FAQ

Some of the more common questions asked in the mailinglists.

How do I get started?
How do I test signal strength?
What about security?
What about Antennas?
What about Wireless Cards for my computer?
What do all these terms mean?
How do I become an access node?
How do I link to an existing access node?
Is there a hardware preference for a Wireless Access Point (WAP)?
What books should I reference to learn more about wireless technology?
What tools should I be aware of for using wireless access available in most airports?
Which airports have wireless access? (short list..)
How can I track down where interference is coming from?
What is a good weatherproof enclosure for an AP?

1. How do I get Started?

You need two things:

An access point.
This bridges packets between your ethernet and wireless clients (laptops, atc etc.) The access point acts as central hub for a wireless LAN. Examples include:
- Agere RG-1100
- Apple Airport
- Linksys WAP-11
- and many others
Wireless card in your laptop.
Again lots of vendors, follow the other thread on TCWUG for discussion/recommendation. 802.11b is a standard, so you don't need to get the AP (access point) and the card from the same vendor.

You'll create your own wireless network around the access point. Whether this has the desired range is something you'll have to experiment with. [Andy W.]

2. How do I test signal strength?

Most vendor's client software comes with an application that shows how strong the signal is, so you can walk around and experiment. [Andy W.]

3. What about security?

If you want this to be open access, you'll have to think about how you want your network setup from a security standpoint, otherwise anyone will simple have access to your ethernet. [Andy W.]

7. How do I become an access node?

Community Network Node Database (aka, maps.tcwug.org) was taken down, and has been offline for several months now.

8. How do I link to an existing access node?

Interest will need to rebuilt via meetings, mailing list discussion, etc.

9. Is there a hardware preference for a Wireless Access Point (WAP)?

This is up to the individual hosting the Wireless Access Point.

10. What books should I reference to learn more about wireless technology?

Here's a couple of suggestions:

802.11 Wireless Networks: The Definitive Guide
(Matthew Gast)
Building Wireless Community Networks
(Rob Flickenger of the nocat project - http://www.nocat.net)

11. What tools should I be aware of for using wireless access available in most airports?

http://www.geektools.com/geektels/
- their tools are hacks but the hotel list is great
http://www.wayport.com <- hotels/airports these folks also bought laptop lane
http://www.tmobile.net <- starbucks

12.Which airports have wireless access?

HAVE wireless access available:

MSP (Qpass)
DEN (AT&T)
AUS (Wayport)
DFW (T-mobile - w/roaming)
SFO (Various - patchy)
SJC (Wayport & Admirals Club)
SEA (Various)
LHR (Various)
JFK (Various)
MDW (rumored to now)
LGA

DO NOT HAVE wireless access available:

13. How can I track down where interference is coming from?

Do you have neighbors nearby? Such as in apartment? Any wireless infrared "extenders", baby monitors, audio/video wireless transmitters, etc.

You might also look around your neighborhood for any antennas.. as for a solution to your problem, the best you can do is either increase the gain of your AP's antenna(s), or try lowering the data rate for more stability.

You could try walking around with the laptop to see where the noise levels increase and decrease for a general idea of where the noise is being generated.

14. What is a good weatherproof enclosure for an AP?

Email thread.

Don't use Tupperware. The stuff doesn't last outside.

Use a standard NEMA box. They're gasketed and usually have provision for a padlock. I think I saw suitable new ones at AEI. Sometimes they might be found used at AxMan, etc. Most any electrical supply should have them.

The warmth of the electronics operating will make any condensation collect elsewhere as long as you don't build-in an accidental drip point right over the electronics.. or provide a little umbrella in case you do :-) Best to have holes in the bottom for moisture to escape, but small enough to prevent bees entering. Installing the box with a small tilt (2-3 degrees?) allows a drain holes to be in the low corners and do their job. Have at least two since one may get clogged by something. Best to keep 110v inside the house and use some approved type of low voltage feed. [Chuck C.]

Menards actually has a tidy little enclosure that claims to be
UV resistant, and water tight. (NEMA4 I believe) [Matthew H.]

FAQ