Planet Technology WL-U356 - Manual (Page 5)

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Chapter 1 Introduction
Complying with the IEEE 802.11g standard, WL-U356 provides simple, reliable, high-speed wireless
connectivity for both desktop and laptop users. By combining two, state-of-the-art technologies—USB 2.0
and 802.11g—the gadget delivers data at speed up to 54Mbps, five times the speed of existing 802.11b
devices, and spares the effort of opening up the case of your desktop computer.
WL-U356 contains an internal patch antenna. It takes advantage of the flexibility and convenience of
USB connections without sacrificing performance. Support of 64, 128 and 256-bit WEP encryption plus
WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access) high-level encryption prevents your wireless communications from
unauthorized access and ensures secure data transfer.
WL-U356 supports software AP function, which can turn the USB adapter into a compact Access Point
instantly. The USB adapter is also backward compatible with 802.11b products, so both 11b and 11g
clients can reside on the same network. Easy installation and Hot-plugging offers full mobility and high
availability, making the device a perfect choice for users who are getting tired of running cables or in
constant need of wireless access.
1.1 Features
l 2.4GHz ISM band, unlicensed operation
l Wireless connectivity without the hassles and cost of running cables
l IEEE 802.11b/g standard compliant
l USB 2.0 A-type standard connector, compatible with USB 1.1
l Up to 54Mbps data rate
l Utilization of Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum plus OFDM modulation to provide
robust, interference-resistant solution in a multi-user environment
l Support of 64/128/256-bit WEP encryption and WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access)
high-level encryption
l Support of Ad-Hoc / Infrastructure mode
l Support of software AP function.
l Support of most popular operating systems including Windows
98SE/ME/2000/XP/Server 2003
l Plug-and -Play installation
1.2 Application
Infrastructure
The major difference between Infrastructure network and Ad-hoc wireless network is that the former
requires an Access point. For old buildings, open areas, or frequently changing environments, just
install the WL-U356 on your desktop or laptop, and thus you can get connected to the wired
Ethernet through a wireless Access Point. SOHO users can then access the Internet and share all
kinds of data with the other wired or wireless clients within the coverage of wireless signals. For
enterprise users, the installation of multiple Access Points to enlarge the coverage of wireless