Overview; Introduction To The Client Adapters; Introduction To The Client Adapter Software Components - Cisco AIR-PCM340 Installation And Configuration Manual

Introduction to the Client Adapters

Introduction to the Client Adapters
The Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Adapters, also referred to as client adapters, are radio modules that
provide transparent wireless data communications between fixed, portable, or mobile devices and other
wireless devices or a wired network infrastructure. The client adapters are fully compatible when used
in devices supporting Plug-and-Play (PnP) technology.
The primary function of the client adapters is to transfer data packets transparently through the wireless
infrastructure. The adapters operate similarly to a standard network product except that the cable is
replaced with a radio connection. No special wireless networking functions are required, and all existing
applications that operate over a network will operate using the adapters.
This document covers three types of client adapters:
•
•
•
Refer to the

Introduction to the Client Adapter Software Components

The software components of the client adapter consists of a driver, firmware, and a client utility. These
components work together to allow the client adapter to work properly in your workstation. Typically,
the driver and client utility are designed for use with a specific operating system or a group of similar
operating systems, while the firmware is designed specifically for the client adapter's hardware and
radio. The firmware controls the radio operations.
Cisco Aironet Wireless LAN Adapters Installation and Configuration Guide for Mac OS
1-2
PC card client adapter (also referred to as a PC card) – A PCMCIA card radio module that can be
inserted into any device equipped with an external Type II or Type III PC card slot. Host devices can
include laptops, notebook computers, personal digital assistants, and hand-held or portable devices.
CI SC O AI
RO NE T 34
11 Mb ps W 0
SE RIE S
IR EL ES S
LA N AD AP
TE R
LM card client adapter (also referred to as an LM card) – A PCMCIA card radio module that can
be inserted into any device equipped with an internal Type II or Type III PC card slot. Host devices
usually include hand-held or portable devices.
C IS C O A
IR O N E T
34 0
11 M bp s W
IR EL ES S SE RI ES
LA N AD AP
TE R
PCI client adapter – A client adapter card radio module that can be inserted into any device
equipped with an empty PCI expansion slot, such as a desktop computer.
adapter
"Radio Antenna" section on page 1-3 for antenna differences between these adapters.
Chapter 1

Overview

OL-1377-01