ZyXEL B-320 User Guide - Page 19

ZyAIR Wireless LAN Utility Chapter 2 Using the ZyAIR Utility This chapter shows you how to perform basic ZyAIR wireless LAN configuration using the ZyAIR Utility. 2.1 About Wireless LAN Network This section describes the wireless LAN network terms and applications. 2.1.1 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. 2.1.2 Channel A radio frequency used by a wireless device is called a channel. 2.1.3 Transmission Rate (Tx Rate) The ZyAIR provides various transmission (data) rate options for you to select. Options include Fully Auto, 1 M bit/sec, 2 M bit/sec, 5.5M bit/sec, 11M bit/sec, 16.5M bit/sec and 27.5M bit/sec2. In most networking scenarios, the factory default Fully Auto setting proves the most efficient. This setting allows your ZyAIR to operate at the maximum transmission (data) rate. When the communication quality drops below a certain level, the ZyAIR 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 ZyAIR 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 11M bit/sec or 5.5M bit/sec in a networking environment where you are certain that all wireless devices can communicate at the highest transmission (data) rate. 1M bit/sec or 2M bit/sec are used often in networking environments where the range of the wireless connection is more important than speed. 2 The transmission rate of 27.5M bit/sec is not available at the time of writing. Using the ZyAIR Utility 2-1