Cisco AIRONET CB21AG User manual

CHAPTER
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Product Overview and Installation
This chapter describes the Cisco Aironet CB21AG and PI21AG client adapters and their role in a
wireless network. This chapter also provides information that you need to know before installing a client
adapter and instructions for installing the client adapter hardware and software.
The following topics are covered in this chapter:
•Introduction to the Client Adapters, page 1-2
•Hardware Components, page 1-3
•Software Components, page 1-4
•Network Configurations Using Client Adapters, page 1-4
•Safety information, page 1-6
•Unpacking the Client Adapter, page 1-7
•System Requirements, page 1-8
•Site Requirements, page 1-9
•Inserting the Client Adapter, page 1-10
•Obtaining Client Adapter Software, page 1-17
•Installing the Client Adapter Driver and Software, page 1-18

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Introduction to the Client Adapters
Introduction to the Client Adapters
The Cisco Aironet IEEE 802.11a/b/g Wireless LAN Client Adapters (CB21AG and PI21AG) are radio
modules that provide wireless data communications among fixed, portable, and mobile devices within
both wireless and wired network infrastructures. The client adapters are fully compatible when used in
devices supporting “plug-and-play” (PnP) technology.
The primary function of the client adapters is to transfer data packets through the wireless infrastructure
by communicating with other clients or with access points that are connected to a wired LAN. The
adapters operate similarly to a standard network product except that radios rather than Ethernet cables
make the connection to the wire. No special wireless networking functions are required, and all existing
applications that operate over a network can operate using the adapters.
This document covers the two client adapters described in Table 1-1.
Terminology
The following terms are used throughout this document:
•client adapter—Refers to both types of adapters.
•PC-Cardbus card or PCI card—Refers to a specific adapter.
•workstation (or station)—Refers to a computing device with an installed client adapter.
•infrastructure device—Refers to a device that connects client adapters to a wired LAN, such as an
access point, bridge, or base station. Throughout this document, access point is used to represent
infrastructure devices in general.
Table 1-1 Client Adapter Types
Client Adapter Model Number Description Illustration
PC-Cardbus
card
AIR-CB21AG An IEEE 802.11a/b/g-compliant 2.4- and 5-GHz 54-Mbps client
adapter card radio module with a Cardbus interface that can be
inserted into any device equipped with a 32-bit Cardbus slot. Host
devices can include laptops and notebook computers.
PCI card AIR-PI21AG An IEEE 802.11a/b/g-compliant 2.4- and 5-GHz 54-Mbps client
adapter card radio module that can be inserted into any device
equipped with an empty PCI expansion slot, such as a desktop
personal computer.
95579
95580
STATUS
ACTIVITY

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Hardware Components
Hardware Components
The client adapters have three major hardware components: a radio, a radio antenna, and two LEDs.
Radio
The client adapters contain a dual-band radio that is both IEEE 802.11a and 802.11b/g compliant. The
radio uses both direct-sequence spread spectrum (DSSS) technology and orthogonal frequency division
multiplexing (OFDM) technology for client applications in the 2.4-GHz Industrial Scientific Medical
(ISM) frequency band and OFDM technology in the 5-GHz Unlicensed National Information
Infrastructure (UNII) frequency bands. The client adapters operate with other IEEE 802.11a or
802.11b/g-compliant client devices in ad hoc mode or with Cisco Aironet access points and other IEEE
802.11a or 802.11b/g-compliant infrastructure devices in infrastructure mode.
Radio Antenna
The type of antenna used depends on your client adapter:
•PC-Cardbus cards have an integrated, permanently attached 0-dBi gain, dual-band 2.4/5-GHz
diversity antenna. The benefit of the diversity antenna system is improved coverage. The system
works by enabling the card to sample and switch between its two antenna ports in order to select the
optimum port for receiving data packets. As a result, the card has a better chance of maintaining the
radio frequency (RF) connection in areas of interference. The antenna is housed within the section
of the card that hangs out of the Cardbus slot when the card is installed.
•PCI cardshave a 1-dBi gain, dual-band 2.4/5-GHz antenna that is permanently attached by a 6.6-foot
(2-meter) cable. A base is provided with the antenna to enable it to be mounted to a wall or to sit
upright on a desk or other horizontal surface.
LEDs
The client adapters have two LEDs that glow or blink to indicate the status of the adapter or to convey
system messages. Table 1-2 provides interpreations of the the LEDs.
Table 1-2 LED Operating Messages
Status LED (green) Activity LED (amber) Condition
Off Off Client adapter is not receiving power.
Blinking slowly Off Client adapter is in power save mode.
On Off Client adapter has awakened from power save mode.
Alternating blink: Client adapter is scanning for the wireless network
for which it is configured.
On Off
Off On

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Software Components
Software Components
You can install both the driver for the CB21AG and PI21AG and the software that runs the adapter by
running a single executable file that is available from Cisco.com. You must execute this file on devices
that are running Windows Vista. This driver and softward can be used only with CB21AG and PI21AG
client adapters.
Network Configurations Using Client Adapters
Client adapters can be used in a variety of network configurations. In some configurations, access points
provide connections to your network or act as repeaters to increase wireless communication range. The
maximum communication range is based on how you configure your wireless network.
This section describes and illustrates the two most common network configurations:
•Ad hoc wireless local area network (LAN)
•Wireless infrastructure with workstations accessing a wired LAN
For examples of more complex network configurations involving client adapters and access points, refer
to the documentation for your access point.
Ad Hoc Wireless LAN
An ad hoc (or peer-to-peer) wireless LAN (see Figure 1-1) is the simplest wireless LAN configuration.
In a wireless LAN using an ad hoc network configuration, all devices equipped with a client adapter can
be linked together and communicate directly with each other. The use of an infrastructure device, such
as an access point, is not required.
Blinking slowly Blinking slowly Client adapter is associated to an access point (in
infrastructure mode) or another client (in ad hoc
mode).
Blinking quickly Blinking quickly Client adapter is transmitting or receiving data
while associated to an access point (in infrastructure
mode) or another client (in ad hoc mode).
Table 1-2 LED Operating Messages (continued)
Status LED (green) Activity LED (amber) Condition

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Network Configurations Using Client Adapters
Figure 1-1 Ad Hoc Wireless LAN
Wireless Infrastructure with Workstations Accessing a Wired LAN
A infrastructure network can be created by placing two or more access points on a LAN. Figure 1-2
shows a microcellular network with workstations accessing a wired LAN through several access points.
This configuration is useful with portable or mobile stations because it enables them to be directly
connected to the wired network even while moving from one microcell domain to another. This process
is transparent, and the connection to the file server or host is maintained without disruption. The mobile
station stays connected to an access point as long as it can. However, when the transfer of data packets
needs to be retried or beacons are missed, the station automatically searches for and associates to another
access point. This process is referred to as seamless roaming.
47520

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Safety information
Figure 1-2 Wireless Infrastructure with Workstations Accessing a Wired LAN
Safety information
Follow the guidelines in this section to ensure proper operation and safe use of the client adapter.
FCC Safety Compliance Statement
The FCC, with its action in ET Docket 96-8, has adopted a safety standard for human exposure to RF
electromagnetic energy emitted by FCC-certified equipment. When used with approved Cisco Aironet
antennas, Cisco Aironet products meet the uncontrolled environmental limits found in OET-65 and ANSI
C95.1, 1991. Proper operation of this radio device according to the instructions in this publication will
result in user exposure substantially below the FCC recommended limits.
Safety Guidelines
•Do not touch or move the antenna while the unit is transmitting or receiving.
•Do not hold any component containing a radio such that the antenna is very close to or touching any
exposed parts of the body, especially the face or eyes, while transmitting.
•Do not operate the radio or attempt to transmit data unless the antenna is connected; otherwise, the
radio may be damaged.
Access Point
(Root Unit)
Access Point
(Root Unit)
65999
Wired LAN

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Unpacking the Client Adapter
•Use in specific environments:
– The use of wireless devices in hazardous locations is limited to the constraints posed by the
safety directors of such environments.
– The use of wireless devices on airplanes is governed by the Federal Aviation Administration
(FAA).
– The use of wireless devices in hospitals is restricted to the limits set forth by each hospital.
Warnings
Observe the following warnings when operating the client adapter. The second warning pertains to the
PI21AG client adapter, and the third warning pertains to the CB21AG client adapter.
Warning Do not operate your wireless network device near unshielded blasting caps or in an explosive
environment unless the device has been modified to be especially qualified for such use.
Warning In order to comply with FCC radio frequency (RF) exposure limits, antennas should be located at a
minimum of 7.9 inches (20 cm) or more from the body of all persons.
Warning This device has been tested and complies with FCC RF Exposure (SAR) limits in typical laptop
computer configurations and this device can be used in desktop or laptop computers with side
mounted PC Card slots that can provide at least 0.394 in (1 cm) separation distance from the antenna
to the body of the user or a nearby person. Thin laptop computers may need special attention to
maintain antenna spacing while operating. This device cannot be used with handheld PDAs (personal
digital assistants). Use in other configurations may not ensure compliance with FCC RF exposure
guidelines. This device and its antenna must not be co-located or operated in conjunction with any
other antenna or transmitter.
Translated versions of these safety warnings are provided in Appendix B
Unpacking the Client Adapter
Follow these steps to unpack the client adapter:
Step 1 Open the shipping container and carefully remove the contents.
Step 2 Return all packing materials to the shipping container and save the container.
Step 3 Ensure that all items listed in the “Package Contents” section below are included in the shipment. Check
each item for damage.
Note If any item is damaged or missing, notify your authorized Cisco sales representative.

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System Requirements
Package Contents
Each client adapter is shipped with the following items:
•1-dBi gain antenna permanently attached by a 6.6-ft (2-m) cable, antenna base, low-profile bracket,
two mounting screws, and two plastic wall anchors (PCI cards only)
•Quick Start Guide: Cisco Aironet 802.11a/b/g Wireless LAN Client Adapters (CB21AG and PI21AG)
•Cisco Aironet 802.11a/b/g Wireless Adapters (CB21AG and PI21AG) CD
System Requirements
In addition to the items shipped with the client adapter, you also need the following items in order to
install and use the adapter:
•One of the following computing devices running Windows Vista.
– Laptop or notebook computer equipped with a 32-bit Cardbus slot
– Desktop personal computer equipped with an empty PCI expansion slot
•Windows Vista Service Pack 1 or Windows Vista with hotfix KB932063 and hotfix KB935222
Note You must obtain these hotfix patches from the Microsoft site. You must also contact Microsoft
directly for any support that you need for these patches.
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/932063
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/935222
Note The client adapter software supports Windows Vista Business, Enterprise, and Ultimate
operating systems.
•1 GHz 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor.
•1 GB of system memory
•40 GB hard drive with at least 15 GB of available space
•The appropriate tools for removing your computer’s cover and expansion slot dust cover and for
mounting the antenna base (for PCI cards)
•EAP versions:
– EAP-FAST verion 2.2.9
– PEAP version 1.1.2
– LEAP version 1.0.15
•If your wireless network uses EAP-TLS or PEAP authentication, Certificate Authority (CA) and
user certificates for EAP-TLS authentication or CA certificate for PEAP authentication
•If your wireless network uses PEAP (EAP-GTC) authentication with a One-Time Password (OTP)
user database:
– A hardware token device from OTP vendors or the Secure Computing SofToken program
(version 2.1 or later)

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Site Requirements
– Your hardware or software token password
•All necessary infrastructure devices (such as access points, servers, gateways, user databases, etc.)
must be properly configured for any authentication type you plan to enable on the client.
•The following information from your system administrator:
– The logical name for your workstation (also referred to as client name)
– The protocols necessary to bind to the client adapter, such as TCP/IP
– The case-sensitive service set identifier (SSID) for your RF network
– If your network setup does not include a DHCP server, the IP address, subnet mask, and default
gateway address of your computer
– The wired equivalent privacy (WEP) keys of the access points with which your client adapter
will communicate, if your wireless network uses static WEP for security
– The username and password for your network account
– Protected access credentials (PAC) file if your wireless network uses EAP-FAST authentication
with manual PAC provisioning
Site Requirements
This section discusses the site requirements for both infrastructure and client devices.
For Infrastructure Devices
Because of differences in component configuration, placement, and physical environment, every
network application is a unique installation. Therefore, before you install any wireless infrastructure
devices (such as access points, bridges, and base stations, which connect your client adapters to a wired
LAN), a site survey must be performed to determine the optimum placement of these devices to
maximize range, coverage, and network performance.
Note Infrastructure devices are installed and initially configured prior to client devices.
For Client Devices
Because the client adapter is a radio device, it is susceptible to RF obstructions and common sources of
interference that can reduce throughput and range. Follow these guidelines to ensure the best possible
performance:
•Install the client adapter in an area where large steel structures such as shelving units, bookcases,
and filing cabinets will not obstruct radio signals to and from the client adapter.
•Install the client adapter away from microwave ovens. Microwave ovens operate on the same
frequency as the client adapter and can cause signal interference.

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Inserting the Client Adapter
Inserting the Client Adapter
This section provides instructions for inserting a PC-Cardbus card or PCI card into your computer.
Caution These procedures and the physical connections they describe apply generally to conventional Cardbus
slots and PCI expansion slots. In cases of custom or nonconventional equipment, be alert to possible
differences in Cardbus slot and PCI expansion slot configurations.
Inserting a PC-Cardbus Card
Step 1 Before you begin, examine the card. One end has a dual-row, 68-pin connector. The card is keyed so it
can be inserted only one way into the Cardbus slot.
Note The PC-Cardbus slot, if supported, is usually on the left or right side of a laptop computer,
depending on the model.
Step 2 Turn on your computer and let the operating system boot up completely.
Step 3 Hold the card with the Cisco label facing up and insert it into the Cardbus slot, applying just enough
pressure to make sure it is fully seated (see Figure 1-3). The green LED lights when the card is inserted
properly.
Caution Do not force the card into your computer’s Cardbus slot. Forcing it will damage both the card and the
slot. If the card does not insert easily, remove the card and reinsert it.
Figure 1-3 Inserting a PC-Cardbus Card into a Computer
Note The configuration profiles for PC-Cardbus cards are tied to the slot in which the card is inserted.
Therefore, you must always insert your PC-Cardbus card into the same slot or create profiles for
both slots. See Chapter 4 for information on creating profiles for your client adapter.
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