installation from the Main Menu to display the Access Point Installation window.
Configuring the AP Configuring the AP System Parameters 63 The AP has many configuration parameters. This section discusses all the AP parameters and how to set them. The AP has configuration options to operate the unit, including security access and interface control. Some parameters do not require modification. To configure the system parameters, follow the procedure below. 1 Select Set System Configuration from the Main Menu, which generates the System Configuration window.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE Web Server Enables the use of a Web based browser to access the UI instead of HyperTerminal or Telnet applications. An AP Reset is required for this feature to take effect. Access Control Specifies enabling or disabling the access control feature. If enabled, the ACL (Access Control List) specifies the MAC addresses of wireless clients that can associate with this AP. The default is Disabled.
Configuring the AP 65 Parameter Description DTIM Interval Configure DTIM packet frequency as a multiple of beacon packets. The DTIM Interval indicates how many beacons equal one cycle. Do not modify. BC/MC Q Max Determines the memory allocated for the queue used in the AP to temporarily hold broadcast/multicast messages. Unit measure is in packets and corresponds to maximum-sized Ethernet packets. The default is 10. Max Retries (d) The maximum allowed retries before aborting a single transmission.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE 5 To save the RF Configuration information to all APs with the same WLAN Service area, select Save ALL APs [F2]. This option saves the configuration changes for the current AP, and sends two WNMP messages to all other APs on the Known APs table to update their configurations and reset them after the configuration has been modified. You can execute this option only among the same hardware platforms and same firmware versions.
Configuring the AP 67 Dial out manually through the Special Functions menu or dial out automatically when the system boots up. Originating AP To configure an originating AP, do the following from the UI of the originating AP: 1 Select Set Serial Port Configuration from the Main Menu. 2 Set the Port Use parameter to PPP. 3 Set the Modem Connected parameter to Yes. 4 Set the Connect Mode to Originate. 5 Select Dialout Number and type the dial-out telephone number of the answering AP (maximum 31 characters).
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE For automatic dial-out, reset the AP. To hang up, do the following: 1 Select Special Functions from the Main Menu. 2 Select Modem Hangup. Configuring the SNMP Agent An SNMP manager application gains access to the AP SNMP agent if it has the AP IP address. The agent configures as read-only, read-write or disabled to provide security when using SNMP. The AP sends specific traps for some conditions.
Configuring the AP 69 3 Verify that values reflect the network environment and change them as needed. 4 Do one of the following: ■ Select OK to register the settings. Or: ■ Select Save to write changes to NVM, which generates a confirmation prompt. 5 Select Save ALL APs [F2] to save the SNMP Configuration information to all APs with the same WLAN Service Area.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE 12 Select Exit [ESC] to return to the previous menu. When you enable the Access Control option, all wireless clients within the specified range can associate with the AP. Specify additional ranges as needed or add to the ACL using individual address entries. Adding Allowed Wireless Clients The Access Control List screen provides a facility to add wireless clients to the ACL. To do so, follow the procedure below.
Configuring the AP 71 Load ACL from Wireless Client List The Load ACL from wireless client List option, from the Special Functions menu, takes all currently associated wireless clients and creates an ACL from them. This builds an ACL without you having to manually type addresses. Edit the ACL using the add and delete functions. 1 Select Special Functions from the Main Menu. 2 Select Load ACL from wireless client List to add the addresses of associated wireless clients to the ACL.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE Removing Filter Types To remove packet types from the Type Filtering list, do the following: 1 Select Set Type Filtering from the Main Menu. 1 Highlight the packet type by pressing up/down arrows. 2 Select Delete. Controlling Type Filters Set the type filters to forward or discard the types listed. To control the type filtering mode: 1 Select Set System Configuration from the Main Menu. 2 Select Type Filtering.
Manually Updating AP Firmware 73 4 Press space bar or left/right arrows to toggle between Enabled and Disabled. Parameter Description Any Event Logging Logs all events listed in the window. Security Violations Logs ACL filter or administrative password access violations. MU State Changes Allows logging of all wireless client state changes. WNMP Events Logs WNMP events such as wireless clients using WNMP. Serial Port Events Logs serial port activity. AP-AP Msgs Logs AP to AP communication.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE Update using TFTP The Ethernet TFTP upgrade method requires a connection between the AP and PC on the same Ethernet segment. Verify the PC has a TFTP server running on it. Running the server requires third party software such as FTP PC/TCP for DOS or OnNet™ for Windows. The wireless TFTP upgrade method requires a connection between the AP and a TFTP server. The TFTP server can be running on a 3Com AirConnect device.
Manually Updating AP Firmware 75 To update the AP firmware using Xmodem, follow the procedure below. 1 Copy the firmware files dsap_fw.bin and 3cap_htm.bin to the PC hard disk that runs a terminal emulation program. 2 Attach a null-modem serial cable from the AP to the PC serial port. 3 Start the communication program on the PC. Name the session “AirConnect AP” and select OK. The remainder of this procedure uses Windows 98 as an example.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE 17 Repeat step 12 through step 16 to download the next file and avoid a transfer time-out error if you are downloading both the firmware and HTML files. The download is complete when the UI displays: Download Successful Updating AP Update Successful If the firmware update fails, the UI displays an error code indicating the cause. The AP automatically resets after all file transfers are completed.
Performing Pings 77 10 Select Special Functions from the Main Menu. 11 Select Use TFTP to Update All Access Points and press Enter, which generates the following prompt: “Are you sure (Y/N)?” 12 Type y. The Telnet session ends at this point. The AP resets when the file transfer and flash programming complete. 13 Telnet to the AP using its IP address. 14 Type the case-sensitive password at the password prompt, which generates the Main Menu.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE Enabling or Disabling Encryption The AP can be set for encryption of links to associated wireless clients. Any wireless clients associated with the AP must also have encryption enabled and set to the same level of encryption. To enable encryption in the AP, do the following: 1 Select RF Configuration from the Main menu. 2 Select Enabled for WEP (Privacy) to turn on encryption or Disabled for no encryption.
Saving, Resetting, and Restoring Configurations 79 3 Press the Tab key to highlight .Short RF Preamble Enabled. 4 Press the space bar to change the selection to Disabled. 5 Press F1 to save the setting. 6 Reset the AP as described in “Resetting an AP” on page 79 for your setting to take effect.
CHAPTER 6: CONFIGURING THE AP USING THE ASCII INTERFACE Restoring the Default AP Configuration If an AP fails to communicate because of improper settings, restore the factory configuration defaults. Restoring the factory default settings clears all configuration and statistics for an AP. To restore the default configuration, do the following. 1 Select Special Functions from the Main Menu. 2 Select Restore Factory Configuration.
A ACCESS POINT SPECIFICATIONS Physical Characteristics Dimensions 1.25” H x 5.5” L x 7.75” W (3.18 cm H x 14.97 cm L x 19.69 cm W) Weight (w/power supply) 1 lbs (0.454 kg) Operating Temperature -4º F to 131º F (-20º C to 55º C) Storage Temperature -40º F to 149º F (-40º C to 65º C) Humidity 10% to 95% noncondensing Shock 40 G, 11 ms, half-sine ESD Meets CE-Mark Drop Withstands up to a 30 in. (76 cm) drop to concrete with possible surface marring Radio Characteristics Frequency No.
APPENDIX A: ACCESS POINT SPECIFICATIONS Network Characteristics Ethernet Frame DIX, Ethernet_II, IEEE 802.
TECHNICAL SUPPORT B Online Technical Services 3Com offers worldwide product support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, through the following online systems: ■ ■ World Wide Web Site World Wide Web site 3Com FTP site Access the latest networking information on the 3Com Corporation World Wide Web site by entering the URL into your Internet browser: http://www.3com.
APPENDIX B: TECHNICAL SUPPORT Support from 3Com If you are unable to obtain assistance from the 3Com online technical resources or from your network supplier, 3Com offers technical telephone support services. To find out more about your support options, please call the 3Com technical telephone support phone number at the location nearest you.
Returning Products for Repair Returning Products for Repair 85 Before you send a product directly to 3Com for repair, you must first obtain a Return Materials Authorization (RMA) number. Products sent to 3Com without RMA numbers will be returned to the sender unopened, at the sender’s expense.
INDEX B F bridging media types 18 support 19 features access point 13 filtering 18 configuring 52 forwarding counts 37 full coverage (see multiple-AP network) 12 C Numbers 10BASE-T connection 28 3Com URL 83 802.
INDEX N S U navigating the ASCII UI 58 network connection 28 network supplier support 83 network topologies multiple-AP network 12 peer-to-peer network 9 same-site separate networks 10 single AP bridge 11 updating AP firmware ASCII UI 73 before configuring AP 57 using web browser UI 53 user interace, changing access 44 user interface (UI) 26 package contents 27 parameters system 48 peer-to-peer network 9 pings, performing 77 point-to-point connection 20 point-to-point protocol 19 power options 28
WARRANTY AND REGULATORY COMPLIANCE 3Com Corporation Limited Warranty This warranty applies to customers located in the United States, Australia, Canada (except Quebec), Ireland, New Zealand, U.K.
OBTAINING WARRANTY SERVICE Customer must contact a 3Com Corporate Service Center or an Authorized 3Com Service Center within the applicable warranty period to obtain warranty service authorization. Dated proof of purchase from 3Com or its authorized reseller may be required.
Regulatory Compliance Information RADIO FREQUENCY INTERFERENCE REQUIREMENTS This device has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device pursuant to Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commissions Rules and Regulation. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment.
3Com End User Software License Agreement IMPORTANT: Read Before Using This Product YOU SHOULD CAREFULLY READ THE FOLLOWING TERMS AND CONDITIONS BEFORE USING THIS PRODUCT. IT CONTAINS SOFTWARE, THE USE OF WHICH IS LICENSED BY 3COM CORPORATION (“3COM”) TO ITS CUSTOMERS FOR THEIR USE ONLY AS SET FORTH BELOW. IF YOU DO NOT AGREE TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THIS AGREEMENT, DO NOT USE THE SOFTWARE. USING ANY PART OF THE SOFTWARE INDICATES THAT YOU ACCEPT THESE TERMS.
