YDI EtherAnt II-LR User manual

Version 3.3 March 2003

EtherAnt II User’s Manual
LIMITED WARRANTY
Young Design, Inc. (YDI) warrants that your device is free of defects in material and
workmanship for a period of one year after initial purchase. YDI will, in this period of time,
repair or replace, any YDI product returned to the factory, freight prepaid.
The YDI warranty covers repairs or replacement (at YDI’s option) of the product only. YDI
is not responsible for the cost of removal, reinstallation, or shipping to the place of repair.
YDI does not extend or modify its warranty period as a result of repair or replacement.
YDI reserves the right to void a warranty and/or make reasonable charges for repair of a
unit if the warranty seal is broken or the unit displays evidence of misuse, abuse, or
tampering.
YDI is not responsible for damage to any other equipment or property, or any other
consequential or incidental damages of any kind, whether based on contract, negligence,
or strict liability. Maximum liability shall not in any case exceed the purchase price of the
unit.
Warranties give you (the buyer) specific legal rights. You may also have other rights that
vary from state to state. This warranty is only extended to purchases made in the United
States of America or its possessions.
SPECIAL WARRANTY NOTICE
The antenna warranty is null and void if any of the following occurs:
1. The product enclosure is opened.
2. The antenna connections are not properly waterproofed.
3. The device is installed improperly or with incorrect connectors.
4. The round connector of the outdoor Ethernet cable provided is improperly plugged
into the rear jack of the antenna.
5. The antenna or DC Power Injector are physically damaged.
6. The device is operated outside the recommended DC power specifications.
7. The device is damaged by extreme forces of nature, lightning, or ‘Acts of God.’
FCC NOTICE
This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled
environment when installed as directed. This equipment should be installed and operated with fix-
mounted antennas that are installed such that these antennas will have a minimum of 2 meters of
separation distance between the antenna and all persons during normal operation.
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.
* Note: The manufacturer is not responsible for any radio or TV interference caused by
unauthorized modifications to this equipment. Such modifications could void the user's
authority to operate the equipment.
These products are labeled with one of the following FCC ID numbers:
FCC ID: NM5-ETH-ANT, NM5-ETH-ANT-LR
Version 3.3 Page i March 2003

EtherAnt II User’s Manual
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section 1 Overview 1
1.1 Description ....................................................................................................................................1
1.2 EtherAnt II Client Adapter Features ..............................................................................................2
1.3 EtherAnt II Client Adapter Kit ........................................................................................................3
Section 2 Installation 4
2.1 Locating the EtherAnt II.................................................................................................................4
2.2 Mounting the EtherAnt II ...............................................................................................................4
2.3 DC Power Injector .........................................................................................................................4
2.4 Power Supply ................................................................................................................................6
2.5 Aiming Antenna and Checking Signal Strength............................................................................6
2.6 Hardware Installation ....................................................................................................................6
Section 3 The Client Manager 8
3.1 Installation .....................................................................................................................................8
3.2 Using the Client Manager .............................................................................................................9
3.3 General Information ....................................................................................................................10
3.4 Configuration...............................................................................................................................15
3.5 Utilities.........................................................................................................................................18
3.6 Removing the Program ...............................................................................................................21
Appendix A - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 22
© 2003 Young Design, Inc. All Rights Reserved. No part or parts of this document may be
reproduced, translated, stored in any electronic retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any
means, electronic, mechanical, photocopied, recorded or otherwise, without the prior written
p
ermission of Young Design, Inc.
Version 3.3 Page ii March 2003

EtherAnt II User’s Manual
Section 1
Overview
1.1 Description
The EtherAnt II™ is a flat panel directional antenna with a built-in wireless Ethernet adapter. The
equipment is 802.11b WiFi™ compliant, operates at up to 11 Mbps and features 128-bit WEP (Wired
Equivalent Privacy) and the new Agere WEP-Plus. The EtherAnt II provides efficient outdoor high-speed
wireless connectivity for desktop PCs, laptop computers and routers equipped with an Ethernet port.
The EtherAnt II offers the simplest, most efficient 2.4 GHz Wireless Internet access solution for an
Ethernet-enabled desktop PC. It will communicate with any Access Point or other wireless client that is
100% WiFi™ compatible. It is ideal for use as a client station device for Wireless Internet applications.
With the wireless client adapter built right into the antenna, there are no complicated hardware
configurations or radio frequency (RF) cables. Because the EtherAnt II has the radio built-in, professional
antenna installation is not required. Once the EtherAnt II is connected, simply install the Client Manager
from the CD-ROM included in the kit and configure the network settings.
Two variations of the EtherAnt II are available: the standard series EtherAnt II with an integral 18 dBi gain
flat panel antenna, and the EtherAnt II –LR with the addition of an integrated bi-directional fixed amplifier
to boost range and improve reception. The antenna housing is waterproof and intended to be a pole or
wall-mounted outdoor installation.
For those customers that have multiple PCs on a LAN, a low-cost Cable/DSL router can be used to
provide a firewall and NAT for their PCs. Access to the internet can be provided with the reassurance of
having the customer's LAN behind a firewall. If a router/firewall is not desired, the EtherAnt II can also be
plugged directly into a customer's LAN. The built-in Micro-routing feature1automatically routes IP packets
for up to 253 MAC addresses on the LAN, no special configuration is necessary!
The Micro-routing algorithm maintains an auto-indexed IP-to-MAC address table by inspecting each
received 802.3 Ethernet frame. Thereafter, the EtherAnt's local MAC address is superimposed as the
source address field within the frame prior to transmitting it on the wireless (802.11b) network.
Reciprocally, whenever a wireless (802.11b) frame is received, the algorithm inspects the destination IP
address and remaps the associated MAC address into the destination field of the Ethernet frame. The
source address field within the frame is then replaced with the EtherAnt's local MAC address prior to
transmitting it on the Ethernet network.
The EtherAnt II does not require that a PC be opened in order to install an interface card provided that the
PC has an Ethernet Network Interface card (NIC). Attach the outdoor Ethernet cable included in the kit
(plus any optional extension cables) to the EtherAnt II. Plug the Ethernet cable into the DC Power
Injector. Connect the built-in Ethernet cable from the DC Power Injector into your computer’s
10/100BaseT port, plug in the AC adapter, and your hardware installation is complete. Because the
EtherAnt II uses the PC’s existing Ethernet interface, there are no drivers to install for this device.
The Windows-based Client Manager provides configuration and diagnostic utilities that allow you to see
vital information regarding the link between the antenna and the base station. Information such as signal-
to-noise ratio, signal strength, and noise level all in dB, provides for efficient installation and aiming of the
antenna, as well as troubleshooting link problems.
The EtherAnt II kit includes a 50 foot outdoor-rated Ethernet cable with a weatherproof connector (longer
cables are available as on option). By using RJ-45 in-line couplers, you can extend the cable up to 300
feet between the EtherAnt II and the DC Power Injector (however the EtherAnt –LR can operate only with
1. Firmware 2.01 and higher
Version 3.3 Page 1 March 2003

EtherAnt II User’s Manual
an Ethernet cable up to a maximum length of 100 feet between the unit and the DC Power Injector). The
WLAN device located in the antenna gets its power from the DC Power Injector which puts DC power
onto the Ethernet cable.
Both the EtherAnt II and the EtherAnt II –LR version operate from a 15 VDC power supply. A 110 VAC
adapter is included with the EtherAnt II package, and a 110/220 VAC “laptop-type” adapter can be
purchased separately as an option. The EtherAnt II –LR version comes standard with the 110/220 VAC
“laptop-type” adapter.
1.2 EtherAnt II Client Adapter Features
Key Features
• 802.11b radio and Ethernet Converter built into the antenna (-LR models feature also a built-in
amplifier that extends the maximum covered range)
• WiFi™ compatible
• Ideal solution for providing Wireless Internet access to distant clients
• Communicates with any WiFi™ compatible Access Point
• Weatherproof: designed and rated for outdoor use
• Connects directly into PCs without installing device drivers
• Supports direct connection to LANs via built-in Micro-routing
• Provides extended range coverage by focusing the radio signal
• Antenna is lightweight and thin, just one inch thick and 14 inches square
• Can be mounted in either vertical or horizontal polarization
• Mounts either to a wall or antenna mast of up to 1 3/4 inches in diameter
• Flat panel antenna offers 18 dbi gain and 15 beamwidth
• Transmit power of 2 Watts EIRP and 16 Watts EIRP on –LR model
• Up to 4.5 Mbps actual throughput
• FCC Part 15 Certified for license-free operation (11 channels in USA)
• Professional installation is not required by FCC Part 15 rules
• Easy-to-run outdoor-rated Ethernet cable provided (50 feet standard, can be optionally extended
up to 300 feet for standard series and up to 100 feet for –LR models)
• DC power for electronics in the antenna are carried up the Ethernet cable (Power Over Ethernet,
POE)
• Windows-based Configuration Software
• Client Manager shows signal, noise and SNR levels in dB
• Remotely configurable and Manageable based on IP address
• Operating range: -20 C to +50 C
• Ethernet interface – The EtherAnt II connects to an existing Ethernet port on the PC, so new
driver installation is not required as long as a compatible Ethernet port driver is loaded. Once the
EtherAnt II is connected, simply install the Client Manager from the CD-ROM and configure the
network settings.
• 18 dBi Gain Antenna – This high-gain directional antenna provides long-range wireless
connectivity.
• Installation – Part 15 FCC Certification does not require professional installation. However,
someone who is experienced in installing devices outdoors should do the installation.
• Ideal for Cable/DSL Routers – The EtherAnt II plugs into the WAN port on a client router to
service a LAN.
• 802.11b compliant – The EtherAnt II is WiFi™ compatible and will work with any certified
802.11b compatible Access Point (AP) or Client Station. This includes ORiNOCO Access Points
Version 3.3 Page 2 March 2003

EtherAnt II User’s Manual
such as the AP-500, AP-1000, AP-2000, YDI AP-Ant, and WLAN devices such as the YDI
Diamond WLAN Card and YDI USB Antenna.
• FCC Part 15 certified – For license-free operation.
1.3 EtherAnt II Client Adapter Kit
Each EtherAnt II Client Adapter kit includes the following (refer to Figure 1.1a):
• Flat panel 18 dBi gain directional antenna with built-in radio and Ethernet adapter (-LR models
feature an integrated bi-directional amplifier for increased transmit power and receive signal
sensitivity for longer range)
• Sturdy steel wall/mast tilt-bracket mount
• Outdoor Ethernet cable with weatherproof antenna connector (50 feet standard, can be optionally
extended up to 300 feet for standard series and up to 100 feet for –LR models)
• Cat 5 DC Power Injector
• DC Power Adapter for 110 VAC (220 VAC optional), output: 15 VDC (-LR model comes standard
with a 110/220 VAC “laptop-type” adapter, output: 15 VDC)
• CD-ROM with Client Manager software and documentation
The latest software and User’s Manuals can also be found at:
http://www.ydi.com/support/downloads.php,and
http://www.ydi.com/support/documents.php.
Figure 1.1b shows a typical application of the EtherAnt II.
Figure 1.1a – EtherAnt II, 50-ft Ethernet cable, DC Injector, and AC Adapter
Figure 1.1b – Typical Application
Version 3.3 Page 3 March 2003

EtherAnt II User’s Manual
Version 3.3 Page 4 March 2003
Section 2
Installation
Safety Warning
This antenna/transmitter device must be fixed-mounted on outdoor
permanent structures with a separation distance of at least 2 meters
(6.56 feet) from all persons. Users and installers must adhere to the
antenna installation instructions and transmitter operating conditions in
order to comply with the FCC’s RF exposure requirements.
CAUTION
2.1 Locating the EtherAnt II
The most important aspect of setting up the EtherAnt II is its location and aiming. For maximum range
(up to several miles), it must have clear, unobstructed line of site (LOS) between it and the base station
antenna or the other wireless device it is talking to. The EtherAnt II should be installed outdoors, but can
be located in a window if necessary. However, for maximum range and the strongest signal, the EtherAnt
II must “see” the base station antenna in order to be connected. If they do not have this clear line of
sight, you will likely not get a reliable, long-range wireless connection. For indoor applications, the range
will depend on the walls and other obstacles between the EtherAnt II and the base station. The only way
to accurately determine your coverage area is to put up the EtherAnt II in the best locations available and
run some tests (see Section 2.5, Aiming Antenna and Checking Signal Strength).
NOTE: It is strongly recommended that you configure and test the unit prior to deploying it in the
field. Set up a “mini-network” that resembles your actual configuration as close as possible.
By using such a mock-up, troubleshooting potential problems will be much easier than if you
already installed the equipment in the field. Read through this entire Section 2 to understand
how to install the hardware. To configure the EtherAnt II, read Section 3.
2.2 Mounting the EtherAnt II
The antenna can be mounted either vertically or horizontally polarized using the hardware included with
the unit. The label located on the back of the antenna contains an arrow indicating the antenna’s
polarization. Please note that both ends of the link must use the same polarization. It can be mounted to
a mast or pipe as shown in Figure 2.1 or to a flat surface such as a wall as shown in Figure 2.2. Note that
most omni antennas are vertically polarized and if the EtherAnt II is aimed at one, it must be installed
vertically polarized, i.e., with the polarization arrow up and down.
When installed outdoors, it is very important that the round connector plugged on the antenna be properly
waterproofed. Ensure that a high quality all-weather resistant electrical tape and/or other water sealant
method, such as Permagum or equivalent, is utilized. Silicon sealants are not recommended since
they are hard to work with, do not ensure a 100% waterproofing of the connectors and are difficult to
remove, if ever necessary.
2.3 DC Power Injector
The Cat 5 DC Power Injector is not in a waterproof enclosure and must be protected from the weather. It
can be permanently mounted to a surface using the double stick tape found on the back of it.

EtherAnt II User’s Manual
Figure 2.1 shows the antenna in a typical
horizontally polarized installation. It must be
carefully aimed at the base antenna and be
mounted with the same polarization. The
housing is sealed to prevent water build-up in
the antenna. The round connector must also
be sealed after it is plugged into the antenna.
Be sure to provide strain relief for the Ethernet
cable as well.
If this EtherAnt II antenna is aimed at a
vertically polarized omni-directional or sector
base station antenna, it must be mounted
vertically polarized using the other mounting
stud on the back.
Figure 2.1. – Outdoor Pole Mount Installation
Figure 2.2 shows the antenna in a typical
indoor wall mount installation. For indoor
applications, the range will depend on the
walls and other obstacles between the
EtherAnt II and the base station. The only way
to accurately determine your coverage area is
to put up the EtherAnt II in the best locations
available and run some tests.
Figure 2.2 – Indoor Wall Mount Installation
Version 3.3 Page 5 March 2003

EtherAnt II User’s Manual
2.4 Power Supply
The EtherAnt II antenna kit comes with a 110 VAC to 15 VDC power supply that has a standard barrel
plug [center pin positive (+) tip and outer ring negative (-)]. 110/220 VAC “laptop-type” power supplies are
available as an option. The EtherAnt II –LR version comes standard with the 110/220 VAC “laptop-type”
adapter. Although normally provided with a power supply, any power source meeting the following
specifications can be used:
EtherAnt II 12-24VDC @ 500 mA maximum cable length: 300 feet
EtherAnt II-LR 15VDC @ 1300 mA maximum cable length: 100 feet
CAUTION: Operating the EtherAnt II-LR version with more than 15 VDC will damage it. Operating it with
less than 15 VDC will cause improper operation.
2.5 Aiming Antenna and Checking Signal Strength
The EtherAnt II has a built-in signal strength indicator which can be monitored by the YDI Client Manager
software to help optimize the aiming of the antenna. If you are using an ORiNOCO or YDI Access Point
in your wireless network, you can also use the Link Test capability of the AP Manager software to monitor
the signal strength of the EtherAnt II into the base unit.
Another test that can be performed involves using a laptop computer, a YDI Sapphire or Diamond WLAN
card, and the Wireless Client Manager program that comes with it. Insert the WLAN card in the laptop
computer, install the program and run it. The Advanced -> Link Test screen of the Wireless Client
Manager program shows signal strength levels. Walk around the desired coverage areas with the laptop
computer and record the signal levels. This way you can build a map of the areas that have good
coverage.
For details about how to set up, configure, and use the Wireless Client Manager program, please refer to
the User Manual of the product.
2.6 Hardware Installation
Perform the following procedures once you have determined the optimal location for the antenna:
1. If you are going to install the antenna on a mast or pipe, use the brackets and screws to mount
the flat panel antenna to a pole with a maximum diameter of up to 1 3/4 inches.
2. Ensuring that there is no DC power applied to the DC Power Injector, plug the 6-pin N-male round
connector of the outdoor Ethernet cable provided into the rear jack of the flat panel antenna,
aligning the notch on the connector with the tab on the jack as shown on Figure 2.3. Then turn
the round locking nut clockwise as you push in until it securely fastens onto the jack. Please
verify that the round connector is properly plugged into the rear jack of the antenna prior
to connecting DC power because it is possible to push it in the wrong way if enough force is
used. If DC power is applied and the connector is not properly plugged, damage to the electronics
of the unit or the connector itself may occur which will not be covered by the factory warranty.
3. Attach the other end of the outdoor Ethernet cable provided to the Cat 5 DC Power Injector at
port RJ-45 labeled “To ANT.”
Version 3.3 Page 6 March 2003

EtherAnt II User’s Manual
WARNING
If DC Power is applied while you are attempting to insert the round
connector into the jack, it is possible that, as you rotate the plug in an
effort to find the key, DC power pins will momentarily touch the Ethernet
pins. If this happens the Ethernet circuitry on the board will blow.
Any damage caused by this action will not be covered by the factory
warranty and will be a billable repair.
4. Connect the Ethernet cable labeled “To PC or ROUTER” from the Cat 5 DC Power Injector to
your computer or PC. If you connect to a router, switch or hub, make sure you plug the cable into
the WAN/Uplink port, otherwise a cross-over cable or adapter will be needed.
5. Plug the AC Adapter into an AC outlet and connect it to the “DC Power” jack on the Cat 5 DC
Power Injector.
6. Check that the Power and Ethernet LEDs are lit. For –LR models, check that the RX / Power
amplifier LED (green) is also lit.
7. Configure the EtherAnt II Client Adapter using the Client Manager software. (See Section 3 for
detailed information.)
Figure 2.3 – Plugging the Outdoor Ethernet Cable
Figure 2.4 shows the EtherAnt II label located
on the back of the flat panel. Six green LEDs
appear to the right that indicate the status of the
Radio TX, Radio RX, Wireless Link, LAN
Activity, Ethernet Link and Power.
–LR models have two additional amplifier
LEDs. The green LED is for Receive and
Power: it glows steady on when DC power is
applied and flashes when the unit is in receive
mode. The red LED is for Transmit and flashes
when the unit is in transm it mode.
e
The arrow to the left indicates the polarization
of the antenna. Based upon the direction of th
arrow, the antenna in this example is vertically
polarized.
Figure 2.4 – EtherAnt II Label and LEDs
Version 3.3 Page 7 March 2003

EtherAnt II User’s Manual
Section 3
The Client Manager
3.1 Installation
The EtherAnt II Client Manager software can be installed on a PC or workstation running Windows 98,
ME, 2000, NT, or XP. This software has a GUI (Graphical User Interface), which makes it easy to use.
The program allows you to locally or remotely perform the following procedures:
• Display a list of EtherAnt II units running on the local network
• Display and edit the current configuration of the EtherAnt II
• Save and load configurations
• Update the EtherAnt II firmware
CAUTION
The Client Manager software communicates with the EtherAnt II using a
non-routable protocol. This means that your EtherAnt II units must be
accessible on the same subnet as the machine with the Client Manager
installed in order to be able to use the software.
Note: Prior to installing a newer version of the Client Manager program, you will need to remove
any older versions. (See Section 3.6, Removing the Program).
Windows Installation – To install the Client Manager in Windows, perform the following steps:
1. Insert the YDI CD-ROM included in the EtherAnt II kit into the appropriate drive of your computer.
Using your Windows Explorer open the contents of the CD-ROM drive and select the following
directory: \Management\YDI Client Manager. Run the Set Up program.
2. The Splash screen will appear first. Choose Next to continue the installation or Cancel to
terminate.
3. The Welcome screen will appear. Choose Next to continue the installation or Cancel to
terminate.
4. The License Agreement screen will appear. Read the Agreement and click on “I accept the terms
in the license agreement” button, then choose Next to continue the installation. Choosing Cancel
will terminate the installation.
5. The Destination Folder screen will appear next. You can use the default location or press the
Change button to specify a different install location. Choose Next to continue the installation or
Cancel to terminate.
6. The Ready to Install the Program screen will appear displaying the current settings. If you want
to review or change any of your installation settings, click Back. Once you are satisfied with the
settings, click Install to begin the installation. You may also click Cancel to exit the wizard.
7. The InstallShield Wizard Completed screen will appear to indicate successful installation of the
Client Manager. Click Finish to complete the installation.
The latest software and User’s Manuals can also be found at:
http://www.ydi.com/support/downloads.php,and
http://www.ydi.com/support/documents.php.
Version 3.3 Page 8 March 2003

EtherAnt II User’s Manual
3.2 Using the Client Manager
After completing the Client Manager installation, you are ready to configure your EtherAnt II system
(commonly referred to as “EC”). Begin at the Windows Start menu and choose Programs. You should
see a folder called YDI. Select this folder and click on Client Manager.
Select EC – The first screen to appear is the Select EC screen shown in Figure 3.1. This screen lists
information about any devices associated in your network. If there are no devices listed in the table, then
you are not connected. Click on the device you wish to configure. Press the Select button and you will
be taken to the General Information window for that device. The window will automatically update as an
EC is discovered. If an EC has been disconnected, the status for the EC will be changed to “Offline.” If
any user is logged in to an EC with the Client Manager, the status will change to “Busy” and no other user
will be given access to that EC. Once the logged in user logs out, the status will then reflect whether it is
online or offline.
Figure 3.1. – Select EC Screen
A number of other functions can be performed using the buttons found at the bottom of the screen, as
described below.
Clear List – This command will clear all ECs from the list. The program will automatically start scanning
for devices again.
Local ECs Only – This box will be checked as the default allowing you to detect only those devices
within your local network. If un-checked, the program will extend its search to include all ECs on the
network.
Sort By – A dropdown menu that allows you to list devices by IP Address, MAC Address, or EC.
EC Name, Network Type and Network Name – The default setting for these functions is Do Not Sort.
Manual Select – Click to search for ECs on a specific IP Address that may not have been discovered in
the scanning process.
Select – Click this button after highlighting the EC you would like to select. You may do this, or double-
click the desired EC.
Cancel – Click to exit this screen without selecting an EC.
Version 3.3 Page 9 March 2003

EtherAnt II User’s Manual
3.3 General Information
The General Information screen is shown in Figure 3.2. Notice that there are two other buttons at the top
of this window, Configuration and Utilities. These buttons will be discussed later in this manual.
The two buttons on the left – Save Settings, and Reload Settings – are explained below. The four fields
at the bottom of the screen, Host Computer Name, Host Computer IP, Ethernet Converter Name, and
Ethernet Converter IP, will also be discussed. Lastly, at the top of your screen, several drop-down menu
items are available. They are: File, Edit, View, Command, Tools, and Help.
Figure 3.2 – General Information Screen
Save Settings
Pressing this button will place all changed parameters into the attached EC.
Reload Settings
Pressing this button will restore the parameters that are currently saved in the attached EC.
General Information
This screen automatically displays information about the connection with the device you selected. The
Status Bar on the bottom of the window should indicate Connected if you have a connection. If the Status
Bar reads Not Connected, then you are not connected with the device. Other information displayed in this
window includes:
Current EC Connection – This read-only property displays whether the EC is currently associated with a
network. It will read either Not Associated, or Associated.
Network Name – This read-only property displays the name of the network that the EC is currently
associated with.
Channel ID – This read-only property displays the Channel ID of the network that the EC is currently
associated with.
Encryption – This read-only property displays whether the EC currently has Encryption disabled or
enabled.
Version 3.3 Page 10 March 2003

EtherAnt II User’s Manual
Network Type – This read-only property displays the type of network that the EC is currently associated
with.
AP Name/Partner Name – This read-only property displays the name of the 802.11(b) device that the EC
is currently associated with. If the attached EC is configured for Infrastructure Mode the field will show
the AP Name. If configured for Wireless Link Mode the field will show the Partner Name. If configured for
Peer-to-Peer Mode this field will not be visible.
Signal Strength – This indicator appears as a horizontal bar that changes color depending on the
strength of your signal. Green means an excellent signal; yellow means a good signal; and red means a
poor signal. If configured for Peer-to-Peer Mode, this field will not be visible.
Immediately beneath this information appear the Serial Number, Model Name, Firmware Version and
Manufacturing Date for the device.
The bottom of the screen shows four fields that will contain information only if you have a connection.
These fields appear on every window in the software and include:
Host Computer Name – This read-only property displays the name of the computer you are using.
Host Computer IP – This read-only property displays the IP address of the computer you are using.
Ethernet Converter Name – This read-only property displays the name of the EC you are currently
connected to.
Ethernet Converter IP – This read-only property displays the IP address of the EC you are currently
connected to.
Converter Manager Tool Bar
Located at the top of every screen is the Converter Manager Tool Bar. Described below are the
commands located on the tool bar and the drop-down menus found under each.
File Menu
Scan for ECs – This command will reset the attached EC. Then, the Select EC screen will reappear
listing all of the devices you are associated with.
Exit – This command will shut down the Client Manager application.
Edit Menu
Several standard editor commands are available for your use. They are Undo, Cut, Copy and Paste.
View Menu
The drop-down menu under View lists all of the screens available in the Client Manager. Select the
screen you wish to go to and click. You can also switch easily between screens using the View menu.
Commands Menu
Reset EC – This command will request the attached EC to reset itself.
Tools Menu
This screen contains two functions, Security Features and Options,described below in detail.
Security Features – In this screen (Figure 3.3) you are able to set a new password, enable password
protection and control login dialog. There are two possible passwords that you can define: the
Version 3.3 Page 11 March 2003

EtherAnt II User’s Manual
Read/Write Password gives users full rights to change the firmware or any configuration parameters. The
Read-Only Password allows a user to perform range testing without having permissions to change the
configuration, useful for operators or technicians who are not in charge of configuration tasks. The two
options for Login Dialog Control are Local Configuration and Wireless Configuration. If Local
Configuration is checked, the EC can be logged into directly through the Ethernet connection. If Wireless
Configuration is checked, the EC can be accessed via a Wireless Connection. At least one of these two
boxes must be checked. Click OK to save your entries.
Figure 3.3 – Security Features Figure 3.4 – Options – General
Options – On this screen there are several tabs available:
Options – General (Figure 3.4)
MAC Address Selection – This allows you to determine which MAC Address the EC will use for
communication. The Current Setting is displayed on the window box. You may choose to Keep the
Current Setting.
If Use Dynamic MAC Address is clicked, the MAC Address of the most recently received Ethernet frame
from the Ethernet port will be used. Note: this setting disables Micro-routing.
If Use EC MAC Address is clicked, the internal MAC Address of the unit will be used (this is the default
setting). Note: this setting automatically enables Micro-routing in Infrastructure and Peer to Peer modes.
If Use PC Card MAC Address is clicked, the internal MAC Address of the 802.11(b) PCMCIA Card will be
used.
Show Disconnect Message – This option will display a message box when the attached EC has been
disconnected.
Show 128-bit Warning – This option will display a message box warning you, when configuring the EC,
to use a 128-bit WEP Encryption key.
Show IP Address Warning – This option will display a message box when a user tries to configure an
EC for an IP address that is out of the subnet of the Host computer running the Client Manager. The
message will be telling the user of this difference in subnets. There are plenty of instances where this is a
legal configuration, so the warning message can be turned off by clearing this button.
Options – Ethernet (Figure 3.5)
Ethernet Mode – This option allows you to change the data rate of the local Ethernet port (10 Mbps, Half
Duplex is the default setting).
Version 3.3 Page 12 March 2003

EtherAnt II User’s Manual
Options – PC Card (Figure 3.6)
PC Card Connection Speed – This option allows you to change the data rate of the EC’s internal
802.11(b) PCMCIA Card. The rates available will change according to the distance selected. Automatic
will change the speed of the card “on the fly” as different communication characteristics change (up to 11
Mbps).
Antenna Selection – This option (only available for the Design-In model) allows the user to select which
antenna port on the 802.11(b) PCMCIA Card to use.
Figure 3.5 – Options – Ethernet Figure 3.6 – Options -PC Card
Options – Serial (Figure 3.7)
NOTE: Although there is a tab for Serial port settings, the EtherAnt does not use a serial interface.
All screens for Serial settings should be ignored since they are not applicable. The Client
Manager grays this option out.
Figure 3.7 – Options – Serial
(Not Applicable, Ignore) Figure 3.8 – Options – Color
Version 3.3 Page 13 March 2003

EtherAnt II User’s Manual
Options – Color (Figure 3.8)
Use Background Graphic – If checked, the Background of the Client Manager will be set to the default
color. If un-checked, you may press the Background button to choose a custom color.
Restore Default Colors – Press this button to return to the default color setting.
Help Menu
An HTML help file system is part of the Client Manager. This can be invoked following normal Windows
standards (F1 or Help->Contents menu item).
Wizard Manager (Figure 3.9)
This screen allows you to select a specific Wizard that will help you configure and display specific
information pertaining to the EC and the network the EC is currently associated with.
Universal Configuration Wizard – This Wizard is available in Release 3.0 and above of the Client
Manager. It is designed to help you configure one or two ECs from the default configuration to the
configuration that matches your needs. This includes the wireless and Ethernet settings.
Serial Configuration Wizard – Although there is a Wizard for Serial configuration, the EtherAnt does not
use a serial interface. All screens for Serial settings should be ignored since they are not applicable. The
Client Manager grays this option out.
Wireless Link Wizard – This Wizard is designed to help you configure a pair of Ethernet Converters as a
Wireless Link (Bridged) Network. This includes the wireless and Ethernet settings.
For detailed information about how to use each wizard to configure your EC(s) and the meaning of each
parameter on the different screens, Click F1 or the Help->Contents menu item. Under the Contents tab,
select Using the Wizard Manager. Many of the parameters used by the wizard are covered in the next
section (Configuration).
Figure 3.9 – Wizard Manager Screen
Version 3.3 Page 14 March 2003

EtherAnt II User’s Manual
3.4 Configuration
The Configuration screen features three buttons: Ethernet Configuration, Serial Configuration, and
Wireless Configuration.
Ethernet Configuration (Figure 3.10)
This screen allows you to specify the parameters associated with the EC’s local Ethernet connection.
Figure 3.10 – Ethernet Configuration
Controller Name – This field sets a user-friendly name you wish to assign to the EtherAnt II (up to 32
characters).
IP Address – This field sets the IP address used for both local and wireless Ethernet communication.
Subnet Mask – This field sets the Subnet Mask used for both local and wireless Ethernet communication.
Gateway – This field sets the IP Address of the Gateway (router or firewall). You will need to enter the IP
address of your gateway, particularly if you plan to use the EC to access computers or other EtherAnt II
units beyond your router or firewall.
MAC Address – This read-only property displays the MAC Address of the EC you are currently
connected to.
Automatically Search for Unknown Ethernet Addresses (ARP) – This option allows to turn on/off ARP
messages or use a predefined (default) MAC Address for unknown routes. This is useful for the handling
of unknown IP packet routes.
Serial Configuration
Although there is an option for Serial configuration, the EtherAnt does not use a serial interface. All
screens for Serial settings should be ignored since they are not applicable. The Client Manager grays this
option out.
Version 3.3 Page 15 March 2003

EtherAnt II User’s Manual
Wireless Configuration (Figure 3.11)
Current Profile – This field allows you to select the profile name that identifies the settings for your
network. You can add, edit, or delete profiles. A profile is a combination of settings that you can define
and then use over and over.
Profile Name – This field represents an arbitrary identifier for each configuration profile you create (up to
32 characters). The value in this field is for convenience in identifying multiple configuration profiles in the
Client Manager. You should use a descriptive name that has relevance to your particular network
environment. Up to 1000 profiles may be stored within the Client Manager database. This database is
preserved when the Client Manager is upgraded.
Network Type – This field allows you to select the type of network that you will be connecting to. The
options from the drop-down menu are: Infrastructure if you are connecting to an Access Point, Peer-to-
Peer if you are setting up an Ad Hoc group, or Wireless Link if you are setting up a wireless (bridged)
network. Note: Wireless Link mode disables Micro-routing.
Figure 3.11 – Wireless Configuration
Network Name – This field allows you to enter the Network Name (or Extended Service Set Identifier,
ESSID) that is set in your AP or the one that you will use to establish an Ad Hoc group. The Network
Name is used to specify a unique IEEE 802.11 wireless network. Wireless stations use the Network
Name to associate. Only devices with the same Network Name will associate with each other.
Alphanumeric values may be used in this field (up to 32 characters). A Network Name of Any may be
used in Infrastructure mode to associate with “any” open AP.
Channel ID – This field allows you to set the Channel to use for wireless communication. This field only
applies to Peer-to-Peer and Wireless Link modes. When in Infrastructure mode, the EC will automatically
scan each channel for the AP.
Partner Name – This field allows you to specify which EC you will be creating a wireless link with. This
field only applies to Wireless Link mode.
Version 3.3 Page 16 March 2003

EtherAnt II User’s Manual
Distance – This field allows you to set the range of communication between two ECs in a Wireless Link
environment only. Select Normal Range for links less than 12 miles, or Extended Range for links greater
than 12 miles.
Encryption Enabled – If checked, this allows you to define the encryption keys that the EtherAnt II
should use to encrypt and decrypt data that will be transmitted via the wireless interface as shown in
Figure 3.12. If not checked, the Encryption function will be disabled.
Figure 3.12 – Encryption Enabled Screen
Encryption Keys 1 through 4– These buttons will bring up a configuration window that allows you to set
up an encryption key (see Figure 3.13).
Use Key – This field allows you to choose which key to use for encryption.
Encryption Type – This field allows you to specify whether to use a 64-bit or a 128-bit encryption key.
For a 128-bit encryption key use a 26-character hex key or a 13-character alphanumeric key. For 64-bit
encryption key, use a 10 character hex key or a 5 character alphanumeric key.
Encryption Formats – The two formats used to develop encryption keys include hexadecimal or
alphanumeric as shown in Figure 3.13. Whichever format you choose, the key that you enter is used in
an encryption algorithm to encode the data that you send. Only another wireless card using the same
key can decode and receive the data. Hexadecimal values are composed of the NULL character (0x00),
0-9, A-F and a-f. Alphanumeric values are composed of all printable ASCII characters.
Version 3.3 Page 17 March 2003