Installation Instructions Part 4

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2.5.2 Ad Hoc Mode
An ad hoc network usually is a short-lived network with a small number of stations. The network is
usually created for a special purpose such as exchanging data between friends, or between
customer and client. Because the duration of the ad hoc network tends to be limited, Power
Saving and Security features are not typically a requirement. For ad hoc network activity, the
Power Saving and Security features can be disabled. Currently, shared key security is supported
in ad hoc mode. Future 802.11a software implementations will provide unique key support.
In ad hoc mode, a station scans the air for an existing BSS. If no BSS is found, the station
establishes a BSS for other stations to join. When other stations scan the air and find an
established BSS in place, they join that BSS to form an ad hoc network. If a specific set of stations
requires ad hoc network connectivity, it is recommended to have one station establish a BSS first
before configuring the remaining stations. This prevents the scenario of several stations trying to
form a BSS at the same time, which can result in multiple singular BSSs being established, rather
than a single BSS with multiple stations.
 Configuration Name: This field identifies the configuration. This name must be unique.
Configuration names are case insensitive.
 Network Name (SSID): A Network Name is mandatory for ad hoc mode. The SSID for
all stations in a single ad hoc network must be the same.
 Network Connection: Ad Hoc.
 Power Saving: Power saving mode is not currently supported in an ad hoc network.
 Turbo Mode: All stations participating in the ad hoc network must have the same rate
setting.
 Locally Administered Address: This field defines the locally administered MAC address
(LAA). To enter a value in the address field, the check box needs to be selected.