Scientific Atlanta DPW939 - Manual (Page 6)

Recommended Network Settings
5
Recommended Network Settings
The WebSTAR DPW939 USB Wireless LAN Adapter may be used in both Ad-hoc and Infrastructure network
modes. The following sections describe how the device functions in these network modes.
The WebSTAR DPW939 USB Wireless LAN Adapter connects to one of the
following:
• A wireless device (Ad-hoc network mode)
• An access point (Infrastructure network mode)
Ad-hoc network mode
When in an Ad-hoc network, the WebSTAR DPW939 USB Wireless LAN Adapter
connects to another wireless device. No access point (AP) is present in this
wireless environment. Ad-hoc mode is also referred to as peer-to-peer mode or
an Independent Basic Service Set (IBSS). Ad-hoc is useful for establishing a
network where wireless infrastructure does not exist or where services are not
required.
Infrastructure network mode
When in an Infrastructure network, the wireless network is centered on an access
point (AP) that provides a central link for wireless clients to communicate with
each other or with a wired network. In this configuration, the WebSTAR DPW939
USB Wireless LAN Adapter connects to an AP using a single or multiple Internet
protocol (IP) to establish connection to a wired or wireless LAN.
Note: Determine your network settings before installing the device in order to
take advantage of all its features.
Operating Range
The WebSTAR DPW939 USB Wireless LAN Adapter range is dependent on the
operating environment. Every home or office layout varies in obstacles, barriers,
or wall types that may reflect or absorb radio signals. For example, two 802.11b
devices in an open space may achieve an operating distance of up to 1000
meters, while the same devices may only achieve up to 300 meters of range
when used indoors.
The device automatically adjusts the data rate to maintain an operational
wireless connection. A wireless device that is close to an AP may operate at
higher speeds than a device far from the AP. You can configure the data rates
that a device uses. If you limit the range of data rates available to the WebSTAR
DPW939 USB Wireless LAN Adapter, you may reduce the effective range of the
wireless LAN coverage.