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802.11a
Wireless Ethernet Networking Guide
The 802.11a spec is the
technology upgrade to 802.11b . 802.11a
operates in the 5Ghz frequency range and can transfer data at
the rate of 54Mbps! That is over 4X the transfer rate of
11Mbps 802.11a. Although it is another form of Wireless
Ethernet, 802.11a is incompatible with 802.11b products. They
are completely different technologies. 802.11a network adapters
can operate in two modes, infrastructure and ad-hoc. In
infrastructure mode, all network adapters talk to each other THROUGH
a central 'Access Point'. This access point grants permission
to each device, determines the frequency to communicate on, and
relays data between network adapters. Access points are
stand alone devices that can 'bridge' wireless computers to wired
ethernet computers. They also may be built into other devices
like nework routers - especially in the home comsumer market.
Since 802.11a products communicate in the 5Ghz
frequency range, they do not cause probolems with cordless phones
like most 802.11b products do. Unfortunately, 802.11a also has
a range limitation in comparison to 802.11b - often 1/3 the
range.
72Mbps ot 54Mbps?
802.11a can communicate at a maximum rate of
72Mbps but due to FCC frequency restrictions, it is currently
limited to 54Mbps. If these regulations change, a simple
firmware upgrade will update your equipment.
References on the web:
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802.11a Wireless Network
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