802.11g Wireless Access Point and PC Card
Wireless
network systems have quickly become the preferred method for interfacing
computers, not only in homes, but in commercial venues as well. The already
popular 802.11b (11 Mb/s) standard is being complemented with the faster
802.11g (54 Mb/s) systems. Belkin has introduced a full line of 802.11g
compatible products that includes their Wireless Network Access Point
(F5D7130) and 802.11g Wireless Notebook Network Card (F5D7010),
both of which we tested. The Wireless Network Access Point seamlessly
connected to our existing 12-port hub that linked to our router. This
product provides a convenient way of interfacing a wireless adapter to
an existing wired network without the hassle of going to a new router.
We configured the access point without any problems and quickly gained
access to our existing wired network. The access point was placed in a
cabinet, which appeared to limit the reception of the signal to some degree.
Multiple walls definitely had an impact on the signal strength and overall
bandwidth, so optimal placement may be a trial and error process. The
access point also worked with other wireless devices such as an AirLink
802.11b USB adapter, allowing us to quickly interface to our Roku HD1000
High Definition Digital Media server.
The
802.11g Wireless Notebook Network Card was a simple installation on our
Sony Vaio laptop running Windows XP. The Belkin PC Card seemed to work perfectly
with the Belkin Access Point. We configured the card for 128-bit encryption and
it all worked seamlessly. The software creates a small icon that changes color
based on the reception where green is best, yellow is marginal and
red is poor.
During a recent vacation, we used this card in the hotel to access the free local internet service and it worked fine on their 802.11b system. The indicator light on the side that sticks out of the PC card slot provides link and traffic feedback.
Summary
The new 802.11g wireless products from belkin are not only fast, but easy
to install and configure. In my opinion, most of the installation time
is spent on configuring the system and making sure it works properly.
Many experienced users expect to have some problems with the installation
of such products, but Belkin appears to have made it rather easy even
for those not that experienced. Both the Wireless Network Access Point
as well as the 802.11g Wireless Notebook Network Card worked without
any problems during our tests. It's rather refreshing to have a product
that requires such little time to configure along with minimal frustration.
- Kevin Nakano