Cisco Linksys WRT150N User Manual page 68

Wireless-N Home Router
What is DSSS? What is FHSS? And what are their differences?
Frequency-Hopping Spread-Spectrum (FHSS) uses a narrowband carrier that changes frequency in a pattern that
is known to both transmitter and receiver. Properly synchronized, the net effect is to maintain a single logical
channel. To an unintended receiver, FHSS appears to be short-duration impulse noise. Direct-Sequence Spread-
Spectrum (DSSS) generates a redundant bit pattern for each bit to be transmitted. This bit pattern is called a chip
(or chipping code). The longer the chip, the greater the probability that the original data can be recovered. Even if
one or more bits in the chip are damaged during transmission, statistical techniques embedded in the radio can
recover the original data without the need for retransmission. To an unintended receiver, DSSS appears as low
power wideband noise and is rejected (ignored) by most narrowband receivers.
What is a MAC Address?
The Media Access Control (MAC) address is a unique number assigned by the manufacturer to any Ethernet
networking device, such as a network adapter, that allows the network to identify it at the hardware level. For all
practical purposes, this number is usually permanent. Unlike IP addresses, which can change every time a
computer logs onto the network, the MAC address of a device stays the same, making it a valuable identifier for
the network.
How do I reset the Router?
Press the Reset button on the back panel for about five seconds. This will reset the Router to its default settings.
How do I resolve issues with signal loss?
There is no way to know the exact range of your wireless network without testing. Every obstacle placed between
the Router and a wireless PC will create signal loss. Lead glass, metal, concrete floors, water and walls will
inhibit the signal and reduce range. Start with the Router and your wireless PC in the same room and move it
away in small increments to determine the maximum range in your environment.
You may also try using different channels, as this may eliminate interference affecting only one channel.
I have excellent signal strength, but I cannot see my network.
Wireless security is probably enabled on the Router, but not on your wireless adapter (or vice versa). Verify that
the same wireless security method and passphrase/keys are being used on all devices of your wireless network.
How many channels/frequencies are available with the Router?
There are eleven available channels, ranging from 1 to 11, in North America. There may be additional channels
available in other regions, subject to the regulations of your region and/or country.
If your questions are not addressed here, refer to the Linksys website, www.linksys.com.
Appendix A: Troubleshooting 62
Frequently Asked Questions