IBM Wireless LAN Entry Product Family March 14, 1995 Announcement Number: 195-082 Document's Table of Contents: * Abstract * WIRELESS LAN ENTRY * PUBLICATIONS * TECHNICAL INFORMATION * TERMS AND CONDITIONS * CHARGES Abstract +-------------------------------------------------------------------+ | IN BRIEF . . . | | | | Competitive features: | | | | o Industry leading; competitively priced | | o Integrated radio/antenna | | o Minimal power consumption | | o Ad-hoc peer-to-peer networking | | o LAN compatibility: | | | | - NDIS/ODI device drivers | | - Transparent MAC bridge access point supporting roaming | | | | A low-cost LAN solution without cabling, plus these key | | benefits: | | | | o Complementary Artisoft network operating system with each | | adapter | | o Integrated design for mobile users | | o Access point for network scalability and user roaming | | | | Connectivity choices: | | | | o Access to wired LAN -- for example, multiple ThinkPads in | | wireless communication with the 8227 Access Point, enabling a | | wireless cell to attach to an Ethernet LAN | | | | o Peer-to-peer -- for example, several ThinkPads and a desktop | | computer in wireless communication with each other | | | | The Wireless LAN Entry family consists of: | | | | o Hardware components: | | | | - PCMCIA Type II extended RF adapter (#4285) | | - Optional externally-attached antenna | | - IBM 8227 Access Point (8227-INT or 8227-PAT) | | | | o Software offerings: | | | | - Access point bridge software | | - Installation and diagnostic routines for the adapter and | | the access point | | - Artisoft LANtastic network operating system and related | | documentation | | | +-------------------------------------------------------------------+ Wireless LAN Entry is a local area network system that provides a low-cost, reliable connection, without cabling, to Ethernet LANs for mobile computer users. The system complements wired LANs by extending applications to mobile users and provides installation flexibility and cost savings in difficult cabling situations. The Wireless LAN Entry facilitates simple workgroup environments with an ad-hoc peer-to-peer capability. Included with the Wireless LAN Entry product family is a PCMCIA Type II adapter with a fully-integrated network interface controller (NIC) and 2.4GHz radio transceiver. Also included is the 8227 Wireless LAN Entry access point with transparent MAC bridge program for direct Ethernet attachment and SNMP management. For mobile users, Wireless LAN Entry simplifies wireless network planning with automatic roaming between 8227 access points and extends coverage with an 8227 extended range model. The 8227 extended range model supports an external gain antenna. Both models feature wall and ceiling mounting for extended cell operating sizes. An advanced technology, spread spectrum frequency-hopping radio used by the Wireless LAN Entry operates in the 2.4GHz unlicensed frequency band. The system uses CSMA protocols to provide a robust, low-cost solution and enhance transparency of the Ethernet environment. Spread spectrum provides excellent resistance to interference from other radio frequency (RF) sources and offers secure data communications. Wireless LAN Entry is bundled with a complementary network operating system. When you purchase the adapter, you will receive a single license of the popular network operating system, LANtastic(1) 6.0. You may immediately begin setting up a wireless network. If you already have an installed network operating environment, the Wireless LAN Entry may be used on that operating system. Summary of Wireless LAN Entry benefits: * Artisoft's LANtastic 6.0 single-user license included with each adapter * Low-cost mobile Ethernet LAN connectivity for existing LAN applications * NetBios, IPX, and IP protocol support * Simplified wireless network planning * Wireless transparent MAC bridge with remote program load (RPL) and SNMP management * Mobile computer support with fully integrated PCMCIA Type II extended adapter * Automatic roaming for multi-cell coverage * New workgroup applications support with peer-to-peer networking * Minimal power consumption adapter maximizing battery operating time * Around-the-clock HelpCenter(R) support (800-426-7299) Purchase Price: $1,350 (8227-INT); $1,425 (8227-PAT); $445 (#4285) Planned Availability Date: April 28, 1995 (1) Registered Trademark of Artisoft, Inc. Artisoft, Inc.'s software license agreement active. Customers not wishing to accept the terms of the Artisoft, Inc. software license agreement should return the LANtastic 6.0 diskettes to either IBM or Artisoft. (R) Registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation WIRELESS LAN ENTRY The hardcopy version of this letter carries a picture of the 8227 at this point in the letter. --------------------------------------------------------------------- If you are considering installing a local area network, the IBM Wireless LAN Entry may provide the ideal solution. Starting with the cost savings realized by not having to install wire or purchase a network operating system, the advantages are significant. Wireless LAN Entry Family Attributes * Integrated design for mobile users (low power and PCMCIA form factor) * Low-cost industry solution * Complementary Artisoft network operating system with each adapter * Access point allows network scalability and user roaming * Directly connect the 8227 access point to existing Ethernet environment * Industry standard device drivers (NDIS, ODI) supports popular NOSs * High-interference immunity against LAN and non-LAN radio sources * Connectivity to token-ring (via 8229) and Ethernet wired LANs * Compatibility with IEEE 802.3 and Ethernet * User data throughput of up to 350Kbps supported * Low-cost LAN installation and maintenance * Central management of access point software and LAN network access security through RPL support and SNMP management Reliability and Asset Protection: Reliability implies high quality. The IBM Wireless LAN Entry rarely breaks down or exhibits inconsistent performance. The ISO9000 certification ensures that a high-quality design and development process was used to develop this product. The access point architecture is key to investment protection in the wireless LAN product family. As wireless LAN adapters evolve, the access point infrastructure may remain constant and allow for adapter and software upgrades, if necessary. Open Enterprise: The Wireless LAN Entry conforms to IEEE 802.11 MAC-layer requirements -- preliminary standards released. Final 802.11 standard is not yet released. PRODUCT POSITIONING IBM has two wireless radio frequency (RF) LAN products for the personal computer market -- Wireless LAN Entry and Wireless LAN. Wireless LAN Entry is a low-cost wireless adapter. It has a cost-optimized design point and is intended for direct connection to Ethernet LANs. Wireless LAN Entry may be bridged to a token-ring environment, for example 8229. Wireless LAN Entry should be considered for small to medium wireless workgroups with fewer than 30 users per cell. Each access point can support up to 16 active users. There is no limitation to the number of users who may join a workgroup when communicating in a peer-to-peer (ad-hoc) mode. Wireless LAN Entry uses the CSMA/CA transmission protocol. Wireless LAN Entry is available in a PCMCIA Type II extended form-factory only. Wireless LAN is available in PCMCIA Type II tethered, ISA, and Micro Channel(R) adapters. Wireless LAN is a fully-featured wireless product. It features data compression for high throughput and data encryption for maximum data protection. It is ideal for all wireless networks including networks with more than 30 users. Wireless LAN uses TDMA transmission protocol. Because Wireless LAN Entry and Wireless LAN employ frequency-hopping techniques, these systems can easily co-exist in the same workgroup proximity. Wireless LAN Entry and Wireless LAN communicate if networked together through the same wired LAN environment. PUBLICATIONS The following publications are shipped with the product: Part Order Description Number Number IBM Wireless LAN Entry Installation Planning Guide (available separately) 38H4951 GA27-4983 Adapter User's Guide 8227 Installation and User's Guide TECHNICAL INFORMATION Specified Operating Environment Physical Specifications IBM Wireless LAN Entry Access Point * Width: 21.6 cm (8.5 in.) * Depth: 27.9 cm (11.0 in.) * Height: 7.6 cm (3.0 in.) * Weight: 3.0 kg (6.6 lb) IBM Wireless LAN Entry * Width: 54.0 mm (2.1 in.) * Length: 145.3 mm (5.7 in.) * Height: 10.7 mm (0.42 in.) * Height: 24.2 mm (0.95 in.) of extended portion * Weight: 0.059 kg (0.13 lb) PCMCIA Type II Adapter * Size: o PCMCIA type II extended card * Interface: o PCMCIA compatible * Compatibility: o Novell** NetWare** operating systems (ODI Device Driver) o Packet Driver for operation with TCP/IP protocols o Most standard network operating systems (NDIS Device Driver), including IBM OS/2 LAN Server, Microsoft** Workgroup for Windows+, Artisoft's LANtasic 6.0, and others * Radio characteristics: o 2.400 to 2.483GHz frequencies (U.S., may vary by country) o Data throughput rate of up to 350 Kilobits/second o Transmit power is equal to or less than 100 milliwatts * Range: o Indoor dense office: up to 200 feet (61 meters) o Indoor open office: up to 650 feet (198 meters) o Open factory/warehouse: up to 1200 feet (366 meters) Note: Range may be extended by utilizing an external gain antenna and the extended range adapter in the access point. If an access point is centralized, the referenced distances represent a diameter of a circle. Peer-to-peer distances would be half the values represented above if an access point is not used. * Licenses: Complies with FCC and DOC regulations for license-free operation in the 2.4 Gigahertz band Operating Environment: The Wireless LAN Entry PCMCIA Adapter is FCC approved to part 15, subsection 247 of the Commission's Rules using ISM band of 2400-2483.5MHz. The Wireless LAN Access Point meets FCC Class A (Business), CSPR22-A, and IOP operating criteria. * Temperature: 0(degs) to 55(degs)C (32(degs) to 131(degs)F), PCMCIA adapter * Temperature: 0(degs) to 40(degs)C (32(degs) to 104(degs)F), access point, 8227 * Relative humidity: 5% to 95% * Wet bulb: 23(degs)C (73(degs)F) * Electrical power: 110/220 V AC (Access Point) * Licenses: Complies with FCC and DOC regulations for license-free operation in the 2.4 to 2.4835GHz band Hardware Requirements: The Wireless LAN Entry is compatible with all IBM and non-IBM machines with PCMCIA Type II and III slots. The machines also require the appropriate Card and Socket Services Release 2.1 and PCMCIA controller support. The Wireless LAN Entry Adapter uses an advanced technology, frequency-hopping, spread-spectrum radio operating in the 2.4 to 2.4835GHz band. The operating band may be narrower in some countries to meet country regulations. Spread spectrum provides excellent resistance to interference from other radio frequency (RF) sources. Availability of this feature in any particular country is dependent on current country radio frequency regulations and certification for use by the country. Operation in the United States does not require a license from the FCC. The Wireless LAN Entry Adapter comes with an integrated antenna. The area of coverage may be extended beyond the coverage provided by the antenna attached to the adapter by adding Wireless LAN Entry Access Point to the network via an unshielded twisted-pair wired backbone. Each adapter or access point generates one cell of coverage area. Networks are designed to create overlapping cells to ensure consistent coverage of the area desired. The Wireless LAN Entry allows transparent seamless movement from cell-to-cell while maintaining a continuous application session. Software Requirements OS/2 2.1, or later (one of the following) * Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) 1.2.1, or later * Communications Manager/2 Version 1.1, or later * LAN Server Versions 3.0 and 4.0 OS/2 LAN Requester Note: IBM LAN Adapter and Protocol Support (LAPS) is required. LAPS comes with a number of network applications. It is also a part of IBM Network Transport Services (NTS/2) and of the Multiprotocol Transport Support (MPTS) feature of the IBM AnyNet/2 product. Novell NetWare Versions 2.1 (client) and 4.0 (client) OS/2 device drivers are scheduled to be available June 30, 1995. IBM or MS-DOS 5.0, or later (one of the following) * Artisoft LANtastic Version 6.0 * Novell NetWare Versions 3.11, or later (client) * Novell Personal NetWare * LAN Server 3.0 DOS LAN Requester * LAN Server 4.0 DOS LAN Services * IBM PC LAN Program PCLP Version 1.34 (client) * IBM LAN Support Program Version 1.38, or later * IBM Personal Communications/3270 Version 3.1, or later * IBM TCP/IP for DOS Version 2.1.1 * Microsoft Windows for WorkGroup 3.11 * Microsoft Windows 3.1 Note: IBM DOS 6.1 supports Card and Socket Services Release 2.1. RPL Support Servers supporting RPL include: * Novell NetWare Versions 3.11, or later * IBM OS/2 LAN Server Version 3, or later Adapter Driver Support: The Wireless LAN Entry provides drivers for the most popular LAN network operating systems, applications, and transport services. The drivers are provided on two 2MB diskettes. OS/2 Adapter Drivers (Card Services Release 2) * Card Services aware Network Device Interface Specification (NDIS) * 2.01 Device Driver * Card Services aware ODI Device Driver DOS Adapter Drivers (Card and Socket Services Release 2 and Socket Services) * Enabler for machines that do not support Card and/or Socket Services * NDIS 2.01 Device Driver * ODI Device Driver Planning Information Cable Orders: A customer location should have a connection to an Ethernet LAN, and line voltage available to each location where an access point is to be installed. Packaging: One box Shipment Group 8227 Model INT * Wireless LAN Access Point * One Wireless LAN Entry PCMCIA adapter * Installation Guide * User's Guide (includes warranty document) * Two diskettes containing device drivers, driver enablers, adapter diagnostics, and bridge software * Mounting and adapter security brackets * Power cord 8227 Model PAT * Wireless LAN Access Point * One Wireless LAN Entry PCMCIA XR adapter * One Hemispherical Gain Antenna * Installation Guide * User's Guide (includes warranty document) * Two diskettes containing device drivers, driver enablers, adapter diagnostics, and bridge software * Mounting and adapter security brackets * Power cord IBM Wireless LAN Entry Credit Card Adapter * One Wireless LAN Entry PCMCIA adapter * One User's Guide (includes warranty document) * Two diskettes containing device drivers, driver enablers, adapter diagnostics, and ring diagnostics * Artisoft LANtastic 6.0 Network Operating System Accessories and/or Supplies: Accessory, spare, or replacement items can be ordered from cabling dealers and distributors that carry products from IBM Complementary Products. Call IBM Direct at 800-IBM-CALL (426-2255). Security, Auditability, and Control User management is responsible for evaluation, selection and implementation of security features, administrative procedures, and appropriate controls in application systems and communications facilities. TERMS AND CONDITIONS This product is available for purchase under the terms of the IBM Customer Agreement (ICA). Warranty Period: * Adapter: Three years * 8227 Access Point: One year Warranty Service: Customer Carry-In Exchange (CCE) Alternative Service: IBM On-Site Exchange (IOR) Maintenance Service: IOR IBM Hourly Service Rate Classification: One IBM Warranty Service, Maintenance Service or IBM Hourly Service can be obtained by calling 800-IBM-SERV (426-7378). IBM Hourly Service is available at the applicable rate and terms, including element exchange price if applicable. Product Availability Status: New product available Field Installable Features: No Model Conversions: No Customer Setup: Yes Licensed Internal Code: Yes National Education Price (NEP): A NEP is available under the terms and conditions of the National Education Price List. CHARGES Machine Feature Part Purchase Description Type/Model Number Number Price Access Point 8227-INT 25H4211 $ 1,350 Access Point 8227-PAT 13H5895 1,425 Adapter 8550-ZZZ 4285 92G7787 445 Adapter (5-user) 8550-ZZZ 4286 38H5089 2,160 Adapter (30-user) 8550-ZZZ 4287 38H5090 12,960 Note: 30-user pack includes six 5-user's licenses for Artisoft LANtastic Alternative and Maintenance Service Charges Part Machine Number Type/Model IOR 25H4211 8227-INT $170 13H5895 8227-PAT 185 ** Company, product, or service name may be a trademark or service mark of others. + Trademark of Microsoft Corporation