3Com Network Router 3CRWEASY96A User Manual

User Guide  
Wireless LAN Outdoor Bridge Solution  
3CRWEASY96A  
Complete Building-to-Building Outdoor Wireless LAN Kit  
Published February, 2003  
Document Version 1.2.0  
 
1 Introduction  
Point-to-Point  
7
Point-to-Multipoint  
8
Basic Operating Modes  
9
Connecting the Bridge to the LAN 15  
Using a Power-Over-Ethernet LAN Port 15  
Installing Software Utilities 16  
Establishing Wireless Association 17  
Using the Pre-IP Configuration Wizard 20  
Using the RSSI Monitor 20  
Saving Configuration Changes 21  
Changing System Properties 21  
Setting IP Network Properties 22  
 
Regulatory Compliance Information  
Index  
 
 
1 INTRODUCTION  
The 3Com® Wireless LAN Outdoor Bridge Solution is a comprehensive  
building-to-building outdoor wireless LAN kit that reduces the need to evaluate,  
purchase and assemble separate components. One convenient package includes  
everything you need to offer an easy-to-manage building-to-building wireless  
LAN. The package features a 3Com Wireless LAN Building-to-Building Bridge with  
integrated antenna and power-over-Ethernet cable in a durable,  
weatherproof enclosure.  
This all-in-one wireless LAN solution delivers three to four times the bandwidth of  
T1 links, with significantly lower operational costs. The wireless bridge lets you  
connect cross-campus buildings, or portable or temporary classrooms, at  
distances up to 16 kilometers (10 miles), where local regulations allow. The  
building-to-building bridge interoperates seamlessly with other Wi-Fi certified  
access points in large multi-vendor environments.  
BASIC NETWORK TOPOLOGIES  
The 3Com bridge can be used in two types of wireless network topologies:  
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Point-to-point  
Point-to-multipoint  
POINT-TO-POINT  
Point-to-point topology is the simplest way to use the 3Com bridge, and it offers  
the highest performance level. Two 3Com outdoor bridges form a direct wireless  
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association between the wired LANs in two remote buildings. See the following  
diagram of the point-to-point topology.  
POINT-TO-MULTIPOINT  
Point-to-multipoint topology allows communication among three or more  
buildings. In the central building, an access point equipped with an  
omnidirectional antenna provides wireless association among the wired LANs in  
the other buildings where 3Com outdoor bridges are installed.  
If a 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Access Point 8000 is used (with an 8dBi  
omnidirectional antenna) this topology can connect wired LANs over distances up  
to 10 kilometers (6 miles). If an access point from another Wi-Fi compliant  
manufacturer is used, the range depends on that manufacturers device  
limitations.  
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BASIC OPERATING MODES  
Two operating modes relate to the basic WLAN topologies:  
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Ad hoc mode is the basis for point-to-point topology. Operating in ad hoc  
mode, two outdoor bridges can associate without an access point, allowing  
the LANs to which they are connected to communicate.  
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Access Point (Infrastructure) mode is the basis for point-to-multipoint  
topology. Operating in access point mode, multiple 3Com outdoor bridges act  
as clients to an Access Point 8000 or a Wi-Fi compliant access point from  
another manufacturer.  
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2 INSTALLING THE OUTDOOR BRIDGE  
codes, regulatory restrictions, and FCC rules. For the safety of people and  
equipment, only professional network personnel should install the bridge, cables,  
and antennas.  
CAUTION: Before installing, see the important warnings and cautions in “Safety  
Information” on page 13.  
INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS  
The following items are required for installation:  
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For a point-to point configuration, two 3Com outdoor bridges.  
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For a point-to-multipoint configuration, one 3Com 11Mbps Wireless LAN  
Access Point 8000 (or other Wi-Fi compliant access point) with an  
omnidirectional antenna for one building, and one 3Com outdoor bridge for  
each other building.  
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Mounting hardware (supplied with each bridge).  
Properly grounded outdoor mast or wall mount.  
Lightning arrestor properly grounded at each building in the topology.  
Outdoor rated category 5 Ethernet cable (3Com part number  
3CWE487 recommended).  
POWER REQUIREMENTS  
The bridge complies with the IEEE 802.3af power-over-Ethernet standard. It  
receives power over outdoor rated Ethernet cable (3Com part number 3CWE487  
recommended). Installation requires the use of either the 3Com power supply  
provided or IEEE 802.3af compliant power supply equipment (output power rated  
48 V dc @ 200 mA minimum). Such equipment must be safety certified according  
to UL, CSA, IEC or other applicable national or international safety requirements  
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for the country of use. All references to the power supply in this document refer  
to equipment that meets these requirements.  
Because the power supply plug is the only means of disconnecting the bridge  
from power, make sure the power outlet is accessible.  
See “Using the Power Supply” on page 15 and “Using a Power-Over-Ethernet  
LAN Port” on page 15.  
Note for use of the 3Com power supply (part number 61-0107-000) in Norway:  
This product is also designed for use on an IT power system with phase-to-phase  
voltage of 230 V.  
ADMINISTRATION REQUIREMENTS  
To use the administration tool, which helps you select 3Com wireless LAN devices  
and launch their configuration management systems, you need a computer  
running one of the following operating systems and one of the  
following browsers:  
Operating Systems Windows XP  
Windows 2000  
Windows NT 4.0  
Windows Me  
Windows 98  
Browsers  
Netscape 6.0 or later  
Internet Explorer 5.0 or later  
INSTALLATION GUIDELINES  
The 3Com outdoor bridge is housed in a durable, waterproof enclosure and is  
specifically designed for outdoor use in most climates. Optimal performance can  
be maintained at outdoor temperature ranges from -20˚ C to 50˚C (-4˚F to 122˚F).  
It is extremely important to avoid mounting the bridge in any area where it could  
be vulnerable to extreme or hazardous conditions of any kind. Nor should the unit  
be mounted flush with the roof of a building.  
PROPER GROUNDING  
To ensure the physical safety of anyone near the bridge and to prevent damage to  
the unit, follow the building codes for antenna installations in your area. Make  
certain that bridges and masts are appropriately grounded to prevent injury and  
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minimize damage from lightning strikes. A lightning arrestor, properly grounded  
and installed at each building in the topology, will protect networking equipment  
in the building, as well as the people working there, from lightning-induced  
surges that travel on Ethernet cables.  
ALIGNMENT  
Position bridges so that they are aimed at each other wherever possible. While  
maintaining a direct line of sight between antennas helps to ensure a strong  
signal, it is not strictly necessary, nor is it always possible. Conditions such as long  
distances, mountainous regions, and architectural barriers could make a direct  
line of sight nearly impossible to achieve.  
In a campus setting, where buildings are short distances apart, and especially in a  
point-to-point configuration, align each unit to point at the antenna with which it  
will communicate. If you place two units at different heights, tilt them up or  
down toward each other for optimal signal strength.  
POLARIZATION  
Polarization is a physical phenomenon of radio signal propagation. In general, any  
two antennas that are to communicate with each other must be set for the same  
horizontal or vertical polarization. If polarization on both antennas does not  
match—a situation called cross-polarization—the link will either work poorly or  
not at all. Follow these polarization guidelines:  
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Vertical polarization is preferred for point-to-multipoint configuration.  
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For point-to-multipoint configurations, the omnidirectional antenna  
connected to the access point should be vertically aligned in relation to  
the ground.  
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Unidirectional antennas that link with omnidirectional antennas should always  
be oriented for vertical polarization.  
RESTRICTIONS ON ANTENNA USE  
The following restrictions apply to the use of the bridges 18 dBi antenna:  
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FCC regulations require that in the United States, use of channels 12 and 13 in  
conjunction with an 18 dBi antenna is allowed only at very reduced power,  
which the 3Com unit sets automatically.  
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The highest allowable power level is set automatically when the country  
selection is made from the pulldown menu in the configuration tool.  
To work properly with 18 dBi antennas, bridges must be separated by at least  
61 Meters (200 Feet).  
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SAFETY INFORMATION  
WARNING: Do not install the bridge near overhead power lines, electric light or  
power circuits, or where it can come into contact with such circuits. Provide ten  
feet or more clearance between the bridge and such power lines or circuits. Do  
not install the bridge flush with the rooftop or wall. When installing the bridge, do  
not come into contact with such circuits, which can cause serious injury or death.  
Follow local and national codes for proper installation and grounding of antennas.  
WARNING: To comply with FCC radio frequency (RF) exposure limits, antennas  
should be located at least two meters (six feet) or more from the bodies of  
all persons.  
WARNING: Do not install the bridge or connect and disconnect cables during  
periods of lightning activity.  
WARNING: To avoid possible injury or damage to equipment, you must use either  
the provided power supply or IEEE 802.3af compliant power supply equipment  
that is safety certified according to UL, CSA, IEC, or other applicable national or  
international safety requirements for the country of use. All references to power  
supply in this document refer to equipment meeting these requirements.  
WARNING: It is the responsibility of the installer to ensure that the  
Power-over-Ethernet (POE) power supply is properly connected. Connection to any  
other device, such as a standard Ethernet card or another POE supply, may result  
in permanent damage to equipment, electric shock, or fire. Refer to the  
installation instructions for proper installation.  
WARNING: The 3Com power supply (part number 61-0107-000) input relies on a  
16A rated building fuse or circuit protector for short circuit protection of the line  
to neutral conductors.  
CAUTION: A lightning arrestor will not prevent damage from direct lightning  
strikes. It is extremely important to ensure that the bridge is installed at least 1  
meter (3 feet) below the top of the grounded pole or mast.  
CAUTION: If you supply your own Ethernet cable for connecting power, be sure  
that it is outdoor rated category 5 straight-through (8-wire) cable that has not  
been altered in any way (3Com part number 3CWE487 recommended). Use of  
nonstandard cable could damage the bridge.  
CAUTION: Minimize damage from direct lightning strikes by mounting the bridge  
at least 1 Meter (3 feet) below the top of the mast.  
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MOUNTING THE BRIDGE TO A MAST  
The bridge can be placed in any suitable outdoor location (see “Installation  
Guidelines” on page 11). Refer to the adjustable mount instruction sheet that  
comes with the bridge mounting hardware, and the illustrations below:  
Make sure that all bridges  
are properly oriented for  
polarization as described  
in “Polarization” on  
page 12. Use the  
polarization indicators on  
the antenna panel to  
guide orientation. VERT  
POL indicates vertical  
polarization and HORIZ  
POL indicates horizontal  
polarization.  
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CONNECTING THE BRIDGE TO THE LAN  
You can connect to the LAN either through the 3Com power supply or through  
IEEE 802.3af power-over-Ethernet compliant equipment.  
USING THE POWER SUPPLY  
The power supply can be located indoors at any point between the bridge and  
the LAN access port where an accessible power outlet exists.  
Connect the cable coming from the bridge to the port labeled To Access Point on  
the power supply.  
Connect another Ethernet cable from the port labeled To Hub/Switch on the  
power supply to an Ethernet LAN port, as shown.  
CAUTION: To avoid damaging network equipment, make sure that the cables  
are connected from bridge to power supply to LAN as shown and  
described above.  
USING A POWER-OVER-ETHERNET LAN PORT  
If your LAN equipment complies with the IEEE 802.3af power-over-Ethernet  
standard, you can connect the bridge directly to a LAN port. For example, the  
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illustration shows the connection through a 3Com Ethernet Power Supply to a  
3Com SuperStack® Switch.  
INSTALLING SOFTWARE UTILITIES  
The 3Com installation CD includes the Wireless Infrastructure Device Manager  
tool, which helps you set up and administer the wireless components of your  
network. It also contains documentation, including the help files for device  
configuration screens.  
To install the tool and documentation from the CD:  
1
2
Power up the computer and insert the 3Com CD in the CD-ROM drive.  
The setup menu should appear when the CD autostarts. If no menu appears,  
you can run the startup program from the Windows Start menu:  
Start/Run/d:setup.exe (where d: is the CD-ROM drive)  
3
4
From the menu, select Install the Tools and Documentation. This option  
installls the 3Com Wireless Infrastructure Device Manager (WIDMAN) Tool,  
which you can use to monitor bridges and select devices for administrative  
changes. It also installs the User Guide in HTML and PDF formats.  
Follow the instructions on the screen.  
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ESTABLISHING WIRELESS ASSOCIATION  
After the bridge and software utilities are installed, you can configure the bridge  
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Bridge” on page 18 for details on how to launch the configuration and  
make changes.)  
Hoc Network” on page 28 and “Optimizing an Ad Hoc Installation” on  
page 29.  
For a point-to-multipoint association between an access point and one or  
more bridges, see “Setting up an Access Point Infrastructure Network” on  
page 30.  
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3 CONFIGURING THE  
BUILDING-TO-BUILDING BRIDGE  
If the configuration that was set at the factory does not meet your network  
requirements, or if you want to customize the settings, you can configure the  
bridge through your Web browser.  
The 3Com Wireless Infrastructure Device Manager helps you locate 3Com  
wireless LAN devices on the network, select a device and view its properties, and  
launch the devices configuration in your Web browser. To configure a bridge, the  
device manager must be installed on a computer that has an Ethernet adapter  
and is running a supported Windows operating system and Web browser.  
USING THE 3COM WIRELESS DEVICE MANAGER  
After the 3Com Wireless Device Manager is installed, ensure that the device to be  
configured is either wired to the network, associating with the wireless network,  
or connected directly to the computer, and connected to power. If more than one  
device using the factory default name is connected, make a note of the MAC  
address of the device you want to select so that you can identify it in the  
device manager.  
LAUNCHING A WIRELESS DEVICE CONFIGURATION  
If you do not have a DHCP server on your network, it can take up to one minute  
for a device to become discoverable after it has been powered up.  
1
To launch the 3Com Device Manager, select Start /Programs /3Com  
Wireless/Wireless Infrastructure Device Manager.  
If you have more than one network adapter installed on your computer, you  
may be prompted to choose a network adapter. Choose the appropriate  
adapter and click OK.  
The Wireless Network Tree appears in the 3Com Wireless Infrastructure  
Device Manager window. The tree lists all WLAN service areas on the network  
and expands to show the 3Com wireless LAN devices that are associated to  
each service area. Devices in a different subnet than your computer are  
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identified with exclamation points (!). You can refresh this display by clicking  
Refresh. You should refresh the display, for example, after you change a  
device IP address.  
2
3
In the Wireless Network Tree, select the device you want to configure.  
If more than one wireless LAN device appears in the tree and you are not sure  
that you have selected the right one, click Properties and check the MAC  
address to verify that it is the one you want.  
Click Configure.  
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If the selected device is on the same subnet as your computer, the  
Configuration Management System main page appears in your Web  
browser. (If a password is set on the device, enter it when prompted.)  
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If the selected device is on a different subnet, the Pre-IP Configuration  
Wizard is activated automatically. This wizard lets you configure the IP  
settings for the selected wireless device. It proposes IP address and subnet  
mask settings derived from your computers settings, so the selected device  
will then reside on the same subnet as your computer. You can accept the  
suggested settings or change them as required. For more information, see  
“Using the Pre-IP Configuration Wizard” on page 20.  
The next window prompts for an administrative password to allow the new IP  
address to be set. When the units are shipped from the factory, there is no  
administration password and you should leave the password field blank. If an  
administration password has been set for the device, enter the password and  
click Next. The 3Com Web Configuration Management System main screen  
appears in your Web browser.  
The following table describes the functions of the buttons in the 3Com Wireless  
Infrastructure Device Manager window.  
Button  
Description  
Properties  
Displays the following properties of the selected device: Device Name,  
Device Type, Wireless LAN Service Area (ESSID), IP Address, Subnet Mask,  
and MAC Address.  
Configure  
Refresh  
Launches the Configuration Management System for the selected device. If  
the selected device is on a different subnet, you are prompted to assign an  
address on the same subnet as your computer.  
Scans the network and displays the connected 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless  
LAN devices.  
Choose NIC If your computer has more than one network interface card installed,  
allows you to choose which card you want to use.  
Close  
Help  
Closes the device manager window and ends the session.  
Launches the device manager help page in your browser.  
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USING THE PRE-IP CONFIGURATION WIZARD  
You can only configure devices that are on the same subnet as your computer. To  
configure a device on a different subnet, you must first assign it an IP address on  
the same subnet as your computer. After you launch the configuration, you can  
change settings as usual. Just before you finish, you must change the device IP  
address back to its original setting.  
Follow this procedure:  
1
In the Wireless Infrastructure Device Pre-IP Configuration window, accept the  
suggested settings or change them as required. You can assign a static IP  
address or specify that the device obtain its IP address from a DHCP server.  
2
The next window prompts for an administrative password. When the units  
are shipped from the factory, there is no administration password and you  
should leave the password field blank. If an administration password has  
been set for the device, enter the password and click Next.  
The Configuration Management System main page appears in your  
Web browser.  
USING THE RSSI MONITOR  
The device manager can display a dynamic graphical representation of a devices  
received signal strength indication (RSSI). By monitoring the RSSI while making  
antenna adjustments, you can ensure optimal device placement and orientation.  
To monitor signal strength, the devices must be set to the same BSSID and RSSI  
broadcasting must be enabled.  
The following procedure uses the device manager RSSI Monitor to monitor the  
signal strength of two 3Com bridges:  
1
In the device manager window, launch the first bridge configuration and  
configure for ad hoc mode.  
Enable RSSI broadcasting as follows:  
a In the main menu under System Configuration, click Wireless Network.  
b In the Wireless Network page, click the link to go to advanced wireless  
network configuration.  
c In the Advanced Wireless Network page, click the Broadcast RSSI On radio  
button, and click Save.  
d Note the device BSSID.  
In the main configuration menu under System Status, click  
Connection Status. The status window shows the BSSID.  
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2
Return to the device manager and repeat step 1 for the second bridge. Make  
sure that both bridges are using the same BSSID.  
If the bridges are not using the same BSSID, specify the BSSID on both bridges  
as follows:  
a In the Wireless Network page, select the following Network Mode: Ad-hoc  
(Peer-to-Peer) Specify.  
b Enter the BSSID in the spaces provided.  
c Click Save.  
3
4
After you have enabled RSSI broadcasting on both bridges and verified that  
they are using the same BSSID, return to the device manager, select the first  
bridge, and click Properties.  
In the device properties window, click RSSI Monitor.  
The RSSI Monitor window shows a graphical representation of bridge signal  
strength. A value of 30 indicates good strength; a value of 40 or above is very  
good. By adjusting the antenna position and orientation, you can improve the  
signal strength.  
SAVING CONFIGURATION CHANGES  
Most pages in the configuration have two buttons: Save and Clear. After making  
changes on a page, you must click Save to store the modifications before moving  
to a new page. If you make a mistake, click Clear before saving to restore the original  
page settings.  
To reduce the possibility of losing wireless association with an access point while  
you are configuring, security settings are stored when you click Save in the  
security pages, but they do not take effect until you click Save in the Wireless  
Network page. First configure security settings. Then go to the Wireless  
Network page and configure wireless network settings, including the Wireless  
LAN Service Area. The security settings take effect after you click Save in the  
Wireless Network page.  
CHANGING SYSTEM PROPERTIES  
Under System Configuration, click System Properties. The System Properties page  
displays the properties of the selected device. You can modify properties by  
entering values in the fields and clicking the radio buttons. When you are  
finished, click Save. The following table describes the properties and default  
values.  
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Property  
Description  
Default Value  
Device Name  
This name appears in the System Summary window. You 3Com Bldg-to-Bldg Bridge  
can change the default name to one of your choice.  
Device Location  
Optionally, you can enter a location to identify where the None  
device is installed. (For example, Building 4, Cubicle 3.)  
Help File Location  
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Web Server: Help files are located on the network at  
the specified Help File Path.  
Local Drive  
Local Drive: Help files are located on the local  
computer at the specified Help File Path.  
Help File Path  
The location of the Configuration Management System  
help files on the web server or on the local drive.  
C:/Program  
Files/3Com/3Com Wireless  
Infrastructure Device  
Manager/ManagementHelp/  
B2B  
If you want to have access to help when you click the ? in  
the configuration pages, you must install the help from  
the 3Com CD. By default, help is installed on the local  
drive when you install the administration tool. If you  
install the help in a different location on the local drive or  
on a web server, you must set the Help File Path to the  
correct location.  
Secure Web Server Controls whether Secure Socket Layer (SSL) technology is Off  
Connection  
used to encrypt information between the computer and  
the bridge during a configuration session. When this  
option is turned on, data is protected during the  
configuration session. When it is turned off, data could  
be intercepted during the configuration session.  
Changing this option causes the bridge to reset, which  
disrupts the network association temporarily, but does  
not affect bridge configuration settings that have already  
been saved. To ensure that changes to security settings  
are retained, either change this option before changing  
security settings, or click Save in the Wireless Network  
page after changing security settings and before  
changing this option.  
SETTING IP NETWORK PROPERTIES  
Under System Configuration, click IP Network. The IP Network Properties page  
appears, where you can change the following settings. When you are finished,  
click Save.  
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IP Network Setting—This setting allows you to change the device IP address.  
To let the device get an IP address automatically from a DHCP server, click  
Obtain an IP address automatically.  
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To specify an IP address, click Specify an IP address, enter the IP address  
parameters in the spaces provided.  
After you change the IP address and click Save, you cannot continue to  
configure the device using the old IP address. To continue configuring this  
device after making this change, you must do the following:  
a Close your browser.  
b Return to the 3Com Wireless Infrastructure Device Manager and  
click Refresh.  
c Select the device and click Configure to start a new configuration session.  
IP Address, Subnet Mask, Gateway IP Address—Parameters for use when  
you click Specify an IP address. Enter the parameters in the spaces provided.  
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SETTING UP PROTOCOL AND PORT FILTERING  
Protocol filtering allows you to control the types of protocols that the bridge is  
authorized to transmit and receive. The default setting allows the following  
protocols to be transmitted and received:  
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IPX  
NetBEUI  
UDP/IP  
TCP/IP  
To set up a list of authorized protocols:  
1
2
Under System Configuration, click Protocol Filtering.  
In the Protocol Filtering page, click the Allow radio buttons next to the  
protocols that you want to authorize. Click the Block radio buttons next to  
the protocols that you want to disable.  
3
Click Save.  
If UDP/IP or TCP/IP protocols are authorized, you can set up port filtering, which  
allows you to control the protocol ports that are authorized to transport packets  
through the bridge. The default setting allows all protocol ports to  
transport packets.  
The bridge allows you to filter up to 100 protocol port numbers. Valid protocol  
port numbers range from 1 to 65535.  
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To set up protocol port filtering:  
1
2
Under System Configuration, click Protocol Filtering.  
In the Protocol Filtering page, click the Allow radio button next to the UDP/IP  
or TCP/IP protocol (or click both buttons).  
3
Select the Port Filtering Mode:  
Allow—If you want to block most protocol ports and allow a small number  
of others, use the Allow mode. Click the Allow radio button.  
Block—If you want to allow most protocol ports and block a small number of  
others, use the Block mode. Click the Block radio button.  
4
Enter a protocol port number in the space provided and click Save.  
Repeat this step for all the protocol port numbers you want to allow or block.  
To view the list of protocol ports or delete protocol ports from the list:  
1
2
Click the link to view the protocol port list.  
In the next page, click the check boxes next to the protocol port numbers and  
click Delete. (You may click Reset to clear all check boxes before  
clicking Delete.)  
SETTING WIRELESS NETWORK PROPERTIES  
Under System Configuration, click Wireless Network Properties. The Wireless  
Network Properties page appears, where you can configure the items listed below  
and get access to advanced performance settings. When you are finished,  
click Save.  
Saving wireless network properties also causes security settings to take effect.  
After making changes to security settings, you must click Save in the Wireless  
Network Properties page to activate the security settings.  
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Network Mode—Click Access Point (Infrastructure) to associate with an  
access point. Click Ad-hoc (Peer-to-Peer) to associate in ad hoc mode. Click  
Ad-hoc (Peer-to-Peer) Specify if you want to specify the bridges basic service  
set identification (BSSID).  
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BSSID—When the network mode is Ad-hoc (Peer-to-Peer) Specify, you can  
specify the BSSID. Enter the BSSID in the spaces provided.  
Wireless LAN Service Area—This is the device ESSID. The default WLAN  
service area name is 3Com. You can use the default, enter a WLAN service  
area, or select one from the list  
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To maintain wireless association, the WLAN service area on a bridge and the  
device with which it is associated must match exactly. Therefore, if the bridge  
is set to specify the WLAN service area and you change the other devices  
WLAN service area, make sure to change the bridge WLAN service area also.  
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Access Point Privacy Mode—This mode only applies when the network  
mode is Access Point (Infrastructure) and should only be used when access  
points are set with privacy enabled. (On 3Com access points, privacy is  
enabled when the Broadcast WLAN Service Area Name (ESSID) mode is  
disabled.) Click On to associate with access points set with privacy mode  
enabled. Click Off to associate with access points set with privacy mode  
disabled. When privacy mode is on, you must specify a Wireless LAN Service  
Area, which must match the access point service area exactly.  
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Channel Selection—When the network mode is Access Point (Infrastructure),  
this option is set to Automatically select the best channel, and cannot be  
changed. In this case, the bridge uses the channel that the access point  
is using.  
FCC regulations require that in the United States, use of channels 12 and 13 in  
conjunction with an 18 dBi antenna is allowed only at very reduced power,  
which the 3Com bridge sets automatically.  
When the network mode is Ad-hoc (Peer-to-Peer) you can specify channel  
selection as follows:  
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Automatically select the best channel—When this option is enabled,  
the bridge scans the primary channels. If the bridge is establishing a new  
ad hoc network, it chooses the channel with the least number of packets.  
If the bridge is joining an existing ad hoc network, it selects the channel  
in use.  
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Specify the channel to useTo establish the channel for an ad hoc  
network, select this option on the first bridge and choose a channel from  
the Channel list. On the second bridge, set the channel selection to match  
the first bridge.  
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Country Selection (Outdoor Bridge only)—Select the country from the  
pull-down list. The highest allowable power level is automatically set.  
Antenna Selection (Indoor Bridge only)—When you select a valid country,  
antenna, and cable combination, the highest allowable power level is set  
automatically.  
Select the country from the pull-down list.  
Click the radio buttons next to the antenna and cable being used.  
Antenna model 3CWE496 (18 dBi) is not available in some countries. In the  
United States, use of channels 12 and 13 in conjunction with model  
3CWE496 is not allowed. The following table summarizes these and other  
25  
 
         
restrictions. Y indicates the power level that is set automatically; N indicates  
that a combination is not allowed.  
Antenna:  
18 dBi  
Power (dBm): Power (dBm): Power (dBm): Power (dBm):  
Length 18 13 18 13 18 13 18 13  
4dBi  
8 dBi  
13 dBi  
Cable  
Country  
7
7
7
7
6
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Argentina, Brazil, Canada,  
Colombia, India,  
Malaysia, Mexico, New  
Zealand, Peru, Taiwan  
20  
50  
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y*  
Y*  
Y*  
N
United States  
6
Y
Y
Y
N
N
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
N
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
N
Y
20  
50  
6
All Other Countries  
(except China)†  
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
N
Y
Y
N
N
N
N
N
N
20  
50  
N
N
* Channels 12 and 13 not allowed when using 18 dBi antenna in the United States.  
† Countries where transmit power is limited to 100 mW (20 dBm). In China, transmit power is limited to less than 10 mW.  
SETTING ADVANCED PERFORMANCE PROPERTIES  
Under System Configuration, click Wireless Network. On the Wireless Network  
Properties page, click the link to go to advanced wireless network configuration.  
The Advanced Wireless Network page appears, where you can change the  
settings listed below. When you are finished, click Save.  
I
Network Traffic AcceleratorTo increase performance, click On (Enhanced  
performance). If you experience problems when equipment other than 3Com  
11 Mbps Wireless LAN equipment is being used, click Off (Wi-Fi  
Interoperable).  
I
I
Data PreambleTo increase performance, click Short (Enhanced  
performance). When equipment that does not support short preamble is also  
being used, click Long (Wi-Fi Interoperable).  
Flow Control—When there is a great deal of traffic on the wireless LAN, flow  
control can prevent bridge input buffers from overflowing, thereby increasing  
WLAN reliability. The bridge supports IEEE 802.3x asymmetric outgoing flow  
control, allowing it to pause the transmission of data frames from a switch or  
router that is operating in full-duplex mode and supports 10/100  
26  
 
         
auto-negotiation. To enable flow control, click On. To disable flow control,  
click Off.  
I
Acknowledgement Delay—This setting determines the length of time the  
bridge waits for an acknowledgement after transmitting packets. When the  
delay time has passed, the bridge resends the packets. A longer  
acknowledgement delay allows the bridge to associate with another wireless  
device over a greater distance. Set the delay to match the distance between  
the bridge and the wireless device with which it is associated. Click the radio  
button next to the appropriate distance range.  
I
Client Limit—Allows you to specify the maximum number of clients that the  
bridge allows to associate at the same time (from 1 to 1024). The default is  
256 clients. In Access Point (Infrastructure) mode, set the Client Limit to match  
the number of clients that the access point can support.  
To ensure network reliability, follow these guidelines for configuring the  
access point:  
I
Make sure that the access point can support more than the number of  
clients that you expect to use the wireless LAN.  
I
The client list timeout setting should be as short as possible, but no less  
than five minutes.  
I
Data Rates—These settings configure the data rates used for wireless  
transmissions. By default, the bridge selects the best data rate for the  
current connection.  
You may not alter the settings for the 1Mbps and 2Mbps rates because these  
rates must always be available to transmit certain types of wireless traffic.  
The 5.5 Mbps and 11 Mbps data rates may either be Required or Optional.  
When the data rate is set to Optional, the bridge determines if it is  
appropriate to use that data rate or if the signal strength requires the use of a  
lower data rate. If the data rate is set to Required, the bridge cannot  
modulate to a lower data rate, and may lose connection with clients that  
cannot support the higher data rate.  
I
Broadcast RSSI—This setting determines whether the devices received signal  
strength indication (RSSI) is broadcast. When RSSI broadcasting is enabled, you  
can use the device manager or the Connection Status page to monitor the  
signal strength. To enable RSSI broadcasting, click On. To disable RSSI  
broadcasting, click Off.  
27  
 
       
SETTING UP AN AD HOC NETWORK  
Operating in ad hoc mode, two bridges can establish a point-to-point association  
without an access point, allowing two LANs to communicate.  
To ensure correct operation, the settings on the two bridges must match exactly.  
To avoid the possibility of losing wireless association while you are configuring, it  
is recommended that you configure with a computer that is wired to the LAN.  
To ensure a successful association, install and configure the bridges sequentially.  
1
2
Install the first bridge.  
bridge and launch its configuration management system.  
3
Configure security settings.  
shared key security as described in “40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi)” on page 32 or  
“128-bit Shared Key” on page 33. (The 128-bit Dynamic Security Link option  
is not available in ad hoc mode.)  
4
5
Under System Configuration, click Wireless Network.  
(Wireless Network properties are described in “Setting Wireless Network  
Properties” on page 24.)  
In the Wireless Network page:  
a In the Network Mode field, click Ad-hoc (Peer-to-Peer).  
b Specify the Wireless LAN Service Area.  
c Specify the Channel Selection.  
To avoid the possibility of interference from other nearby wireless devices,  
d Click Save to save the wireless network settings and activate the  
security settings.  
e Click the link to go to advanced wireless network configuration.  
6
In the Advanced Wireless Network page, set options as described in “Setting  
Advanced Performance Properties” on page 26.  
7
8
9
When you are finished, click Save.  
End the browser session.  
Install the second bridge and repeat the procedure. Make sure to configure  
settings to match the first bridge exactly. When you are finished, click Save  
and end the browser session.  
28  
 
     
OPTIMIZING AN AD HOC INSTALLATION  
You can optimize an ad hoc installation by adjusting antenna positions slightly to  
improve the radio signal between bridges. The following tools help you to  
optimize the installation:  
I
I
I
The device manager can display a dynamic graphical representation of the  
bridges received signal strength indication (RSSI). By monitoring the RSSI while  
making antenna adjustments, you can ensure optimal placement.  
The configuration Connection Status page displays the bridges basic service  
set identification (BSSID) and a static RSSI value that you can refresh as  
needed.  
The configuration Wireless Network page allows you to specify a BSSID,  
if necessary.  
To monitor signal strength, the bridges must be set to the same BSSID and RSSI  
broadcasting must be enabled. In the factory default configuration, the BSSID is  
generated automatically and RSSI broadcasting is disabled.  
To use the device manager RSSI Monitor:  
1
2
3
Install the Wireless Infrastructure Device Manager (version 1.2.0.9 or later)  
from the 3Com installation CD.  
Launch the device manager (Start /Programs /3Com Wireless/Wireless  
Infrastructure Device Manager).  
In the device manager window, launch the first bridge configuration and  
configure for ad hoc mode.  
Enable RSSI broadcasting as follows:  
a In the main menu under System Configuration, click Wireless Network.  
b In the Wireless Network page, click the link to go to advanced wireless  
network configuration.  
c In the Advanced Wireless Network page, click the Broadcast RSSI On radio  
button, and click Save.  
d Note the bridge BSSID.  
In the main configuration menu under System Status, click  
Connection Status. The status window shows the BSSID.  
4
Return to the device manager and repeat step 3 for the second bridge. Make  
sure that both bridges are using the same BSSID.  
If the bridges are not using the same BSSID, specify the BSSID on both bridges  
as follows:  
a In the Wireless Network page, select the following Network Mode: Ad-hoc  
(Peer-to-Peer) Specify.  
29  
 
   
b Enter the BSSID in the spaces provided.  
c Click Save.  
5
6
After you have enabled RSSI broadcasting on both bridges and verified that  
they are using the same BSSID, return to the device manager, select the first  
bridge, and click Properties.  
In the device properties window, click RSSI Monitor.  
The RSSI Monitor window shows a graphical representation of bridge signal  
strength. A value of 30 indicates good strength; a value of 40 or above is very  
good. By adjusting the antenna position, you can improve the signal strength.  
You can also monitor signal strength through a status page in the configuration  
as follows:  
1
2
Launch the bridge configuration.  
In the main configuration menu under System Status, click  
Connection Status.  
3
The status window shows the RSSI value. Click Refresh to update the value  
each time you adjust the antenna position.  
SETTING UP AN ACCESS POINT INFRASTRUCTURE NETWORK  
Operating in Access Point (Infrastructure) mode, one or more bridges can  
establish a point-to-multipoint association with an access point, allowing the  
LANs to which they are connected to communicate.  
Configure the access point before configuring the bridges.  
1
Use an omnidirectional antenna atop the central building. Attach the antenna  
to an access point inside the building. Install 3Com outdoor bridges or indoor  
bridges with sector-panel directional antennas for the other buildings.  
If a 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN Access Point 8000 is used (with an 8 dBi  
omnidirectional antenna), wired LANs can be connected over distances of up  
to 10 kilometers (6 miles).  
2
3
Use the 3Com Wireless Infrastructure Device Manager to select the first  
bridge and launch its configuration management system.  
Configure security settings. The bridge security settings must match those on  
the access point.  
Security settings default to No Security (Open System). Optionally, you can set  
up the following types of security:  
30  
 
       
Shared key —See “40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi)” on page 32 or “128-bit  
Shared Key” on page 33.  
Password—If you are using a 3Com Access Point 8000, you can set up  
password security as described in “128-bit Dynamic Security Link” on  
page 33.  
4
5
Under System Configuration, click Wireless Network.  
In the Wireless Network page:  
a In the Network Mode field, click Access Point (Infrastructure).  
b Specify the Wireless LAN Service Area as described in “Setting Wireless  
Network Properties” on page 24.  
security settings.  
d Click the link to go to advanced wireless network configuration.  
In the Advanced Wireless Network page, set the Client Limit option to match  
the number of clients that the access point can support. (See Client Limit  
under “Setting Advanced Performance Properties” on page 26.) To ensure  
network reliability, follow these guidelines for configuring the access point:  
Make sure that the access point can support more than the number of clients  
that you expect to use the wireless LAN.  
The client list timeout setting should be as short as possible, but no less than  
five minutes.  
6
7
8
When you are finished, click Save.  
End the browser session.  
Repeat the procedure with the other bridges. Make sure you configure bridge  
settings to match exactly. When you are finished, click Save and end the  
browser session.  
CHANGING SECURITY SETTINGS  
After saving security settings, you must go to the Wireless Network Properties  
page and click Save to activate the security settings.  
Under System Configuration, click Security Settings. The Security Settings page  
appears, where you can select the type of security to be used on the bridge. The  
bridge can be configured to support one type of security at a time. You can  
change the settings by clicking the radio buttons and entering values in the fields.  
31  
 
   
When you are finished, click Save. Then go to the Wireless Network Properties  
page, set the Wireless LAN Service Area, and click Save. Security settings take  
effect only after you click Save in the Wireless Network Properties page.  
Although the bridge is allowed to associate with an access point set for a  
different level of encryption, data authentication is not allowed. Therefore, data  
cannot pass between the bridge and the access point unless their security settings  
match exactly.  
The following sections describe the security settings. To maintain wireless  
association, the settings on clients and the access points they associate with (or  
other members of an ad hoc network) must match exactly.  
If you are configuring through a wireless association (not on the wired LAN), be  
sure to configure security settings before changing the WLAN service area. If you  
change the WLAN service area first, the bridge will lose association with one  
access point before it is configured to associate with another.  
NO SECURITY (OPEN SYSTEM)  
No encryption is used. The network communications could be intercepted by  
unintended recipients.  
40-BIT SHARED KEY (WI-FI)  
This option encrypts the wireless transmissions to protect data, but still allows  
communication among compatible wireless LAN clients and access points from  
third-party manufacturers that are Wi-Fi certified.  
This type of security requires you to set up encryption in one of the following  
ways:  
I
String—For use only with other 3Com 11 Mbps wireless LAN devices, an  
encryption string is a case-sensitive string of characters between 6 and 30  
characters long. To enter the string, click Enter a string to generate shared  
keys. Then type any combination of letters and numbers in the space provided  
and click Save.  
I
Shared keys—Hexadecimal keys are sequences of hexadecimal digits  
arranged into four keys. A hexadecimal digit may be a letter from A to F or a  
number from 0 to 9. This type of encryption is compatible with equipment  
from other manufacturers that use Wi-Fi certified 40-bit encryption. To enter  
the keys, click Specify shared keys and which key to use. Then click the link to  
specify and select the shared keys. In the shared keys window, enter all the  
32  
 
                 
keys in the provided spaces, then click a radio button in the Selected Key  
column to specify which key to use and click Save.  
128-BIT SHARED KEY  
This option can be used with other 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN devices and  
with equipment from certain manufacturers that also support 128-bit shared key  
encryption. It provides a higher level of security than the 40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi)  
option and uses a more complicated type of encryption. This type of security  
requires you to set up encryption using a string or shared keys as described above  
in “40-bit Shared Key (Wi-Fi)” on page 32.  
128-BIT DYNAMIC SECURITY LINK  
This option can only be used with other 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN devices  
when the bridge is set to the Access Point (Infrastructure) network mode. It is the  
wireless LAN. The user name and password set up on the bridge must match  
those set up on the access point. Each network session creates a unique,  
one-time encryption code.  
If you choose this type of security, you must also set up a login as described in  
“Setting up the Wireless Network Login” on page 33.  
SETTING UP THE WIRELESS NETWORK LOGIN  
Make sure the access point does not require Windows user authentication. The bridge  
cannot associate with access points that are set to Require Windows user  
authentication, which requires clients to enter a user name and password every  
time they associate with the network.  
If you configure a bridge for 128-bit Dynamic Security Link, you must also set up  
a login user name and password, which must match a listing in the access point  
user access list. In the Security Settings page, click 128-bit Dynamic Security Link.  
Then click the link to modify the wireless network login. In the Wireless Network  
Login page, enter a login name and password, and confirm the password in the  
spaces provided. When you are finished, click Save.  
RESETTING THE BRIDGE  
If the bridge stops responding correctly, you can perform a reset, which disrupts  
the network association temporarily, but does not affect bridge configuration  
33  
 
                 
settings that have already been saved. To reset the bridge, under Tools, click Reset  
Wireless Building-to-Building Bridge. In the next Web page, click Reset.  
RESTORING A BRIDGE TO FACTORY DEFAULTS  
You can restore bridge settings to the defaults that were set at the factory as  
follows:  
1
2
Under Tools, click Restore Factory Defaults.  
Click Restore.  
Manual Restore (indoor bridge only)To restore the settings manually, insert  
a pointed object (such as the end of a straightened paper clip) into the reset hole  
on the front near the RJ-45 connector and hold for approximately 15 seconds.  
If the bridge was using an IP address setting other than the default, restoring the  
factory defaults will change the IP address. If you want to continue configuring  
the bridge, do the following:  
1
2
Close your browser.  
Return to the 3Com Wireless Infrastructure Device Manager and click  
Refresh.  
3
Select the device and click Configure to start a new configuration session.  
UPGRADING THE SYSTEM  
You can download firmware and configuration management system upgrades  
from the 3Com Web site and install those upgrades on the bridge.  
The upgrade procedure requires a Trivial File Transfer Protocol (TFTP) server. The  
bridge acts as a TFTP client to receive the download.  
To locate an upgrade file and download it to your computer:  
1
2
Navigate to the product support page for the 3Com Wireless LAN Outdoor  
Bridge Solution to access the download files and instructions.  
3
4
Follow the instructions to download the file into a directory on your  
computer.  
Copy or move the file to the TFTP server upload/download directory.  
34  
 
         
To install an upgrade:  
1
Use the 3Com Wireless Infrastructure Device Manager to select the device  
and launch its configuration.  
2
3
4
5
Under Tools, click Upgrade System.  
Enter the name of the upgrade file that you downloaded earlier.  
Enter the IP address of the TFTP server where the upgrade file is located.  
Click Upgrade.  
The upgrade file is copied from the TFTP server to the bridge. The bridge  
restarts using the new upgrade.  
CHANGING THE ADMINISTRATION PASSWORD  
The first time you launch the Configuration Management System on the device or  
after you reset a device to factory defaults, you are prompted to set an  
administration password. Although a password is not required, 3Com  
recommends that you set a password to protect against unauthorized access.  
After you set the password, you must enter it each time you launch the  
configuration for the device. A user name is not required.  
Under Tools, click Change Administration Password. The Change Administration  
Password page appears, where you can change the administration password for  
the device. Enter the current password and new password in the spaces provided  
and click Save.  
BACKING UP A CONFIGURATION  
As part of system maintenance, you should save and back up the configurations  
of individual bridges in case you need to reload them in the future. The backup  
saves all the parameters of the selected bridge in a file on your computer. The file  
can be used later to restore the configuration on this or another bridge.  
1
2
3
4
Set the bridge parameters in the System Configuration pages.  
Under Tools, click Backup Wireless LAN Building-to-Building Bridge.  
In the next page, click Backup Now.  
Specify a name and location for the backup, and click OK.  
35  
 
         
RESTORING A CONFIGURATION  
If you have stored a backup configuration on your computer, you can restore the  
configuration as follows:  
1
2
Under Tools, click Restore Wireless LAN Building-to-Building Bridge.  
In the next page, click Browse and select the backup file to upload to the  
bridge.  
3
Click Restore.  
The configuration is restored and activated on the bridge. This operation may  
cause the bridge to reboot.  
If the bridge was using an IP address setting other than the backup, restoring the  
configuration will change the IP address. If you want to continue configuring the  
bridge, do the following:  
1
2
Close your browser.  
Return to the 3Com Wireless Infrastructure Device Manager and click  
Refresh.  
3
Select the device and click Configure to start a new configuration session.  
VIEWING THE CLIENT LIST  
Under System Status, click Ethernet Client List. The Ethernet Client List page  
appears, where you can view the following information:  
I
Ethernet Clients—Lists the client MAC addresses. The bridge supports up to  
1024 specific clients. When the list reaches its limit, new clients replace  
inactive clients (status Not Associated).  
I
# Transmitted Packets—The number of packets that the client has  
transmitted.  
I
I
# Received Packets—The number of packets that the client has received.  
Association Status—One of the following:  
Initializing—A new client is preparing to associate.  
Associated—The client is active on the network.  
Not Associated—The client is inactive.  
The client list can be up to 10 pages long. Each page lists 100 clients. You can  
search for a specific MAC address on the current page using your browsers Find  
function. To display another page, click a page number in the list at the top of the  
current page.  
36  
 
     
RESETTING STATISTICS LISTINGS  
In the Ethernet Client List page, click Reset Statistics to set the # Transmitted  
Packets and # Received Packets listings back to zero.  
CLEARING THE CLIENT LIST  
You can clear the client list manually by clicking Reset Clients in the Ethernet  
Client List page.  
The bridge erases the client list. Thereafter, clients are added to the list  
automatically when they next interact with the network.  
VIEWING CONNECTION STATUS  
Under System Status, click Connection Status to see information about the quality  
of the wireless association.  
Data rate values (1, 2, 5.5, or 11 Mbps) indicate the speed of data transfer. A data  
rate of 0 indicates no data transfer.  
Signal strength values in the RSSI field range from 0 (no signal) to 100 (excellent  
signal quality). A signal strength of 30 is good; a value of 40 or greater is very  
good.  
Click Refresh to update the information.  
VIEWING THE SYSTEM SUMMARY  
Under System Status, click System Summary to see information about the bridge.  
You can go to the configuration pages of items that can be configured by  
clicking their names in the list.  
Click Refresh to update the information.  
INTEROPERATING WITH THIRD-PARTY EQUIPMENT  
Because 3Com Wireless LAN equipment complies with IEEE 802.11b standards, it  
can interoperate with third-party equipment that also complies with the  
standards. However, some third party equipment may not support 3Com  
enhanced performance features. You may need to turn off the Network Traffic  
Accelerator and set the Data Preamble to long to support this equipment on  
the network.  
37  
 
                 
4 TROUBLESHOOTING  
DIAGNOSING PROBLEMS  
If you have difficulty with a 3Com Wireless LAN building-to-building bridge, try  
the solutions in the following table.  
Symptom  
Solutions  
Two bridges fail to communicate in ad  
hoc mode.  
I
Adjust the positions of the antennas to improve reception.  
I
To ensure correct operation in ad hoc mode, the settings on the  
two bridges must match exactly. Launch the bridge  
configuration management system and make sure that the  
Wireless LAN Service Area, channel selections, Data Preamble  
setting, and security settings are the same on both bridges.  
The bridge fails to associate with an  
access point.  
I
I
Adjust the position of the antenna to improve reception.  
Launch the bridge configuration and make sure the security  
settings, advanced performance settings, and access point  
privacy mode settings on the bridge match those on the  
access point.  
I
I
If the access point is from another manufacturer, try turning the  
Network Traffic Accelerator off and setting the Data Preamble  
to long.  
Using 128-bit Dynamic Security Link encryption, the bridge  
cannot associate with access points that are set to Require  
Windows user authentication, which requires clients to enter a  
user name and password every time they associate with the  
network. Make sure the access point does not require Windows  
user authentication.  
I
If the bridge is using an 18 dBi antenna, the FCC restricts the  
use of channels 12 and 13 to very reduced rates in the United  
States. Access points set to automatically select the best channel  
may occasionally select channel 12 or 13. To avoid  
interruptions, it is recommended that you set the access point  
to use a specific channel.  
The 128-bit Dynamic Security Link setting 128-bit Dynamic Security Link is not supported in ad hoc mode.  
does not work in ad hoc mode.  
Use the 40-bit or 128-bit Shared Keys settings instead.  
38  
 
       
Symptom  
Solutions  
A bridge set for 128-bit Shared Key  
encryption seems to communicate with  
Although the bridge is allowed to associate with an access point  
set for a different level of encryption, data authentication is not  
an access point set for 40-bit Shared Key allowed. Therefore, data cannot pass between the bridge and the  
encryption or open system.  
access point unless their settings match exactly.  
The Wireless Network Tree does not  
appear in the 3Com Wireless  
Infrastructure Device Manager window. the network you want to scan, and click OK.  
Verify that you are using the correct network adapter. In the device  
manager window, click Choose NIC. Select the network adapter for  
After upgrading the system, custom  
configuration settings are lost.  
Under some circumstances, upgrading the firmware and the  
configuration management system forces a return to configuration  
defaults. In this case, launch the bridge configuration and  
reconfigure the settings.  
After enabling or disabling the Secure  
Web Server Connection option, some  
configuration changes are lost.  
Changing the Secure Web Server Connection option causes the  
bridge to reset, which disrupts the network association  
temporarily, but does not affect bridge configuration settings that  
have already been saved. To ensure that changes to security  
settings are retained, either change this option before changing  
security settings, or click Save in the Wireless Network page after  
changing security settings and before changing this option.  
After you change the IP address, after  
you restore a backup configuration, or  
after you reset the bridge to factory  
If you change the IP address and click Save, you cannot continue to  
configure the device using the old IP address. Similarly, after you  
restore a backup configuration or reset the bridge to factory  
defaults, the Configuration Management defaults, the IP address setting may be changed.  
System stops responding and you cannot  
To recover from this situation and continue configuring the bridge:  
continue configuring the bridge.  
1 Close your browser.  
2 Return to the 3Com Wireless Infrastructure Device Manager and  
click Refresh.  
3 Select the device and click Configure to start a new  
configuration session.  
You are running Windows NT. After you The bridge configuration settings may not be compatible with the  
connect the bridge, your computer  
cannot obtain a valid IP address.  
network. If they are not, and your Windows NT computer is set up  
to obtain its IP address from a DHCP server, the bridge is unable to  
associate with the network to obtain the IP address. To work  
around this problem, set a static IP address on your computer.  
Then set the bridge configuration to match the network. When the  
bridge is able to associate, reset your computer to obtain its IP  
address from the DHCP server. If the bridge should also obtain its IP  
settings from the DHCP server, make sure this is configured  
properly on the IP Network page and applied just before ending  
the session.  
A bridge fails to respond  
Disconnect the power for 10 seconds and then reconnect.  
CAUTION: DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DISCONNECT the power under  
extreme weather conditions, especially during electrical storms.  
39  
 
   
DISCONNECTING THE BRIDGE  
CAUTION: Disconnecting the bridge ends the network association. To avoid  
possible data loss, exit all networking applications on connected devices before  
you disconnect the bridge.  
I
If you are using the 3Com power supply, unplug it from the power source.  
Then unplug the Ethernet cable from the power supply and the second  
Ethernet cable from the bridge.  
I
I
If the bridge is connected directly to a power-over-Ethernet device, unplug the  
bridge Ethernet cable from the device.  
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO DISCONNECT under extreme weather conditions,  
especially during electrical storms.  
UNINSTALLING SOFTWARE AND DOCUMENTATION  
If you want to uninstall the 3Com 11 Mbps Wireless LAN software and  
documentation, you can either use the standard operating system procedure for  
removing programs or use the following shortcut procedure:  
1
From the Windows Start menu, select Start/Programs/3Com Wireless/Wireless  
Building-to-Building Bridge/Uninstall.  
2
When prompted to confirm, click OK.  
UPGRADING BRIDGE FIRMWARE  
Firmware is the software that is installed on the bridge at the factory. Some  
problems can be solved by installing a new version of the firmware (upgrading  
firmware).  
For details on how to download a firmware update from the 3Com customer  
support Web site and install it on your bridge, see “Upgrading the System” on  
page 34.  
40  
 
     
A TECHNICAL SUPPORT  
3Com provides easy access to technical support information through a  
variety of services. This appendix describes these services.  
Information contained in this appendix is correct at time of publication. For the  
most recent information, access the 3Com Corporation World Wide Web site at  
ONLINE TECHNICAL SERVICES  
3Com offers worldwide product support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, through  
the following online systems:  
World Wide Web Site  
To access the latest networking information on the 3Com Corporation World  
Wide Web site enter this URL into your Internet browser:  
This service provides access to online support information such as technical  
documentation and software library, and support options that range from  
technical education to maintenance and professional services.  
3Com Knowledgebase  
Web Services  
This interactive tool contains technical product information compiled by 3Com  
expert technical engineers around the globe. Located on the World Wide Web  
partners complimentary, round-the-clock access to technical information on  
most 3Com products.  
3Com FTP Site  
Download drivers, patches, software, and MIBs across the Internet from the  
3Com public FTP site. This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  
To connect to the 3Com FTP site, enter the following information into your  
FTP client:  
Hostname: ftp.3com.com  
Username: anonymous  
Password: <your Internet e-mail address>  
A user name and password are not necessary when you are using a Web  
browser such as Netscape Navigator and Internet Explorer.  
41  
 
         
SUPPORT FROM YOUR NETWORK SUPPLIER  
If you require additional assistance, contact your network supplier. Many suppliers  
are authorized 3Com service partners who are qualified to provide a variety of  
services, including network planning, installation, hardware maintenance,  
application training, and support services.  
When you contact your network supplier for assistance, have the following  
information ready:  
I
I
I
I
Product model name, part number, and serial number  
A list of system hardware and software, including revision levels  
Diagnostic error messages  
Details about recent configuration changes, if applicable  
If you are unable to contact your network supplier, see the following section on  
how to contact 3Com.  
SUPPORT FROM 3COM  
If you are unable to obtain assistance from the 3Com online technical resources  
or from your network supplier, 3Com offers technical telephone support services.  
To nd out more about your support options, call the 3Com technical telephone  
support phone number at the location nearest you.  
When you contact 3Com for assistance, have the following information ready:  
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I
I
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Product model name, part number, and serial number  
A list of system hardware and software, including revision levels  
Diagnostic error messages  
Details about recent configuration changes, if applicable  
The following list of worldwide technical telephone support number is correct at  
the time of publication. Refer to the 3Com Web site for updated information.  
Country  
Asia, Pacific Rim  
Australia  
Telephone Number  
1 800 678 515  
Hong Kong  
India  
800 933 486  
+61 2 9424 5179 or 000800 650 1111  
001 803 61009  
Indonesia  
Japan  
00531 616 439 or 03 5977 7991  
42  
 
     
Country  
Telephone Number  
Malaysia  
1800 801 777  
New Zealand  
Pakistan  
0800 446 398  
+61 2 9937 5083  
Philippines  
P.R. of China  
Singapore  
S. Korea  
1235 61 266 2602 or +61 2 9937 5076  
10800 61 00137 or 021 6350 1590 or 00800 0638 3266  
800 6161 463  
00798 611 2230 or 02 3455 6455  
00801 611 261  
Taiwan, R.O.C.  
Thailand  
001 800 611 2000  
Or, send a description of the problem by email to: [email protected]  
Europe, Middle East and Africa  
From anywhere in these regions:  
Latin America  
Brazil  
Mexico  
Puerto Rico  
Central and South America  
North America  
United States and Canada  
1 800 876 3266  
RETURNING PRODUCTS FOR REPAIR  
Before you send a product directly to 3Com for repair, you must first obtain an  
authorization number. Products sent to 3Com without authorization numbers will  
be returned to the sender unopened, at the senders expense. To obtain an  
authorization number, call or fax:  
43  
 
   
Country  
Contact Information  
Asia, Pacific Rim  
+ 65 543 6500 Phone  
+ 65 543 6348 Fax  
Europe, South Africa, and Middle East http://emea.3com.com/gls  
For e-mail Support:  
Central and South America  
Argentina  
Bolivia  
Brazil  
Caribbean  
Chile  
525 201 0004  
562 240 6200  
Colombia  
Ecuador  
Mexico  
525 201 0004  
Paraguay  
Peru  
525 201 0004  
511 241 1691  
525 201 0004  
525 201 0004  
Uruguay  
Venezuela  
From the following countries, you may call the toll-free numbers; select option 2 and then option 2:  
Austria  
Belgium  
Denmark  
Finland  
France  
0800 297468  
0800 71429  
800 17309  
0800 113153  
0800 917959  
0800 1821502  
06800 12813  
1800553117  
1800 9453794  
800 879 489  
0800 0227788  
800 11376  
Germany  
Hungary  
Ireland  
Israel  
Italy  
Netherlands  
Norway  
44  
 
Country  
Poland  
Contact Information  
00800 3111206  
0800 831416  
Portugal  
South Africa  
0800 995014  
Spain  
900 983125  
Sweden  
020 795482  
Switzerland  
U.K.  
0800 55 3072  
0800 966197  
U.S.A. and Canada  
1 800 876 3266  
45  
 
REGULATORY COMPLIANCE INFORMATION  
3Com Wireless LAN Outdoor Bridge Solution  
FCC Radio-Frequency Exposure Notice  
This device generates and radiates radio-frequency energy. In order to comply with FCC radio-frequency radiation  
exposure guidelines for an uncontrolled environment, this equipment has to be installed and operated while maintaining a  
minimum body to antenna distance of 2 meters.  
This product does not contain any user serviceable components. Any unauthorized product changes or modifications will  
invalidate 3Com’s warranty and all applicable regulatory certifications and approvals. This product must be installed by a  
professional technician/installer.  
FCC Part 15 Notice (Applicable to Use Within the USA)  
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.  
WARNING: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to  
Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a  
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and  
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no  
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to  
radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try  
to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:  
I
I
I
I
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.  
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.  
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from the one to which the receiver is connected.  
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.  
The user may find the following booklet prepared by the Federal Communications Commission helpful:  
The Interference Handbook  
This booklet is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402. Stock No. 004-000-00345-4.  
Manufacturer’s Declaration of Conformity  
3Com Corporation  
5500 Great America Parkway  
P.O. Box 58145  
Santa Clara, CA 95054-8145  
(408) 326-5000  
Declares that the product:  
Date:  
Brand Name:  
13 December 2002  
3Com Corporation  
Model Number: WL-306B  
Equipment Type: Wireless LAN Building-to-Building Bridge  
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.  
 
 
Industry Canada Notice (Applicable to Use Within Canada)  
This device complies with Canadian RSS-210.  
To prevent radio interference to the licensed service, this device is intended to be operated indoors and away from  
windows to provide maximum shielding. Equipment (or its transmit antenna) that is installed outdoors is subject to  
licensing.  
The installer of this radio equipment must ensure that the antenna is located or pointed such that it does not emit RF field  
in excess of Health Canada limits for the general population; consult Safety Code 6, obtainable from Health Canada’s web  
Avis de Conformité à la Réglementation d’Industrie Canada  
Pour empêcher toute interférence aux services faisant l'objet d'une licence, cet appareil doit être utilisé à l'intérieur  
seulement et devrait être placé loin des fenêtres afin de fournir un écran de blindage maximal.  
L’installateur du présent matériel radio doit s’assurer que l’antenne est située ou pointée de manière à ce que cette  
dernière n’émette pas de champs radioélectriques supérieurs aux limites specifées par Santé Canada pour le grand public;  
Industry Canada (IC) Emissions Compliance Statement  
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.  
Avis de Conformité à la Réglementation d’Industrie Canada  
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.  
European Community - CE Notice  
Marking by the symbol:  
indicates compliance with the essential requirements of Directive 73/23/EC and the essential requirements of articles  
3.1(b), 3.2 and 3.3 of Directive 1999/5/EC. Such marking is indicative that this equipment meets or exceeds the following  
technical standards:  
I
EN 300 328-2 - Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum Matters (ERM); Wideband Transmission systems;  
data transmission equipment operating in the 2,4 GHz ISM band and using spread spectrum modulation techniques  
I
EN 301 489-17 - Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio Spectrum Matters (ERM); Electromagnetic Compatibility  
(EMC) standard for radio equipment and services; Part 17: Specific conditions for 2.4 GHz wideband transmission  
systems and 5 GHz high performance RLAN equipment.  
I
EN 60950 - Safety of information technology equipment, including electrical business equipment.  
Marking by the symbol:  
indicates that usage restrictions apply.  
In France, this product must be configured to operate on a legal channel. Channels 10 - 13 are allowed. User  
documentation should be consulted to ensure that this product is used in accordance with local spectrum restrictions.  
Additional Country Restrictions  
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In Israel, this product must be configured to operate on a legal channel. Channels 5 - 7 are allowed.  
In Jordan, this product must be configured to operate on a legal channel. Channels 10 - 13 are allowed.  
User documentation should be consulted to ensure that this product is used in accordance with local spectrum restrictions.  
I
Safety Compliance Notice  
This device has been tested and certified according to the following safety standards and is intended for use only in  
Information Technology Equipment which has been tested and certified to these or other equivalent standards:  
I
I
I
UL Standard 60950, 3rd Edition / CSA C22.2 No. 60950-00  
IEC 60950  
EN 60950  
Published february, 2003  
User Guide Version 1.2.0  
 
INDEX  
Numbers  
128-bit Dynamic Security Link 33  
C
configuration 18  
A
acknowledgement delay 27  
configuring  
country selection 25  
through a wireless association 32  
connecting power 10  
country  
antenna  
channel and power restrictions 12  
grounding 11  
lightning arrestor 12  
polarization 12  
encryption 32  
D
device  
B
bridge  
configuring 19, 20  
location 22  
name 22  
changing properties 21  
installation 10  
maintaining configurations 35  
password 35  
resetting 22, 33, 39  
restoring factory defaults 34  
user name 35  
device manager 18  
launching 18  
Dynamic Security Link 33  
 
 
E
M
encryption  
settings 31  
infrastructure 24  
mode 24  
F
filtering  
privacy mode 25  
NIC, choosing 19  
firmware upgrade 34  
flow control 26  
G
guidelines, security 32  
online technical services 41  
H
I
firmware 34  
power 10  
requirements 10  
power and channel restrictions 12  
power requirements 10  
Pre-IP Configuration Wizard 19, 20  
software utilities 16  
IP address 22  
refreshing after changing 19  
specifying 22, 23  
K
keys 32  
R
L
radio channel settings 25  
Refresh button 19  
launching the device manager 18  
lightning arrestor 12  
locating devices 18, 19  
login user name and password 33  
resetting a bridge 22, 33, 39  
restoring a configuration 36  
 
S
settings, radio channel 25  
shared keys 32  
signal strength, broadcasting 27  
software utilities 16  
solving problems 38  
T
product repair 43  
temperature 11  
thermal performance 11  
troubleshooting 38  
bridge firmware 34  
U
W
Web browser configuration 18  
web server, secure connection 22, 39  
wireless LAN service area 24  
Wireless Network Login 33  
wireless network tree 18  
World Wide Web (WWW) 41  
 

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