Indoor Applications |
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When setting up a wireless network indoors, you have several possible configuration options (network topologies). To introduce you to some of the most common terminology and to demonstrate the versatility of the wireless LAN, the following is a brief introduction to the application possibilities:
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Ad-hoc Network
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The simplest form of wireless LAN is the operation of network cards in “peer-to-peer” mode. Theoretically, any number of terminal devices can communicate and exchange data with each other in this way, without the use of a central access point ("wireless hub").
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The disadvantages of this type of implementation are shorter range, reduced security, and mainly a significant decrease in network performance as the number of devices is increased. |
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Infrastructure Network with Roaming
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An infrastructure environment means that you are extending your existing wired network in order to utilize the mobile capabilities of wireless LAN. Access points (or “wireless hubs") are used to form wireless cells, within which mobile users are free to move around.
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With roaming, you are not restricted to remain within a fixed wireless cell. Using the same procedure employed in mobile telephone technology, users can wander from one cell to another without losing the connection. This process is automatic. A signal processor integrated into each card selects the access point with the highest signal strength at any time, without the user or the network noticing ("seamless roaming").
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Office Workgroup with DSL Access
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In a flexible office workgroup, the access point becomes the communications headquarters. Mobile users and wired workplaces communicate with each other via the access point.
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The DSL port on the access point enables communication with the outside world – protected by a firewall. This enables all users in the LAN to access the Internet.
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LAN in Practice
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Wireless LANs have already been used successfully for several years in a wide variety of applications. The examples listed here demonstrate the variety of implementations and reliability of firstwave products:
Example: Logistics
Mobile data entry has already been used for several years in the area of logistics. Bar code scanners with integrated wireless LAN considerably accelerate the data planning process. Forklift trucks with wireless LAN terminals receive their orders "on the fly", rendering the old paper-based notes system obsolete.
Example: Hospitals
Wireless LAN technology is already an established part of everyday life in many hospitals. In operating theatres, it is advantageous to run wireless computers as cable connections can often be problematic. Wireless LAN is also used for consultants and doctors on hospital rounds.
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Example: Airports
Airports have particularly diverse requirements for wireless LAN. The picture below illustrates how aircraft schedules are downloaded from the archive via notebook and wireless LAN, and provided to the engineers for maintenance work. Further applications of wireless networks include luggage loading procedures in the manoeuvring area, or providing business passengers with Internet access in the business lounge.
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