The Taskbar Status Icon provides several functions:
Visual feedback for the connection state and wireless activity of your wireless network. The icon changes color and animation for different wireless activity. See Taskbar Icons
for more information.
Menu: A menu is displayed when you right click the icon. From this menu you perform tasks such as turn on or off the radio or launch the Intel PROSet/Wireless application. See Taskbar Menu Options for more information.
Tool tips and desktop alerts. See:Tool Tips and Desktop Alerts for more information.
Show Alert Notifications: Select to display desktop alerts next to the taskbar icon. When your action is required, a message displays. Only events of high importance trigger a desktop alert. If the desktop alert is selected, then the appropriate action is taken. Clear to not display desktop alerts. Refer to Tool Tips and Desktop Alerts for more information.
Select one of the following options:
Information Notifications: These desktop alerts are of lower importance. They do not require your interaction but can greatly improve the wireless experience.
Show Information Notifications: Selected by default. All informational desktop alerts are displayed next to the taskbar status icon. These desktop alerts improve your wireless experience with notifications when available wireless networks are in range. They also inform you when a wireless connection has been made or has been lost. Refer to Tool Tip and Desktop Alerts for more information.
Show a list of available networks in the area when not connected: When Show Information Notifications is cleared, you can select this item. When the desktop alerts are disabled, this option allows you to continue to be notified of available networks when the wireless adapter is not connected.
Notify when another application uses the wireless adapter: When selected, a message is displayed when other applications are trying to manage your wireless adapter. This is helpful if you use software provided by a hotspot location (coffee shop, airport terminal). To take advantage of the Intel PROSet/Wireless features, disable this software when you leave the hotspot.
Enable TLS rejected certificates notification: Select if you want a warning issued when a PEAP-TLS certificate is rejected by the authentication server. See Enterprise Security and Set
up the Client for TLS authentication for more information.
Advanced Settings: The following settings control how Intel PROSet/Wireless behaves and displays information.
TaskbarShow application icon on the taskbar: Select to display the Taskbar status icon. This icon resides on the Windows Taskbar (Notification Area). This icon provides the status of your wireless connection. Clear to not display the Taskbar status icon.
Description
Lists the network adapter that are currently available. It may be either an Intel(R) PRO/ Wireless 3945ABG Network Connection, an Intel(R) PRO/Wireless 3945BG Network Connection, an Intel(R) PRO/Wireless 2915ABG Network Connection or, an Intel(R) PRO/ Wireless 2200BG Network Connection.

Application Settings Description

Name

Adapter

Notifications

Page 17
Image 17
Intel 3945ABG specifications Application Settings Description Name Adapter Notifications

3945ABG specifications

The Intel 3945ABG is a wireless networking adapter that played a significant role in advancing wireless connectivity in laptops and portable devices. Introduced in the mid-2000s, this adapter is notable for its dual-band capabilities and compliance with the IEEE 802.11 a/b/g standards. It supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands, enabling users to connect to a variety of wireless networks while offering improved performance and flexibility.

One of the standout features of the Intel 3945ABG is its support for MIMO technology, which stands for Multiple Input Multiple Output. This innovative technology enhances data transmission rates and increases the range of wireless connections by utilizing multiple antennas for sending and receiving data. MIMO allows the adapter to operate more efficiently in environments with obstacles, such as walls or furniture, making it an ideal choice for users who need reliable connectivity in varied settings.

The Intel 3945ABG adapter also includes Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) and WPA2 security protocols, ensuring that data transmitted over the wireless network remains secure. This is especially important in a time when wireless networks became progressively more vulnerable to unauthorized access and data breaches. The adapter's compatibility with these security standards aids users in establishing secure communications, whether for casual web browsing or sensitive tasks.

In terms of performance, the Intel 3945ABG offers maximum theoretical speeds of up to 54 Mbps in the 802.11a and 802.11g modes, while maintaining lower speeds in the 802.11b mode (up to 11 Mbps). In practical use, this means that users can achieve high data transfer rates in optimal conditions, making it suitable for video streaming, online gaming, and large file downloads.

The Intel 3945ABG also integrates seamlessly with Intel's Centrino mobile technology, which enhances power efficiency and optimizes the overall performance of a laptop. This synergy not only extends battery life but also provides a smooth user experience, as it allows the adapter to effectively manage network resources and maintain a stable connection.

In summary, the Intel 3945ABG wireless adapter is characterized by its dual-band support, MIMO technology, robust security features, and integration with Intel's Centrino technology. While it may now be considered outdated by modern standards, it served as an important stepping stone in the evolution of wireless networking technology and continues to be remembered for its contributions to mobile connectivity.