AP-5131 Introduction
The Symbol AP-5131 Access Point (AP) provides a bridge between Ethernet wired LANs or WANs and
wireless networks. It provides connectivity between Ethernet wired networks and radio-equipped
mobile units (MUs). MUs include the full line of Symbol terminals, bar-code scanners, adapters (PC
cards, Compact Flash cards and PCI adapters) and other devices.
The AP-5131 provides a maximum 54Mbps data transfer rate via each radio. It monitors Ethernet
traffic and forwards appropriate Ethernet messages to MUs over the network. It also monitors MU
radio traffic and forwards MU packets to the Ethernet LAN.
The AP-5131 is available in two models:
• A single-radio version (Part No. AP-5131-4002X-WW), that can be configured as either an
802.11a access point or an 802.11b/g access point.
• A dual-radio version (Part No. AP-5131-1304X-WW), allowing both the 802.11a radio and
the 802.11b/g radio to function simultaneously.
If you are new to using an access point for managing your network, refer to Theory of Operations on
page 1-18 for an overview on wireless networking fundamentals.