Contec FX-DS110-APL User manual

FX-DS110-APL i
Copyright
Copyright 2001 CONTEC Co., LTD. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
No part of this document may be copied or reproduced in any form
by any means without prior written consent of CONTEC Co., LTD.
CONTEC Co., LTD. makes no commitment to update or keep
current the information contained in this document.
The information in this document is subject to change without
notice.
All relevant issues have been considered in the preparation of this
document. Should you notice an omission or any questionable
item in this document, please feel free to notify
CONTEC Co., LTD.
Regardless of the foregoing statement, CONTEC assumes no
responsibility for any errors that may appear in this document nor
for results obtained by the user as a result of using this product.
Trademarks
MS, Microsoft, MS-DOS and Windows are trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation. Other brand and product names are trademarks of their
respective holder.

FX-DS110-APL
ii
Product Configuration
･FX-DS110-APL …1
･AC Adapter with 1.8m cable …1
･Tapping screws (for mounting on wall, etc.) …2
･Locking screw (for connecting to ground wire) …1
･Magnets (for mounting on metallic surfaces) …2
･Rubber feet …4
･Floppy disk …1
･User’s Manual (this booklet)…1
･Installation Guide …1
User's Manual
FX-DS110-APL Floppy disk x 1
AC Adapter x 1
Installation
Guide
Tapping screw x 2
Rubber feet x 4
Locking screw x 1
User's Manual
Magnet x 2
POWER
WRX
WLINK
LIN K
RX
Check the contents to make sure that you have everything listed
above. If you do not have all the items, contact your distributor
or CONTEC group office where you purchased.

FX-DS110-APL iii
Table of Contents
Table of ContentsTable of Contents
Table of Contents
Copyright............................................................................i
Trademarks ........................................................................i
Product Configuration..................................................... ii
1. Introduction
1. Introduction1. Introduction
1. Introduction................................
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.
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.
.................
.
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.
Features ........................................................................1
Terminology/Abbreviations ..........................................2
Limited One-Year Warranty.........................................2
How to Obtain Service..................................................3
Liability.........................................................................3
Handling Precautions...................................................3
Precautions for Use ......................................................4
Precautions Related to Electromagnetic Interference4
Precautions Related to Service ....................................5
About the Manual.........................................................6
2. Overview
2. Overview2. Overview
2. Overview................................
................................................................
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.
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.
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.
....................
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Component Locations .......................................................7
LED Indicators..................................................................8
DIP Switches.....................................................................9
Multi-channel Operation................................................10
3. Operating Mode Descriptions
3. Operating Mode Descriptions3. Operating Mode Descriptions
3. Operating Mode Descriptions................................
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.
.....
.
.....
.
ADHOC (Simple Mode)...................................................13
Infrastructure (Standard Mode) ....................................14
Operating Modes and Communications ........................15
4. Setup
4. Setup4. Setup
4. Setup ................................
................................................................
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.
.......................
.
.......................
.
.......................
.
Wall Installation .............................................................17
Using the Mounting Screws (Included).....................17
Using the Magnets (Included)....................................18
Table Top Installation.....................................................20
Cable Installation ...........................................................20
Power Supply Connection...............................................21
Ground Connection.........................................................22

FX-DS110-APL
iv
5. Settings
5. Settings5. Settings
5. Settings................................
................................................................
......................................................
.
......................
.
......................
.
......................
.
Preparing the Utility Software ......................................23
Utility Software Settings................................................24
Edit Device Name.......................................................25
Configuration..............................................................26
Firmware.....................................................................27
Status ..........................................................................28
Setting Descriptions .......................................................29
Edit..............................................................................29
Base.............................................................................29
SNMP ..........................................................................32
Spanning Tree.............................................................33
Other Settings.............................................................35
To Register or Set Up a New Access Point.....................36
To Edit Settings for an Existing Access Point...............36
To Use Data scramble Functions for Better Security...37
To Use SNMP Agent Functions......................................37
To Use Spanning Tree.....................................................38
To Access the APL from a Different Router...................38
6. Spanning Tree Algorithms (STA)
6. Spanning Tree Algorithms (STA)6. Spanning Tree Algorithms (STA)
6. Spanning Tree Algorithms (STA)................................
................................................................
..................................
....
..
3
33
3
What is an STA?..............................................................39
STA Parameters..............................................................40
Bridge Level................................................................40
Port Level....................................................................42
Sample STAApplication.................................................43
7. SNMP Agent Functions
7. SNMP Agent Functions7. SNMP Agent Functions
7. SNMP Agent Functions................................
................................................................
.........................................
.
.........
.
.........
.
.........
.
SNMPc Overview............................................................47
MIB Support....................................................................48
Control Using SNMPc ....................................................49
Building-in to SNMPc.....................................................50
MIB Database Updates ..................................................50

FX-DS110-APL v
8. Troubleshooting
8. Troubleshooting8. Troubleshooting
8. Troubleshooting................................
................................................................
...............................................
.
...............
.
...............
.
...............
.
When Communication Fails.......................................51
When SNMP Connections Fail...................................52
When the APL Will Not Start ....................................53
9. Appendix
9. Appendix9. Appendix
9. Appendix................................
................................................................
.....................................................
.
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.
.....................
.
.....................
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Product Specifications ....................................................55
Input/Output Interface...................................................57
UTP Port Pin Assignments ........................................57
Glossary...........................................................................58
10. Index
10. Index10. Index
10. Index................................
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.
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.
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.

FX-DS110-APL
vi
List of Figures
List of FiguresList of Figures
List of Figures
Figure 2.1. Component Locations.................................................7
Figure 2.2. Multi-channel Operation...........................................10
Figure 2.3. Channel Frequencies.................................................11
Figure 3.1. ADHOC Mode..........................................................13
Figure 3.2. Infrastructure Mode..................................................14
Figure 4.1. Wall Installation........................................................17
Figure 4.2. Attaching Magnets....................................................18
Figure 4.3. Removing Magnets...................................................18
Figure 4.4. Installation on a Steel Desk......................................19
Figure 4.5. Cable Connection......................................................20
Figure 4.6. Power Supply Connection ........................................21
Figure 4.7. Ground Connection...................................................22
Figure 5.1. Main Menu................................................................24
Figure 5.2. Edit............................................................................25
Figure 5.3. Configuration............................................................26
Figure 5.4. Firmware...................................................................27
Figure 5.5. Status.........................................................................28
Figure 6.1. Sample STA Application..........................................43
Figure 6.2. After STA Application..............................................44
Figure 6.3. Reconfigured After STA Application.......................45
Figure 7.1. Settings......................................................................49
Figure 9.1. External Dimensions.................................................56

FX-DS110-APL vii
List of Tables
List of TablesList of Tables
List of Tables
Table 2.1. ADHOC (Simple Mode) ...............................................8
Table 2.2. Infrastructure (Standard Mode) [Unit Type AP]...........8
Table 2.3. Infrastructure (Standard Mode) [Unit Type Station] ....8
Table 2.4. Other..............................................................................8
Table 2.5. DIP Switches.................................................................9
Table 3.1. Operating Modes and Communications......................15
Table 7.1. Group Names...............................................................48
Table 9.1. Physical Specifications................................................55
Table 9.2. Software Specifications...............................................55
Table 9.3. Installation Environment Conditions
(Environment Specifications)...................................55
Table 9.4. UTP Port Pin Assignments..........................................57

FX-DS110-APL
viii

Introduction
FX-DS110-APL 1
1. Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the FX-DS110-APL access point.
This product is a wireless LAN access point using the 2.4GHz
spectrum diffusion system, and is compatible with IEEE Standard
802.11b for wireless LAN.
The FX-DS110-APL is designed for use as an access point as well
as a station (Ethernet ⇔wireless converter). It is independent of
operating systems or protocols, so that it can be connected by UTP
cable to any Ethernet-compatible desktop computer, workstation,
point-of-sale terminal, printer, etc. for immediate wireless LAN use.
This product can also enable wireless communications from any PC
previously unsuitable for wireless communications due to lack of a
PC card slot or expansion bus slot.
Of course the FX-DS110-APL also operates as an access point,
allowing the user to configure a small wireless LAN system using
the product by itself.
This document explains how to use the FX-DS110-APL. Be sure to
read it carefully so that you can use the product correctly.
Features
･Ultra-compact antenna (micro access point)
Space-saving design allows installation anywhere (wall, magnet,
desktop)
･Operates as a LAN station
･Optional power supply from LAN cable
Uses compact, lightweight AC adapter.
･Full range of functions (roaming, 13-channel support)
･Automatic transmission speed (wireless) switching
Automatically switches transmission speeds from 11Mbps to
5.5Mbps, 2Mbps, 1Mbps according to conditions.
･Built-in SNMP agent
Uses MNMP compatible software for easy network management.
･Can be used with higher level model FX-DS110-APE.

Introduction
FX-DS110-APL
2
Terminology/Abbreviations
The following terms and abbreviations are used in this manual for
convenience.
FX-DS110-APL Access point/AP/APL
FX-DS110-PCC、FX-PCI-EXT2 User unit
or a PC containing the above
FX-DS110-APL Wireless terminal
or a device containing the above
Personal computer PC
Full term Term used in this manual
Limited One-Year Warranty
CONTEC Interface boards are warranted by CONTEC Co., LTD. to
be free from defects in material and workmanship for up to one year
from the date of purchase by the original purchaser.
Repair will be free of charge only when this device is returned
freight prepaid with a copy of the original invoice and a Return
Merchandise Authorization to the distributor or the CONTEC group
office, from which it was purchased.
This warranty is not applicable for scratches or normal wear, but
only for the electronic circuitry and original boards. The warranty
is not applicable if the device has been tampered with or damaged
through abuse, mistreatment, neglect, or unreasonable use, or if the
original invoice is not included, in which case repairs will be
considered beyond the warranty policy.

Introduction
FX-DS110-APL 3
How to Obtain Service
For replacement or repair, return the device freight prepaid, with a
copy of the original invoice. Please obtain a Return Merchandise
Authorization Number (RMA) from the CONTEC group office
where you purchased before returning any product.
* No product will be accepted by CONTEC group without the
RMA number.
Liability
The obligation of the warrantor is solely to repair or replace the product.
In no event will the warrantor be liable for any incidental or
consequential damages due to such defect or consequences that arise
from inexperienced usage, misuse, or malfunction of this device.
Handling Precautions
Take the following precautions when handling this board.
･Do not attempt to modify this device. The manufacturer will
bear no responsibility whatsoever for the device if it has been
modified.
･Do not store this device in high temperature or low temperature
surroundings, or expose it to rapid temperature changes.
(Operating temperature range: 0° to 50°C)
･Do not use or store this device where it is exposed to direct
sunlight or near stoves or other sources of heat.
･Do not use or store this device where it is exposed to dust or high
humidity.
(Operating humidity range: 0-95%, without condensation)
･This product contains precision electronic elements and must not
be used in locations subject to physical shock or strong vibration.
･Do not use or store this device near strong magnetic fields or
devices emitting electromagnetic radiation.
･If abnormal smells or heat are noticed, disconnect the power
supply immediately.
･In case of abnormal operation or failure, contact the store where
this product was purchased.

Introduction
FX-DS110-APL
4
Precautions Related to Electromagnetic Interference
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions : (1) this device may not cause
harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
This equipment complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Any changes of
modifications not expressly approved by the manufacturer could void
the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
CAUTION: To comply with FCC RF exposure compliance
requirements, a separation distance of at least 5 cm must be
maintained between this device and all persons.
Precautions Related to Service
Clean the FX-DS110-APL by wiping lightly with a soft cloth moistened
with water or a cleaning solution.
Take care to avoid the use of benzene, thinners or other volatile
solutions which may cause deformation or discoloration.
Notes!
･
The unauthorized reproduction of this document, in whole or in part, is
prohibited.
･
The specifications, designs, and other contents of this document are
subject to change without notice.
･
The contents of this document are believed to be accurate, however if
any discrepancies noted should be brought to the attention of the store
where this product was purchased.
･
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the manufacturer is unable to accept
any claims for losses or lost profits, etc. Resulting from the use of this
product.
･
MS, Microsoft, Windows, Windows NT, and MS-DOS are registered
trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S.A. and
other countries.
Netscape Navigator is a registered trademark of Netscape
Communications.
Other names of companies and products used in this document
trademarks or registered trademarks of the related companies. This
document does not use the symbols ™ , ® , © etc.

Introduction
FX-DS110-APL 5
About the Manual
This manual consists of the following chapters:
Chapter 1 Introduction
Chapter 2 Overview
Chapter 3 Operating Modes
Chapter 4 Placement
Chapter 5 Setting Up
Chapter 6 Spanning Tree Algorithm
Chapter 7 SNMP Agent Functions
Chapter 8 Troubleshooting
Chapter 9 Appendix
Chapter 10 Index

Overview
FX-DS110-APL
6
2. Overview
Component Locations
POWER
WRX
WLINK
LINK
RX
Front
DC/UTP UTP
Side
Ventilation Slits
DIP switches UTP connector
Power supply switch
Ground
terminal
Power
supply plug
LED
Caution Do not obstruct the ventilation slots.
This can cause heat buildup which can lead to damage or failure.
Figure 2.1. Component Locations
LED Indicators
The five LED indicators indicate the sending /receiving status of
the wireless or wired LAN, power supply, LAN connection status,
etc.
DIP Switches
The DIP switches are used for initialization, unit type selection, and
operating mode selection.
Power Supply Switch
Selects power supply from the AC adapter, or a UTP cable (requires
the POW-CB10, sold separately).

Overview
FX-DS110-APL 7
LED Indicators
Table 2.1. ADHOC (Simple Mode)
Flashing Startup, or startup error
On Operating
WLINK On Operating
WRX Flashing Receiving wireless LAN data
LINK On Wire LAN connection normal
RX Flashing Receiving wire LAN data
Name Status Indicator
POWER
Table 2.2. Infrastructure (Standard Mode) [Unit Type AP]
Flashing Startup, or startup error
On Operating
WLINK On Wireless LAN connection normal
WRX Flashing Receiving wireless LAN data
LINK On Wire LAN link connection normal
RX Flashing Receiving wire LAN data
POWER
Name Status Indicator
Table 2.3. Infrastructure (Standard Mode) [Unit Type Station]
Flashing Startup, or startup error
On Operating
WLINK On Wireless LAN connection normal
WRX Flashing Receiving wireless LAN data
LINK On Wire LAN link connection normal
RX Flashing Receiving wire LAN data
POWER
Name Status Indicator
Table 2.4. Other
Flashing 2 times Initialization error
Flashing 3 times Firmware writing error
POWER
WLINK
WRX
All flashing
at the same time Firmware writing in progress
Name Status Indicator
POWER

Overview
FX-DS110-APL
8
DIP Switches
The DIP switches are used to make AP settings.
The default setting for the utility software gives priority to the DIP
switch settings. The factory setting for all DIP switches is OFF.
At the factory, the unit is set to Ad Hoc Mode. The unit can be
used with the factory settings, by setting only the DIP switches.
However, security is not assured.
Table 2.5. DIP Switches
Used to initialize APs.
When this switch is turned on, the POWER, WLNK, and
WRX LED will start flashing.
If this switch is turned off while the LED's are flashing
(about 3 seconds, then all AP settings will be restored to default
values after the next startup.)
If this switch is on, the AP can operate without an IP address.
However the utility software cannot use the SNMP agent functions.
This switch sets the unit type.
It is valid when operating in infrastructure (standard mode).
AP… Controls APs used on other user units or STs.
ST… Treated as a user unit (controlled by (logged in) AP).
This switch sets the mode.
INFRA… Selects infrastructure (standard mode).
All wireless terminals communicate through unit type AP.
ADHOC… Selects ADHOC (simple mode).
All terminal are paired, communicate only as paired units.
All switches are set to OFF at factory.
OFF
ADHOC
DescriptionON
4
3AP
2IP
LESS _
ST
_INIT1
INFRA

Overview
FX-DS110-APL 9
Multi-channel Operation
By changing channels on adjacent access points, it is possible to
obtain higher throughput per wireless terminal than when is
channels are not changed, even when the number of wireless
terminals is increased.
The 2.4G band (2400 to 2483.5 MHz) in which this product
operates is subdivided into 13 channels, numbered 1 to 13, by IEEE
standard 802.11. Because each frequency has sidebands around its
central frequency, sidebands on adjacent channels overlap.
Overlapping frequencies can adversely affect communications by
interference with each other's transmissions.
Refer to Figure 2.3 when selecting channels, to ensure that
frequency bands do not overlap.
The maximum number of channels that can be used simultaneously
without interference is four, by using a combination of channels 1,
6, and 11. Channel numbers can be set from 1 to 13 using utility
software.
Two wireless terminals on the same network cannot use the same
frequency.
Network
AP1
POWER
WRX
WLINK
LINK
RX
AP2
POWER
WRX
WLINK
LINK
RX
POWER
WRX
WLINK
LINK
RX
POWER
WRX
WLINK
LINK
RX
POWER
WRX
WLINK
LINK
RX
POWER
WRX
WLINK
LINK
RX
Channel 1 Channel 6
POWE R
WRX
WLINK
LINK
RX
POW ER
WRX
WLINK
LINK
RX
Figure 2.2. Multi-channel Operation

Overview
FX-DS110-APL
10
：Sideband frequency range for each channel
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910111213 14
2412 2417 2422 24372427 2432 2442 2447 2452 2457 2462 2467 2472 2484
Center frequency
(MHz)
Channel
(14)
(1)
(4)
(3)
(5) (6)
(2)
(7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13)
Figure 2.3. Channel Frequencies

Overview
FX-DS110-APL 11

Operating Mode Descriptions
FX-DS110-APL
12
3. Operating Mode Descriptions
ADHOC (Simple Mode)
The following example shows a relatively small network configured
using ADHOC mode.
AH1
AH3
AH2
AH4 FS
Network A
Network B
POWER
WRX
WLINK
LINK
RX
AH : Devices in ADHOC connection
FS : File server
: Wireless connection
POWER
WRX
WLINK
LINK
RX
POWER
WRX
WLINK
LINK
RX
POWER
WRX
WLINK
LINK
RX
Figure 3.1. ADHOC Mode
In ADHOC (simple mode), all wireless devices are paired, and can
use wireless communication with the other device in the pair.
Lines can be duplicated using a spanning tree if bridges are
constructed using AP connections.
･Advantages
(1) Requires virtually no setup work to start.
(2) Can bridge multiple wired LAN's, allows duplication of lines.
･Disadvantages
(1) When the AP is a relay point the available communication
range is narrower than in infrastructure mode.
(2) Not suited to construction of large wireless LAN environments.
Note! When configuring a wireless LAN in simple (ADHOC) mode, be
sure to place all wireless terminals within effective communication
range. If units are too far apart, communications can be hindered
by partitions or other obstacles causing some terminals to be
unreachable and reducing system throughput.