User's Manual

1
SECTION 1 Introduction
1.1 Wireless LAN Overview
The Wireless LAN models WL2400-ISA and WL2400-PCM are wireless LAN adapter cards
that provide wireless connections between IBM compatible PCs, including desktop, laptop and
notebook computers. These cards are capable of point-to-point networking or, with the AP-2
(Access Point) acting as an interface between the networks, connecting a wireless LAN to a
wired LAN.
These cards operate in similar manner to Ethernet NICs
(Network Interface Cards), but they have a wireless
connection to the network or other computers equipped
with these cards. Once installed properly, the Wireless
LAN is invisible to most users. The –ISA version plugs
into an ISA slot on a desktop computer. The –PCM has
a built-in antenna version and plugs into a PCMCIA slot
on either a laptop computer or an AP-2 Access Point.
The –PCM–J is the same as the –PCM except it has an
antenna jack for connection to an external antenna or
the YDI AMP2440 pole mounted amplifier.
The WL2400 family of wireless LAN cards is a DSSS (Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum)
radio data modem. This radio technique scrambles the data prior to transmission and uses a
correlation technique on receive to improve the signal to noise ratio. This industry standard
technique improves the receiver’s sensitivity, making it possible to communicate in offices with
walls and other obstacles. The cards use the CSMA/CA collision evasion protocol to prevent
collisions on the network, allowing for high-speed data communication.
All the WL2400 models comply with the Wireless LAN International Standard IEEE 802.11.
This makes these devices compatible with any other wireless LAN card or Access Point that
also complies with the IEEE 802.11 DSSS standards.
The WL2400 products are also compatible with our remote mounted bi-directional amplifier,
the Model AMP2440. Using our Model AMP2440 and high gain directional antennas, line-of-
site ranges in excess of 30 miles are possible with these units!
The WL2400-ISA and WL2400-PCM cards support various network software. The network
drivers and diagnostic programs included with the cards are supported by Microsoft Windows
3.1x, Windows 95 and Windows NT.
WL2400 wireless LAN products have been tested and passed FCC certification.
1.2 Specifications