Installation Overview

AirConnect Wireless LAN cards support a maximum data rate of 11 Mbps. (The data rate drops back to 5.5, 2, or 1 Mbps when the adapter cannot establish or maintain an 11 Mbps association.) Factors that can affect the data rate include:

■A separation or change in signal strength between the Access Point and the wireless client

■The ratio of packets transmitted to transmissions attempted falling below a preset threshold

■The wireless client ﬁnding and switching to another Access Point with a higher transmit rate

Roaming means the AirConnect PC Card will maintain your network connection as you roam between Access Points in the same subnet. You can also roam across routers, depending on how your extended roaming conﬁguration is set. When conﬁgured for extended roaming, the wireless client retains its network address as it moves between subnets, between Ethernet segments, or from an Ethernet segment to a wireless LAN. See “Easy Setup” on page 13 for details.

The wireless LAN PC Card supports Continuous Active and Power Save Polling power-management modes.

■In Continuous Active Mode, the radio that establishes and maintains the link to the network remains on. Continuous Active mode is not recommended for battery powered devices.

■Power Save Polling conserves power by suspending the adapter’s communication with an associated access point. The access point saves data for transmission to the wireless client when it wakes at given intervals. When the adapter wakes to check for data, it switches back into Continuous Active Mode until it is ready to suspend communications again.

Installation Overview Installing the AirConnect wireless network PC Card involves these tasks:

■Running the Setup program from the Installation CD. See “Installing the Drivers” on page 5.

■Installing the PC Card. Do not install the card until instructed to do so by the setup software. The procedure for installing the PC Card is described in “Installing the PC Card” on page 20.

■Installing the software, including the drivers for the card and the AirConnect software utilities. See “Installing the Card Software” on page 6.

If you are reading this manual from the CD and want to install it on your hard disk for easier access, see “Installing the Documentation” on page 6.

■The card installation procedure covers basic conﬁguration. For advanced conﬁguration options, or to explore the utilities available for managing and conﬁguring the card, see “Software Conﬁguration, Tools, and Utilities” on page 13.

3CRWE73796B specifications

The 3Com 3CRWE73796B is a versatile wireless access point designed to enhance networking capabilities with robust features tailored for both home and small office environments. This access point supports the evolving needs of modern networks, providing reliable connectivity for a wide range of devices.

One of the standout features of the 3CRWE73796B is its adherence to the IEEE 802.11g wireless standard, ensuring compatibility with a broad spectrum of wireless devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Operating on the 2.4 GHz frequency band, this access point delivers impressive data rates of up to 54 Mbps, enabling users to enjoy seamless internet access and smooth multimedia streaming.

The 3CRWE73796B incorporates advanced security features to safeguard network connections. With support for WEP, WPA, and WPA2 encryption protocols, it offers multiple layers of security to protect sensitive data from unauthorized access. This focus on security is crucial in today’s digital landscape, where cyber threats are increasingly sophisticated.

Equipped with a user-friendly web-based interface, configuring the 3CRWE73796B is straightforward, making it accessible even for those with minimal technical expertise. The device allows for easy setup of various networking features, including SSID broadcasting, wireless channel selection, and MAC address filtering.

Moreover, the access point supports multiple SSIDs, enabling the creation of distinct networks for different user groups. This functionality is particularly beneficial in small office environments where guest access or departmental networking is required, allowing for better organization and security.

Another notable characteristic of the 3CRWE73796B is its support for Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology. This allows the device to be powered through the Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for additional power sources and simplifying installation, particularly in locations where access to a power outlet is limited.

In terms of physical design, the 3CRWE73796B features a compact and streamlined form factor that facilitates easy mounting on walls or ceilings. This design not only saves space but also helps optimize wireless coverage by positioning the device in ideal locations.

Overall, the 3Com 3CRWE73796B is a reliable wireless access point that combines ease of use, robust security features, and excellent performance. It serves as an effective solution for enhancing connectivity in various environments, making it a valuable addition to any network setup.