NETGEAR WG302v2 Network Card User Manual


 
NETGEAR ProSafe 802.11g Wireless Access Point WG302v2 Reference Manual
2-2 Basic Installation and Configuration
v1.0, May 2006
A Web browser for configuration such as Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 or above, or
Netscape Navigator 4.78 or above.
At least one computer with the TCP/IP protocol installed.
802.11g or 802.11b-compliant devices, such as the NETGEAR WG511 Wireless Adapter.
The WG302v2 can connect to you LAN via twisted-pair Category 5 Ethernet cable with RJ-45
connectors. The LAN interface is autosensing and capable of full-duplex or half-duplex operation.
The wireless access point uses Auto Uplink™ technology. The Ethernet port automatically senses
whether the Ethernet cable plugged into the port should have a ‘normal’ connection such as to a
computer or an ‘uplink’ connection such as to a switch or hub. That port will then configure itself
correctly. This feature eliminates any concerns about crossover cables, as Auto Uplink™ will
accommodate either type of cable to make the right connection.
Wireless Equipment Placement and Range Guidelines
The range of your wireless connection can vary significantly based on the location of the wireless
access point. The latency, data throughput performance, and notebook power consumption of
wireless adapters also vary depending on your configuration choices.
For best results, place your wireless access point:
Near the center of the area in which your PCs operate.
In an elevated location such as a high shelf where the wirelessly connected PCs have
line-of-sight access (even if through walls).
Away from sources of interference, such as PCs, microwaves, and 2.4 GHz cordless phones.
Away from large metal surfaces.
Putting the antenna in a vertical position provides best side-to-side coverage. Putting the antenna
in a horizontal position provides best up-and-down coverage.
If you use multiple access points, it is better if adjacent access points use different radio frequency
Channels to reduce interference. The recommended Channel spacing between adjacent access
points is five Channels (for example, use Channels 1 and 6, or 6 and 11).
Note: Failure to follow these guidelines can result in significant performance degradation
or inability to wirelessly connect to the WG302v2. For complete performance
specifications, see “Specifications for the WG302v2” in Appendix B.