Sony Group PCWAC700 802.11a/b Dual-Band Wireless LAN PCMCIA Card User Manual PCWA C700

Sony Corporation 802.11a/b Dual-Band Wireless LAN PCMCIA Card PCWA C700

Users manual 1

Operating InstructionsIEEE802.11a/b Dual BandWireless PC CardPCWA-C7004-672-859-11(1)© 2003 Sony Corporation
2WARNINGTo prevent fire or shock hazard, do notexpose the unit to rain or moisture.Owner’s RecordThe model and serial numbers are located on theback of the unit. Record the serial number in thespace provided below. Refer to them wheneveryou call upon your Sony dealer regarding thisproduct.Model No. PCWA-C700Serial No.______________CAUTIONAny changes or modifications not expresslyapproved in this manual could void your warranty.FCC ID: AK8PCWAC700Exposure to Radio Frequency Radiation.The radiated output power of the Wireless LANPC Card is far below the FCC radio frequencyexposure limits.Nevertheless, the Wireless LAN PC Card shall beused in such a manner that the potential for humancontact during normal operation is minimized.NoteThis equipment has been tested and found tocomply with the limits for a Class B digitaldevice, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.These limits are designed to provide reasonableprotection against harmful interference in aresidential installation. This equipment generates,uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and,if not installed and used in accordance with theinstructions, may cause harmful interference toradio or communications. However, there is noguarantee that interference will not occur in aparticular installation. If this equipment doescause harmful interference to television reception,which can be determined by turning the equipmentoff and on, the user is encouraged to try to correctthe interference by one or more of the followingmeasures:– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.– Increase the separation between the equipmentand receiver.– Connect the equipment into an outlet on acircuit different from that to which the receiveris connected.– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TVtechnician for help.Declaration of ConformityTrade Name: SonyModel No: PCWA-C700Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.Address: 680 Kinderkamack Road,Oradell, NJ 07649 USATelephone: 201-930-6972This phone number is for FCC-related mattersonly.This device complies with part 15 of the FCCRules.Operation is subject to the following twoconditions:(1) This device may not cause harmfulinterference, and(2) this device must accept any interferencereceived, including interference that maycause undesired operation.You are cautioned that any changes ormodifications not expressly approved in thismanual could void your authority to operate thisequipment.Safety InformationWARNING• Opening the unit, for whatever reason, couldlead to damages that are not covered by thewarranty.• Do not use this equipment on hospital premises.Doing so may cause medical devices tomalfunction.• If using the equipment near a pacemaker, makesure it is at least 9 inches (22 cm) away fromthe pacemaker.• Do not use this equipment in an aircraft, asdoing so could cause the aircraft's equipment tomalfunction. Make sure you remove theequipment from the PC card slot beforecarrying your computer onto an aircraft.• When using the unit with 802.11a (5 GHz), useit indoors.• Do not apply unnecessary physical strain on theunit when it is inserted in your computer as thiscould damage the unit and/or your computer.• The use of optical instruments with this productwill increase eye hazard.
3• Install and connect this product by followingdescriptions in its Operating Instructions andQuick Install Guide before using it.• This equipment generates and radiates radio-frequency energy. SAR (Specific Absorption Rate) for this device was measured in accordance with FCC OET Bulletin 65, Supplement C and guidelines established in IEEE C95.1-1991. The user is advised to maintain a distance of at least 3 mm from the antenna of this devicewhile it is in use.Users are not permitted to make changes ormodify the system in any way.About the supplied softwareTHE SUPPLIED SOFTWARE IS SUPPLIEDPURSUANT TO THE APPLICABLE END-USER LICENSE AGREEMENT.• Copyright laws prohibit reproducing thesoftware or the software manual in whole or inpart, or renting the software without thepermission of the copyright holder.• In no event will SONY be liable for anyfinancial damage or loss of profits, includingclaims made by third parties, arising out of theuse of the software supplied with this product.• In the event a problem occurs with this softwareas a result of defective manufacturing, SONYwill replace it at SONY’s option or issue arefund; however, SONY bears no otherresponsibility.• The software provided with this product cannotbe used with equipment other than that which isdesignated for use with.• Please note that, due to continued efforts toimprove quality, the software specificationsmay be changed without notice.Program © 2001, 2002, 2003 Sony Corporation,© 2000-2003 Atheros Communications, Inc., AllRights ReservedDocumentation © 2003 Sony CorporationSony, VAIO, and the VAIO logo are trademarksof Sony Corporation.Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarksof Microsoft Corporation in the United States ofAmerica and other countries.MMX and Pentium are registered trademarks ofIntel Corporation.Ehternet is a registered trademark of Xerox Co.,Ltd.All other trademarks are trademarks of theirrespective owners.Notes• The user interface of the Sony suppliedsoftware may differ slightly from that shown inthis manual.• This manual is written based on the assumptionthat you are familiar with basic operations ofthe Windows operating system. For computeroperations, refer to manuals that come withyour computer.• In this manual, Microsoft® Windows®Millennium Edition is referred to as WindowsMe.• In this manual, Microsoft® Windows® 2000Professional is referred to as Windows 2000.• In this manual, Microsoft® Windows® XPProfessional and Microsoft® Windows® XPHome Edition are referred to as Windows XP.
4Table of contentsOverview ............................................... 5Capabilities.................................... 5System requirements ..................... 9Documentation and Help file............... 10Getting startedUnpacking............................................ 11Supplied software ........................ 11Names of parts ..................................... 12Inserting the Wireless LANPC Card........................................... 13To remove the Wireless LANPC Card ................................... 14If your computer has two PC Cardslots .......................................... 14Software setupInstalling the supplied software ........... 15Installing the Wireless LAN PCCard driver ............................... 15Installing the Wireless Panel ....... 22Verifying Wireless LAN PC Carddriver installation ..................... 24Wireless LAN connectionConfiguring the wireless LANenvironment .................................... 31Windows Me orWindows 2000 ......................... 31Windows XP ............................... 41Checking the communication status .... 53Checking the wireless signalstrength .................................... 53Checking network information ... 53Using the Wireless Panel ..................... 54Calling up the Wireless Panel mainscreen ....................................... 54Removing the supplied software ......... 63Uninstalling the Wireless LAN PCCard driver ............................... 63Uninstalling the Wireless Panel .. 66Additional informationPrecautions .......................................... 69Specifications ...................................... 70Getting help ......................................... 70Glossary ............................................... 71Troubleshooting................................... 73
5OverviewCapabilitiesThe IEEE802.11a/b Dual Band Wireless PC Card PCWA-C700*1 is a PCCard type wireless network card. With this card, you can build a wirelessLAN, allowing multiple computers to communicate and exchange datawithout needing any physical connection. The supplied Wireless Panelsoftware lets you easily configure the card for multiple networks. Forexample, you can store different settings required for networking at theoffice and at home, or quickly switch between Access Point (Infrastructure)Network connection mode and Peer to Peer (Ad-Hoc) connection mode.This greatly facilitates use of the card in various environments and for arange of applications.z Hints•The network mode can be easily switched using the supplied Wireless Panel software.•To use the card in Access Point Network connection mode, a separately available802.11a/b Wireless LAN Access Point*2 is required.With Windows Me or Windows 2000:*1 In this documentation, the IEEE802.11a/b Dual Band Wireless PC Card PCWA-C700is referred to as Wireless LAN PC Card.*2 If using the separately available 5GHz Wireless LAN Access Point PCWA-A500(February, 2003), refer also to the “Quick Start Guide” supplied with the unit.Peer to Peer (Ad-Hoc) connection modeAccess Point (Infrastructure) Networkconnection mode
6With Windows XP:Windows XP Service Pack 1:Available Wireless NetworksAvailable Wireless Networks
7Accessing the Internet from various points within yourhome (Access Point Network connection mode)With a separately available Access Point you can easily build a wirelessnetwork. By connecting a DSL modem, cable modem, or ISDN router tothe Access Point, you can access the Internet from the living room,bedroom, or any other convenient location in the house. Equipping multiplecomputers with a Wireless LAN PC Card also allows you to exchange filesbetween the computers via the Access Point.POWERMESSAGEWIRELESSNETWORK 1NETWORK 2z HintThe illustration above shows an example of a system configuration using Access PointNetwork connection mode. Two computers with Wireless LAN PC Cards communicatewith the Access Point, which is connected to an Ethernet LAN via a hub.InternetISPDSL modemCable modemISDN routerAccess Point
8Smooth movie streaming playback*(in Peer to Peer connection mode)Peer to Peer connection mode enables computers equipped with WirelessLAN PC Cards to communicate directly. This allows playback of streamingdata and file sharing also in locations where the Wireless LAN AccessPoint is not present.Notes•Weak radio conditions may cause video playback interruptions.•Smooth movie streaming playback is only possible when using 802.11a (5 GHz).* A method of playing a file while the download is still in progress.
9System requirementsTo use the supplied software, the following system requirements must bemet:❑Windows PC:– 128 MB RAM or more– Card Bus compliant PC Card slot– CD-ROM drive (for software installation)❑Operating system:–Microsoft® Windows® Millennium Edition–Microsoft® Windows® 2000 Professional–Microsoft® Windows® XP Home Edition–Microsoft® Windows® XP Professional❑Display:High color (16 bit color) or higher, 800 × 400 pixels or higherNotes•Correct operation is not assured for all computers, even if satisfying the above systemrequirements.•Correct operation in an OS upgrade environment is not assured, except for factoryprovided Windows XP upgrade packages for Sony VAIO series computers. •For Internet access via the wireless LAN, a 802/11a/b Wireless LAN Access Point(available separately) is required. •An Internet Service Provider (ISP) is required for Internet access.
10Documentation and Help fileThis product comes with the following documentation and help files.❑Quick Install GuideContains information about how to install the Wireless LAN PC Cardand the Wireless LAN PC Card driver. Also explains how to install andset up the supplied Wireless Panel software. All basic settings can bemade using the steps outlined in this guide. You should refer to this guidefirst.❑Wireless LAN Quick GuideContains detailed information about the Wireless Panel software andinstructions for setting up a Peer to Peer network. This guide providesinformation on configuring and changing specific settings.❑Troubleshooting GuideContains answers to frequently asked questions and commonlyencountered problems. Refer to the “Quick Install Guide” for additionalinformation. Also go through the points listed here before contactingSony Customer Information Services Center.❑Operating Instructions (this document)Explains how to install the Wireless LAN PC Card and how to configureall settings of the card. Refer to the “Quick Install Guide” for additionalinformation.❑Wireless Panel Online HelpThis is the Online Help of the supplied Wireless Panel software. Refer tothis help for instructions on how to use the software. Access the WirelessPanel Online Help as follows:1Install the Wireless Panel software, following the instructions in thismanual or in the “Quick Install Guide”.2Start the Wireless Panel.3Right-click the Wireless Panel icon in the system tray (notificationarea in Windows XP), and select Help from the shortcut menu.z HintYou can also access Help by clicking the icon on the Wireless Panel title bar.
11Getting startedUnpackingYour Wireless LAN PC Card comes with the following items:•Wireless PC Card PCWA-C700•PC Card case•CD-ROM (Setup disc)•CD-ROM (Setup disc)•Quick Install Guide•Wireless LAN Quick Guide•Troubleshooting Guide•Operating Instructions•Warranty CardSupplied softwareThe supplied CD-ROM contains the following software.❑Wireless LAN PC Card driverThis software is required for operation of the Wireless LAN PC Card.❑Wireless PanelWireless Panel is a software utility that lets you configure the computerfor the wireless LAN and monitor the communication status. Thesoftware is also used to switch between networks to connect to.Normally, the Wireless Panel appears as an icon in the system tray(notification area in Windows XP) which shows the communicationstatus.When using the unit for the first time, see page 21 of thismanual or refer to the separate “Quick Install Guide” forinformation on how to install the Wireless LAN PC Card driverand the Wireless Panel.Notes•To install the supplied software on a computer running Windows 2000, log on with auser account listed in “Administrators”. To install the supplied software on a computerrunning Windows XP, log on with a user account with administrator privileges. Youcannot install the software or modify settings when logged on with any other account.•To change any of the Wireless Panel settings on a computer running Windows 2000,log on with a user account listed in “Administrators”. You cannot modify settings whenlogged on with any other account.
12Names of parts11IndicatorIndicator modes and operation statusColor Lighting pattern StatusRapid flashing Communication in progressGreen *1 Communication standbyLit (Communication is possible but no dataare being sent or received.)Rapid flashing Communication in progressOrange *2 Communication standbyLit (Communication is possible but no dataare being sent or received.)Connection not establishedRed Flashing (PC Card is functioning properly, butconnection to network has not beenestablished.)Off PC Card is not powered*1 802.11b (2.4 GHz) wireless LAN operation*2 802.11a (5 GHz) wireless LAN operation
13Getting startedInserting the Wireless LAN PC CardIf you are inserting the Wireless LAN PC Card into the computer for thefirst time, refer to the “Quick Install Guide”. This section only explainshow to insert the Wireless LAN PC Card into your computer and how toremove it.You do not need to turn off your computer when inserting or removing theWireless LAN PC Card.Proceed as follows.1If your computer has a PC card slot protector, remove it fromthe computer. (Some computers have such a protector toprevent damage to the PC card slot while not in use.)2Insert the Wireless LAN PC Card in the PC card slot.NoteIf your computer has two PC Card slots, insert the Wireless LAN PC Card into thetop slot. If inserted into the bottom slot, the antenna of the Wireless LAN PC Cardwill block the top slot. Also refer to the section “If your computer has two PC Cardslots” on page 19.Push the Wireless LAN PC Card into the slot until it is firmly seated. Ifthe card does not fit easily, do not force it in. Take the card out and tryreinserting it.If your computer is turned on when you insert the Wireless LAN PCcard, the driver installation wizard will start automatically. Forinformation on driver installation, see page 21 of this manual or referto the “Quick Install Guide”.To PC Card slotInsert in arrowdirection
14To remove the Wireless LAN PC Card1Exit any software that uses the wireless LAN.2Safely remove hardware according to the documentation ofyour computer.3Remove the Wireless LAN PC Card according to thedocumentation of your computer.If your computer has two PC Card slotsNotes•When using a computer which has two PC Card slots arranged vertically (one above theother), insert the Wireless LAN PC Card into the top slot. If inserted into the bottomslot, the antenna of the Wireless LAN PC Card will block the top slot.•If you insert the Wireless LAN PC Card into a slot other than the one you usually use,the computer treats the card as a new device and automatically begins installing devicedrivers for it. Completing the driver installation makes it possible to use the WirelessLAN PC Card in that slot. For details on how to install the Wireless LAN PC Carddriver, refer to the separate “Quick Install Guide”. (For instructions on how to uninstallthe Wireless LAN PC Card driver, see page 38 of this manual.)z HintIf you are using Windows Me or Windows 2000, you can register up to 32 networks foreach PC card slot. However, you have to register each network individually. You cannotshare the settings across slots.
15Software setupInstalling the supplied softwareInstalling the Wireless LAN PC Card driverBefore you start...If your computer has only one PC card slot and it is currently used, copythe “WirelessLAN” folder from the supplied CD-ROM to the hard disk ofthe computer before inserting the Wireless LAN PC Card. The followingexplanation assumes that a folder called “Temp” was created on drive Dand that the data were copied to this folder.NoteWhen using Windows 2000, log on with a user account listed in “Administrators”. Whenusing Windows XP, log on with a user account with administrator privileges.1Insert the Wireless LAN PC Card into the PC Card slot of thecomputer. See page 14 for details.NoteWhen using a computer which has two PC Card slots arranged vertically (one abovethe other), insert the Wireless LAN PC Card into the top slot. If inserted into thebottom slot, the antenna of the Wireless LAN PC Card will block the top slot.When you insert the Wireless LAN PC card, the driver installationwizard starts automatically.2Install the Wireless LAN PC Card driver.The actual procedure differs slightly, depending on whether you areusing Windows Me, Windows 2000, or Windows XP. Please refer tothe section for the operating system you are using.
16Windows Me:1Check the box “Specify the location of the driver” and click“Next”.2Check the box “Specify a location”.
17Software setup3Click “Browse” and specify the location of the driver in thedialog box that appears.z HintIf the “WirelessLAN” folder from the CD-ROM has been copied to the “Temp”folder on drive D, enter “D:\Temp\WirelessLAN”.4Click “OK”.5Click “Next”.
186Click “Next”.The driver is installed.7Click “Finish”.Restart the computer according to the prompts.Windows 2000:1Click “Next”.
19Software setup2Select “Search for a suitable driver for my device” and click“Next”.3Check the box “Specify a location” and click “Next”.4Click “Browse” and specify the location of the driver in thedialog box.z HintIf the “WirelessLAN” folder from the CD-ROM has been copied to the “Temp”folder on drive D, enter “D:\Temp\WirelessLAN”.5Click “OK”.
206Click “Next”.The driver is installed.7Click “Finish”.Windows XP:1Check the box “Install from a list or specific location” andclick “Next”.
21Software setup2Check the box “Include this location in the search” andclick “Browse”.3In the dialog box that appears, select the folder thatcontains the driver and click “OK”.z HintIf the “WirelessLAN” folder from the CD-ROM has been copied to the “Temp”folder on drive D, select “D:\Temp\WirelessLAN”.4Click “OK”.
225Click “Next”.6Click “Finish”.Installing the Wireless PanelNoteWhen using Windows 2000, log on with a user account listed in “Administrators”. Whenusing Windows XP, log on with a user account with administrator privileges.Before installation• Install the Access Point and connect it to a power outlet when using theAccess Point Network connection mode.•Complete installation of the Wireless LAN PC Card driver. (See page 21)•Exit all other Windows programs.
23Software setup1Go to the “WirelessLAN” folder copied from the CD-ROMand double-click “Setup.exe”.Depending on your computer’s settings, the file name “Setup.exe” maybe displayed as “Setup”. If there are multiple files named “Setup” inthe same folder, double-click the one with the following icon:2Click “Next”.3The “License Agreement” dialog box appears. Click “Yes” toaccept.The “Choose Destination Location” dialog box appears.4Click “Next”.The Wireless Panel software is installed.5Click “Finish”.Under Windows Me and Windows 2000, the message “Installation iscompleted. Wireless Connection Easy Setup Wizard will be launched”appears. Proceed to step 6.z HintIn the following cases, the Wireless Connection Easy Setup Wizard does not appear.•If the driver for the Wireless LAN PC Card PCWA-C500 is already installed andenabled.•If the Wireless LAN PC Card PCWA-C700 was installed and enabled, and thenthe Wireless Panel only was uninstalled and is now being reinstalled.Under Windows XP, the Wireless Panel starts automatically and the icon appears in the notification area. Under Windows XP,installation of the Wireless Panel is now complete.6Click “OK” to start the Wireless Connection Easy SetupWizard.Under Windows Me and Windows 2000, the Wireless ConnectionEasy Setup Wizard starts after Wireless Panel installation is completed.
24What to do nextConfigure the wireless LAN environment.When using Windows Me or Windows 2000, proceed to page 45.When using Windows XP, the Wireless Connection Easy Setup Wizarddoes not appear. Proceed to page 54.Verifying Wireless LAN PC Card driver installationTo verify that the Wireless LAN PC Card driver has been installedproperly, perform the following steps.Windows Me:1From the “Start” menu, click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.The Control Panel appears.2Double-click the “System” icon.z HintIf the “System” icon is not shown, select “View all Control Panel options”.3Click the “Device Manager” tab.4Click “View devices by type”.5Double-click “Network adapters”.
25Software setup6Double-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”.The “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter Properties” dialogbox appears.NoteThe Wireless LAN PC Card is not working properly in the following cases:•“Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter” is shown with an “X” or “!” symbol.cClick “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter” and click “Remove” touninstall the driver. Then repeat the installation process.•Double-clicking “Network Adapters” does not display “Sony 802.11a/b WirelessNetwork Adapter”.cRemove the Wireless LAN PC Card. Then repeat the installation process.•Double-clicking “Other devices” displays “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless NetworkAdapter”.cClick “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”, then click “Remove” touninstall the driver. Repeat the installation process.7Confirm that the message “This device is working properly.”is displayed under “Device status”.NoteIf “This device is working properly.” is not shown, the Wireless LAN PC Card is notworking correctly. Perform steps 1 - 5, click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless NetworkAdapter”, then click “Remove” to uninstall the driver. After uninstalling, restart thecomputer and repeat the installation process.
268Click “OK” to close the “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless NetworkAdapter Properties” dialog box.The “System Properties” dialog box appears.9Click “OK” to close the “System Properties” dialog box.The Control Panel appears.10Click to close the Control Panel.If the computer you are using incorporates another Ethernet interfacebesides the Wireless LAN PC Card, disable the other interface as follows.1From the “Start” menu, click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.The Control Panel appears.2Double-click the “System” icon.z HintIf the “System” icon is not shown, select “View all Control Panel options”.3Click the “Device Manager” tab and double-click “Networkadapters”.4Double-click the network adapter to disable.5Click the “General” tab, then select the “Disable in thishardware profile” check box.6Click “OK” to close the Properties dialog box for the networkadapter to disable.The “System Properties” dialog box appears again.7Click “OK” to close the “System Properties” dialog box.The Control Panel appears again.8Click to close the Control Panel.
27Software setupWindows 2000:1From the “Start” menu, click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.The Control Panel appears.2Double-click the “System” icon.The “System Properties” dialog box appears.3Click the “Hardware” tab, then click “Device Manager”.The “Device Manager” window appears.4In the “View” menu, click “View devices by type”.5Double-click “Network adapters”.6Double-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”.The “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter Properties” dialogbox appears.
28NoteThe Wireless LAN PC Card is not working properly in the following cases:•“Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter” is shown with an “X” or “!” symbol.cRight-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter” and click “Remove”to uninstall the driver. Then repeat the installation process.•Double-clicking “Network Adapters” does not display “Sony 802.11a/b WirelessNetwork Adapter”.cRemove the Wireless LAN PC Card. Then repeat the installation process.•Double-clicking “Other devices” displays “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless NetworkAdapter”.cRight-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”, then click “Remove”to uninstall the driver. Repeat the installation process.7Confirm that the message “This device is working properly.”is displayed under “Device status”.NoteIf “This device is working properly.” is not shown, the Wireless LAN PC Card is notworking correctly. Perform steps 1 - 5, right-click “Sony 802.11a/b WirelessNetwork Adapter”, then click “Remove” to uninstall the driver. After uninstalling,restart the computer and repeat the installation process.8Click “OK” to close the “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless NetworkAdapter Properties” dialog box.The “Device Manager” window appears.9Click to close the “Device Manager” window.The “System Properties” dialog box appears.10Click “OK” to close the “System Properties” dialog box.The Control Panel appears.11Click to close the Control Panel.
29Software setupIf the computer you are using incorporates another Ethernet interfacebesides the Wireless LAN PC Card, disable the other interface as follows.1From the “Start” menu, click “Settings” – “Network and Dial-up Connections”.The “Network and Dial-up Connections” window appears.2Select the network adapter to disable.3From the “File” menu, select “Disable”.4Click to close the “Network and Dial-up Connections”window.Windows XP:1Click “Start”, and click “Control Panel”.The Control Panel appears.2Double-click the “System” icon.The “System Properties” dialog box appears.z HintIf the “System” icon is not displayed, click “Switch to Classic View”.3Click the “Hardware” tab, then click “Device Manager”.The “Device Manager” window appears.4In the “View” menu, click “View devices by type”.5Double-click “Network adapters”.
306Double-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”.The “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter Properties” dialogbox appears.NoteThe Wireless LAN PC Card is not working properly in the following cases:•“Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter” is shown with an “X” or “!” symbol.cRight-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter” and click “Remove”to uninstall the driver. Then repeat the installation process.•Double-clicking “Network Adapters” does not display “Sony 802.11a/b WirelessNetwork Adapter”.cRemove the Wireless LAN PC Card. Then repeat the installation process.•Double-clicking “Other devices” displays “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless NetworkAdapter”.cRight-click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”, then click “Remove”to uninstall the driver. Repeat the installation process.7Confirm that the message “This device is working properly.”is displayed under “Device status”.NoteIf “This device is working properly.” is not shown, the Wireless LAN PC Card is notworking correctly. Perform steps 1 - 5, right-click “Sony 802.11a/b WirelessNetwork Adapter”, then click “Remove” to uninstall the driver. After uninstalling,restart the computer and repeat the installation process.
31Software setup8Click “OK” to close the “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless NetworkAdapter Properties” dialog box.The “Device Manager” window appears.9Click to close the “Device Manager” window.The “System Properties” dialog box appears.10Click “OK” to close the “System Properties” dialog box.The Control Panel appears.11Click to close the Control Panel.If the computer you are using incorporates another Ethernet interfacebesides the Wireless LAN PC Card, disable the other interface as follows.1Click “Start”, and click “Connect To” – “Show allconnections”.The “Network Connections” window appears.2From “LAN or high-speed Internet”, select the networkadapter to disable.3From the “File” menu, select “Disable”.4Click to close the “Network Connections” window.
31Wireless LAN connectionConfiguring the wireless LANenvironmentWindows Me or Windows 2000After installation of the Wireless Panel is completed, the WirelessConnection Easy Setup Wizard starts automatically. This wizard makes iteasy to configure your wireless network.z Hints•If you want to exit the wizard, click “Cancel”.•Any settings you configure with the wizard can be easily changed later using theWireless Panel. For information on how to use the Wireless Panel, see page 68.•You can also configure the card without using the wizard. Refer to the Wireless LANOnline Help for details.•You can also start the wizard at any time other than immediately after installation of theWireless Panel. To do this, double-click “InitSetup.exe” in the folder where youinstalled the Wireless Panel. (The default location is “C:\Program Files\Sony\WirelessPanel”.)•To use the card in Access Point Network connection mode, see page 40.•To use the card in Peer to Peer Network connection mode, see page 47.
32Using the product in Access Point (Infrastructure)Network connection mode1Check the box “Use Easy Setup Wizard” and click “Next”.The “Connection mode” screen appears.2Select “Access Point Network”, and click “Next”.The following screen appears.
33Wireless LAN connection3Configure the “Network Name (SSID)” and “WEP” items.1Network Name (SSID)This is a unique ID used to identify wireless networks. The settingcan be made individually for Access Point Network connectionmode and Peer to Peer Network connection mode. When connectingto an existing network, consult your network administratorregarding the proper settings. For Peer to Peer Network connectionmode and when changing an existing Network Name, you can useup to 32 alphanumeric characters (including symbols).zHints•Opening the “Network Name” drop-down list will show the Network Namesof any Access Points within range. You can then select a Network Name fromthe list.•When using the Sony 5GHz Wireless LAN Access Point PCWA-A500, thedefault Network Name (SSID) of the Access Point is shown on the ID label ofthe unit. For details on the position of the label and other information, refer tothe manuals provided with the Access Point.An explanation ofthe respective itemis shown here.21
342WEPIf Data Encryption (WEP) is enabled for the Access Point to whichto connect, check this item. When this item is checked, you alsoneed to enter the encryption key (WEP key) in the “Key” field.The data encryption function serves to prevent unauthorized accessto the network. For security reasons, it is strongly recommendedthat you enable this feature. The setting can be made individuallyfor Access Point Network connection mode and Peer to PeerNetwork connection mode. When connecting to an existingnetwork, consult your network administrator regarding the propersettings. For information on how to control this setting at the AccessPoint, please refer to the documentation of the Access Point. Whenconfiguring a Peer to Peer network, the setting must be the same forall computers in the network.KeyIf data encryption (WEP) is enabled for the Access Point, enter theencryption key (WEP key) here. Because this key functions aspassword that enables communication with the network, the keyentered here must be exactly the same as that set for the AccessPoint. Only computers for which the key has been configuredcorrectly can participate in the network. The number of charactersdepends on the “ASCII/Hex” and “Length” settings (see tablebelow).ASCII/Hex 40 bits 104 bitsASCII 5 characters 13 charactersHex 10 characters 26 charactersz HintThis product supports a function called “roaming” which allows the creation of awireless network with multiple Access Points for wider coverage. When usingthis function, configure all Access Points to the same Network Name (SSID) andData Encryption (WEP) settings.
35Wireless LAN connection4When all items have been set, click “Next”.A confirmation screen showing the selected settings appears.5Verify that all settings are as desired, and click “Next”.When connection is complete, the Wireless Connection Easy SetupWizard completion screen appears.NoteIf an error message is shown, read the message carefully and click “Back” to correctthe settings.
366Click “Finish”.The Wireless Panel starts up automatically, and the icon appears inthe system tray of the computer.If the Access Point has already been configured, the setup procedure isnow complete. If you want to change the Access Point settings, refer tothe documentation of the Access Point for information on how toproceed. When using the Sony 5GHz Wireless LAN Access PointPCWA-A500, proceed to step 7.NoteTo use an Access Point to connect to the Internet, you must change the Access Pointfactory default settings.
37Wireless LAN connection7When using the Sony 5GHz Wireless LAN Access PointPCWA-A500, click the “AP Setting” button under the “Status”tab of the Wireless Panel.For information on how to call up the Wireless Panel, see page 68. Forinformation on the “AP Setting” button, see page 72.Your Web browser starts and displays the Access Point home page(setup page).Notes•If you are using Internet Explorer, any proxy setting will automatically be disabledfor the IP address of the Access Point. When using another browser, make surethat the browser does not use a proxy server for the Access Point IP address. (Thefactory default IP address of the PCWA-A500 is 192.168.11.1.)•The content of the Access Point home page (setup page) differs depending on thefirmware version. (The illustration below shows an example for the PCWA-A500.)
388Configure the Access Point according to the onscreeninstructions.z Hints•For details on how to configure the Access Point, refer to the documentation of theAccess Point or its Online Help.•Help regarding Access Point settings can be called up by clicking .NoteIf you change the Network Name (SSID) and Data Encryption (WEP) settings of theAccess Point, the settings will no longer match those of the computer andcommunication will be interrupted. To resume communication, the settings of thecomputer must be changed accordingly.9When Access Point settings are completed, double-click the icon in the system tray.The Wireless Panel screen appears.10Click the “Network” tab, select a wireless network from thelist, and click “Register”.The “Register Network” dialog box appears.11If you have enabled Data Encryption (WEP) for the AccessPoint in step 8, check the box “WEP” and enter theencryption key (WEP key) in the “Key” field.z HintThis dialog box appears only when “Dialog Format” is selected in “Add/Edit/Register Network” on the "Setting" tab of the “Wireless Panel” dialog box.
39Wireless LAN connection12Click “Connect”.This completes the setup procedure.Using the product in Peer to Peer Network connectionmode1When the Wireless Connection Easy Setup Wizard starts,check the box “Use Easy Setup Wizard” and click “Next”.2Select “Peer to Peer Network”, and click “Next”.3Configure the “Network Name (SSID)”, “Channel”, and“WEP” items.An explanation of the respective item is shown here.123
401Network Name (SSID)See page 47 for details.2ChannelA drop-down list appears which lets you select the radio channel touse.z Hints•You can leave this setting at “Auto”, but to ensure low-interferencetransmission, you may want to use the “Network List” tab (page 72) of theWireless Panel to verify the channels used by networks operating withincommunication range of your computer, and select a channel with low usage.•When connecting to an existing Peer to Peer network, changing the channelhas no effect. The channel automatically will revert to the one used by the Peerto Peer network.3WEPSee page 47 for details.4When all items have been set, click “Next”.A confirmation screen showing the selected settings appears.5Verify that all settings are as desired, and click “Next”.The network settings are activated. This process may require up toseveral minutes. Please wait until it is complete.6When the Wireless Connection Easy Setup Wizardcompletion screen appears, click “Finish”.The wizard closes.
41Wireless LAN connection7Establish the same settings at all computers participating inthe network.This completes the setup procedure.z HintFor information on how to share files and printers on the network, refer to theWindows Help and documentation.Windows XPNoteBefore configuring the Wireless LAN PC CardPerform the following steps to confirm that the “Use Windows to configure my wirelessnetwork settings” check box is selected. This option is selected as the default setting ofWindows XP.1Click “Start”, “Control Panel”, and double-click “NetworkConnections”.z HintIf “Network Connections” is not displayed, click “Switch to Classic View”.2Right-click “Wireless Network Connection *” (“*” is anumber that differs according to the computer settings),and select “Properties” from the shortcut menu.3Click the “Wireless Network” tab.4Confirm that the box “Use Windows to configure mywireless network settings” is checked. If not, place a checkmark in the box.•To use the card in Access Point Network connection mode, see below.•To use the card in Peer to Peer Network connection mode, see page xx.Using the product in Access Point Network connectionmode1Click “Start”, and click “Connect To” -- “Show allconnections”.The “Network Connections” window appears.
422Right-click “Wireless Network Connection *” (“*” is a numberthat differs according to the computer settings), and select“View Available Wireless Networks” from the shortcut menu.The “Connect to Wireless Network” dialog box appears.z Hints• If the computer is not connected to a wireless network, an “x” is shown for the“Wireless Network Connection *” icon in the “Network Connections” window.•If you have installed Windows XP Service Pack 1, see page 56.3From the “Available Wireless Networks” list in the “Connectto Wireless Network” dialog box, select the Access Point towhich you want to connect.z HintThe “Available Wireless Networks” list shows the names of Access Points withincommunication range of the computer. When using the Sony 5GHz Wireless LANAccess Point PCWA-A500, the default Network Name (SSID) of the Access Point isshown on the ID label of the unit. For details on the position of the label and otherinformation, please refer to the documentation of the Access Point. Because theNetwork Name of an Access Point may have been changed, consult your networkadministrator if you are not sure.
43Wireless LAN connection4If Data Encryption (WEP) is enabled for the Access Point,enter the encryption key (WEP key) in the “Network key”field.The key entered here must be exactly the same as that set for theAccess Point. The number of characters depends on the “Key format”and “Key length” settings (see table below).Key format 40 bits 104 bitsASCII 5 characters 13 charactersHex 10 characters 26 charactersz HintThe data encryption (WEP) function serves to prevent unauthorized access to thenetwork. When the function is enabled, only computers configured with the correctencryption key (WEP key) can participate in the network. For security reasons, it isstrongly recommended that you enable this feature. The setting can be madeindividually for Access Point Network connection mode and Peer to Peer Networkconnection mode. When connecting to an existing network, consult your networkadministrator regarding the proper settings. For information on how to control thissetting at the Access Point, please refer to the documentation of the Access Point.❑When using Service Pack 1If you have installed Windows XP Service Pack 1, steps 3 and 4 mustbe performed as follows.3From the “Available Wireless Networks” list in the“Connect to Wireless Network” dialog box, select theAccess Point to which you want to connect.
444Depending on the Data Encryption (WEP) settings of theAccess Point, proceed as follows.•Data Encryption (WEP) at selected Access Point isenabledEnter the encryption key (WEP key) in the “Network key” field.(The input is shown only as asterisks.) For verification, the samestring must be entered once more in the “Re-enter WEP Key” field.•Data Encryption (WEP) at selected Access Point isdisabledCheck the box “Allow me to connect to the selected wirelessnetwork, even though it is not secure”. (For security reasons,enabling data encryption is recommended.)
45Wireless LAN connection5Click “Connect”.Connection to the Access Point is established.If the Access Point has already been configured, the setup procedure isnow complete.If you want to change the Access Point settings, refer to thedocumentation of the Access Point for information on how to proceed.When using the Sony 5GHz Wireless LAN Access Point PCWA-A500,proceed to step 6.NoteTo use an Access Point to connect to the Internet, you must change the Access Pointfactory default settings.6When using the Sony 5GHz Wireless LAN Access PointPCWA-A500, click the “AP Setting” button under the “Status”tab of the Wireless Panel.For information on how to call up the Wireless Panel, see page 68. Forinformation on the “AP Setting” button, see page 72.Your Web browser starts and displays the Access Point home page(setup page).Notes•If you are using Internet Explorer, any proxy setting will automatically be disabledfor the IP address of the Access Point. When using another browser, make surethat the browser does not use a proxy server for the Access Point IP address. (Thefactory default IP address of the PCWA-A500 is 192.168.11.1.)
46•The content of the Access Point home page (setup page) differs depending on thefirmware version. (The illustration below shows an example for the PCWA-A500.)7Configure the Access Point according to the onscreeninstructions.z Hints•For details on how to configure the Access Point, refer to the documentation of theAccess Point or its Online Help.•Help regarding Access Point settings can be called up by clicking .NoteIf you change the Network Name (SSID) and Data Encryption (WEP) settings of theAccess Point, the settings will no longer match those of the computer andcommunication will be interrupted. To resume communication, the settings of thecomputer must be changed accordingly.8When Access Point settings are completed, right-click the“Wireless Network Connection” icon in the system tray, andselect “View Available Wireless Networks” from the shortcutmenu.
47Wireless LAN connection9If you have enabled Data Encryption (WEP) for the AccessPoint in step 7, enter the encryption key (WEP key) in the“Network key” field.When Windows XP Service Pack 1 is installed, the same string mustbe entered once more in the “Re-enter WEP Key” field.10Click “Connect”.This completes the setup procedure.Using the product in Peer to Peer Network connectionmode1Click “Start”, and click “Connect To” – “Show allconnections”.The “Network Connections” window appears.2Right-click “Wireless Network Connection *” (“*” is a numberthat differs according to the computer settings), and select“View Available Wireless Networks” from the shortcut menu.The “Connect to Wireless Network” dialog box appears.z HintIf the computer is not connected to a wireless network, an “x” is shown for the“Wireless Network Connection *” icon in the “Network Connections” window.
48 With Windows XP Service Pack 13Click “Advanced”.The “Wireless Network Connection * Properties” dialog box appears.(“*” is a number that differs according to the computer settings.)
49Wireless LAN connectionWith Windows XP Service Pack 14Click “Add”.The “Wireless Network Properties” dialog box appears.
50 With Windows XP Service Pack 15Enter the Network Name (SSID) for this network(alphanumeric characters or symbols can be used).The Network Name (also called SSID) is a unique ID that identifies thenetwork. When connecting to a Peer to Peer network , all computersmust use the same Network Name. The Network Name can be up to 32characters long. When connecting to an existing network, consult yournetwork administrator regarding the proper settings.6Check the box “Data encryption (WEP enabled)” andremove the check mark from the box “The key is providedfor me automatically”.NoteThe data encryption (WEP) function serves to prevent unauthorized access to thenetwork. When the function is enabled, only computers configured with the correctencryption key (WEP key) can participate in the network. For security reasons, it isstrongly recommended that you enable this feature.
51Wireless LAN connection7Enter the encryption key (WEP key) in the “Network key”field.Notes•When newly creating a Peer to Peer Network, you can enter any character string touse as a key. When connecting to an existing network, consult your networkadministrator regarding the proper settings. The number of characters for the keydepends on the “Key format” and “Key length” settings (see table below).Key format 40 bits 104 bitsASCII 5 characters 13 charactersHex 10 characters 26 characters•With Windows XP Service Pack 1, you cannot select “Key format” or “Keylength”.“Network key”If data encryption (WEP) is enabled, enter the encryption key (WEPkey) here. Because this key functions as password that enablescommunication with the network, the key entered here must be exactlythe same as that set for the Access Point. Only computers for which thekey has been configured correctly can participate in the network. Thenumber of characters depends on the “Key format” and “Key length”settings (see table above).“Key format”This is the format for entering the password (WEP key) required. Youcan select either ASCII (alphanumeric characters, including symbols)or Hex (hexadecimal notation).“Key length”This is the length (bit length) for the WEP key (password) requiredwhen connecting to networks where WEP is enabled. You can selectfrom 40 bits or 104 bits. Generally, the longer the bit length, the betterthe security.8Check the box “This is a computer-to-computer (ad hoc)network; wireless access points are not used”, and click“OK”.The “Wireless Network Connection * Properties” dialog box appearsagain.
529Click “Advanced”.The “Advanced” dialog box appears.10Check the box “Computer-to-computer (ad hoc) networksonly” and click “Close”.The “Wireless Network Connection * Properties” dialog box appearsagain.11Click “OK”.The setting are saved, and the computer automatically connects to thenewly registered network.z HintFor additional information on the wireless network capabilities of Windows XP,refer to Windows XP “Help and Support”. (From the “Start” menu, click “Help andSupport”, enter “wireless” into the Search field, and click the green arrow icon.)You may also wish to consult the Windows XP documentation.
53Wireless LAN connectionChecking the communication statusChecking the wireless signal strengthThe communication status is shown by the reception level indicator in thetask tray.Reception level indicatorMeaning of indicator appearanceExcellentGoodPoorOut of rangeCard not inserted(Wireless LAN PC Card is not inserted or notrecognized correctly)Peer to Peer(Communicating in Peer to Peer Network connectionmode)Checking network informationTo obtain information about the network to which you are connected,proceed as follows.Double-click the reception level indicator in the task tray.The Wireless Panel main screen appears, and information about thenetwork connection is shown. For details about the various items, see thesection “Calling up the Wireless Panel main screen” (page 68).
54Using the Wireless PanelThe Wireless Panel is a software application that shows information aboutthe communication status of the computer connected to the wirelessnetwork. Normally, the Wireless Panel runs in the background and onlyshows the radio signal condition by means of the reception level indicatorin the system tray (notification area in Windows XP). The main screen ofthe Wireless Panel contains more detailed information. When runningunder operating systems other than Windows XP, communication setup andnetwork switching are also performed using the Wireless Panel. For moreinformation, refer also to the separate “Wireless LAN Quick Guide”.Notes•To use the Wireless Panel under Windows 2000 for modifying communication settings,log on with a user account listed in “Administrators”. You cannot modify settings whenlogged on with any other account.•On a computer running Windows XP, communication setup and network switching arenot performed with the Wireless Panel but with built-in functions of Windows XP.However, the Wireless Panel can be used to check the communication status.Calling up the Wireless Panel main screenTo call up the Wireless Panel main screen, proceed as follows.Double-click the reception level indicator in the system tray (notificationarea in Windows XP).The Wireless Panel main screen appears.z Hints•For information on the reception level indicator, see “Checking the wireless signalstrength” on page 66.•When you move the mouse pointer over an item in the Wireless Panel screen, a shortdescription of that item appears.
55Wireless LAN connectionThere are three tabs on the main screen of the Wireless Panel.•“Status” tab (page 69)•“Network List” tab (page 72)•“Setting” tab (page 75)“Status” tab1Status indicator iconThe icon type indicates the type of network to which the computer isconnected.Network modeData encryption Access Point Peer to PeerNetwork NetworkOffOn123456789
562StatusShows the communication status of the wireless network.“Network Name”Unique ID for the wireless network to which the computer isconnected. Also called SSID.“Frequency”Indicates the communication channel and frequency currently beingused.“Signal Level”Indicates the signal level as a bar graph.Install the computer and Access Point so that the signal leveldisplayed here is as high as possible.“IP Address”Indicates the computer’s IP address.In Access Point mode, if an IP address starting with “169.254. ...” orif “0.0.0.0” is shown here, the Access Point and computer are notlinked, or the Access Point is not connected to the Internet. Fordetails, refer to the separate Wireless LAN Quick Guide or to theseparate Troubleshooting Guide.“Frames Sent”Shows the total number of network data frames that have been sent.“Frames Received”Shows the total number of network data frames that have beenreceived.“Link Rate (TX)”Shows the transmission rate.“Link Rate (RX)”Shows the reception rate.“Throughput (TX)”Shows the current transmission rate and maximum transmission rateof the session in the format “Current Mbps/Max. Mbps”. Themaximum value update frequency corresponds to the time width ofthe status graph.“Throughput (RX)”Shows the current reception rate and maximum reception rate of thesession in the format “Current Mbps/Max. Mbps”. The maximumvalue update frequency corresponds to the time width of the statusgraph.
57Wireless LAN connection3Wireless ON/OFFWireless signal transmission can be switched on/off independently forthe 2.4 GHz (802.11b) and 5 GHz (802.11a) band. Select the On/Offstatus according to the environment you are in. Take special care if youare using your computer in locations where radio emissions areprohibited, such as outdoors (5 GHz band) or within an aircraft (2.4GHz and 5 GHz band). Be sure to set wireless signal transmission toOff with these buttons in such cases.4“Streaming Mode” buttonThis button is shown only when using Windows XP. It allows you totemporarily suspend the Windows XP wireless configuration functions(Wireless Zero Configuration service) in order to optimize throughputfor real-time playback of streaming data.5Graph scaleThis is a scale for transmission and reception link rate and throughput.Normally, the transmission and reception throughput will be about halfthe link rate.6Status indicator graphShows the reception level, RX link rate, and TX throughput. Theseparameters are useful for finding the optimum location of computerand Access Point, and for measuring throughput.7“Renew IP” buttonClicking this button causes the computer to release the currentlyassigned IP address and obtain a new IP address.Notes•When a fixed IP address has been assigned to the computer, this function cannotbe used.•Under Windows Me, this function cannot be used.
588“AP Setting” buttonClicking on this button starts your Web browser and displays theAccess Point home page (setup page). This page lets you configure theAccess Point and display status information. In Peer to Peer Networkconnection mode, this button cannot be used.NoteThe “AP Setting” button can only be used when you are using the Sony 5GHzWireless LAN Access Point PCWA-A500* or another 5GHz Wireless LAN AccessPoint which supports this feature. (* As of February, 2003)9“Show Graph/Hide Graph” buttonLets you turn the status graph on an off. The default setting is off.“Network List”The “Network List” tab shows a list of 802.11a/b wireless networksoperating within communication range of the computer. You can select anetwork from this list to connect to, and you can register networks for thecomputer.12 3 4
59Wireless LAN connection1Network ListAll wireless networks operating within communication range areshown.“Status”The status of registered networks is shown as an icon.Access Points within communication range are shown as coloredicons, and Access Points outside communication range are shown asgray icons.Network modeStatus Access Point Peer to PeerNetwork NetworkConnectedData encryptionOnData encryptionOffNot connectedData encryptionOffData encryptionOff“Registered”If the network has been registered with the Wireless Panel, a checkmark is shown here.NoteThis is shown only under Windows Me and Windows 2000.“Network Name (SSID)”Shows the unique network ID.“Signal Level”Shows the signal level (field strength) of the received radio signal.Higher numbers mean better reception.
60“Channel”Shows the channel used by the respective network. If multiplenetworks use the same channel, communication may be impaired.z HintThe Sony 2.4GHz Access Point PCWA-A100/A200 can be configured not to showthe Network Name (SSID). (This is referred to as a “closed system”.) For a closedsystem Access Point, the “Network Name (SSID)” field in the network list will beblank.To connect to a closed system, obtain information about the Network Name(SSID) and encryption key (WEP key) from the network administrator and use thisinformation to register the network. When connected, the Network Name (SSID) isshown in the network list.2Wireless ON/OFFWireless signal transmission can be switched on/off independently forthe 802.11b (2.4 GHz ) and 802.11a (5 GHz) band. Select the On/Offstatus according to the environment you are in. Take special care if youare using your computer in locations where radio emissions areprohibited, such as outdoors (802.11a band) or within an aircraft(802.11a and 802.11b band). Be sure to set wireless signal transmissionto Off with these buttons in such cases.3“New”/“Register”/“Edit”/“Delete” button“New”This is used when no network is selected from the list. If “DialogFormat” is selected in “Add/Edit/Register Network” on the“Setting” tab of the “Wireless Panel” dialog box, when you clickthis button the “Registering Network” dialog box appears, lettingyou register a new network and connect to it.“Register”When you select a network from the list, the button caption changesto “Register”. If “Dialog Format” is selected in “Add/Edit/RegisterNetwork” on the “Setting” tab of the “Wireless Panel” dialog box,when you click this button the “Registering Network” dialog boxappears, letting you register the selected network. You can registerup to 32 networks.“Edit”When you select a registered network from the list, the buttoncaption changes to “Edit”. If “Dialog Format” is selected in “Add/Edit/Register Network” on the “Setting” tab of the “Wireless Panel”dialog box, when you click this button the “Registering Network”dialog box appears, letting you change the registered settings.
61Wireless LAN connection “Delete”This can be used when a registered network is selected from the list.Clicking the button brings up a confirmation message, letting youdelete a registered network. (The currently connected networkcannot be deleted.)NoteThis function is available only under Windows Me and Windows 2000.4“Scan” buttonClicking this button causes the computer to scan again for 802.11b(2.4 GHz)/802.11a (5 GHz) wireless networks operating withincommunication range. The network list is updated according to theresults of the scan.“Setting” tabThe “Setting” tab lets you configure the Wireless Panel.1Task Tray IconLets you change the icon in the system tray (task tray).2Add/Edit/Register NetworkThis item lets you select whether various utility procedures such asregistering a wireless network are performed in wizard style or dialogbox style (as used in this documentation).NoteThis function is available only under Windows Me and Windows 2000.12345
623“Reset” buttonClicking this button returns all items under the “Setting” tab to thedefault condition.4Auto-Connect ModeWhen this box is checked, the computer will automatically connect tothe registered network with the strongest signal if the currentconnection is interrupted.Clicking brings up a list in which you can specify the priority forautomatic connection.NoteThis function is available only under Windows Me and Windows 2000.5Change the TCP/IP setup when Wireless LAN setup ischangedCheck this box if you want to automatically switch TCP/IP settings (asset under “Advanced” in the “Registering Network” dialog box) whenyou switch the wireless network.NoteThis function is available only under Windows Me and Windows 2000.
63Wireless LAN connectionRemoving the supplied softwareUninstalling the Wireless LAN PC Card driverTo uninstall the Wireless LAN PC Card driver, proceed as follows.z HintFor information on how to install the Wireless LAN PC Card driver, see page 21 of thismanual or refer to the separate “Quick Install Guide”.Windows Me:1From the “Start” menu, click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.The Control Panel window appears.2Double-click the “System” icon.The “System Properties” dialog box appears.z HintIf the “System” icon is not shown, select “View all Control Panel options”.3Click the “Device Manager” tab.4Click “View devices by type”.5Double-click “Network adapters”.6Click “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”, then click“Uninstall”.The “Confirm Device Removal” dialog box appears.7Click “OK” to uninstall.The message “To finish removing your hardware, you must restartyour computer. Do you want to restart your computer now?” appears.
648Remove the Wireless LAN PC Card from its slot, then click“Yes”.The system restarts. This completes uninstallation of the driver.Windows 2000:Notes•In Windows 2000, only users with administrator privileges can uninstall drivers. Logonto Windows 2000 with a user account listed in “Administrators”.•Exit all programs before starting the uninstall process.1From the “Start” menu, click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.The Control Panel appears.2Double-click the “System” icon.The “System Properties” dialog box appears.3Click the “Hardware” tab, then click “Device Manager”.The “Device Manager” window appears.4In the “View” menu, click “View devices by type”.5Double-click “Network adapters”, and double-click “Sony802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”.The “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter Properties” dialogbox appears.6Click the “Driver” tab, then click “Uninstall”.The “Confirm Device Removal” dialog box appears.7Click “OK”.The Device Manager window appears.8Click to close the “Device Manager” window.The “System Properties” dialog box appears.
65Wireless LAN connection9Click “OK” to close the “System Properties” dialog box.The Control Panel appears.10Click to close the Control Panel.Windows XP:Notes•In Windows XP, only users with administrator privileges can uninstall drivers. Logonto Windows XP with a user account with administrator privileges.•Exit all programs before starting the uninstall process.1Click “Start”, and click “Control Panel”.The Control Panel appears.2Double-click the “System” icon.The “System Properties” dialog box appears.z HintIf the “System” icon is not displayed, click “Switch to Classic View”.3Click the “Hardware” tab, then click “Device Manager”.The “Device Manager” window appears.4In the “View” menu, click “View devices by type”.5Double-click “Network adapters”, and Double-click “Sony802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter”.The “Sony 802.11a/b Wireless Network Adapter Properties” dialogbox appears.6Click the “Driver” tab, then click “Uninstall”.The “Confirm Device Removal” dialog box appears.7Click “OK”.The Device Manager window appears.
668Click to close the Device Manager window.The “System Properties” dialog box appears.9Click “OK” to close the “System Properties” dialog box.The Control Panel appears.10Click to close the Control Panel.Uninstalling the Wireless PanelTo uninstall the Wireless Panel, proceed as follows.zHintFor information on how to install the Wireless Panel, see page 28 of this manual or referto the separate “Quick Install Guide”.Windows Me:NoteExit all programs before running the uninstall process.1From the “Start” menu, click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.The Control Panel window appears.2Double-click the “Add/Remove Programs” icon.The “Add/Remove Programs Properties” dialog box appears.3Select “Wireless Panel” and click “Add/Remove”.The “Confirm File Deletion” dialog box appears.4Click “OK”.The software uninstall process is carried out.5Click “Finish”.The uninstall process is complete.
67Wireless LAN connectionWindows 2000:Notes•In Windows 2000, only users with administrator privileges can uninstall software. Logonto Windows 2000 with a user account listed in “Administrators”.•Exit all programs before starting the uninstall process.1From the “Start” menu, click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.The Control Panel appears.2Double-click the “Add/Remove Programs” icon.The “Add/Remove Programs” dialog box appears.3Select “Wireless Panel” and click “Add/Remove”.The “Confirm File Deletion” dialog box appears.4Click “OK”.The software uninstall process is carried out, and then the InstallShieldcompletion dialog box appears.5Click “Finish”.The uninstall process is complete.Windows XP:Notes•In Windows XP, only users with administrator privileges can uninstall software. Logonto Windows XP with a user account with administrator privileges.•Exit all programs before starting the uninstall process.1Click “Start”, and click “Settings” – “Control Panel”.The Control Panel appears.2Double-click the “Add/Remove Programs” icon.The “Add/Remove Programs” dialog box appears.
683Select “Wireless Panel” and click “Add/Remove”.The “Confirm File Deletion” dialog box appears.4Click “OK”.The software uninstall process is carried out, and then the maintenancecompletion dialog box appears.5Click “Finish”.The uninstall process is complete.
69Additional informationPrecautionsSafetyDo not drop or cause a mechanical shockto the Wireless LAN PC Card, as this maydamage the unit.InstallationDo not expose the Wireless LAN PC Cardto the following conditions:•Unstable surfaces•High humidity or poor ventilation•Excessive dust•Direct sunlight or extreme heat•Closed cars•Magnetized location (near magnets,speakers, or televisions)•Locations exposed to frequent vibration•Locations where the transmission ofradio waves may be obstructed by metalplates or concrete wallsOperationIf the Wireless LAN PC Card is moveddirectly from a cold location to a warmlocations, or if it is placed in a very dampenvironment, moisture may condense onthe parts inside. The Wireless LAN PCCard may not operate properly if moisturecondensation occurs.CleaningClean the casing with a soft cloth, lightlymoistened with water or a mild detergentsolution. Do not use any type of abrasivepad, scouring powder, or solvent such asalcohol or benzene as it may damage thefinish of the casing.
70SpecificationsProtocol supportTCP/IP compliantStandard complianceIEEE 802.11a/IEEE 802.11bRadio frequency5 GHz wireless network:5.15 to 5.35 GHz (IEEE 802.11a)2.4 GHz wireless network:2.4 to 2.4835 GHz (IEEE 802.11b)(ISM band: IEEE 802.11b)ModulationOFDM (IEEE 802.11a compliant)DS-SS (IEEE 802.11b compliant)GeneralPower requirements3.3 V DC (supplied from the computerthrough the PC card adapter)CurrentPeak current at transmission: 660 mAPeak current at reception: 380 mAConnectorPC Card CardBusDimensionsApprox. 2.2 × 0.2 × 4.7 inches(Approx. 54 × 5 × 119 mm ) (w/h/d)(Antenna height: 0.5 inches (Approx. 11 mm))MassApprox. 1.7 oz (Approx. 47 g)Operating temperature41°F to 95°F (5°C to 35°C) (not condensed)Environment temperature–4°F to 140°F (–20°C to 60°C) (not condensed)Supplied accessoriesSee “Unpacking” on page 11.Design and specifications are subject to changewithout notice.Getting helpThis section describes how to get help andsupport from Sony, as well astroubleshooting tips for your WirelessLAN PC Card.About Sony’s Support OptionsSony provides several support options foryour Wireless LAN PC Card.❒Operating Instructions explainshow to use your Wireless LAN PCCard.❒Quick Install Guide explains how toinstall the Wireless LAN PC Card,Wireless LAN PC Card driver, and theWireless Panel utility softwareprovided.❒Troubleshooting Guide containsanswers to frequently asked questionsand solutions to common problems.❒Wireless LAN Quick Guidedescribes the Wireless Panel softwareand explains how to set up a Peer toPeer network in detail, and providesinformation on configuring andchanging specific settings.❒Wireless Panel Online Helpexplains how to use the Wireless Panelutility software provided.❒The Sony Wireless LAN PC Cardsupport Web sitehttp://www.sony.com/wirelesslansupport provides thelatest information on your WirelessLAN products.
71Additional information❒The Sony e-mail support serviceanswers your questions by electronicmail. Just send your question in an e-mail message and a customer servicerepresentative will reply. To send aquestion to Sony e-mail support, fill outthe e-mail form athttp://www.ita.sel.sony.com/support/pc/email.html❒The Sony fax-back service providesyou with answers to commonly askedquestions. You can use this automatedservice to request a list of availabletopics then select the topics you want toreceive. To contact the Sony fax-backservice, call1-877-760-7669.❒The Sony Customer InformationServices Center offers informationabout your Wireless LAN products, andother Sony products that work with yourcomputer. To contact the SonyCustomer Information Services Center,call 1-877-760-7669.Open 24 hours/day, 7 days/week.GlossaryAccess Point (Infrastructure)Network modeA method of building a wireless networkusing one or more Access Points. Fordetails, see “Capabilities” on page 8.ChannelA part of the frequency spectrum to beused for wireless communication.Only client computers and Access Pointsset to the same channel can communicatewith each other.ClientA computer connected to a LAN (LocalArea Network). Also may be called aclient computer.DHCP (Dynamic HostConfiguration Protocol)DHCP lets network administrators centrallymanage and automate assignment of clientcomputer IP addresses.DNS (Domain Name System)A system that translates host names intoIP addresses.Networks that use the TCP/IP protocol,such as the Internet, use a set of numberslike 192.168.0.1 (IP address) to identify acomputer. However, since the IP addressis hard to memorize, DNS was developedto allow a name like “www.sony.com” toidentify a computer for convenience. DNSservers manage these translations fromhost names into IP addresses.
72LAN (Local Area Network)A network which is accessible only to itsmembers, unlike the Internet which isopen to an unlimited number of people. ALAN may be built for different purposes.For example, you can build an office LANthat is accessible only to members of thesame department or a home LAN that isaccessible only to family members.Network Name (SSID)A wireless LAN group identifieraccording to the IEEE 802.11 standard.SSID stands for “Service Set ID”. TheNetwork Name can be set individually foreach Access Point and Peer to PeerNetwork to connect to. When roamingamong multiple Access Points is used, allAccess Points must be configured for thesame Network Name (SSID) and WEPencryption key.TCP/IP (Transmission ControlProtocol/Internet Protocol)TCP/IP is the network communicationsprotocol that is used to communicate overthe Internet. TCP is a connection-orientedprotocol for establishing reliable,sequenced data transfer. TCP ensures thatdata reaches its destination.IP assembles and addresses data packetsfor transmission to their networkdestinations.WAN (Wide Area Network)A network that interconnects remoteLANs through the Internet or telephonelines.
73Additional informationTroubleshootingRead the Troubleshooting section of this guide before calling SonyCustomer Information Services. If you still cannot resolve your issue afterreading this section, call Sony Customer Information Services.Symptom Cause/RemedyMy computer does notdetect the WirelessLAN PC Card.I cannot access theInternet.The Wireless LAN PC Card may not be properly insertedinto the PC card slot of your computer.cCheck that the Wireless LAN PC Card is inserted in theproper direction, then push it in as far as it will go.The Access Point is not connected.cFollow the instructions in the Access Point OperatingInstructions to connect it properly.The Wireless LAN PC Card is not properly inserted intoyour computer.cSee the instructions on page 13 of this manual to insert itproperly.Communication between the Access Point and yourcomputer are not established.cCheck the communication status using the Wireless Panel.For details on how to check the status, see “Viewingcommunication status” (page 45).The Access Point is not properly configured.cConfigure the Access Point with the connection method ofyour choice.Distance between computer and Access Point is too great.The maximum allowable distance is about 150 feet for802.11a and 100 feet for 802.11b line of sight, but this willvary depending on usage conditions.cCheck the reception level indicator in the system tray(notification area in Windows XP). If the level is low,bring the computer and Access Point closer together.
74Symptom Cause/RemedyData transfer speed isslowI cannot remember theWEP Key.Distance betweenAccess Point andcomputer is less than50 meters, butcommunication is notpossible.There is interference with other Access Points.cTry changing the Access Point channel setting.The network is handling a large amount of simultaneoustraffic.cTry again when the network load is lower.Communication distance is long.cReduce the communication distance.There are obstacles (objects blocking radio transmission)within the communication range.cRemove the obstacles or change the installation location.Channel 14 is used for the 2.4 GHz band.cChannel 14 is limited to 2 Mbps.cWhen using an Access Point, reset the Access Point to itsdefaults. For further information about how to reset theAccess Point, see the Access Point Operating Instructions.cWhen using a Wireless LAN PC Card in Peer to PeerNetwork connection mode, delete the network settingsregistered on each computer connected to the network,then reconfigure the computer’s wireless network settings.The actual communication distance depends on theinstallation site and surrounding conditions.cMove your computer closer to the Access Point.
Printed in Japan❒The Sony Wireless LAN products support Web sitehttp://www.sony.com/wirelesslansupport provides thelatest information on your Wireless LAN products.❒The Sony e-mail support service answers your questionsby electronic mail. Just send your question in an e-mail messageand a customer service representative will reply. To send aquestion to Sony e-mail support, fill out the e-mail form athttp://www.ita.sel.sony.com/support/pc/email.html❒The Sony fax-back service provides you with answers tocommonly asked questions. You can use this automated serviceto request a list of available topics and then select the topics youwant to receive. To contact the Sony fax-back service, call1-877-760-7669.❒The Sony Customer Information Services Center offersinformation about your Wireless LAN products, and other Sonyproducts that work with your computer. To contact the SonyCustomer Information Services Center, call1-877-760-7669.Open 24 hours/day, 7 days/week.Printed on chlorine-free 100% recycled paper usingVOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free vegetable oilbased ink.

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