Fujitsu S2020 S2020 Users Guide - Page 104

S Series.book Page 96 Thursday, September 25, 2003 1:13 PM LifeBook S2000 Notebook - Appendix Before Using the Wireless LAN The Integrated Wireless LAN is an optional device available for Fujitsu mobile computers. This manual describes the basic operating procedures for the Wireless LAN (referred to as the "device" in this manual) and how to set up a wireless LAN network. Before using this device, read this manual carefully to ensure correct operation of the device. Keep this manual in a safe place for reference while using the device. Wireless LAN Modes Using this Device Ad Hoc Mode (See Figure 1) "Ad Hoc Mode" refers to a type of wireless network that involves connecting multiple computers without the use of an Access Point. Network connectivity between computers can be established using only wireless LAN cards in a peer-to-peer fashion. Types of Wireless LANs Covered by this Document This document is applicable to systems containing an Atheros Wireless LAN (802.11b/g). Characteristics of the Device This device consists of a wireless LAN card that is attached inside the computer via a mini-PCI slot. Ad Hoc networks are an easy and inexpensive method for establishing network connectivity between multiple computers. In the Ad Hoc mode, you can use the function supported by Microsoft Network, such as File and Print Sharing to exchange files and share a printer or other peripheral devices. The main characteristics are as follows: ■ It operates in the 2.4 GHz Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) RF band. ■ It does not require the procurement of an FCC license to operate. ■ It uses Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DS-SS), an RF modulation scheme that is resistant to noise. ■ This device complies with Wi-Fi, and is able to communicate at the maximum transfer rate of 11 Mbps. ■ The maximum communication range is approximately 80 feet (25 meters) inside a building. Please note that the range you achieve may be shorter or longer than 80 feet. Wireless LAN range is dependent on such factors as obstructions, walls, types of construction material, reflective objects, etc. ■ Unauthorized access can be prevented with the use of an SSID and an encryption key (also known as a WEP key). To use the Ad Hoc Mode, you must set the same SSID and the same encryption key for all the computers that are connected. All connected computers can communicate with each other within the communication range. Access Point (Infrastructure) Mode (See Figure 2) If a number of computers are connected simultaneously in the Ad Hoc mode, the transfer rate may be reduced, communications may become unstable, or the network connection could fail. This is because all wireless LAN cards are using the same radio frequency in the network. To improve this situation, you can use a wireless LAN access point, which is sold separately. The wireless LAN network is in the "Access Point mode" when it uses an access point, and such a connection is called the "Access Point Network" or "Infrastructure Network". By using an access point, you can set and use a different communication channel for each network group. Each channel is given a different radio frequency, and it Figure 1. Ad Hoc Mode Network 96