Linksys WMP11 Hardware Installation for Windows 98SE, Me, Hardware Detection for Windows 98SE, Me

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Instant Wireless® Series

Chapter 6: Hardware Installation for Windows 98SE, Me, and 2000

Make sure that you do Chapter 5 and install the software with the Setup Wizard before you install the hardware.

1.Remove any CDs or disks from their drives, and turn off your desktop PC.

2.Open your PC’s case, and locate an available PCI slot on the motherboard. Check with your computer manufacturer for instructions.

3.Slide the Adapter into the PCI slot, as shown in Figure 6-1. Make sure that all of its pins are touching the slot’s contacts. You may have to apply a bit of pressure to slide the Adapter all the way in.

4.After the Adapter is set firmly in place, secure its fastening tab to your PC’s chassis with a mounting screw. Then close your PC’s case.

Figure 6-1

Wireless-B PCI Adapter

5.Attach the external antenna to the Adapter’s antenna port, as shown in Figure 6-2.

Figure 6-2

Important: Make sure the antenna is positioned straight up into the air, at a 90º angle from the Adapter (see Figure 5-2). This will ensure optimum wireless operating range and performance.

5. Power on your desktop PC.

Hardware Detection for Windows 98SE, Me, and 2000

After the Adapter has been physically connected to your computer, Windows will detect the new hardware.

Windows will begin installing the driver files in your operating system. If Windows asks you for the original Windows CD-ROM, insert the CD-ROM, and direct Windows to the proper location for the CD-ROM (e.g., D:\).

Congratulations! The installation of the Wireless-B PCI Adapter is

complete.

If you want to check the link information, search for available wireless

networks, or make additional configuration changes, proceed to “Chapter 7: Using the WLAN Monitor for Windows 98SE, Me, and 2000.”

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Contents Wireless-B PCI Adapter WMP11-v4-UG-30530A KL Table of Contents Wireless-B PCI Adapter FeaturesIntroduction Planning Your Wireless Network Ad-Hoc versus Infrastructure ModeNetwork Topology Getting to Know the Wireless-B PCI Adapter Wireless-B PCI Adapter’s Port and LEDsHardware Installation for Windows XP OverviewDriver Installation for Windows XP Windows XP Wireless Zero Configuration Instant Wireless Series Instant Wireless Series Proceed to Hardware Installation for Windows 98SE, Me Hardware Installation for Windows 98SE, Me, Hardware Detection for Windows 98SE, Me,Starting the Wlan Monitor Link InformationSite Survey Site InformationProfiles Profile InformationCreating a New Profile Instant Wireless Series Appendix a Troubleshooting Common Problems and SolutionsFrequently Asked Questions What Ieee 802.11b features are supported? Can Instant Wireless products support printer sharing? Appendix B GlossaryInstant Wireless Series Instant Wireless Series Appendix C Specifications EnvironmentalAppendix D Warranty Information Appendix E Contact InformationCopyright 2003 Linksys, All Rights Reserved

WMP11 specifications

The Linksys WMP11 is a wireless network adapter that exemplifies the early 802.11b technology, designed to enhance connectivity in home and small office environments. Launched in the early 2000s, this product was one of the first to facilitate wireless connections for desktop PCs, allowing users to harness the power of wireless networking without the constraints of physical cables.

One of the main features of the WMP11 is its compatibility with the 802.11b wireless standard, which offers data transfer rates of up to 11 Mbps. This was a crucial advancement in networking technology at the time, as it enabled users to enjoy a significantly faster internet connection compared to traditional dial-up services. The adapter operates on the 2.4 GHz frequency band, providing a range of approximately 150 feet indoors and up to 300 feet outdoors under optimal conditions.

The WMP11 comes equipped with a PCI interface, making installation straightforward for users with compatible desktop computers. The adapter features Linksys' Plug and Play technology, allowing for easy setup and configuration. With a driver disk provided, users can quickly install the necessary software to get the device up and running. Moreover, it supports WEP security protocols, which, while dated compared to modern standards, offered basic encryption to protect wireless connections during its time.

Additionally, the WMP11 integrates seamlessly with other Linksys networking products, particularly their wireless routers, enabling users to create a robust and comprehensive wireless network. The adapter features a removable antenna, allowing users to replace it with a higher-gain antenna for extended range and improved signal quality.

Despite its age, the Linksys WMP11 laid the groundwork for subsequent generations of wireless technology. It helped usher in a new era of networking, characterized by the convenience and flexibility of wireless connectivity. While it may no longer meet the needs of today’s high-speed internet requirements, the WMP11 holds a nostalgic place in the evolution of wireless networking technology. Users seeking reliable wireless communication during its prime found a dependable solution in the WMP11, making it a noteworthy device in the history of networking.