Belkin F5D8073 user manual Introduction, Placement of your Wireless Router or Access Point

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Introduction

Placement of your Wireless Networking Hardware for Optimal Performance

Your wireless connection will be stronger the closer your computer is to your wireless router (or access point). Typical indoor operating range for your wireless devices is between 100 and 200 feet. In the same way, your wireless connection and performance will degrade somewhat as the distance between your wireless router (or access point) and connected devices increases. This may or may not be noticeable to you. As you move farther from your wireless router (or access point), connection speed may decrease. Factors that can weaken signals simply by getting in the way of your network’s radio waves are metal appliances or obstructions, and walls.

If you have concerns about your network’s performance that might be related to range or obstruction factors, try moving the computer to a position between five and 10 feet from the wireless router (or access point) in order to see if distance is the problem. If difficulties persist even at close range, please contact Belkin Technical Support.

Note: While some of the items listed below can affect network performance, they will not prohibit your wireless network from functioning; if you are concerned that your network is not operating at its maximum effectiveness, this checklist may help.

1.Placement of your Wireless Router (or Access Point)

Place your wireless router (or access point), the central connection point of your network, as close as possible to the center of your wireless network devices.

To achieve the best wireless network coverage for your “wireless clients,” (i.e. computers enabled by Belkin N Wireless ExpressCard Adapters, Wireless Desktop Cards, and Wireless USB Adapters):

Ensure that your wireless router’s (or access point’s) antennas are parallel to each other, and are positioned vertically (toward the ceiling). If your wireless router (or access point) itself is positioned vertically, point the antennas as much as possible in an upward direction.

In multistory homes, place the wireless router (or access point) on a floor that is as close to the center of the home as possible. This may mean placing the wireless router (or access point) on an upper floor.

Try not to place the wireless router (or access point) near a cordless 2.4GHz phone.

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Contents Wireless ExpressCard Adapter Table of Contents Introduction Advantages of a Wireless NetworkBenefits of a Home Network Placement of your Wireless Router or Access Point IntroductionCordless Phone Placement Avoid Obstacles and InterferenceChoose the Quietest Channel for your Wireless Network Secure Connections, VPNs, and AOLProduct Features OverviewOverview Product SpecificationsApplications and Advantages Package Contents Power LEDAdapter Connector System RequirementsInstalling and Setting up the Adapter Installation Process for Windows VistaSection Installing and Setting up the Adapter Section Important Install the Software Before Inserting the Adapter Installing and Setting up the Adapter Installing and Setting up the Adapter Configuration Using the Belkin Wireless Networking Utility Using the Belkin Wireless Networking Utility Network Status Lost Wireless ConnectionAvailable Networks Network Status and Solution Tips Using the Belkin Wireless Networking UtilityConnection Failure Setting Wireless Network Profiles Securing your Wi-FiNetworkWired Equivalent Privacy WEP is a less secure, but more Wireless Protected Access WPA is the new standard Bit WEPEncryption Keys Bit EncryptionC3 03 0F AF 0F 4B B2 C3 D4 4B C3 D4 E7 = 128-bit WEP key Configuring your Adapter to use Security WPAChanging the Wireless Security Settings WEP Setup Bit WEP EncryptionC3 03 0F AF 0F 4B B2 C3 D4 4B C3 D4 E7 = 128-bit WEP key WPA-PSK no server Wireless Networking Utility Options Wireless Networking Utility HelpAdvanced Diagnostic Tools Troubleshooting Can’t connect to the Internet wirelesslyName of your wireless network appears in Available Networks Troubleshooting Power LED does not come on Adapter is not workingLink LED is solid but I cannot connect to the Internet Signal strength is poor Data transfer is sometimes slowTroubleshooting What’s the difference between 802.11g and draft 802.11n? Belkin Wireless Comparison Chart CoverageTechnical Support FCC Statement InformationFederal Communications Commission Notice Information How state law relates to the warranty Belkin International, Inc Belkin Tech SupportBelkin B.V. Boeing Avenue