SMC Networks SMC2664W manual Terminology

TERMINOLOGY

The following is a list of terminology used in this document.

Access Point – An internetworking device that seamlessly connects wired and wireless networks.

Ad Hoc – An ad hoc wireless LAN is a group of computers each with LAN adapters, connected as an independent wireless LAN.

BSS – BSS stands for “Basic Service Set.” It is an access point and all the LAN PCs that are associated with it.

CSMA/CA – Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Avoidance.

Data Frame – Packets transmitted/received by the device that carry data (see Management Frame on the next page.

ESS – ESS (ESS-ID, SSID) stands for “Extended Service Set.” More than one BSS is configured to become an Extended Service Set. LAN mobile users can roam between different BSSs in an ESS (ESS-ID, SSID).

Ethernet – A popular local area data communications network, which accepts transmissions from computers and terminals. Ethernet operates on a 10 Mbps baseband transmission rate, using shielded coaxial cable or twisted-pair cable.

Fragmentation Threshold – In the 802.11 Standard, the MAC Layer may fragment and reassemble directed MSDUs or MMPDUs. The fragmentation and defragmentation mechanisms allow for fragment re-transmission.

Preamble Type – Some Access Points and Client card drivers have a radio setting for “Short” RF Preamble. If all the Clients and Access points in your wireless network have this feature, then enabling it can boost your throughput. However, if a radio does not support this feature, then it will not be able to communicate with any other radios that have this set to “Short”.

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