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Using WiMAX
Some ThinkPad notebooks come with a built-in wireless LAN card integrating WiMAX technology.
WiMAX, a long-range wireless data transmission technology based on the 802.16 standard, provides you
with a “last mile” broadband connectivity similar to that offered by cable or ADSL, but without the need to
physically connect a cable to the PC.
To use the WiMAX feature, start Access Connections.
For Windows 7: To start the Access Connections wizard, see “Accessing applications in Windows 7” on
page 23, and follow the instructions on the screen.
For Windows Vista and Windows XP: To start the Access Connections wizard, click Start ➙ All Programs ➙
ThinkVantage ➙ Access Connections. Then follow the instructions on the screen.
Checking wireless connection status
Access Connections Gauge (Windows 7)
If your computer is running Windows 7, the Access Connections Gauge in the task bar displays the signal
strength and status of your wireless connection.
Note: To display Access Connections Gauge in the task bar, see the Help in Access Connections.
You can nd more detailed information about the signal strength and status of your wireless connection
by opening Access Connections or by right-clicking the Access Connections Gauge in the task bar and
selecting View Status of Wireless Connection.
• Access Connections Gauge states: wireless LAN
– Power to the wireless radio is off or no signal.
– Power to the wireless radio is on. The signal strength of the wireless connection is poor. To
improve signal strength, move your system closer to the wireless access point.
–
Power to the wireless radio is on. The signal strength of the wireless connection
is marginal.
– Power to the wireless radio is on. The signal strength of the wireless connection is
excellent.
• Access Connections Gauge states: wireless WAN
– No signal
– Signal level 1
–
Signal level 2
– Signal level 3
Note: For more information about Access Connections Gauge, see the Help in Access Connections.
Access Connections icon and wireless status icon
The Access Connections icon displays general connection status.
The wireless status icon displays the signal strength and status of your wireless connection.
Chapter 2. Using your computer 55