User's Manual

44
Application Hints
This section provides information about the range of Symphony HomeRF
adapters, how to reduce interference with other devices, and information on
how to use the wireless network with common applications and peripheral
devices.
Range of Symphony HomeRF Adapters
Two Symphony HomeRF adapters can communicate over a distance of up to
150 feet. Range is highly dependent upon the particular environment in which
the products are used. Obstacles, such as walls and ceilings, weaken the radio
signals. Metal objects, such as screen doors, window screens, and filing cabi-
nets, also have an adverse effect on range. You should try to avoid placing a
sheet of metal (like a filing cabinet) between two Symphony HomeRF devices.
Reducing Interference
The Symphony HomeRF 2.0 Suite uses frequency hopping spread spectrum
technology in the 2.4-GHz band to communicate. This is the same frequency
band used by microwave ovens and 2.4-GHz phones. Frequency hopping
technology is designed to minimize interference so while you may notice a
reduction in performance, your devices will not cease to function. Proxim rec-
ommends against installing the base station of the 2.4-GHz phone between
two Symphony HomeRF adapters.
Hint:
If you suspect a 2.4-GHz telephone is severely degrading the
performance of the wireless network, temporarily disconnect
power from the phone’s base station to determine if this
addresses the performance concern.
Home Network Security
Frequency hopping technology is inherently secure. Frequency hopping sig-
nals are difficult to detect and decode because they hop several times a second
from frequency to frequency in a pseudorandom sequence.
Also, the Security Code adds an additional degree of protection because even
if a network infiltrator is using another Symphony HomeRF device within
range of your network, the infiltrator must know your Security Code in order
to communicate with the network.