Socket Low Power Wireless LAN Card User manual

Low Power Ethernet Card™
CompactFlash and PC Card solutions for
•Windows Mobile-based Pocket PCs, Handheld PCs
and pen tablets
•Windows 95/98/Me/2000/XP/NT 4.0 Notebooks
User's Guide

8/2005 Document # 6410-00125 K
Copyright Notice
Copyright © 2005 Socket Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. The
Low Power Ethernet Card includes technology licensed under United States
Patent Nos. 4,543,450, 4,603,320, 4,686,506, and 4,972,470.
Socket and the Socket logo are registered trademarks of Socket
Communications, Inc. Socket Communications, Socket Low Power
Ethernet Card and Mobility Friendly are registered trademarks or
trademarks of Socket Communications, Inc. All other brand and product
names are trademarks of their respective holders.
Reproduction of the contents of this manual without the permission of
Socket Communications is expressly prohibited. Please be aware that the
products described in this manual may change without notice.
Feel free to contact SOCKET COMMUNICATIONS at:
Socket Communications, Inc.
37400 Central Court
Newark, CA 94560
Other than the above, Socket Communications can assume no responsibility
for anything resulting from the application of information contained in this
manual.
Socket Communications requests that you refrain from any applications of
the Socket Low Power Ethernet Card that are not described in this manual.
Socket Communications also requests that you refrain from disassembling
the CompactFlash card. Disassembly of this device will void the product
warranty.
You can track new product releases, software updates and technical
bulletins by visiting Socket’s website at www.socketcom.com.
Please refrain from disassembling the CompactFlash card. Disassembly of
this device will void the product warranty
1

Table of Contents
COPYRIGHT NOTICE 1
1 | INTRODUCTION 3
Hardware Versions 3
About the Software 3
System Requirements 4
Package Contents 4
Product Registration 5
2 | SETUP FOR WINDOWS MOBILE 6
STEP 1: Prepare Network Information 7
STEP 2: Install the Software 8
STEP 3: Enter Network Settings 10
STEP 4: Insert Card and Connect to LAN 15
OPTIONAL: Synchronize Data over a Network Connection 17
OPTIONAL: Use the Control Panel Applet 20
3 | SETUP FOR WINDOWS XP 22
STEP 1: Prepare Network Information 22
STEP 2: Connect to a LAN Port 23
STEP 3: Insert the Card 23
STEP 4: Enter Network Settings 24
4 | SETUP FOR WINDOWS 95/98/ME/2000 26
STEP 1: Prepare Network Information 26
STEP 2: Insert the Installation CD 27
STEP 3: Connect to a LAN Port 27
STEP 4: Insert the Card 27
STEP 5: Install the Software 28
STEP 6: Enter Network Settings 30
APPENDICES
A | SPECIFICATIONS 31
B | TROUBLESHOOTING 32
C | TECHNICAL SUPPORT 34
LIMITED WARRANTY 35
REGULATORY COMPLIANCE 37
2

1 | Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Socket Low Power
Ethernet Card (LP-E). With the LP-E, you can
connect to any compatible Ethernet network, home
network or office LAN using a variety of Windows-
based mobile computers.
The card allows you to synchronize to your
corporate LAN at up to 10 million bps — 500 times
faster than a standard serial port. Use Socket’s LP-E
to dramatically reduce the time needed to install
software, transfer large multimedia or map files, or
back up and restore your device.
The first Ethernet adapter compatible with Pocket PCs, the Socket LP-E
supports Plug-and-Play with the NE2000 drivers built into many devices.
For these devices, software installation is totally optional — the LP-E is
ready to use right out of the box.
Hardware Versions
The card is available in both a standard version, with
removable cable, and Ruggedized version, with non-
removable cable.
About the Software
The Socket LP-E utility for Windows Mobile provides special
tools to enhance your networking experience. The auto-launch
tool enables you to configure your device to automatically
launch any program of your choice whenever the LP-E is
inserted. Icons indicate your GoodLink and Activity status at a
glance. Additionally, an applet makes it easy to view TCP/IP
addresses as well as the LP-E’s MAC address.
Support for square screens and landscape mode is included.
For software updates: www.socketcom.com/support/support_ethernet.asp
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION 3

System Requirements
Your device should meet these minimum requirements:
•Any of the following Windows versions:
- Windows Mobile 2003/2003SE and Windows Mobile 5.0
- Windows CE 3.0 or greater
- Windows XP, 2000, Me, 98SE or 95*
•Available CF or PC Card slot
(Operation in PC Card slot requires a PC Card adapter.)
•Windows Mobile 5.0 devices require ActiveSync 4.0 or greater
Windows NT 4.0: Please register your product online at
www.socketcom.com/prodreg and submit an online inquiry to
obtain the correct drivers and software.
WARNING!
If you are NOT using Windows Mobile 5.0, DO NOT
install ActiveSync 4.0, or you will not be able to
synchronize your mobile computer and host PC over
an Ethernet connection!
Microsoft removed this feature from ActiveSync 4.0.
If your Windows version does not require
ActiveSync 4.0, then Socket recommends that you
use an older version of ActiveSync that supports
device synchronization over Ethernet.
Package Contents
Socket offers two packages, each suited for different mobile computers:
The Low Power Ethernet Card package includes these items:
•Socket Low Power Ethernet Card
•Ethernet cable with a female RJ-45 Ethernet module connector
(The cable is permanently attached for the Ruggedized LP-E.)
•Low Power Ethernet Installation Disc
The Low Power Ethernet Card PC Card Solution includes these items:
•Socket Low Power Ethernet Card
•Ethernet cable with a female RJ-45 Ethernet module connector
(The cable is permanently attached for the Ruggedized LP-E.)
•CompactFlash-to-PC Card Adapter
•Low Power Ethernet Installation Disc
*Windows 95 v4.00.950B; Windows 98 and Windows 98 Second Edition
4

Product Registration
Socket highly recommends that all customers register their Socket products.
Registered users receive priority for technical support, product updates, and
special offers. Register online at: www.socketcom.com/prodreg
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION 5

2 | Setup for Windows Mobile
This chapter explains how to set up the LP-E for a
device running Windows Mobile or Windows CE.
Please note that software installation is optional for
these devices.
Setup Summary
STEP 1: Prepare network information.
STEP 2: Install the software (optional).
STEP 3: Enter network settings.
STEP 4: Insert card and connect to LAN.
STEP 5: Synchronize data via a network
OPTIONAL: Use the Control Panel Applet
Should I install Socket’s software?
WARNING! If you have an HP Jornada Pocket PC or
Handheld PC, DO NOT install Socket’s drivers from
the installation CD, or you can cause configuration
problems! These devices already have a version of
Socket’s LP-E drivers pre-installed.
All other mobile computers come pre-installed with basic
NE2000 drivers. If desired, you can use these pre-
installed drivers and skip software installation.
If you would like to benefit from Socket’s enhanced
software, you can install Socket’s LP-E drivers on top of
the NE2000 drivers. Socket’s LP-E drivers are enhanced
with these features:
•Auto-launch — Any other program of your choice
automatically launches whenever you insert the LP-
E
•IP info screen — Tap to view IP address information
•Taskbar indicators — Check connection activity and
good link status at a glance
6

STEP 1: Prepare Network Information
Contact your network administrator for the information below.
For a text-only form that you can email to your network
administrator, go to the Docs folder on the installation CD or visit:
www.socketcom.com/support/support_ethernet.asp
Does the network support DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol)?
YES. If Yes, then STOP. You do NOT need any IP addresses.
NO. If No, then please specify any applicable IP addresses (you may
only need some listed below):
Mobile Computer IP address: _____ . _____ . _____ . _____
Subnet Mask: _____ . _____ . _____ . _____
Default Gateway: _____ . _____ . _____ . _____
Primary DNS: _____ . _____ . _____ . _____
Secondary DNS: _____ . _____ . _____ . _____
Primary WINS*: _____ . _____ . _____ . _____
Secondary WINS: _____ . _____ . _____ . _____
*Remote ActiveSync only:If your server does NOT have WINS services
enabled, use the IP address of your host PC instead of a Primary WINS
address.
CHAPTER 2: SETUP FOR WINDOWS MOBILE 7

STEP 2: Install the Software
Follow these steps for software installation BEFORE you insert the LP-E
into your mobile computer.
WARNING! DO NOT install the Socket software on an HP
Jornada Pocket PC or Handheld PC!
1. Windows Mobile 5.0: Make sure you have ActiveSync 4.0 or greater. Download
it free: msdn.microsoft.com/mobility/windowsmobile/downloads/default.aspx
WARNING!
If you are NOT using Windows Mobile 5.0, DO NOT install
ActiveSync 4.0, or you will not be able to synchronize your
mobile computer and host PC over an Ethernet connection!
2. Use your serial/USB cable or cradle and ActiveSync to connect your
mobile computer to a host PC.
3. In order to synchronize data, there must be a partnership (NOT a guest
connection) between the mobile computer and host PC.
•If you already established a partnership between the two computers,
they should automatically connect and begin synchronizing.
8

•If no partnership exists, follow the screens that appear to set one up.
IMPORTANT!
You must set up a
partnership, or you will not
be able to synchronize
data between your device
and host PC!
4. Insert the Socket Low Power Ethernet Installation Disc into the host PC.
Use My Computer or Windows Explorer to access the CD drive. In the
CD, click on Setup.exe.
5. The installation wizard should begin. Follow the instructions on your
host PC and mobile computer screen until installation is complete.
6. After completing the installation, disconnect the mobile computer from
the serial/USB connection cable/cradle. Soft reset the mobile computer
by pushing the reset button.
CHAPTER 2: SETUP FOR WINDOWS MOBILE 9

STEP 3: Enter Network Settings
Windows Mobile 5.0 or Windows Mobile 2003/2003SE
1. Open the Configure Network Adapters screen.
Windows Mobile 5.0:
Tap Start | Settings | Connections tab | Network Cards.
Windows Mobile 2003/2003SE:
Tap Start | Settings | Connections tab | Connections.
Tap on the Advanced tab.
Tap on the Network Card button at the bottom of the screen.
10

2. The Configure Network Adapters screen will appear. In the drop-down
menu at the top of the screen, select the appropriate option.
•The Internet: For connecting from home and/or via an ISP
•Work: For connecting to a private network, such as at work, or a
proxy network.
If you are connecting to a proxy or secure network, refer to your
Pocket PC documentation for configuration information.
3. If you DO NOT need to enter any IP addresses, (i.e., your network uses
DHCP), tap ok. You are now ready to proceed to STEP 3 to connect to a
LAN and insert the card.
4. If you DO need to enter any IP addresses, tap Socket LP-E Driver if you
installed Socket’s software. Otherwise tap NE2000 Compatible Ethernet Driver.
5. In the next screens, enter your network settings. In the IP Address
screen, select Use specific IP address to enter the necessary IP addresses.
CHAPTER 2: SETUP FOR WINDOWS MOBILE 11

If needed, tap on the Name Servers tab to enter DNS and WINS addresses.
If using a static IP address, you may need to enter the host
computer’s IP address in the WINS field to use ActiveSync.
6. When you have finished entering settings, tap ok.
IMPORTANT! If you forget to tap ok, your settings will not
take effect!
7. A screen will report that the new settings will take effect when you next
insert the network card. Tap ok.
8. Soft reset your Pocket PC by pressing the reset button.
Do not soft reset a Pocket PC running Windows Mobile
2003, 2003SE or Windows Mobile 5.0 when a Socket card is
inserted, or errors may occur in application(s) that use the
card. If errors occur, remove the card and soft reset the
device. Wait for the device reset to finish before you re-
insert the card.
12

Pocket PC 2000/2002
1. Pocket PC 2000: Tap Start | Settings | Connections | Network.
Pocket PC 2002: Tap Start | Settings | Connections | Network Adapters.
2. In the Network Connections screen, select Socket LP-E Driver.
On a Pocket PC 2002, tap on the Properties button.
3. In the next screens, enter your network settings. If your LAN supports
DHCP, select Use server-assigned IP address.
If needed tap on the Name Servers tab to enter DNS and WINS
addresses.
If using a static IP address, you
may need to enter the host
computer’s IP address in the
Primary WINS field to use
ActiveSync.
4. When you have finished entering settings, tap ok.
IMPORTANT! If you forget to tap ok, your settings will not take effect!
5. An Adapters screen will appear. Tap ok.
6. Soft reset your Pocket PC by pressing the reset button.
CHAPTER 2: SETUP FOR WINDOWS MOBILE 13

Handheld PC 2000/Handheld PC Pro/Pen Tablet
1. Go to Start | Settings | Control Panel | Network.
2. In the Network Configuration screen, select Socket LP-E Driver.if you
installed Socket’s software. Otherwise select NE2000 Compatible
Ethernet Driver. Then tap Properties.
3. The IP Address screen will appear. Following your completed Network
Information Form, enter the appropriate settings for your network.
4. If needed, click on the Name Servers tab to enter any necessary DNS or
WINS addresses.
If using a static IP address, you may need to enter the host
computer’s IP address in the Primary WINS field to use
ActiveSync.
5. When you have finished entering settings, tap OK.
IMPORTANT! If you forget to tap ok, your settings will not
take effect!
6. An adapters screen may appear. Tap OK. Soft reset your device by
pressing the reset button.
14

STEP 4: Insert Card and Connect to LAN
1. If you have not done so already, soft reset your mobile computer.
Do not soft reset a Pocket PC running Windows
Mobile 2003, 2003SE or Windows Mobile 5.0 when a
Socket card is inserted. Wait for the device reset to
finish before you insert the card.
2. If using a Low Power Ethernet Card with removable cable, attach the
cable to the card. Press the side latches on the cable connector and plug
into the bottom of the card.
3. Insert the Low Power Ethernet Card into your mobile computer right-
side up, with the blue label on top.
If inserting the LP-E into a PC Card slot, use a PC Card adapter.
Note: The first time you insert the LP-E, ActiveSync may automatically
launch on your device.
4. Plug the connector into a LAN port
CHAPTER 2: SETUP FOR WINDOWS MOBILE 15

If you would like to check whether you have a good connection, do
the following:
•Check the Socket LP-E icon in the task tray, visible in the Today
screen of Pocket PCs. If it has a blinking green circle, there is a
good connection.
•Verify that the connection has a valid IP address for your network.
a) Tap on the Socket LP-E icon to open the applet.
b) In the IP Info screen, check the IP Address field.
−If your network uses a static IP address, make sure it
appears correctly.
−If your network uses DHCP, make sure the IP address is
within the valid range for your network. Consult with
your network administrator.
•Test your web access. Start Pocket Internet Explorer. Enter a
URL and test to see if the website appears correctly.
If you cannot enter a URL
because the address bar does not
appear, tap View and select
Address Bar.
16

OPTIONAL: Synchronize Data over a Network
Connection
\ IMPORTANT!
ActiveSync 4.0 or greater does not allow synchronization
over an Ethernet connection. If you wish to synchronize data,
make sure you have an older version of ActiveSync.
Because Windows Mobile 5.0 requires ActiveSync 4.0 or
greater, Windows Mobile 5.0 devices cannot synchronize
data over an Ethernet connection.
Pocket PC 2003/2003SE
1. Tap Start | ActiveSync:
IMPORTANT!
In order to use ActiveSync,
you must have previously
created a partnership
between the Pocket PC and
host PC!
2. In the main ActiveSync screen, tap Tools | Options. Check the box
Sync with this PC during manual sync. Tap ok.
3. In the main ActiveSync screen, tap Sync. The Pocket PC will begin to
synchronize data with your host PC.
4. To stop ActiveSync, tap Stop. You will still have network access, but you
will not be able to synchronize data between the Pocket PC and host PC.
CHAPTER 2: SETUP FOR WINDOWS MOBILE 17

Pocket PC 2002
1. Tap Start | ActiveSync.
In order to use ActiveSync, you must have previously
created a partnership between the mobile computer and
host PC!
2. Tap Sync. The Pocket PC will begin to synchronize data with the host
PC.
If synchronization starts and stops, tap Tools | Options | Mobile
Schedule and uncheck Sync outgoing items as they are sent.
3. To stop ActiveSync, tap Stop. You will still have network access, but
you will not be able to synchronize data between your Pocket PC and
host PC.
18

Pocket PC 2000, HPC 2000, Handheld PC Pro or Pen Tablet
1. Start ActiveSync.
Pocket PC 2000: Tap Start | Programs | ActiveSync.
HPC: Tap Start | Programs | Communication | ActiveSync.
In order to use ActiveSync, you must have previously
created a partnership between the mobile computer and
host PC!
2. In the top drop-down list, select Network Connection. In the Connect
to: drop-down list, select the desktop computer you wish to connect to.
3. The mobile computer will start synchronizing. The Connection Status
screen will report when synchronization is done.
4. To stop ActiveSync, tap on the Disconnect button. You will still have
network access, but you will not be able to synchronize data.
CHAPTER 2: SETUP FOR WINDOWS MOBILE 19