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Before Using the Optional Wireless LAN
Before Using the Optional Wireless LAN
This manual describes the procedures required to properly set up and configure the optional integrated
Wireless LAN Mini-PCI device (referred to as "WLAN device" in the rest of the manual). Before
using the WLAN device, read this manual carefully to ensure it's correct operation. Keep this manual
in a safe place for future reference.
Wireless LAN Device Covered by this Document
This document is applicable to systems containing one of the following two devices. Most of the
procedures are identical. Sections that differ between the two devices have been noted in the text:
• Intel® Wireless Wi-Fi Link 4965AG (4965AG_) (802.11a+b/g)
• Atheros® AR5006EXS (AR5BXB6) Mini-Card Wireless network card (802.11a+b/g)
Characteristics of the WLAN Device
• The WLAN device is a Mini-PCI card attached to the main board of the mobile computer.
• It operates in two license-free RF bands, therefore eliminating the need to procure an FCC license to
operate. It operates in the 2.4GHz Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) RF band and in the lower and
middle bands of the 5GHz Unlicensed National Information Infrastructure (UNII) bands.
• The WLANs are capable of three operating modes, IEEE802.11a, IEEE802.11b and IEEE802.11g, wireless
LAN standards governed by the IEEE (Institute of Electronics and Electrical Engineers).
• Encoding of data is modulated using Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) and Complementary Code
Keying (CCK) when the WLAN device is operating in IEEE 802.11b mode and Orthogonal Frequency
Division Multiplexing (OFDM) when operating in IEEE802.11a or IEEE802.11g mode.
• The WLAN device is Wi-Fi certified and operates at the maximum data transfer rate of 54 Mbps in
IEEE802.11a or IEEE802.11g mode and 11 Mbps in IEEE802.11b mode.
• The WLAN device supports the following encryption methods - WEP, TKIP, and AES encryption.