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Wireless

Broadband Router

Quick Start Guide

Before reading this guide, be sure to read the “Read This First” supplement.

This guide describes the preparations and settings required to connect to the Internet using the Wireless Broadband Router.

The PCWA-AR300 consists of:

• Broadband Router Unit

PCWA-R1

• Wireless LAN Access Point

PCWA-A320

In this document, we refer to the Broadband Router Unit as the Router Unit and to the Wireless LAN Access Point as the Wireless Unit.

PCWA-AR300

Sony Corporation ©2003 Printed in Japan

Unpacking

When you unpack the unit, make sure that all the following are accounted for.

Router UnitWireless Unit

(Broadband Router Unit PCWA-R1) (Wireless LAN Access Point PCWA-A320)

* The Wireless Unit has Access Point functions.

AC Adapter

Power cord

Read This First

Quick Start Guide (this manual)

Troubleshooting Guide

Limited Warranty

Other documentation

Setup Procedures

Preparation

Procedure Check

1 Perform the necessary preparations and confirmations for connections

Procedure

 

Check

2

Connect each unit and turn the power on

Establish wireless connections

Procedure Check

3 Establish communications between a computer and the Access Point

 

 

Router Functions Setup

Procedure

 

Check

 

4

Display the Router Unit Setup Page

Procedure Check

5

Configure the Router functions

Access Point Functions Setup

Procedure Check

6

Display the Access Point Setup Page

Procedure Check

7

Configure the Access Point functions

Configure the Wireless Communication Settings

Procedure

 

Check

on the computer

 

8

Configure computer settings

Each procedure is preceded by a check box. Before proceeding to the next step,

 

confirm that you have completed all necessary tasks by ticking the box.

Check

Preparation

Procedure

 

Check

1

Perform the necessary preparations

 

and confirmations for connections

Obtain the information required to make the computer connections.

The procedure in this guide describes the connection process using the factory default settings.

The factory default settings of the Access Point function are:

Network Name (SSID):

The 6-character identifier printed on the label inside the rear

 

cover of the Wireless Unit

Encryption (WEP):

Disabled

Confirm the connection method of the wireless connection on the computer.

Refer to the instructions for your Wireless LAN PC Card or Wireless LAN Converter to confirm the connection method of the computer to the Access Point when using a Wireless LAN PC Card or Wireless LAN Converter.

If using a Wireless LAN PC Card with the Windows XP operating system, connect to the network using the Windows XP Wireless Network function.

Configure the TCP/IP settings for the Wireless Network connection on the computer.

Configure the TCP/IP settings on the computer as follows.

IP address setting: Select “Obtain an IP address automatically”.

DNS setting: Select “Disable DNS” in the Windows Me operating system.

Select “Obtain a DNS server address automatically” in the Windows 2000 and Windows XP operating systems.

Prepare the Ethernet cable to connect the Router Unit and ADSL or cable modem.

zHint

Use a straight-through or cross-over Ethernet cable.

Configure the computer firewall settings

If you are using the Windows XP Internet Connection Firewall or another personal firewall, you may need to change the security level setting. Refer to the Note below about Computer Firewall Functions for details.

Note

Computer Firewall Functions

When using the Windows XP “Internet Connection Firewall” function

Enabling the Windows XP “Internet Connection Firewall” function may prevent the computer from being accessed externally (this function is disabled by default). This function can prevent connection to your network when you change your Wireless Broadband Router settings. If this happens, disable the “Internet Connection Firewall” function, connect to the network, and then re-enable the function. Refer to Windows XP Help for details (you can search from “Help and Support” on the “Start” menu).

Note

Make sure that you take appropriate security measures when the “Internet Connection Firewall” function is disabled.

When using personal firewall software provided standalone or as part of anti-virus or network security software

Antivirus scanning and network security software sometimes includes a function called a “personal firewall”, intended to prevent unauthorized access by other computers. Depending on the software, the security level of this function may initially be set to a high level. If this high security level setting is left enabled, other computers may be unable to access your computer. This can cause problems such as not being able to connect to the network when changing the Wireless Broadband Router settings. In this event, lower the security level to allow the network connection. While the security level is lowered, pay special attention to security. We highly recommend returning to the original setting after setting up the Wireless Broadband Router. Refer to the software instructions or Help for details.

Notes

Pay appropriate attention to security issues.

For questions about firewall functions, please contact your firewall software manufacturer.

Procedure Check

2

Connect each unit and turn the power on

Connect each unit as shown in the next figure, and turn the power on.

1Use an Ethernet cable to connect the cable or DSL modem to the WAN connector of the Router Unit.

2Connect the Wireless Unit to a Wireless Unit/LAN connector.

zHint

There are two Wireless Unit/LAN connectors. Use either one.

3Connect the AC Adapter to the Router Unit, and turn the AC Adapter on.

4Connect an end of the Ethernet cable to a LAN connector of the Router Unit.

5Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to your computer.

zHint

The Ethernet port of your computer is on its back panel.

When you turn the power on, confirm that the Status indicators on the Wireless Unit and Router Unit change as follows before proceeding to Procedure 3.

Wireless Unit: Changes from a quickly flashing white light to a slowly flashing one.

Router Unit: Change from flashing white light to a steadily lit one.

Establish wireless connections

Procedure

Check

3

Establish communications between

 

the computer and the Access Point

This description assumes that the connection is established with factory default settings.

Access Point factory default settings

Network Name (SSID):

The 6-character identifier printed on the label inside the rear

 

cover of the Wireless Unit

Encryption (WEP):

Disabled

Confirming the Network Name (SSID)

Remove the rear cover

This ID is used as the

by sliding it in the

default Network Name

direction of the arrow.

(SSID).

SSID

Configure the wireless communication settings on the computer, and then establish communications between the computer and the Access Point.

Refer to the instructions for your Wireless LAN PC Card or Wireless LAN Converter for the setting method.

zComments

The Network Name (SSID) may also be called something like the “ESSID” or “Network ID”, depending on the particular device.

Encryption may also be called something like “encoding” or “security”, depending on the particular device.

When using the Windows XP operating system with a Wireless LAN PC Card, on the “Start” menu, click “Connect to” – “Wireless Network Connection”, and make the communications settings that affect connection to the Access Point from the dialog box that appears.

If no “Wireless Network Connection” item can be found on the “Start” menu, on the “Start” menu click “Control Panel” – “Network and Internet Connections” – “Network Connection”, and double-click “Wireless Network Connection”.

When you are done, verify that an IP address is assigned to the computer.

Although communication is possible from this state, for security reasons, be certain to perform the subsequent procedures to change the factory default settings. Also refer to the instructions for your Wireless LAN PC Card or Wireless LAN Converter.

Router Unit Setup

Procedure Check

4

Display the Router Unit Setup Page

Access the Access Point from a Web browser to display the Router Unit Setup Page.

Compatible browsers:

Internet Explorer 5.5 or later

Netscape 6.1 or later

Note

Configure the browser’s proxy settings so that the IP address of the Router Unit (factory default 192.168.11.1) bypasses the proxy server. Refer to “Case 1: Cannot display the Setup Page (error message appears)” in the separate Troubleshooting Guide for details about bypassing the proxy server.

zHint

The Setup Page of this device is stored in the internal memory of the Router Unit.

1 Launch the Web browser.

• Sony, VAIO,

,

, and the Eco Info logo are trademarks of Sony Corporation.

Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or

 

other countries.

In this manual, Microsoft® Windows® XP Home Edition and Microsoft® Windows® XP Professional are

 

referred to as Windows XP.

Before setting up the Broadband Router, perform the following.

Set up the Wireless LAN PC Card or Wireless LAN Converter

Switch`

1 4 2

Use either connector.

Ethernet

cable

2 Enter http://192.168.11.1 in the Address field, and press the Enter key.

z Hint

The IP address 192.168.11.1 is the Router Unit factory default. If the Router’s IP address has

Netscape is a registered trademark of Netscape Communications Corporation.

All other names of systems, products and services are trademarks of their respective owners. In the manual,

 

the ™ or ® marks are not specified.

Printed on 100% recycled paper using VOC (Volatile Organic Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink.

Perform the required software installation and settings according to the instructions provided with your Wireless LAN PC Card or Wireless LAN Converter to make it operational.

3

Internet

5

Cable modem or DSL modem

been changed, contact your network administrator.

Continued on next page

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Sony 276, PCWA-AR300, Network Router quick start Wireless Broadband Router, Connect each unit and turn the power on

276, Network Router, PCWA-AR300 specifications

The Sony PCWA-AR300 is a versatile network router designed to meet the demands of both home and small office environments. As an advanced solution for wireless networking, it combines cutting-edge technologies with user-friendly features, making it an appealing choice for users looking to enhance their internet connectivity.

One of the standout features of the PCWA-AR300 is its support for the IEEE 802.11g wireless standard, which provides high-speed data transfer rates up to 54 Mbps. This ensures that users can enjoy smooth streaming, fast downloads, and seamless online gaming experiences without the interruptions often associated with slower connections. Additionally, it is backward compatible with the older 802.11b standard, providing flexibility for users with older devices.

The router boasts a sleek and compact design, making it suitable for various settings without taking up too much space. Its integrated antenna technology enhances signal strength and coverage, ensuring robust connections even in larger areas. Users can rely on the PCWA-AR300 to deliver a strong wireless signal throughout their homes or offices.

Security features are also a key focus of the Sony PCWA-AR300. The router supports Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) for robust data protection, as well as Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA/WPA2). These security protocols ensure that users' personal information and data are safeguarded against unauthorized access and potential cyber threats.

Additionally, the PCWA-AR300 features multiple Ethernet ports, allowing for wired connections to devices such as desktops, gaming consoles, and smart TVs. This versatility enables users to establish a stable and high-speed connection for devices that require it while also supporting wireless connectivity for mobile devices.

Setting up the PCWA-AR300 is simple and user-friendly, with a web-based management interface that guides users through the configuration process. This ease of setup makes it an attractive option for those who may not have extensive technical expertise.

Overall, the Sony PCWA-AR300 network router stands out with its high-speed connectivity, strong security features, and ease of use, making it a reliable choice for anyone looking to enhance their internet experience in a home or small office environment. Its combination of performance, design, and technology reflects Sony's commitment to delivering high-quality networking solutions that cater to modern users' needs.