User's Manual

802.11g WLAN/Bluetooth Combo USB Dongle User Manual

Chapter 1. Wireless LAN Network

1.1 Overview

This section describes the wireless LAN network terms and applications.

1.1.1 SSID

The SSID (Service Set Identity) is a unique name shared among all wireless

devices in a wireless network. Wireless devices must have the same SSID

to communicate with each other.

1.1.2 Channel

A radio frequency used by a wireless device is called a channel.

1.1.3 Transmission Rate (Tx Rate)

The WLAN/Bluetooth Combo USB 2.0 Dongle provides various transmission

(data) rate options for you to select. Options include Auto, 1 Mbps, 2 Mbps,

5.5 Mbps, 11 Mbps, 6 Mbps, 9 Mbps, 12 Mbps, 18 Mbps, 24 Mbps, 36 Mbps,

48 Mbps, and 54 Mbps. In most networking scenarios, the factory default

Auto setting proves the most efficient. This setting allows your

WLAN/Bluetooth Combo Dongle to operate at the maximum transmission

(data) rate. When the communication quality drops below a certain level, the

WLAN/Bluetooth Combo Dongle automatically switches to a lower

transmission (data) rate. Transmission at lower data speeds is usually more

reliable. However, when the communication quality improves again, the

WLAN/Bluetooth Combo Dongle gradually increases the transmission (data)

rate again until it reaches the highest available transmission rate.

You can select any of the above options. If you wish to balance speed versus

reliability, select 48 Mbps or 54 Mbps in a networking environment where

you are certain that all wireless devices can communicate at the highest

transmission (data) rate. 1 Mbps or 2 Mbps are used often in networking

environments where the range of the wireless connection is more important

than speed.

1.1.4 Wireless Network Application

Wireless LAN works in either of the two modes: ad-hoc and infrastructure.

To connect to a wired network within a coverage area using Access Points

(APs), set the WLAN Dongle operation mode to Infrastructure (BSS). An

AP acts as a bridge between the wireless stations and the wired network.

In case you do not wish to connect to a wired network, but prefer to set up