Appendix B Glossary | TP-Link TL-WN951N specification

TL-WN951N300Mbps Wireless N PCI Adapter User Guide

Appendix B: Glossary

¾802.11b - The 802.11b standard specifies a wireless product networking at 11 Mbps using direct-sequence spread-spectrum (DSSS) technology and operating in the unlicensed radio spectrum at 2.4GHz, and WEP encryption for security. 802.11b networks are also referred to as Wi-Fi networks.

¾802.11g - specification for wireless networking at 54 Mbps using direct-sequence spread-spectrum (DSSS) technology, using OFDM modulation and operating in the unlicensed radio spectrum at 2.4GHz, and backward compatibility with IEEE 802.11b devices, and WEP encryption for security.

¾802.11n - 802.11n builds upon previous 802.11 standards by adding MIMO (multiple-input multiple-output). MIMO uses multiple transmitter and receiver antennas to allow for increased data throughput via spatial multiplexing and increased range by exploiting the spatial diversity, perhaps through coding schemes like Alamouti coding. The Enhanced Wireless Consortium (EWC) was formed to help accelerate the IEEE 802.11n development process and promote a technology specification for interoperability of next-generation wireless local area networking (WLAN) products.

¾Ad hoc Network - An ad hoc network is a group of computers, each with a Wireless Adapter, connected as an independent 802.11 wireless LAN. Ad hoc wireless computers operate on a peer-to-peer basis, communicating directly with each other without the use of an access point. Ad hoc mode is also referred to as an Independent Basic Service Set (IBSS) or as peer-to-peer mode, and is useful at a departmental scale or SOHO operation.

¾DSSS - (Direct-Sequence Spread Spectrum) - DSSS generates a redundant bit pattern for all data transmitted. This bit pattern is called a chip (or chipping code). Even if one or more bits in the chip are damaged during transmission, statistical techniques embedded in the receiver can recover the original data without the need of retransmission. To an unintended receiver, DSSS appears as low power wideband noise and is rejected (ignored) by most narrowband receivers. However, to an intended receiver (i.e. another wireless LAN endpoint), the DSSS signal is recognized as the only valid signal, and interference is inherently rejected (ignored).

¾FHSS - (Frequency Hopping Spread Spectrum) - FHSS continuously changes (hops) the carrier frequency of a conventional carrier several times per second according to a pseudo-random set of channels. Because a fixed frequency is not used, and only the transmitter and receiver know the hop patterns, interception of FHSS is extremely difficult.

¾Infrastructure Network - An infrastructure network is a group of computers or other devices, each with a Wireless Adapter, connected as an 802.11 wireless LAN. In infrastructure mode, the wireless devices communicate with each other and to a wired network by first going through an access point. An infrastructure wireless network connected to a wired network is referred to as a Basic Service Set (BSS). A set of two or more BSS in a single network is referred to as an Extended Service Set (ESS). Infrastructure mode is useful at a corporation scale, or when it is necessary to connect the wired and wireless networks.

TL-WN951N specifications

The TP-Link TL-WN951N is a robust wireless N adapter designed to enhance your computer's connectivity capabilities. It supports the IEEE 802.11n standard, which ensures a peak transfer rate of up to 300Mbps, offering a significant improvement over its predecessors, such as the 802.11g standard that maxed out at 54Mbps. This makes the TL-WN951N an excellent choice for activities demanding high bandwidth, such as streaming HD video, online gaming, and large file downloads.

One of the standout features of the TL-WN951N is its MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output) technology, which uses multiple antennas to transmit and receive data. This technology not only boosts the range of your wireless signal but also reduces dead spots in your home or office environment. As a result, users can enjoy seamless connectivity even in challenging setups with obstacles.

The adapter is equipped with a PCI Express interface, which allows for straightforward installation on compatible desktops. With plug-and-play capabilities, it ensures a quick and easy setup process, allowing users to get connected with minimal hassle. It also includes a detachable high-gain antenna that helps to enhance signal strength and coverage, making it a flexible solution for various network environments.

Additionally, the TL-WN951N is compatible with 802.11b/g networks, ensuring that it can work with older router setups while also providing a solid foundation for future upgrades. This backward compatibility is crucial for users looking to maintain an older network infrastructure without sacrificing performance.

TP-Link’s advanced security technologies, including WEP, WPA, and WPA2 encryption, ensure that your data remains protected while using the adapter. The TL-WN951N also features a user-friendly setup wizard to help guide users through installation and configuration, making it accessible for individuals of all skill levels.

In conclusion, the TP-Link TL-WN951N wireless N adapter presents a compelling choice for users seeking to upgrade their desktop’s wireless capabilities. With its high-speed connectivity, enhanced range, and robust security features, it stands out as a reliable option for both home and office environments. Whether you're browsing the web or engaging in high-performance activities, the TL-WN951N is designed to meet diverse connectivity needs efficiently and effectively.