HP 4200n HP Jetdirect Print Servers - Administrator Guide - Page 252

B HP Jetdirect 802.11b Wireless Print Servers Introduction HP Jetdirect wireless print servers are printer accessories that support the IEEE 802.11b standard for a wireless Ethernet local area network (WLAN). It uses radio signals to communicate with other WLAN devices or computers. The IEEE 802.11b standard defines the radio frequencies, communication protocols and data formatting required for devices to communicate. When you use an HP Jetdirect wireless print server to connect your printer to your network, you can improve the location flexibility of the printer (compared to a wired network connection), and you can save on network cabling costs. HP Jetdirect wireless print servers can typically be used at distances of up to 100 meters or more when the signal path is free of obstructions and interference. WLAN radio signals can penetrate many indoor structures and can reflect around obstacles. Wireless communication performance depends on a variety of factors, including the number of users, the quality and physical placement of the wireless hardware, and the sources of radio signal interference (for example, microwave ovens and cordless telephones use similar frequencies). In general, wireless data transfer rates decrease with increasing distance, obstructions, and interference. In most cases, the use of antennas will improve the quality and performance of wireless communications. Note Because it can be flexibly positioned and includes an internal antenna, the HP Jetdirect 380X wireless print server does not support connection of an external antenna. ENWW 252