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Cabletron Systems RoamAbout Access Point Manual

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  • Page 1 9034042-02...
  • Page 3 Notice Notice Cabletron Systems reserves the right to make changes in specifications and other information contained in this document without prior notice. The reader should in all cases consult Cabletron Systems to determine whether any such changes have been made.
  • Page 4 Notice Getting Help For additional support related to this device or document, contact Cabletron Systems using one of the following methods: Before calling Cabletron Systems, please have the following information ready: • Your Cabletron Systems service contract number • A description of the problem •...
  • Page 5 Other RoamAbout Access Point Features ........

  • Page 6: Table Of Contents

    RoamAbout Access Point Secure Access ........
  • Page 7 RoamAbout Access Point Console Port........
  • Page 8 Testing Data Throughput Efficiency ......... . . 6-4 Optimizing RoamAbout Access Point Placement ....... . . 6-6 Using Site Monitor .
  • Page 9 Table of Contents 7 Problem Solving Using the Access Point LEDs to Determine the Problem ......7-2 Access Point 2000 LEDs .
  • Page 12 The following lists each RoamAbout product and where to find additional information. These documents are available on the RoamAbout web site at: www.cabletron.com/wireless Component Document RoamAbout Access Point RoamAbout Access Point 2000 Hardware Installation Guide RoamAbout Access Point RoamAbout Access Point 2000 Hardware Installation Quick Start RoamAbout PC Card RoamAbout 802.11 PC Card Kit...
  • Page 13 Chapter 1 Wireless Network Configurations There are three basic RoamAbout wireless network configurations: • One or more Access Points connecting wireless clients to a wired network, using the Workgroup Bridge mode. A wireless client can be any computer with an 802.11 Direct-Sequence (DS) compliant radio card.
  • Page 14 What a RoamAbout Access Point Provides What a RoamAbout Access Point Provides The RoamAbout Access Point is a 2-port bridge. One port connects to an Ethernet LAN. The other port connects to a wireless network. The wireless connection is provided by a RoamAbout 802.11 DS compliant PC Card.
  • Page 15 What a RoamAbout Access Point Provides • Workgroup Bridge mode In Workgroup Bridge mode, the Access Point communicates with wireless clients. The Access Point learns addresses only from the wireless side of the network. The Access Point only forwards packets to multicast addresses, broadcast addresses, and known addresses on the wireless LAN.
  • Page 16 LAN without losing connectivity. • Local management via its local console port or remote management by the RoamAbout Access Point Manager software, or Network Management Station (NMS). • Support for RMON Groups 1, 2, 3, and 9 (Statistics, History, Alarms, and Events).
  • Page 17 Access Point. • The RoamAbout PC Card is also used in a RoamAbout Access Point as the wireless port to provide wireless communication. For this manual, the Access Point with the PC Card are usually considered one unit.
  • Page 18 Wireless Infrastructure Network Multiple Access Points A wireless infrastructure network can consist of multiple Access Points. This extends the coverage area of the wireless network. To allow roaming, each Access Point in the wireless network must use the same Wireless Network Name. In this configuration, the wireless network consists of cells.
  • Page 19 LAN-to-LAN Configuration Wireless Client Behavior You can configure the wireless client to connect to a specific wireless network or the first available wireless network. If you configure the client to connect to a specific wireless network, the client establishes a radio connection to the Access Point in the specified wireless network that provides the best communications quality.
  • Page 20 LAN-to-LAN Configuration Typically, the Access Points are configured with outdoor antennas. If you use an outdoor antenna, you should have a professional antenna installation company perform the installation. Contact your Cabletron sales representative or visit the RoamAbout web site for more information about the outdoor antenna kits. A Central Access Point uses an omni-directional antenna so that it can communicate with multiple Access Points in different directions.
  • Page 21 LAN-to-LAN Configuration Point-to-Multipoint You can connect wired LANs in different buildings using the LAN-to-LAN Multipoint feature. At least one of the Access Points is configured as a Multipoint Access Point, called the Central Access Point. The Central Access Point can communicate directly with up to six Access Points.
  • Page 22 LAN-to-LAN Configuration Figure 1-3: Point-to-Multipoint Configuration Endpoint Mode Endpoint Mode Omni-Directional Endpoint Mode Antenna Multipoint Mode (Central AP) Endpoint Mode Endpoint Mode Endpoint Mode • Two or more Central Access Points in the same Point-to-Multipoint configuration. In this configuration, up to six Access Points are configured to communicate with the same Central Access Point.
  • Page 23 LAN-to-LAN Configuration Figure 1-4: Point-to-Multipoint-to-Multipoint Configuration Area 1 Endpoint Mode Endpoint Mode Omni-Directional Antenna Endpoint Mode Building A Multipoint Mode (Central AP) Area 2 Endpoint Mode Endpoint Mode Endpoint Mode Endpoint Mode Endpoint Mode Wireless Network Configurations 1-11...
  • Page 24 LAN-to-LAN Configuration Preventing Network Loops It is important to avoid Point-to-Multipoint configurations that will cause bridge loops. A bridge loop occurs when two parallel network paths are created between any two LANs, causing packets to be continuously regenerated through both parallel paths. This situation eventually renders the network unusable due to the excessive traffic that is being generated by the loop.
  • Page 25 Ad-Hoc Network Ad-Hoc Network Wireless ad-hoc networks do not include Access Points. Instead, the ad-hoc network is a loose association, or workgroup, of computers that can communicate with each other using the PC Card in Ad-Hoc Mode. Figure 1-6 shows an ad-hoc network. The ad-hoc network is also known as a peer-to-peer network or independent network.
  • Page 26 Optional Antennas Optional Antennas The RoamAbout PC Card has two integrated antennas that perform best in an open environment with as few obstacles as possible. Depending on the environment and wireless network configuration, you may need an optional antenna. The following sections describe the types of optional antennas available with the RoamAbout products.
  • Page 27 Optional Antennas Range Extender Antenna Use the Range Extender Antenna (Figure 1-8) to ensure optimal transmission and reception quality for situations where the integrated antennas are shielded, such as: • The wireless device is close to metal surfaces. • The wireless device is installed in a hidden location, such as in a cabinet. •...
  • Page 28 Optional Antennas Outdoor Antenna Kit There are two RoamAbout antennas available for outdoor use: • 14-dBi directional antenna • 7-dBi omni-directional antenna The RoamAbout outdoor antennas support outdoor LAN-to-LAN wireless links that are used to connect separate LANs. The directional antenna is typically used in a Point-to-Point wireless link.
  • Page 29 Chapter 2 Understanding Wireless Network Characteristics This chapter describes many of the wireless networking concepts and characteristics. You should be familiar with this information before you design, implement, or manage a RoamAbout wireless network. Not all characteristics apply to all of the network configurations.
  • Page 30 MAC addressing scheme. You can enter a local MAC address value on a RoamAbout client, but not on a RoamAbout Access Point. Most network systems do not require local MAC addresses.
  • Page 31 Transmit Rate To avoid radio interference, adjacent Access Points should be set to different channels that are at least five channels apart. The Access Points do not necessarily have to be in the same wireless network. For example, you have three Access Points whose coverage areas overlap;...
  • Page 32 Transmit Rate In most environments, Auto Rate allows the PC Card to use a higher rate for better data throughput, yet the PC Card can still use the more reliable slower rate when transmissions fail. A transmission can fail when the network experiences spurious noise interference. Also use Auto Rate if you have Access Points with 11 Mbit/s PC Cards and a mix of clients with 11 Mbit/s and 2 Mbit/s PC Cards.

  • Page 33: Communications Quality

    Communications Quality A fixed transmit rate does not affect the receive rate. For example, an Access Point and a client both have 11 Mbit/s PC Cards, but the client is fixed to only transmit at 2 Mbit/s. The Access Point can send data at 11 Mbit/s to the client, and the client can respond by sending data at 2 Mbit/s.

  • Page 34: Noise Level

    Data Throughput Efficiency Noise Level The noise level indicates the presence of interference. Noise can be generated by various devices such as microwave ovens (2.4 GHz), elevator motors, and theft detection devices (like those used in retail stores). Noise level should always be related to the signal level: •...

  • Page 35: Rts/Cts Protocol

    RTS/CTS Protocol The AP Density setting must be the same for all Access Points and wireless devices in your wireless network. Failure to do so may cause CAUTION unpredictable results for the wireless client in your network. Using non-matching values may seriously affect the wireless performance of the client.

  • Page 36: Access Point - Rts Threshold

    CTS message. Access Point - RTS Threshold The RTS Threshold on a RoamAbout Access Point specifies the packet size of transmissions, where messages larger than the specified size must use the RTS/CTS protocol. The default value, 2347, effectively turns off the RTS Threshold.

  • Page 37: 802.11 Power Management

    802.11 Power Management Figure 2-2: Hidden Station Example Client B Client B Client A Client C To avoid a hidden station problem, move the clients or Access Point if possible so that the devices can sense each other’s transmissions. Otherwise, set Medium Reservation on the clients with the problem to the Hidden Stations setting, which imposes an RTS/CTS Threshold value of 500.

  • Page 38: Roamabout Access Point

    RoamAbout Access Point The RoamAbout Access Point automatically supports 802.11 power management. The only parameter that can be set is the Delivery Traffic Indication Message (DTIM) interval, which sets the buffering time. The default value of 1 corresponds to 100 milliseconds of sleep time.

  • Page 39: Security

    Security The following lists the types of security in a RoamAbout wireless environment: • Network operating system security • RoamAbout Access Point Secure Access • Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) Encryption • Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) community names •...

  • Page 40: Wired Equivalent Privacy (Wep) Encryption

    Security Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) Encryption The WEP feature encrypts all data transmitted within the wireless network. The encryption uses the RC4 algorithm as defined in the IEEE 802.11 Wired Equivalent Privacy standard. The RoamAbout devices can be configured with four encryption keys. Each key is placed in a specific position (Key 1, Key 2, Key 3, or Key 4).

  • Page 41: Snmp Community Names

    Network Protocols In an ad-hoc network, use encryption to prevent uninvited users from joining the network. Broadcast and multicast messages are not encrypted. NOTE SNMP Community Names The SNMP community name allows management tools using SNMP to display or modify Access Point parameters remotely.

  • Page 42: Wireless Traffic

    Wireless Traffic • TCP/IP if you want to connect your computer to a network that uses IP addressing or you would like to connect to the Internet. These networking protocols can operate simultaneously with other networking protocols. When you install a RoamAbout PC Card in an Apple computer, you may need to install and enable Apple’s Open Transport or Apple Classic network protocols along with TCP/IP.

  • Page 43: Protocols And Filters

    Management Station that uses SNMP. Spanning Tree Protocol The RoamAbout Access Point uses 802.1d Spanning Tree Protocol to prevent network loops. A loop occurs when there are alternate routes between networks. A loop can cause bridges to continually forward multicast traffic and degrade network performance.

  • Page 44: Roamabout Access Point Snmp Management

    RoamAbout Access Point SNMP Management RoamAbout Access Point SNMP Management The Access Point supports the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) through any standard Network Management Station (NMS) that supports SNMP. The SNMP management capability enables you to manage standard SNMP MIB characteristics, such as protocol filtering and address filtering.

  • Page 45: Designing And Implementing A Wireless Network

    Chapter 3 Designing and Implementing a Wireless Network The first step in designing a wireless network is to determine which network configuration best fits your needs. The wireless network configurations are discussed in Chapter 1. Once you have chosen a configuration, this chapter lists the various site requirements necessary for each type of network.

  • Page 46: Infrastructure Network

    Infrastructure Network Infrastructure Network To plan a wireless infrastructure network, determine the following: • Coverage area - the area where the clients are located. If the clients are mobile, this is the area where the clients can connect to the network. •...

  • Page 47: Selecting The Location For A Single Access Point

    Infrastructure Network Figure 3-1: Coverage Area A RoamAbout Access Point can support up to 250 users within its coverage area. However, this number can be significantly reduced by various factors, such as noise or obstructions in the coverage area, and the network utilization by each client. If your desired coverage area is larger or the number of users is greater, you need to install multiple Access Points.

  • Page 48: Selecting The Locations For Multiple Access Points

    For best placement, configure the Access Point and a client and use the procedure in the “Optimizing RoamAbout Access Point Placement” section on page 6-6 before permanently mounting the Access Point. Before mounting the Access Point, review the hardware requirements described in the installation documentation that came with the RoamAbout Access Point.

  • Page 49: Using Multiple Wireless Infrastructure Networks

    Infrastructure Network Using Multiple Wireless Infrastructure Networks Instead of creating multiple cells in a single infrastructure network, you can have separate infrastructure networks. The advantages include: • Preventing too many users from roaming to a particular coverage area by configuring some users to use one network, and other users to a different network.

  • Page 50: Lan-To-Lan Network Configuration

    — 2 Mbit/s - 300 feet (90 meters) — 1 Mbit/s - 375 feet (115 meters) Before mounting the Access Point, review the hardware requirements described in the installation documentation that came with the RoamAbout Access Point. 3-6 Designing and Implementing a Wireless Network...

  • Page 51: Ad-Hoc Network

    Ad-Hoc Network Ad-Hoc Network The only requirement for an ad-hoc network is the ability to communicate with one or more other wireless users. To do this: • All PC Cards must use the same channel. You cannot change the default channel of the RoamAbout PC Card.

  • Page 52: System Requirements For Wireless Clients

    System Requirements for Wireless Clients System Requirements for Wireless Clients The RoamAbout PC Card has drivers for the following operating systems: • Windows NT V3.51 and later, Windows 95, and Windows 98 (same driver) • MS-DOS and Windows 3.1 (refer to the RoamAbout 802.11 PC Card MS-DOS and Windows 3.1 Installation Guide) •...

  • Page 53: Wireless Network Hardware Installation Overview

    The following is an overview of the steps to install the wireless devices in a wireless infrastructure network. 1. Install the RoamAbout Access Point in the location you have chosen. Refer to the RoamAbout Access Point documentation to install the Access Point hardware.

  • Page 54: Ad-Hoc Network

    Wireless Network Hardware Installation Overview Ad-Hoc Network The following is an overview of the steps to install the wireless clients in an ad-hoc network. 1. Create wireless clients by installing the RoamAbout PC Card into the appropriate computers. Refer to the RoamAbout PC Card documentation. 2.

  • Page 55: Installing The Wireless Network Tools

    You can configure the Access Point using one or more of these tools: • RoamAbout Access Point Manager • RoamAbout Access Point console port • Network Management Station (NMS) To configure the Access Point for the first time, you need to use the RoamAbout Access Point Manager or the console port.

  • Page 56: Roamabout Access Point Manager

    RoamAbout Access Point Manager RoamAbout Access Point Manager The RoamAbout Access Point (AP) Manager is a configuration tool for new Access Points and a management tool to assist the ongoing management and support of RoamAbout wireless networks. The AP Manager can manage multiple Access Points simultaneously.
  • Page 57 RoamAbout Access Point Manager Installing the Wireless Network Tools 4-3...

  • Page 58: Using The Ap Manager

    Points in these configurations are managed differently. • If you have earlier releases of the RoamAbout Access Point, you can group non-802.11 compliant Access Points together, separate from the 802.11 Access Points. The AP Manager saves each group in a configuration file (*.CFG). When you open a configuration file, the Access Points in the group are displayed in the Managed List field on the main window (see Figure 4-1).

  • Page 59: Other Snmp Management Tools

    (DTE) device. You do not need to use the console port if you use the AP Manager to manage the Access Point. Refer to the RoamAbout Access Point installation document for the procedure to connect a device to the Access Point console port.

  • Page 60: Roamabout Client Utility

    RoamAbout Client Utility RoamAbout Client Utility The RoamAbout Client Utility is a diagnostic tool for RoamAbout wireless networks. The RoamAbout Client Utility is provided with the RoamAbout client software kit which also contains the RoamAbout driver. You use the client utility to: •...

  • Page 61: Using The Roamabout Client Utility

    RoamAbout Client Utility Using the RoamAbout Client Utility To start the RoamAbout Client Utility, click Start, then select Programs → RoamAbout → RoamAbout Client Utility. The RoamAbout Client Utility window (Figure 4-2) displays the following information: • If connected to an infrastructure network, the name of the network. •...

  • Page 62: Status/Functions

    RoamAbout Client Utility Status/Functions The RoamAbout Client Utility Status/Functions window (Figure 4-3) displays information about the network connection and communications quality. If the client is unable to connect to a network, the Status and Impact fields provide information that can help you determine the cause.

  • Page 63: Diagnose Card

    RoamAbout Client Utility Diagnose Card The card diagnostics enables you to: • Test the RoamAbout PC Card. • Display a set of communication statistics. • Installing the Wireless Network Tools 4-9...

  • Page 64: Link Test

    RoamAbout Client Utility Figure 4-4: RoamAbout Client Utility Link Test Link Test also allows you to save measurement data to a log file. The logging function is only available when the client utility is in enhanced mode, which you can enable by clicking the Options button in the Status/Functions window.

  • Page 65: Site Monitor

    RoamAbout Client Utility Site Monitor You can use the RoamAbout Client Utility Site Monitor window (Figure 4-5) to monitor the radio communications quality with multiple RoamAbout Access Points simultaneously. The Site Monitor function is only available when the client utility is in enhanced mode, which you can enable by clicking the Options button in the Status/Functions window.

  • Page 67: Configuring The Wireless Network

    Chapter 5 Configuring the Wireless Network This chapter provides the procedures to configure the wireless device parameters. Before performing these procedures, you need to install the wireless network tools as described in Chapter 4. If you are configuring a wireless infrastructure network, configure the Access Points first. Many of the wireless client parameters are based on the Access Point settings.

  • Page 68: Configuring Access Points In An Infrastructure Network

    • The Access Point wired MAC address, which is printed on the front of the Access Point. The MAC address for the RoamAbout Access Point 2000 is underneath the plastic cover. • A valid, unused IP address. Depending on your network configuration, you may also need to provide the subnet mask and default gateway.
  • Page 69 Configuring Access Points in an Infrastructure Network 5. If the Access Point does not have an IP address, click Yes and enter the following: — Access Point’s wired MAC address. — New, valid IP network address. — Access Point’s SNMP read/write community name, which is by default public. —...
  • Page 70 Configuring Access Points in an Infrastructure Network 13. Enable Secure Access if you want to prevent clients without the correct wireless network name from connecting to this Access Point. See the “Configuring Security” section on page 5-26 for more information. 14.
  • Page 72 Configuring Access Points in an Infrastructure Network 9. Set the AP Density setting based on the following: — Low (default). The Low setting provides maximum coverage using a minimum number of Access Points. This option is typically used for single-cell networks, but also provides an efficient and cost effective solution for networks that include multiple wireless clients.

  • Page 73: Configuring Clients In An Infrastructure Network

    Configuring Clients in an Infrastructure Network Configuring Clients in an Infrastructure Network Have the Access Point settings available as you configure the RoamAbout clients. 1. At a Windows system, perform the following: a) From the Windows desktop, click Start then select Settings → Control Panel. Then double click the Network icon.
  • Page 74 Configuring Clients in an Infrastructure Network 10. Leave Medium Reservation disabled (no check mark) unless you have a hidden station problem as described in the “Configuring the RTS/CTS Protocol” section on page 5-24. 11. To change the default power management parameters, click the Power Management tab.

  • Page 75: Configuring Access Points In A Point-To-Point Network

    • The Access Point wired MAC address, which is printed on the front of the Access Point. The MAC address for the RoamAbout Access Point 2000 is underneath the plastic cover. • A valid, unused IP address. Depending on your network configuration, you may also need to provide the subnet mask and default gateway.
  • Page 77 Configuring Access Points in a Point-to-Point Network 10. Set the Bridge Mode to LAN-to-LAN Endpoint. This configures the Access Point to communicate with only one Access Point. 11. In the Wireless Parameters dialog box, enter the wireless MAC address of the remote Access Point.
  • Page 78 To configure Access Points for a Point-to-Point configuration, do the following: 1. Repeatedly press the <Return> key at the terminal that is connected to the console port until the RoamAbout Access Point Installation Menu appears. If using a computer, start the terminal emulation program and connect to the console port.
  • Page 79 When configuring a new Access Point, have the following information available: • The Access Point wired MAC address, which is printed on the front of the Access Point. The MAC address for the RoamAbout Access Point 2000 is underneath the plastic cover. •...

  • Page 80: Using The Ap Manager

    2. Start the AP Manager by clicking the Start button on the Windows desktop and selecting Programs → RoamAbout → RoamAbout Access Point Manager. 3. To add the Access Point to an existing group of Access Points, select File → Open from the menu bar and open the group.
  • Page 81 Configuring the Access Point for Point-to-Multipoint 10. Click the Advanced button in the Wireless Parameters window. 11. For the Central Access Point, perform the following: a) Set Bridge Mode to LAN-to-LAN Multipoint. The Multipoint Activation Key dialog box opens. This option is only available on Access Point 2000 with V6.0 or later firmware.

  • Page 82: Using The Console Port

    “Point-to-Multipoint” section on page 1-9. 2. Repeatedly press the <Return> key at the terminal that is connected to the console port until the RoamAbout Access Point Installation Menu appears. If using a computer, start the terminal emulation program and connect to the console port.
  • Page 83 Configuring the Access Point for Point-to-Multipoint 12. To prevent other users from using the console port to view or modify settings, enable Enable/Disable Console Password from the Installation Menu. Then choose Set SNMP Read/Write Community from the Installation Menu and enter a new community name (4 to 31 printable ASCII characters).

  • Page 84: Configuring Clients For An Ad-Hoc Network

    Configuring Clients for an Ad-Hoc Network Configuring Clients for an Ad-Hoc Network To configure clients for an ad-hoc network, perform the following: 1. From the Windows desktop, click Start then select Settings → Control Panel. Then double click the Network icon. 2.

  • Page 85: Showing Current Access Point Settings

    Showing Current Access Point Settings Showing Current Access Point Settings Before modifying parameters on the RoamAbout Access Point, view the current settings. Using the AP Manager, select the Access Point from the Managed List field and click the various buttons, such as Wireless Parameters, Operating Modes, IP Network Parameters, and Hardware.
  • Page 86 Access Point, the new setting is NOT reflected in this display. The following example shows the screen associated with this option. ============================================================ RoamAbout Access Point Wireless Configuration Current Station Name : RoamAbout AP Current Wireless Network Name : RoamAbout Default Network Name...

  • Page 87: Showing Current Client Settings

    Showing Current Client Settings Showing Current Client Settings To view or modify the RoamAbout client parameters, open the driver properties as follows: 1. From the Windows desktop, click Start then select Settings → Control Panel. Double click the Network icon. Alternately, right-click on Network Neighborhood on your desktop then select Properties from the menu.
  • Page 88 Showing Current Client Settings Figure 5-1: RoamAbout Properties Window (Windows 95/98 Version) A change to any of the driver’s parameters requires a computer restart for that change to take effect. You are prompted for a restart after you make a NOTE change.

  • Page 89: Configuring The Transmit Rate

    To modify the transmit rate using the console port, choose Module-Specific Options from the RoamAbout Access Point Installation Menu. From the module-specific menu, choose Set Wireless Configuration, then choose Set Transmit Rate. The Auto Rate Select option allows the Access Point to transmit at its highest supported transmit rate and to switch to the next lower supported rate when data transmissions fail more than once.

  • Page 90: Configuring The Rts/Cts Protocol

    You should not use RTS/CTS unless you have a problem. RTS Threshold on Access Points The RoamAbout Access Point uses the RTS Threshold to define the length of messages that must use RTS/CTS. When the message exceeds the threshold, the Access Point sends an RTS to the client (or Access Point in a LAN-to-LAN configuration).

  • Page 91: Configuring Power Management

    To modify the DTIM period using the console port, choose Module-Specific Options RoamAbout Access Point Installation Menu, then choose Set Wireless Configuration. If you do not want to change the value, press <Enter> to go back to the previous menu.

  • Page 92: Setting Default Rate Limiting (Multicast Traffic)

    To enable or disable this parameter using the console port, select the Module-Specific Options in the RoamAbout Access Point Installation Menu. To change the value of this setting (instead of enabling or disabling the 100 Kb/sec value), you need to manage the Access Point from a Network Management Station.

  • Page 93: Setting Encryption

    To enable or disable Secure Access using the console port, choose Module-Specific Options from the RoamAbout Access Point Installation Menu, then choose Set Wireless Configuration. If you do not want to change the value, press <Enter> to go back to the previous menu.
  • Page 94 — If using the AP Manager, select Reset from the main window, then select Reset with Current Settings. — If using the console port, select Reset with Current Settings from the RoamAbout Access Point Installation Menu. Allow approximately one minute for the Access Point to reset and complete its self-test.

  • Page 95: Configuring The Access Point Console Port For Security

    To enable or disable Spanning Tree using the console port, choose Module-Specific Options from the RoamAbout Access Point Installation Menu, then choose Bridge Mode Options. If you do not want to change the value, press <Enter> to go back to the previous menu.

  • Page 96: Checking The Configuration On Multiple Access Points

    Checking the Configuration on Multiple Access Points Checking the Configuration on Multiple Access Points The AP Manager provides integrity tests that check for consistent settings across all the Access Points in a single group. Use the integrity tests to make sure that the Access Points in a single wireless network are configured correctly.

  • Page 97: Resetting The Roamabout Access Point

    From the AP Manager, select Reset then select Reset with Current Settings. From a device attached to the console port, select Reset with Current Settings from the RoamAbout Access Point Installation Menu. Allow approximately one minute for the Access Point to reset and complete its self-test.

  • Page 98: Modifying The Access Point Snmp Settings

    Modifying the Access Point SNMP Settings Modifying the Access Point SNMP Settings For the AP Manager or any Network Management Station to remotely manage the Access Point, the Access Point must have: • A valid IP address and subnet mask. •...

  • Page 99: Changing The Snmp Read/Write Community Name

    Help button for detailed information. To change the read/write community name for the Access Point using the console port: 1. Choose Set SNMP Read/Write Community from the RoamAbout Access Point Installation Menu. 2. Enter the community name (4 to 31 printable ASCII characters).

  • Page 101: Maintaining The Wireless Network

    Chapter 6 Maintaining the Wireless Network To maintain the wireless network, you should regularly check the wireless coverage area, communications quality, and data throughput efficiency. As your environment changes, you may need to adjust wireless parameters or move Access Points to account for new obstructions or new sources of radio interference. You may also need to add Access Points should the number of users increase.

  • Page 102: Testing Radio Communications Quality

    Testing Radio Communications Quality Testing Radio Communications Quality You can test the radio communications quality from the Access Point to another wireless device using the AP Manager, or from a client to another wireless device using the RoamAbout Client Utility. Using the Access Point Manager The RoamAbout AP Manager provides a Link Test tool that tests the signal quality from the Access Point to a client or another Access Point.

  • Page 103: Using The Client Utility

    Testing Radio Communications Quality Using the Client Utility This procedure requires the RoamAbout Client Utility on a RoamAbout client. For information about a client utility window, press <F1> while in that window. 1. Start the RoamAbout Client Utility by clicking Start from the Taskbar then selecting Programs →...

  • Page 104: Testing Data Throughput Efficiency

    Testing Data Throughput Efficiency Testing Data Throughput Efficiency This procedure requires the RoamAbout Client Utility on a RoamAbout client. For information about a client utility window, press <F1> while in that window. 1. Start the RoamAbout Client Utility by clicking Start from the Taskbar then selecting Programs →...
  • Page 105 Testing Data Throughput Efficiency If all clients suffer from poor data throughput efficiency despite a good SNR value, the traffic load could be caused by the following: • Many wireless clients are trying to communicate simultaneously. • Clients are deferring data transmissions to avoid frame collisions. •...

  • Page 106: Optimizing Roamabout Access Point Placement

    Optimizing RoamAbout Access Point Placement Optimizing RoamAbout Access Point Placement The RoamAbout AP Manager and RoamAbout Client Utility provide diagnostic tools to determine the coverage area of an Access Point. If you have multiple Access Points in a wireless network, the client utility can help determine where the coverage areas overlap.

  • Page 107: Using Link Test

    Optimizing RoamAbout Access Point Placement Using Link Test The RoamAbout AP Manager provides a Link Test diagnostic tool that tests the signal quality from the Access Point to a client or another Access Point. 1. Select the Access Point from the Managed List field in the AP Manager main window.

  • Page 108: Optimizing Roamabout Outdoor Antenna Placement

    Optimizing RoamAbout Outdoor Antenna Placement Optimizing RoamAbout Outdoor Antenna Placement If an Access Point in a LAN-to-LAN configuration is connected to an outdoor directional antenna, the antenna must be pointed directly at the antenna for the other Access Point. A misaligned antenna can decrease the signal level or prevent communications.

  • Page 109: Logging Measurement Data

    Logging Measurement Data Logging Measurement Data You can save the results of your RoamAbout Client Utility Link Test or Site Monitor session in a log file. To enable logging, set the client utility to enhanced mode by clicking the Options button in the Status/Functions window. For information about a client utility window, press <F1>...

  • Page 110: Checking The Client Roamabout Pc Card

    Checking the Client RoamAbout PC Card Checking the Client RoamAbout PC Card The RoamAbout Client Utility has a Diagnose Card tool that checks the hardware and firmware of the RoamAbout PC Card. Run the card test only in situations where the Status/Functions window reports a card failure or when you suspect a configuration mismatch.

  • Page 111: Monitoring The Access Point Using Rmon

    Monitoring the Access Point Using RMON Monitoring the Access Point Using RMON Maintaining the Wireless Network 6-11...

  • Page 112: Checking Roamabout Product Version Numbers

    Manager, choose the Hardware button and check the software version (SW=Vx.x). Refer to the AP Manager on-line help for additional information. To check the RoamAbout Access Point firmware version using the console port, select Show Current Settings from the Installation Menu. The top line contains the firmware version (SW=Vx.x).

  • Page 113: Upgrading The Roamabout Access Point

    Upgrading the RoamAbout Access Point Firmware and ROM Upgrading the RoamAbout Access Point Firmware and ROM The Access Point firmware, also called embedded software, can be easily upgraded. Regularly check the RoamAbout web site for the latest information concerning RoamAbout updates. To upgrade the Access Point, copy the image file (*.BIN) from the web site to the same directory as the AP Manager or BootP/TFTP server.

  • Page 114: Using The Access Point Hardware Reset Button

    Upgrading the RoamAbout Access Point Firmware and ROM Using the Access Point Hardware Reset Button The Reset button on the Access Point hardware forces the Access Point to download a firmware image and reset to factory default values. If the power is interrupted during the ROM upgrade process, the image in your device will become corrupt.

  • Page 115: Replacing The Pc Card In An Access Point

    Replacing the PC Card in an Access Point Replacing the PC Card in an Access Point You may need to replace a defective PC Card or upgrade the PC Card in an Access Point. If upgrading the Access Point from a 2 Mbit/s PC Card to an 11 Mbit/s PC Card, make sure that the Access Point firmware version is V5.0 or greater, as described in the “Checking RoamAbout Product Version Numbers”...

  • Page 116: Upgrading The Roamabout Miniport Driver

    Upgrading the RoamAbout Miniport Driver Upgrading the RoamAbout Miniport Driver The RoamAbout Miniport driver is used on Windows 95, 98, and NT systems. Upgrading the installed RoamAbout driver may be required if: • You want to use new features that have become available for your RoamAbout PC Card.

  • Page 117: Upgrading The Driver For Windows Nt

    Upgrading the RoamAbout Miniport Driver Upgrading the Driver for Windows NT Use the following procedure to upgrade the RoamAbout driver on Windows NT systems. 1. From the Taskbar on the Windows desktop, click Start then select Settings → Control Panel. 2.

  • Page 118: Removing The Roamabout Miniport Driver

    Removing the RoamAbout Miniport Driver Removing the RoamAbout Miniport Driver If you have Version 1.0 of the RoamAbout Miniport driver, you need to perform extra steps. Check the driver version number as described in the “Checking RoamAbout Product Version Numbers” section on page 6-12, before performing this procedure. 1.
  • Page 119 Deleting the RoamAbout Driver Files 7. For Windows 95 and 98 systems, delete these RoamAbout driver files: — WVLAN41.SYS — WVLANUIF.VXD — WV41INST.DLL (if present) — WVLAN41.HLP — WVLAN41.CNT — WVLAN41.FTS (if present) — WVLAN41.GID (if present) — RMABT41.HLP (if present) —...

  • Page 120: Removing The Apple Driver

    Removing the Apple Driver Removing the Apple Driver Removing a previously installed Apple driver is mandatory to: • Upgrade a driver. • Change the type of driver. For example, you would change the type of driver when migrating from Apple Classic to Apple Open Transport. To remove the driver, proceed as follows: 1.

  • Page 121: Problem Solving

    Chapter 7 Problem Solving This chapter contains problem solving information for the RoamAbout wireless network If the problem appears to be with an Access Point or a specific client, check the LEDs firs The Access Point LEDs are described in the next section. The client LEDs are described o page 7-20.

  • Page 122: Using The Access Point Leds To Determine The Problem

    Using the Access Point LEDs to Determine the Problem Using the Access Point LEDs to Determine the Problem The Access Point LEDs show status and help diagnose problems. The following sections describe the LEDs on the Access Point 2000 and the original release of the Access Point. The following figure shows the two Access Points.
  • Page 123 Using the Access Point LEDs to Determine the Problem Table 7-1: RoamAbout Access Point 2000 LED Summary Table Name Description Power/ Lights when the Access Point has power and has passed the self-test. If the Access Point fails the test, the LED blinks at System OK a steady rate.
  • Page 124 Using the Access Point LEDs to Determine the Problem Table 7-2: RoamAbout Access Point 2000 LED Patterns Wired Wireless Access Bridge Power/ Meaning of LED Point State System Pattern Saturated No power. Check the power connections. Diagnostics failed. The Access Point automatically resets after one minute.
  • Page 125 Using the Access Point LEDs to Determine the Problem Table 7-2: RoamAbout Access Point 2000 LED Patterns (Cont’d) Wired Wireless Access Bridge Power/ Meaning of LED Point State System Pattern Saturated Cannot communicate with the wired network. Verify that the Ethernet cable is properly connected.
  • Page 126 Using the Access Point LEDs to Determine the Problem Table 7-3: Network Loading LED Patterns Wired Wireless Access Point Bridge Power/ Meaning Saturated State System of LED Pattern Downline loading image from load host. TFTP file not found or other TFTP error. (LEDs blink 10 times.) Upgrading Flash.

  • Page 127: Access Point (Original) Leds

    Access Point (Original) LEDs Table 7-4 describes the LED functions. Table 7-5 describes the patterns, likely causes, and possible corrective actions. Table 7-6 describes the patterns during a firmware upgrade. Table 7-4: RoamAbout Access Point (Original) LED Summary Table Name Description Lights (green) when the Access Point has power.
  • Page 128 Using the Access Point LEDs to Determine the Problem Table 7-4: RoamAbout Access Point (Original) LED Summary Table (Cont’d) Name Description Wireless LAN The LED lights (green) when packets are: • Activity Received on the wireless port and forwarded to the Ethernet port.
  • Page 129 Using the Access Point LEDs to Determine the Problem Table 7-5: RoamAbout Access Point (Original) LED Patterns Power Module Wired Bridge Saturated Wireless Card Meaning of State Present LED Pattern No power. Check the power connections. PC Card not inserted properly.
  • Page 130 Using the Access Point LEDs to Determine the Problem Table 7-5: RoamAbout Access Point (Original) LED Patterns (Cont’d) Power Module Wired Bridge Saturated Wireless Card Meaning of State Present LED Pattern Access Point is occasionally saturated due to excessive traffic. No action is required.
  • Page 131 Using the Access Point LEDs to Determine the Problem Table 7-6: Network Loading/Upline Dumping LED Patterns Power Module Wired Bridge Saturated Wireless Card Meaning of State Present Pattern Waiting for downline load from load host Downline loading image from load host Firmware error detected...
  • Page 132 Using the Access Point LEDs to Determine the Problem Table 7-6: Network Lo Unsuccess- ful Flash upgrade Invalid load image: corrupted image Invalid load image: image too large TFTP error Firmware error or number of retries exceeded Hardware error 7-12 Problem Solving...

  • Page 133: Showing Counters

    1) Select the Access Point from the Managed List field. 2) Click the Statistics button. To show all the counters using the console port: 1) Choose Module-Specific Options from the RoamAbout Access Point Installation Menu. 2) Choose Show Counters from the next menu. The following example shows the screens associated with Show Counters.
  • Page 134 Showing Counters Device uptime: 0 00:30:08 ETHERNET Port 0 WIRELESS Port 1 Individually addressed bytes sent: Multicast bytes sent: 111446 109406 Individually addressed bytes received: Multicast bytes received: Individually addressed frames sent: Multicast frames sent: 1850 1820 Individually addressed frames received: Multicast frames received: Frames deferred: Single collision:...

  • Page 135: Individually Addressed Frames Sent (Txunicastframes)

    Showing Counters Individually Addressed Frames Sent (TxUnicastFrames) This counter displays the number of messages sent by the PC Card that are destined for another wireless device. In most LAN applications, it is normal behavior for this counter to have a high value and is continuously increasing (you can see it run). For example, this counter should increase rapidly when running the Link Test.

  • Page 136: Signal Retry Frames Sent (Txsingleretryframes)

    Showing Counters Signal Retry Frames Sent (TxSingleRetryFrames) This counter displays the number of messages that were retransmitted a single time before being acknowledged by the receiving device. Retransmission is a normal behavior for the IEEE 802.11 protocol in order to recover quickly from lost messages. A relatively high value for this counter in comparison with the TxFragments counter identifies a wireless network that suffers from interference (noise) or a heavy load of wireless data traffic.

  • Page 137: Individually Addressed Frames Received (Rxunicastframes)

    Showing Counters Individually Addressed Frames Received (RxUnicastFrames) This counter displays the number of messages sent by other devices to this PC Card. In most LAN applications, it is normal behavior for this counter to have a high value and is continuously increasing (you can see it run).
  • Page 138 Showing Counters Receive Buffer Not Available (RxDiscardsNoBuffer) 7-18 Problem Solving...

  • Page 139: Wep Excluded

    Access Point settings and one for wireless settings. To display the Access Point settings error logs using the console port, choose Dump Error Log from the RoamAbout Access Point Installation Menu. This error log displays various information, including current reset count and PC Card present/not present.

  • Page 140: Roamabout Pc Card Led Activity In A Client

    RoamAbout PC Card LED Activity in a Client RoamAbout PC Card LED Activity in a Client If you encounter difficulty using a RoamAbout client, the error may be related to various causes, such as: • Out-of range situation, which prevents the PC Card from establishing a wireless connection with the network.
  • Page 141 RoamAbout PC Card LED Activity in a Client Table 7-7: RoamAbout PC Card LED Description Power Transmit Description/Action /Receive Continuous Blinking Standard operational mode: Green • Card is powered on. • Sensing/transmitting wireless data. • Card is powered on. • A network connection was established but currently there is no wireless activity.

  • Page 142: Windows Does Not Detect The Roamabout Pc Card

    Windows Does Not Detect the RoamAbout PC Card Table 7-7: RoamAbout PC Card LED Description (Cont’d) Power Transmit Description/Action /Receive Card is not powered on. The cause may be: • No driver loaded or installed. • Card and driver mismatch that prevented the driver from loading.

  • Page 143: Client Cannot Connect To The Network

    • If using ANY as the wireless network name or the field is blank, verify that the RoamAbout Access Point has disabled Secure Access. • If the wireless network is using encryption, make sure that encryption is enabled and that the correct encryption key is entered in the correct key position (1, 2, 3, or 4).

  • Page 144: Checking The Network Protocols On A Windows System

    Checking the Network Protocols on a Windows System Checking the Network Protocols on a Windows System To verify that the client is configured for the correct type of networking and networking protocols: 1) From the Windows desktop, click Start then select Settings → Control Panel.
  • Page 145 Checking the Network Protocols on a Windows System To enter the computer and workgroup names: 1) If the Network window shown below is not opened, click Start, select Settings → Control Panel, then double click Network. 2) Click the Identification tab as shown below. The Windows NT version of this window is similar.

  • Page 146: Device Conflict On A Windows System

    Device Conflict on a Windows System Device Conflict on a Windows System A device conflict under Windows NT may be related to the RoamAbout ISA card or PC Card. To detect which card is causing the conflict, use the Windows NT diagnostics. This problem can also appear on Windows 98 and the early version of Windows 95 (OSR0).
  • Page 147 Device Conflict on a Windows System 3) Click the IRQ button to display the Interrupt Request (IRQ) vectors currently in use by other devices in your computer. If IRQ value 10 (default value for the PC Card) is not used, write down IRQ 10. If 10 is used, select a value not listed in the Windows NT Diagnostics window and write it down.

  • Page 148: Windows 95 Or 98

    It is possible that a conflict can still occur even after using the Windows NT Diagnostics program to determine unused I/O port addresses and IRQ values. This can happen when your computer has one or more devices and/or peripherals installed that claimed an I/O Base Address or IRQ value without notifying the Windows NT operating system.

  • Page 149: Changing The Isa Adapter Address

    To have the Access Point send SNMP traps, you need to enter the IP address of the device where the trap is to be sent. A trap is a defined event or condition detected by the RoamAbout Access Point SNMP agent. The Access Point sends an SNMP trap when any of the following events occur: •...

  • Page 150: Setting Upline Dump

    Setting Upline Dump To enter an SNMP trap address using the console port: 1) Choose Add SNMP Trap Addresses from the RoamAbout Access Point Installation Menu. 2) Enter the IP address of the system that you want to receive the SNMP traps.
  • Page 151 Appendix A RoamAbout Product Specifications This appendix lists the various specifications of the RoamAbout products. PC Card and ISA Adapter Physical Specifications Form factor PC card: PC card type-II extended ISA card: Half-size ISA adapter card Dimension: PC Card (LxWxH) 118 x 54 x 8 mm (4.72 x 2.16 x 0.32 in) Dimension: ISA Adapter (LxWxH)
  • Page 152 PC Card and ISA Adapter Physical Specifications PC Card Power Characteristics Doze mode 9 mA Receive mode 185 mA Transmit mode 285 mA Power supply PC Card Networking Characteristics Compatibility IEEE 802.11B standard for wireless LANs (DSSS) Network operating Novell client 3.x & 4.x system Microsoft Windows Networking Host operating...
  • Page 153 PC Card Radio Characteristics PC Card Radio Characteristics Radio characteristics of RoamAbout PC Cards may vary according to the country where the product was purchased (see Table A-1). If you plan to connect a RoamAbout Access Point to an outdoor antenna installation, additional regulations may apply. You use a different RoamAbout PC Card when connecting to the RoamAbout outdoor 14 dBi directional antenna in countries that adhere to ETSI regulations (see Table A-2).
  • Page 154 PC Card Radio Characteristics Table A-2: Radio Characteristics (For Outdoor Antenna Use) R-F frequency band 2.4 GHz (2400-2500 MHz) Number of selectable Europe (ETSI) sub-channels France (FR) Japan (JP) Other countries that adhere to ETSI Modulation technique Direct sequence spread spectrum (DQPSK, CCK, DBPSK) Spreading 11-chip barker sequence...
  • Page 155 In RoamAbout infrastructure environments, the RoamAbout PC Card automatically starts operation at the frequency channel that is used by the RoamAbout Access Point. This frequency is controlled by the LAN administrator who sets the RoamAbout Access Point configuration. Table A-3 shows the factory-set default values, which are printed in bold.
  • Page 156 Range Extender Antenna Specifications Range Extender Antenna Specifications You can connect the RoamAbout Range Extender antenna to a RoamAbout PC Card in either an Access Point or wireless client. Use the Range Extender antenna to ensure optimal transmission and reception quality for situations where the PC Card integrated antennas are shielded.
  • Page 157 Vehicle-Mount Antenna Specifications Vehicle-Mount Antenna Specifications The RoamAbout Vehicle-Mount antenna can be mounted on vehicles, such as fork-lift trucks, that need continuous access to networked data, whether inside or outside of the building. Table A-5 provides the specifications for the Vehicle-Mount antenna. Table A-5: Vehicle Mount Antenna Specifications Mechanical Cable Length...
  • Page 159 Ad-hoc networks are also referred to as peer-to-peer networks. Beacon A message that is transmitted at regular intervals by the RoamAbout Access Point to all wireless clients in the wireless network. Beacons are used to maintain and optimize communications by helping mobile clients to automatically connect to the Access Point that provides the best communications quality.
  • Page 160 An antenna that radiates RF signals in a specific direction. A directional antenna typically has a higher gain and can cover a greater distance than an omni-directional antenna. A 14 dBi Yagi directional antenna is available as an option for the RoamAbout Access Point. ETSI European Telecommunications Standards Institute.
  • Page 162 Glossary RoamAbout Access Point Manager Software used to manage and configure one or more Access Points. The software is installed on a Windows computer that connects to the Access Point via a wired LAN or wireless LAN. roaming The ability for a wireless client to move from one cell to another in a wireless network without losing the network connection.
  • Page 163 Glossary wireless infrastructure network A wireless network that consists of wireless clients connected by one or more Access Points to a wired Ethernet LAN. wireless network A collection of end-user systems connected together using a medium such as radio frequency or infrared technology.
  • Page 165 Index antennas 1-14, 6-8 Access Point ANY (as a wireless network name) 2-1 configuring for infrastructure network 5-2– AP Density Access Point 5-4, 5-6 configuring for Point-to-Multipoint ad-hoc network 5-18 5-13–5-17 client 5-7 configuring for Point-to-Point 5-9–5-12 description 2-6 definition 1-2 integrity test 5-30 factory defaults 5-31 AP Manager...
  • Page 166 Index BootP/TFTP 4-2, 5-31, 6-13 site monitor 4-11 bridge 1-2 test history 6-5 bridge mode version 6-12 description 1-3 coldstart trap 7-29 infrastructure network 5-3 Comma Separated Value (CSV) file 6-9 integrity test 5-30 communications quality LAN-to-LAN Endpoint 5-6, 5-11 description 2-5 LAN-to-LAN Multipoint 5-16 testing 6-2–6-3...
  • Page 167 Index description 2-6 frame collisions 2-9, 6-5 testing 6-4 with Link Test 4-9 Deny Non-encrypted Data 5-27, 7-19 gateway 5-32 DHCP server 5-2, 5-9, 5-13 grounding system 3-6 Diagnose Card 4-9, 6-10 directional antenna 1-16, 6-8 distances hexadecimal digit key 5-27 ad-hoc network 3-7 hidden station 2-8, 5-24 infrastructure network 3-2...
  • Page 168 Index log file outdoor antenna 1-16, 3-5, 3-6, 6-8 Access Point 7-19 client 6-9 login names 2-11 Parameters integrity test 5-30 passwords 2-11 PC Card MAC address 11 Mbit/s 2-4–2-5 changing to local 5-33 2 Mbit/s 2-4–2-5 description 2-2 description 1-4 wireless 5-9, 5-13 diagnostics 4-9, 6-10 MAC address filter 2-15...
  • Page 169 Index protocol filter 2-15 RxUnicastFrames 7-17 RxUnicastOctets 7-17 Range Extender antenna description 1-15 Secure Access specifications A-6 Access Point 5-4, 5-5 Rate Limiting 5-26 client 5-7 integrity test 5-30 configuring 5-26 read/write community name 2-13, 5-32, 5-33 description 2-11 read-only community name 2-13 integrity test 5-30 Receive All Required Multicasts security...
  • Page 170 Index testing data throughput 6-4 Spanning Tree Protocol 1-4, 2-15, 5-29 Vehicle-Mount antenna Station Firmware 5-25, 6-12 description 1-14 Station Name specifications A-7 client 5-7 with infrastructure network 3-5 infrastructure network 5-3, 5-5 integrity test 5-30 web site 3-8, 6-13, 6-20 Point-to-Multipoint 5-14, 5-16 Point-to-Point 5-10, 5-12 configuring 5-27...

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