Netgear ME102 ME102 Reference Manual - Page 4

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION The ME102 802.11b wireless Access Point is the basic building block of a wireless LAN infrastructure. It provides wireless connectivity to multiple wireless network devices within a fixed range or area of coverage, interacting with a wireless network interface card (NIC) via an antenna. Typically, individual in-building access point provides a maximum connectivity range of about 300 feet. The ME102 wireless Access Point can support a small group of users in a range of several hundred feet; most access points are rated between 30-70 users simultaneously. The ME102 wireless Access Point converts airwave data into wired Ethernet data, acting as a bridge between the wired LAN and wireless clients. Connecting multiple ME102 Access Points via a wired Ethernet backbone can further lengthen the wireless network coverage. As a mobile computing device moves out of the range of one access point, it moves into the range of another. As a result, wireless clients can freely roam from one Access Point domain to another and still maintain seamless connection to the network. The auto-sensing capability of the ME102 wireless Access Point allows packet transmission in 11Mbps for maximum throughput, or speed reduction to lower 1Mbps speed for distance or for operating in a noisy environment. Features The features supported by the ME102 Wireless Access Point are outlined below: y Interfaces directly to 10Mbps IEEE 802.3 Ethernet networks y Supports IEEE 802.11 HR WLAN functions. y Firmware is stored in a flash memory and can be upgraded remotely. y Configurable through USB and Ethernet ports. y Power and wireless activity LED indicators. y Dual External antennas supporting diversity. Related NETGEAR products y MA401 - 802.11b Wireless PC Card y MA301 - 802.11b Wireless PCI Adapter (requires the MA401 wireless PC Card) y MA101 - 802.11b Wireless USB Adapter y MR314 - 802.11b Wireless Cable/DSL Router 1