Introduction To The Client Adapters - Cisco AIR-PCM342 Hardware Installation Manual

Introduction to the Client Adapters

Introduction to the Client Adapters
Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Adapters Hardware Installation Guide
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The Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Adapters, also referred to as client adapters, are
radio modules that provide transparent wireless data communications between
fixed, portable, or mobile devices and other wireless devices or a wired network
infrastructure. The client adapters are fully compatible when used in devices
supporting Plug-and-Play (PnP) technology.
The primary function of the client adapters is to transfer data packets
transparently through the wireless infrastructure. The adapters operate similarly
to a standard network product except that the cable is replaced with a radio
connection. No special wireless networking functions are required, and all
existing applications that operate over a network will operate using the adapters.
This document covers three types of client adapters:
PC card client adapter (also referred to as a PC card) –
•
A PCMCIA card radio module that can be inserted into
any device equipped with an external Type II or Type III
PC card slot. Host devices can include laptops, notebook
computers, personal digital assistants, and hand-held or
portable devices.
• LM card client adapter (also referred to as an LM card)
– A PCMCIA card radio module that can be inserted into
any device equipped with an internal Type II or Type III
PC card slot. Host devices usually include hand-held or
portable devices.
PCI client adapter – A client adapter card radio module
•
that can be inserted into any device equipped with
an empty PCI expansion slot, such as a desktop
computer.
Refer to the "Radio Antenna" section on page 1-4 for antenna differences between
these adapters.
Chapter 1 Product Overview
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