Gigabyte AirCruiser MIMO GN-AP03GM User manual

GN-AP03GM
AirCruiser MIMO Access Point
User’s Manual
www.gigabyte.com.tw
December 2005
Revision 1.0

2
Federal Communication Commission Interference Statement
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to
Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful
interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to
radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular
installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be
determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by
one of the following measures:
- Change direction or location of antenna.
- Increase the distance between the equipment and the antenna.
- Connect this equipment with a socket different from the one connected with antenna
- Ask help from experienced audio/video technicians.
FCC Caution: To assure continued compliance, any changes or modifications not expressly approved by
the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate this equipment.
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.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
FCC Radiation Exposure Statement:
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This
equipment should be install and operated with minimum distance 20cm between the radiator & your body.
This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
The antenna(s) used for this transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other
antenna or transmitter.

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Contents
Chapter 1 Introduction................................................................... 4
Overview...........................................................................................................4
Features............................................................................................................4
Package Contents.............................................................................................5
GN-AP03GM Rear Panel..................................................................................5
Front Panel ....................................................................................................... 6
Chapter 2 QUICK INSTALLATION..................................................7
Hardware Requirements...................................................................................7
System Requirements....................................................................................... 7
Internet Configuration Requirements ................................................................7
Hardware installation.........................................................................................8
Assigning an IP address to your Access Point..................................................9
Chapter 3 Configuration - Using AP Manager............................12
Access Point Manager (AP Manager)............................................................. 12
Install Access Point Manager..........................................................................12
Using Access Point Manager..........................................................................16
Uninstall AP Manager Utility............................................................................ 35
Chapter 4 Configuration - Using your Web-Browser................. 37
Using Web-based configuration......................................................................37
Chapter 5 Troubleshooting.......................................................... 47
Appendix A: Glossary .................................................................. 49
Appendix B: Specifications .........................................................51
Physical Interface............................................................................................ 51
Specifications.................................................................................................. 51
Appendix C: Configuration of the PCs ....................................... 53
TCP/IP Settings Under Windows 2000 ........................................................... 53
TCP/IP Settings under Windows XP............................................................... 55

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Chapter 1 Introduction
Overview
The GN-AP03GM AirCruiser MIMO (Multi-Input & Multi-Output) Access Point
includes several devices in one box. First, there's the Wireless Access Point,
which lets you connect Wireless-G or Wireless-B devices to the network. There's
also a built-in one port full-duplex 10/100 Ethernet port to connect your
wired-Ethernet devices. Connect PCs directly, or daisy-chain out to more hubs
and switches to create as big a network as you need. This product operates in
2.4 GHz frequency bands, providing fast (up to 54 Mbps) and secure (support
WPA and WEP) connections to 802.11 b/g networks. GN-AP03GM overcomes
environment multi-path effect by MIMO feature to keep stable wireless
performance.
** MIMO (multiple-in, multiple-out) takes advantage of multiplexing to increase wireless
bandwidth and range. MIMO algorithms send information out over two or more antennas and the
information is received via multiple antennas as well
Features
Conforms to IEEE 802.11g specification.
Support 64-bit /128-bit WEP encryption, WPA.
Support DHCP client
Support DHCP server
Easy Web Management
Web based Firmware upgrade
MDI/MDIX Auto crossover detect

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Package Contents
Before installation, please ensure the components are not damaged during the
shipping. The package contents of the GN-AP03GM shall include:
•One GN-AP03GM AirCruiser MIMO Access Point
•One Power Adapter
•One installation CD contains AP Manager and User’s Guide
•User’s Guide
•One RJ-45 cable
If there are any missing or damaged parts, please contact your local distributor
or dealer immediately. If a replacement unit is needed, return the device with the
original packing material, otherwise the warranty will be voided.
GN-AP03GM Rear Panel
The AirCruiser MIMO Access Point’s ports are located on the AP’s rear panel
and the antenna is located on the side panel.
XPower Socket
The power socket connects the GN-AP03GM to the power adapter.
YEthernet LAN Port
RJ-45, Auto-sensing and Auto-MDI/MDIX for 10/100M Ethernet LAN
connection.
ZAntenna
Dipole-type high gain removable 2.4 GHz antenna
XYZ Z

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Front Panel
LED’s
The AirCruiser MIMO Access Point’s LED displays information about the AP’s
status.
XPower on (Green LED)
When the LED is on, the power is supplied to GN-AP03GM.
Note: When you change the settings and save them, the power LED will be
temporarily off.
YWLAN (Green)
On Wireless system ready
Flashing Data is being transmitted wirelessly.
ZLAN (Green)
On LAN port has detected a link with a 10/100 Mbps device.
Flashing Data is being transmitted wirelessly.
XYZ

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Chapter 2 QUICK INSTALLATION
Hardware Requirements
Suggested Computer specifications for AirCruiser MIMO Access Point
installation:
•A PC or Macintosh Computer
•One installed 802.11b/g wireless PCI LAN adaptor
•An Ethernet router or hub
•RJ-45 Ethernet patch cable
Minimum Computer specifications for AirCruiser MIMO Access Point
installation:
•A PC or Macintosh Computer
•An Ethernet router or hub
•RJ-45 Ethernet patch cable
System Requirements
Operating System: Works under Windows, Macintosh or Linux operating
systems. If wishing to activate AP Manager, it is strongly suggested that you use
either Windows XP or 2000 OS.
Internet Configuration Requirements
To connect AP Manager with AirCruiser MIMO Access Point, please set up the
following parameters for TCP/IP configuration:
Static IP Address: 192.168.1.x. Where ‘x’ is between 2 – 253.
Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0
Default Gateway: 192.168.1.254

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Hardware installation
Follow the steps below when installing your Access Point(s). (hereafter
refered to as APs)
Connecting your AP for initial configuration may be done by wired or
wirelessly, however it is STRONGLY SUGGESTED you follow “Connecting
with wired Ethernet” since this method you will not have to deal with the
extra steps of creating a wireless connection.
Before you setup, please keep the following in mind when placing your AP.
Select a suitable location to install the AP. Assure also that the location is away
from any interfering radio signals from devices such as microwave ovens,
garage door openers, vacuum cleaning devices, etc. Please also operate the AP
in a cool dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Position the AP appropriately. Signal strength is greatly dependent on your well
placed AP. Generally, a centralized area with 360° clear line of sight is the best
location with the antenna in a high position to allow optimal propagation of the
signal. The location of the AP greatly influences the signal reception.
Making a Wired Connection (Highly recommended method for first
time setup)
Step 1 Turn off all the hardware devices in your network, including the
router/hub by unplugging their power supply.
Step 2 Connect the Ethernet cable of your router/hub to the LAN port of the
GN-AP03GM.
Step 3 Connect one end of an Ethernet LAN cable to one of the LAN ports on
your router/hub, and the other end to an Ethernet port of your computer.
Step 4 Plug the power adapter cord into the AP’s power jack and then plug the
power adapter into a power outlet.
Step 5 Turn on your router/hub. After verifying all the connections, proceed to
Chapter 4 – Configuring the PCs.
Making a Wireless Connection
Step 1 Turn off all the hardware devices in your network, including the
router/hub by unplugging their power supply.

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Step 2 Connect the Ethernet cable of your router/hub to the LAN port of the
GN-AP03GM.
Step 3 Plug the power adapter cord into the AP’s power jack and then plug the
power adapter into a power outlet.
Step 4 Turn on your router/hub. After verifying all the connections, proceed to
Chapter 4 – Configuring the PCs
Note: If using a wireless connection, please refer to the user manual of the wireless adapter to
install. The SSID of the wireless adapter and the GN-AP03GM should be identical. The
default SSID assigned to the GN-AP03GM is GIGABYTE. (WARNING: The SSID field is
case sensitive, so for example “a” is different from “A”).
For typical home use, the range of signal reception should not be an issue. In
case of weak (or no) signal where the wireless LAN is used, please consider
placing the AP with clear line of sight (no walls/obstructions) between the
computer and a wireless adaptor. Additional APs can be connected for rooms
out of the coverage to build up a better cloud of reception.
Assigning an IP address to your Access Point
Your AP will be identified on the network by its IP address. There are two ways
of assigning it: Manually assign, or use DHCP to automatically assign one for
you (preferred).
Method 1: Manually assign Static IP address
If DHCP is not used on the network, the AP can be set up via a direct
connection to the computer.
1. You must assign a static IP address to the computer. The Subnet must be
the same for the computers and AP. The default IP address of the AP is
192.168.1.1 and the Subnet Mask is 255.255.255.0. For example, you can
enter an IP address of 192.168.1.20 (if not assigned to other network
equipments) and an Subnet Mask of 255.255.255.0.
Note: For further instructions regarding to this step, please refer to Appendix C,Computer
Configuration.
Access Point
192.168.1.1 (Default)
PC (AP Manager) 192.168.1.x

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2. Please connect APs in turn and assign a static IP’s to each AP, incrementing
each additional AP address by one in the least significant octet. For example,
192.168.1.2then 192.168.1.3, etc…
3. Please make sure an each AP has a unique IP address.
4. After setting all IP addresses successfully, you can use AP manager to
control / monitor each AP.
Method 2: Using DHCP to automatically assign IP
In this method, we will use DHCP server will do the work of dynamically
assigning IP addresses for all APs – assigning each AP an exclusive IP address.
After set up, just remove or disable the DHCP server. You can search all APs
with AP Manager and assign a static IP address for additionally added AP’s.
Note: Please assure that all APs are in the same Subnet.
Obtain an IP address automatically – DHCP server is enabled
If a DHCP server is used on the network, it can connect to APs and the Gigabyte
AP Manager through a router or hub. You should set the IP address of AP as
“Obtain an IP address automatically”. DHCP will assign an IP address to the AP.
The Subnet must be the same for the PC(AP Manager) and AP. Or, you can set
DHCP Server
Router/Hub Router/Hub

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the PC (AP Manager) as “Obtain an IP address automatically” and assign IPs
with the same DHCP.
Note: You can also use Gigabyte AP Manager to connect APs through a Wireless LAN
adaptor.
DHCP Server
Converter/Hub
Access Point

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Chapter 3 Configuration - Using AP Manager
There are two methods of setting up the AP: Using the web-based configuration,
or using Gigabyte’s AP Manager Utility. AP Manager is only used for Gigabyte
Access Points. This Chapter will introduce how to set up APs through AP
Manager.
Access Point Manager (AP Manager)
Note: 1. Setting up the AP may be done wirelessly or with a wired connection,
however we will assume you are using a wired connection for initial
setup.
2. You are also suggested to disable any firewall before setting up the
Wireless LAN Access Point with AP Manager utility.
Install Access Point Manager
Please install “Gigabyte AP Manager” in Windows by following the steps below.
Step 1: Insert the Installation CD into your CD-ROM drive and click “Install
Gigabyte AP Manager”.
Step 2: Wait a moment as the Install Shield wizard starts.
Step 3: Click “Next” to proceed through the wizard.

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Step 4: Enter users name and company name then click “Next”.
Step 5: Choose Destination Location. Click “Next” to accept default directory
or click “Browse” to specify a different install directory.

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Step 6: Create a Program Folder. Click “Next”.
Step 7: Copy program files to your Hard Drive. Click “Next”.

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Step 8: Setup status will display progress bar. Wait a moment.
Step 9: Click “Finish” to complete the installation.

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Using Access Point Manager
From the Windows Start button, click Start > Programs > Gigabyte AP
Manager Utility/Gigabyte AP Manager to launch the Gigabyte AP Manager.
Enter the default password “admin” and click “OK”.
When you open Gigabyte AP Manager, it will automatically search for AP in the
same Subnet. You can also double click the icon in the Tool bar to manually
search for any AP.

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The Task Bar
Tool: Allows you to “Search” AP and “Connect to AP by IP” through
ESSID, AP name, MAC address and IP address. It also allows you
to “Save” and “Load” AP configurations and to “Copy” and
“Paste” configurations on the current page. Other functions
include “System Reboot” and “Load Default”.
Password: Allows you to change password for AP Manager and set SNMP
strip.
Help: On-line help and AP Manager version.
Exit: Exit the AP Manager.
Note: When you search an AP via an AP name (Tools->Search->By AP Name), you may click
“Search Next” to find APs with the same name.
Task bar
Tool bar
Tree
Structured
review
Status bar
Page control

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The Tool bar
Find Access Point
Find all APs in the same Subnet.
Save AP Configuration
Save AP configurations in a temporary file.
Page Copy
Copy configuration for current page.
Page Paste
Paste copied content to the current page. (You may paste the
settings from AP1 to AP2 on the same bar tab.)
System Reboot
Reboot AP.
Load Default
Load default values for AP.
Connect to AP by IP
If you want to manage APs on different Subnets, use this function and
enter IP.

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²System Page
The system page main topics are “Device Information” and “Change
Community String”.
♦Device Information
“Device Information” includes AP names, MAC addresses, description,
version, wireless type and card configuration type.
1. You may change “AP name” to any name in order to specify the AP.
2. You may select your desired wireless protocol from “Wireless Type”.
3. You may select desired wireless LAN card from “Card Config Type”.
♦Change Community String
The community string must be the same for AP Manager and APs; as AP
Manager only monitors AP with the same community string. This is a
security measure to prevent other AP Mangers from accessing and
managing your APs. After changing strings, you have to complete the
following steps for the consistency of community strings.
1. Go to Task Bar -> Password -> Set Community String and set the
community string for AP Manager.
2. Don’t forget the community string. We suggest you write it down and
keep it handy.
If you do ever forget the community string, you’ll need to press the “INIT” button
on the underside of the AP which will restore all factory default values (including
the community string).

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Note:
SNMP community string defines the relationship between SNMP AP Manager and agent
systems (all APs) and controls the access of AP Manager to APs with password. The
default value is “public”. Go to Task Bar -> Password -> Set Commuinity String and
change the community string for AP Manager.
²IP Config Page
Set the IP parameters for APs in the “IP Configure” tab.
♦IP Address
Assign an IP address to the AP with this option. The default IP address is
192.168.1.1. Please make sure the assigned IP address is exclusive for the
AP.
♦Subnet Mask
Assign a Subnet Mask for an AP. The default Subnet Mask is
255.255.255.0.
♦Gateway
Enter the IP address for the default router. The default gateway is
192.168.1.254.
After changing the IP address for AP, please change the PC’s IP address (AP
Manager) so that both have the same Subnet Mask. Then, click the “Find
Access Point” icon and AP Manager willl find APs on the network.