Enhanced Wireless

USB Adapter
User Manual
8820-00050 F6D4050
Table of Contents

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1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 4 Using the Belkin Wireless Networking Utility . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Benefits of a Home Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Accessing the Belkin Wireless Networking Utility from
Advantages of a Wireless Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 the Windows System Tray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Placement of your Wireless Networking Hardware for Network Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Optimal Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Available Networks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Network Status and Solution Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Managing Wireless Network Profiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
2 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Connecting to a Secure Wi-Fi Network . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Product Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Applications and Advantages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 5 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Product Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
System Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Package Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
6 Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

3 Installing and Setting up the Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

A — Installation Process for Windows Vista . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

B — Installation Process for Windows Operating
Systems other than Windows Vista . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
C — Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

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Introduction

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Thank you for purchasing the Belkin Enhanced Wireless USB Adapter. Now you can take advantage of this great new technology
and gain the freedom to network your home and office computers wirelessly. This Adapter allows you to connect a notebook
computer to your network. Please be sure to read through this User Manual completely, and pay special attention to the section
entitled “Placement of your Wireless Networking Hardware for Optimal Performance”.

Benefits of a Home Network Advantages of a Wireless Network

Your Belkin Home Network will allow you to: • Mobility –you’ll no longer need a dedicated “computer room”—
now you can work on a networked laptop or desktop computer
anywhere within your wireless range
•  hare one high-speed Internet connection with all the computers in
S
your home • Easy installation – Belkin Easy Installation Wizards make
setup simple
• Share resources, such as files, and hard drives among all the
connected computers in your home • Flexibility – set up and access printers, computers, and other
networking devices from anywhere in your home
• Share a single printer with the entire family
• Easy expansion – the wide range of Belkin networking products let
• Share documents, music, video, and digital pictures you expand your network to include devices such as printers and
gaming consoles
• Store, retrieve, and copy files from one computer to another
• No cabling required – you can spare the expense and hassle of
• Simultaneously play games online, check Internet email, and chat retrofitting Ethernet cabling throughout the home or office

• Widespread industry acceptance – choose from a wide range of

interoperable networking products

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Placement of your Wireless Networking Hardware for To achieve the best wireless network coverage for your “wireless
Optimal Performance clients,” (i.e., computers enabled by Belkin Adapters or Cards):

• Ensure that your wireless router’s (or access point’s) antennas

Your wireless connection will be stronger the closer your computer is are parallel to each other, and are positioned vertically (toward
to your wireless router (or access point). Typical indoor operating range the ceiling). If your wireless router (or access point) itself is
for your wireless devices is between 100 and 200 feet. In the same positioned vertically, point the antennas as much as possible in an
way, your wireless connection and performance will degrade somewhat upward direction.
as the distance between your wireless router (or access point) and
connected devices increases. This may or may not be noticeable to • In multistory homes, place the wireless router (or access point)
you. As you move farther from your wireless router (or access point), on a floor that is as close to the center of the home as possible.
connection speed may decrease. Factors that can weaken signals This may mean placing the wireless router (or access point) on an
simply by getting in the way of your network’s radio waves are metal upper floor.
appliances or obstructions, and walls.
• Try not to place the wireless router (or access point) near a
If you have concerns about your network’s performance that might be
cordless 2.4GHz phone.
related to range or obstruction factors, try moving the computer to a
position between five and 10 feet from the wireless router (or access
point) in order to see if distance is the problem. If difficulties persist 2. Avoid Obstacles and Interference
even at close range, please contact Belkin Technical Support.
Avoid placing your wireless router (or access point) near devices that
Note: While some of the items listed below can affect network may emit radio “noise”, such as microwave ovens. Other objects that
performance, they will not prohibit your wireless network from can inhibit wireless communication can include:
functioning; if you are concerned that your network is not operating at • Refrigerators
its maximum effectiveness, this checklist may help.
• Washers and/or dryers
1. Placement of your Wireless Router (or Access Point) • Metal cabinets

Place your wireless router (or access point), the central connection point • Large aquariums
of your network, as close as possible to the center of your wireless • Metallic-based, UV-tinted windows
network devices.
If your wireless signal seems weak in some spots, make sure that
objects such as these are not blocking the signal’s path between your
computers and wireless router (or access point).

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3. Cordless Phone Placement 4. Choose the “Quietest” Channel for your Wireless Network
If the performance of your wireless network is impaired after attending In locations where homes or offices are close together, such as
to the above issues, and you have a cordless phone: apartment buildings or office complexes, there may be wireless
networks nearby that can conflict with yours. Use the Site Survey
• Try moving cordless phones away from the wireless router (or capabilities of your Belkin Wireless Networking Utility to locate any other
access point) and your wireless-enabled computers. wireless networks, and move your wireless router (or access point) and
computers to a channel as far away from other networks as possible.
• Unplug and remove the battery from any cordless phone that
Experiment with more than one of the available channels in order to
operates on the 2.4GHz band (check manufacturer’s information). If
find the clearest connection and avoid interference from neighboring
this fixes the problem, your phone may be interfering.
cordless phones or other wireless devices.
• If your phone supports channel selection, change the channel on For more Belkin wireless networking products, use the detailed Site
the phone to the farthest channel from your wireless network as Survey and wireless channel information included in your User Manual.
possible. For example, change the phone to channel 1 and move
your wireless router (or access point) to channel 11. (Your channel
selection will vary depending on your region.) See your phone’s
user manual for detailed instructions.

• If necessary, consider switching to a 900MHz or 5GHz

cordless phone.

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5. Secure Connections, VPNs, and AOL

Secure connections typically require a user name and password, and Secure connections can be interrupted by a computer’s power
are used where security is important. Secure connections include: management setting, which causes it to “go to sleep.” The simplest
solution to avoid this is to simply reconnect by re-running the VPN or
• Virtual Private Network (VPN) connections, often used to connect AOL software, or by re-logging into the secure website.
remotely to an office network
A second alternative is to change your computer’s power management
settings so it does not go to sleep; however, this may not be appropriate
• The “Bring Your Own Access” program from America Online (AOL),
for portable computers. To change your power management setting in
which lets you use AOL through broadband provided by another
Windows, see the “Power Options” item in the Control Panel.
cable or DSL service
If you continue to have difficulty with Secure Connections, VPNs, and
• Most online banking websites AOL, please review steps 1–4 in the previous pages to be sure you have
addressed these issues.
• Many commercial websites that require a user name and password
to access your account These guidelines should allow you to cover the maximum possible area
with your wireless router. Should you need to cover an even wider area,
we suggest the Belkin Wireless Range Extender/Access Point.
For more information regarding our networking products, visit our
website at [Link]/networking or call Belkin Technical Support.

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Overview

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Product Features

The Adapter complies with the IEEE 802.11g specification to communicate with other 802.11g-compliant wireless devices at up to 54Mbps*. The
Adapter is also compatible with draft-802.11n devices at 150Mbps as well as 802.11b products at 11Mbps. The Adapter operates on the same 2.4GHz
frequency band as 802.11b/g Wi-Fi® products.

• 2.4GHz ISM (Industrial, Science, and Medical) band operation • Connection rates of up to 150Mbps*
Provides immediate high-speed wireless connectivity at home, work,
• Integrated easy-to-use Belkin Wireless Networking Utility
and hotspot locations without compromising the use of existing
802.11b/g products
• USB 2.0 interface, for operation in virtually any computer with a
USB 2.0 bus-power port
• Compatibility with 802.11b/g products
• WPA, WPA2, 64-bit WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy), or The Adapter is backward-compatible with existing Wi-Fi (IEEE
128-bit encryption 802.11b/g) products

• Wireless access to networked resources • Difficult-to-wire environments

• Data rate of up to 150Mbps* (draft 802.11n), 54Mbps (802.11g), or Enables networking in buildings with solid or finished walls, or open
11Mbps (802.11b) areas where wiring is difficult to install

• Easy installation and use • Frequently changing environments

Adapts easily in offices or environments that frequently rearrange or
• LED power and network link/activity indicator change locations

• SOHO (Small Office/Home Office) networking needs

Applications and Advantages
Provides the easy and quick, small network installation SOHO
users need
• Wireless roaming with a laptop around the home or office
Offers the freedom of networking without cables

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Product Specifications (a) Protective Cap

The cap is provided to protect the USB connector during
Host Interface: USB 2.0 transportation. Remove the cap before inserting the Adapter to your
computer’s USB port.
Operating Temperature: 32–140 degrees F (0–60 degrees C)
Storage Temperature: -4–176 degrees F (-20–80 degrees C)
(b) Power/Activity LED
Humidity: Max. 90% (non-condensing)
Lights when the Adapter is powered on and flashes when it is active.
Typical Operating Range: Up to 1,000 ft.**
*NOTE: The standard transmission rate—150Mbps—is the physical data
rate. Actual data throughput will be lower. (c) USB Connector
**Wireless performance may vary depending on the Part of the Adapter that fits into your computer’s USB port.
networking environment.
System Requirements

• PC-compatible laptop with one available USB 2.0

bus-power port
• Windows® 2000, XP with SP2, or Vista®***

Package Contents

• Enhanced Wireless USB Adapter

• Quick Installation Guide
• CD with Installation Software and User Manual

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Installing and Setting up the Adapter

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A. Installation Process for Windows Vista

***NOTE: For information on updated drivers, please visit the Belkin
website at [Link]/support.

IMPORTANT: INSTALL THE SOFTWARE BEFORE INSERTING

THE ADAPTER.

A.1 Insert the Installation Software CD into your CD-ROM drive.

A.2 Click “Next” to begin the installation process.

Note: If the Belkin Wireless Card Installer screen does not appear
within 20 seconds, access your CD-ROM by double-clicking on the
“My Computer” icon; then double-click on the CD-ROM drive into
which the installation CD has been placed. If the Installer does not start
automatically, double-click on the icon named “[Link]”.

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A.3 The InstallShield Wizard will start the installation process. A.4 A window may appear showing the message, “Windows can’t verify
the publisher of this driver software”. This DOES NOT indicate a
problem. Our software has been fully tested and is compatible with
this operating system. Click on “Install this driver software anyway”
to continue.

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A.5 When prompted, plug in your Adapter. A.7 Click “Finish” to restart your computer.

A.6 When the installation completes, you will see the following pop-up
message on your Windows taskbar.

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A.8 To connect to the Internet, open the Network and Sharing Center A.9 In the Control Panel, click on “View network status and tasks”.
by first opening the Control Panel from the “Start” menu.

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A.10 In the Network and Sharing Center, click on “Connect to A.11 In the next screen, select an available wireless network and
a network”. click “Connect”.

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A.12 Your Adapter will attempt to connect to the selected network. A.13 Depending on the security settings of your wireless network, you
may be prompted to enter a network security key or a passphrase.
Click “Connect” after you have done so.

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A.14 After connecting to the network, you can choose to save this A.15 The Network and Sharing Center now indicates the network
network and connect automatically when your Adapter is in range. connection that you have just established. The links on the left of
the window allow you to configure your network connections.

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B. Installation Process for Windows Operating

Systems other than Windows Vista

IMPORTANT: INSTALL THE SOFTWARE BEFORE INSERTING

THE ADAPTER.

B.1 Insert the Installation Software CD into your CD-ROM drive.

B.2 The Belkin Wireless Card Installer screen will automatically appear
within up to 20 seconds. Click “Install Software” or “Next” to start
the installation.

Note: If the Belkin Wireless Card Installer screen does not appear
within 20 seconds, access your CD-ROM by double-clicking on the “My
Computer” icon; then double-click on the CD-ROM drive into which the
installation CD has been placed. Then, double-click on the icon named
“[Link]”.

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B.3 Select a destination folder for the software installation by clicking B.4 A Setup Status screen lets you know where you are in the
“Browse”; or, simply click “Next” to install to the default location. setup process.

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B.5 A window may appear showing the message, “The software you B.6 When prompted, plug in your Adapter.
are installing…” This DOES NOT indicate a problem. Our software
has been fully tested and is compatible with this operating system.
Click on “Continue Anyway” to continue.

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B.7 The Found New Hardware Wizard might appear in 3–15 seconds. If B.8 Click “Finish” to restart your computer.
it does, select “Install the software automatically” and click “Next”
to install the software.

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C. Configuration C.2 The Belkin Wireless Networking Utility screen will appear.

Using the Belkin Wireless Networking Utility

C.1 After restarting your computer, double-click the Belkin Wireless

Networking Utility icon on the desktop screen.

Note: The Belkin Wireless Networking Utility icon can also be found
on the system tray.
C.3 Select a network to which to connect from the “Available
Networks” list and click “Connect”.
Note: In order to see your available networks, you must be near a
working wireless router or access point.
Installation is now complete.

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Using the Belkin Wireless Networking Utility

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After successfully installing the Belkin Wireless Networking Utility (WNU), configurations for wireless connection and security are
just a few easy clicks away.

Accessing the Belkin Wireless Networking Utility from The WNU’s default screen is the “Current Status” tab. The “Current
the Windows System Tray Status” tab displays the current Network Status and Available Networks.

To access the WNU, simply place your mouse pointer and right-click
over the WNU icon on the Windows task tray.

If the icon is not present, double-click the Belkin Wireless Networking

Utility icon on the desktop screen.

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Network Status Connection Failure

Right-click on the WNU icon in the Windows task tray and more options
This window displays the connectivity status of the current network. It will appear. You can retry, view solution tips, or choose another network
even displays connectivity between the computer and router, and router in the “Available Networks” section.
and Internet. In the event of a connectivity problem, this window can
be used to determine the problem’s source (e.g. computer, router, or
Internet/modem).

Available Networks

This window displays the available networks at the current location

as well as their SSID, Signal Strength, Security Type, WPS-enabled
connection, Channel, and Network Type.

Lost Wireless Connection

If the current wireless connection is lost, a window will pop up and the
WNU will attempt to reconnect.

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Network Status and Solution Tips Managing Wireless Network Profiles

To further understand the current Network Status, click “Open Wireless The “My Connections” tab on the WNU allows you to add, edit, and
Utility”. The default screen will be the “Current Status” tab and the delete connection profiles.
“Network Status” section determines which connections are good
and/or faulty.

The WNU also features an “Info” section that provides troubleshooting tips.

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Connecting to a Secure Wi-Fi® Network

If you choose to connect to a secure network, determine the type of

security (WPA/WPA2 or WEP) and use the appropriate field in the
dialog box.
When you select a network using encryption, you will first see the simple
security screen.

Click the “Advanced” button to see other security options, including

choosing the security type for this connection.

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Wireless Equivalent Privacy (WEP) is a less secure, but more widely adopted wireless security protocol. Depending on the security level (64- or 128-
bit), the user will be asked to input a 10- or 26-character hex key. A hex key is a combination of letters, a–f, and numbers, 0–9.
Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA/WPA2) is the new standard in wireless security. Instead of a hex key, WPA/WPA2 uses only passphrases, which are
much easier to remember. The passphrase is 8–63 characters and can consist of alphabet letters and numbers.

Using Wi-Fi Protected Setup PBC – Push Button Configuration

(Recommended)
1. Click the “WPS Connect” button.

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2. For Belkin routers, press the WPS button for two seconds and
release. The security icon on the router will flash, indicating that
the WPS session has been initiated.

3. You are now connected to the router.

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Using Wi-Fi Protected Setup PIN – Personal Identification Number 2. Note the PIN number listed and click on “Connect”.
To use the WPS PIN method, you must have another computer that is
already connected to the network and can access the router interface.

1. Select the network to which to connect and click “Connect”.

(Please note that there should be a key in the WPS column,
indicating that this network is WPS-enabled.)

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3. On the computer that is already connected to the router, access 4. You are now connected to the router.
the router interface, enter the PIN number, and click on “Enroll”.
Please note that the screenshot below is from a Belkin router; other
routers’ interfaces will be different.

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Wireless Networking Utility Options Wireless Networking Utility Help

The “Options” tab on the WNU provides the user the ability to customize The WNU “Help” tab provides users with access to online and telephone
his or her WNU settings. support, one-click check for upgrades to updated versions of software,
and advanced diagnostic tools.

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Advanced Diagnostic Tools

The “Advanced Diagnostic Tools” section is the central control panel for all the settings of the hardware and software components of the wireless
network. It provides an array of tests and connectivity services to ensure optimal network performance.

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Troubleshooting

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Problem: 2. Open your wireless utility software by clicking on the icon in the
system tray at the bottom right-hand corner of the screen. The tray
I can’t connect to the Internet wirelessly. icon should look like this (the icon may be red or green):

Solution:
If you are unable to connect to the Internet from a wireless computer,
please check the following items:

1. Look at the lights on your wireless router. If you’re using a Belkin

Wireless Router, the lights should be as follows:
• The “Power” light should be on.
3. The window that opens should have a list of “Available Networks”.
• The “Connected” light should be on, and not blinking.
• The “WAN” light should be either on or blinking. Available networks are wireless networks to which you can connect.

If your Belkin Wireless Router’s lights have the above characteristics, go If you are using a Belkin 802.11g (G Plus) Router, or Belkin 802.11g (54g)
to number 2 below. Router, “Belkin54g” is the default name.

If this is NOT the case, make sure: If you are using a Belkin 802.11b Router, the default name should be
“WLAN”.
• The router’s power cord is plugged in.
• All cables are connected between the router and the modem. If you are NOT using a Belkin Router, please consult your router
manufacturer’s user manual for the default name.
• All the modem’s LEDs are functioning correctly. If not, see your
modem’s user manual.
• Reboot the router.
• Reboot the modem.
If you continue to have issues, please contact Belkin Technical Support.
If you are not using a Belkin Wireless Router, consult that router
manufacturer’s user guide.

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Problem: Problem:
The name of your wireless network appears in “Available Networks”. The name of your wireless network DOES NOT appear in the list of
“Available Networks”.
Solution:
Solution:
If the correct network name is listed in the “Available Networks” list,
please follow the steps below to connect wirelessly: If the correct network name is not listed, check the SSID settings to
see if they match. The SSID is case-sensitive and the spelling on each
1. Click on the correct network name in the “Available Networks” list. computer must be exactly the same in order for the Adapter to connect
to the wireless router (or access point).
2. If the network has security (encryption) enabled, you must enter
the network key. Click “Connect”. For more information regarding Note: To check the SSID settings or look for an available network,
security, see the page entitled: “Connecting to a Secure Wi-Fi double-click the Signal Indicator icon to bring up the “Wireless
Network” on page 22 of this User Manual. Networks” screen. Click “Add” if you do not see the network you
are trying to connect to and type in the SSID. For more information
3. Within a few seconds, the tray icon in the lower right-hand corner of about setting up an SSID, please reference your router manufacturer’s
your screen should turn green, indicating a successful connection user manual.
to the network. If issues persist even at close range, please contact Belkin
If you are still unable to access the Internet after connecting to the Technical Support.
wireless network, please contact Belkin Technical Support.

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Problem: Problem:
Installation CD-ROM does not start Belkin Wireless Networking Utility. Link LED is blinking slowly; I cannot connect to a wireless network or
the Internet.
Solution:
Solution:
If the CD-ROM does not start the Belkin Wireless Networking Utility
automatically, it could be that the computer is running other applications If your Adapter appears to be functioning properly, but you cannot
that are interfering with the CD drive. If the Belkin Wireless Networking connect to a network or you have a red wireless icon at the bottom of
Utility screen does not appear within 15-20 seconds, open up your your screen, the problem may be that there is a mismatch between the
CD-ROM drive by double-clicking on the “My Computer” icon. Next, network name (SSID) settings in your wireless network properties.
double-click on the CD-ROM drive in which the Installation CD has
been placed to start the installation. If the installation does not start Check the SSID settings to see if they match. The SSID is case-sensitive
automatically, right-click to select “Explore”, then double-click on the and the spelling on each computer must be exactly the same in order for
icon named “[Link]”. the Adapter to connect to the wireless router (or access point).
Note: To check the SSID settings or look for an available network,
Problem: double-click the Signal Indicator icon to bring up the “Wireless
Networks” screen. Click “Add” if you do not see the network you are
Power LED does not come ON; Adapter is not working. trying to connect to and type in the SSID.
For more information about setting up an SSID, please reference your
Solution: router manufacturer’s user manual. If issues persist even at close range,
please contact Belkin Technical Support.
If the LED indicators are not ON, the problem may be that the Adapter
is not connected or installed properly. Verify that the Adapter is plugged
firmly into the USB port of your computer. Check to see that the drivers
for the Adapter have been installed. Right-click on the “My Computer”
icon on your desktop. Choose “Properties” and navigate to the “Device
Manager” and see if your USB Network Adapter is listed without any
errors. If an error is indicated, contact Belkin Technical Support.

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Problem: Problem:
Link LED is solid but I cannot connect to the Internet. Data transfer is sometimes slow.

Solution: Solution:
If you have a signal but can’t get online or obtain an IP address, the Wireless technology is radio-based, which means connectivity and
problem may be that there is a mismatch between the encryption key the throughput performance between devices decreases when the
settings in your computer and wireless router (or access point). Check distance between devices increases. Other factors that will cause signal
the WEP, WPA, or WPA2 key settings to see if they match. The key is degradation (metal is generally the worst culprit) are obstructions such
case-sensitive and the spelling on each computer and wireless router as walls and metal appliances. As a result, the typical indoor range of
(or access point) must be exactly the same in order for the Adapter to your wireless devices will be between 100 to 200 feet. Note also that
connect to the router. For more information about encryption, please see connection speed may decrease as you move farther from the wireless
“Connecting to a Secure Wi-Fi Network” on page 22 of this User Manual. router (or access point).
If issues persist even at close range, please contact Belkin In order to determine if wireless issues are related to range, we suggest
Technical Support. temporarily moving the computer, if possible, to five to 10 feet away
from the wireless router (or access point). Please see the section
titled “Placement of your Wireless Networking Hardware for Optimal
Performance” on page 2 of this User Manual. If issues persist even at
close range, please contact Belkin Technical Support.

Enhanced Wireless USB Adapter 32

Troubleshooting

Table of Contents sections 1 2 3 4 5 6

Problem: automatically adjust the wireless transmit rate for you, but doing so can
cause periodic disconnects when the wireless signal is too weak; as a
Signal strength is poor.
rule, slower transmission rates are more stable. Experiment with different
connection rates until you find the best one for your environment;
Solution: note that all available transmission rates should be acceptable for
browsing the Internet. For more assistance, see your wireless card’s
Wireless technology is radio-based, which means connectivity and literature. If issues persist even at close range, please contact Belkin
the throughput performance between devices decreases when the Technical Support.
distance between devices increases. Other factors that will cause signal
degradation (metal is generally the worst culprit) are obstructions such
as walls and metal appliances. As a result, the typical indoor range
of your wireless devices will be between 100 to 200 feet. Note also
that connection speed may decrease as you move farther from the
wireless router (or access point). In order to determine if wireless issues
are related to range, we suggest temporarily moving the computer, if
possible, to five to 10 feet away from wireless router (or access point).
Changing the wireless channel – Depending on local wireless traffic
and interference, switching the wireless channel of your network can
improve performance and reliability. The default channel the router is
shipped with is channel 6. You may choose from several other channels
depending on your region; see your router’s (or access point’s) user
manual for instructions on how to choose other channels.
Limiting the wireless transmit rate – Limiting the wireless transmit
rate can help improve the maximum wireless range, and connection
stability. Most wireless cards have the ability to limit the transmission
rate. To change this property, go to the Windows Control Panel, open
“Network Connections” and double-click on your Adapter’s connection.
In the “Properties” dialog, select the “Configure” button on the “General”
tab (Windows 98 users will have to select the USB Network Adapter in
the list box and then click “Properties”), then choose the “Advanced”
tab and select the rate property. Wireless client cards are usually set to

Enhanced Wireless USB Adapter 33

Troubleshooting

Table of Contents sections 1 2 3 4 5 6

Problem: Problem:
Why are there two wireless utilities in my system tray? The Adapter does not perform or connection is unstable when computer
has a second built-in wireless network card (such as a mini PCI or
Which one do I use?
Intel® Centrino™).

Solution: Solution:
There are several features and advantages from using the Belkin This condition occurs if your computer has a built-in wireless card while
Wireless Networking Utility over the Windows XP Wireless Zero your Belkin Enhanced Wireless USB Adapter is also active. This happens
Configuration utility. We offer a site survey, detailed link information, and because Windows must now handle two active wireless connections.
adapter diagnosis, to name a few.
You must disable the built-in wireless card from your computer under
It’s essential to know which utility is managing your Adapter. We “Network Adapters” in the Device Manager.
recommend using the Belkin Wireless Networking Utility. To use the
Belkin Wireless Networking Utility, follow the steps below:
Problem:
Step 1 Right-click on the network status icon in the system tray and
select the “Status” tab. The Adapter does not perform or connection is slow when computer has
a built-in wired Ethernet card.
Step 2 From the “Status” tab, uncheck the “Use Windows to configure
my wireless network settings” box. Once the box is unchecked, click the
“Close” button to close the window. Solution:
You are now using the Belkin Wireless Networking Utility to configure This condition occurs if your computer has an active Ethernet card while
the Adapter. your Adapter is also active. This happens because Windows must now
handle two active network connections. You must disable the Ethernet
card from your computer under “Network Adapters” in the Device
Manager.

Enhanced Wireless USB Adapter 34

Troubleshooting

Table of Contents sections 1 2 3 4 5 6

What’s the difference between 802.11g and draft 802.11n? Wireless G Enhanced N MIMO N1 MIMO
Currently there are three commonly used wireless networking standards, Technology
(802.11g) (1x1 draft (draft 802.11n (draft 802.11n
which transmit data at very different maximum speeds. Each is based 802.11n) with MIMO) with MIMO)
on the designation for certifying network standards. The most common
wireless networking standard, 802.11g, can transmit information up
to 54Mbps; 802.11a also supports up to 54Mbps, but in the 5GHz Speed/Data Up to 54Mbps* Up to 150Mbps* Up to 300Mbps* Up to 300Mbps*
frequency; and 802.11n draft specification can connect at up to Rate*
300Mbps. See the following chart for more detailed information. Frequency Common Common Common Common
household household household household
devices such as devices such as devices such as devices such as
cordless phones cordless phones cordless phones cordless phones
and microwave and microwave and microwave and microwave
ovens may ovens may ovens may ovens may
interfere with interfere with interfere with interfere with
the unlicensed the unlicensed the unlicensed the unlicensed
band 2.4GHz band 2.4GHz band 2.4GHz band 2.4GHz

Compatibility Compatible with Compatible Compatible with Compatible with

802.11b/g with 802.11b/g, draft 802.11n draft 802.11n
draft 802.11n, and 802.11b/g and 802.11b/g
and Belkin G+
MIMO

Coverage* Up to 400 ft.* Up to 1,000 ft.* Up to 1,200 ft.* Up to 1,400 ft.*

Advantage Common— Better coverage Enhanced Leading edge—

widespread and consistent speed and best coverage
use for Internet speed and coverage and throughput
sharing range

*Distance and connection speeds will vary depending on your networking environment.

Technical Support
You can find technical support information at [Link]
networking or [Link]/support/.

Enhanced Wireless USB Adapter 35

Information

Table of Contents sections 1 2 3 4 5 6

FCC Statement
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY WITH FCC RULES FOR ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY

We, Belkin International, Inc., of 501 West Walnut Street, Compton, CA off and on, the user is encouraged to try and correct the interference by
90220, declare under our sole responsibility that the product, F6D4050, one or more of the following measures:
to which this declaration relates, complies with Part 15 of the FCC • Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this
device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must • Increase the distance between the equipment and the receiver.
accept any interference received, including interference that may cause • Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that
undesired operation.
to which the receiver is connected.
Caution: Exposure to Radio Frequency Radiation. The radiated output • Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
power of this device is far below the FCC radio frequency exposure
limits. Nevertheless, the device shall be used in such a manner that
the potential for human contact during normal operation is minimized. Modifications
When connecting an external antenna to the device, the antenna shall The FCC requires the user to be notified that any changes or
be placed in such a manner to minimize the potential for human contact modifications to this device that are not expressly approved by
during normal operation. In order to avoid the possibility of exceeding Belkin International, Inc., may void the user’s authority to operate
the FCC radio frequency exposure limits, human proximity to the the equipment.
antenna shall not be less than 20cm (8 inches) during normal operation.
Federal Communications Commission Notice Industry Canada Statement
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful 1) this device may not cause interference, and
interference in a residential installation. 2) t his device must accept any interference, including interference that
This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency may cause undesired operation of the device.
energy. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment

Enhanced Wireless USB Adapter 36

Information

Table of Contents sections 1 2 3 4 5 6

IMPORTANT NOTE: What will we do to correct problems?

IC Radiation Exposure Statement
Product Warranty.
This equipment complies with Canada radiation exposure limits set forth
for uncontrolled environments. Belkin will repair or replace, at its option, any defective product free of
charge (except for shipping charges for the product). Belkin reserves the
This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with right to discontinue any of its products without notice, and disclaims any
any other antenna or transmitter. limited warranty to repair or replace any such discontinued products.
In the event that Belkin is unable to repair or replace the product (for
This equipment has been SAR-evaluated for use in laptops (notebooks)
example, because it has been discontinued), Belkin will offer either
with side-slot configuration.
a refund or a credit toward the purchase of another product from
[Link] in an amount equal to the purchase price of the product
Belkin International, Inc., Limited 1-Year Product Warranty as evidenced on the original purchase receipt as discounted by its
natural use.
What this warranty covers.
What is not covered by this warranty?
Belkin International, Inc. (“Belkin”) warrants to the original purchaser of
this Belkin product that the product shall be free of defects in design, All above warranties are null and void if the Belkin product is not
assembly, material, or workmanship. provided to Belkin for inspection upon Belkin’s request at the sole
expense of the purchaser, or if Belkin determines that the Belkin product
has been improperly installed, altered in any way, or tampered with.
What the period of coverage is. The Belkin Product Warranty does not protect against acts of God such
Belkin warrants the Belkin product for one year. as flood, earthquake, lightning, war, vandalism, theft, normal-use wear
and tear, erosion, depletion, obsolescence, abuse, damage due to low
voltage disturbances (i.e. brownouts or sags), non-authorized program,
or system equipment modification or alteration.

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Information

Table of Contents sections 1 2 3 4 5 6

How to get service. How state law relates to the warranty.

To get service for your Belkin product you must take the following steps: THIS WARRANTY CONTAINS THE SOLE WARRANTY OF BELKIN.
THERE ARE NO OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR, EXCEPT AS
1. C
 ontact Belkin International, Inc., at 501 W. Walnut St., Compton CA
REQUIRED BY LAW, IMPLIED, INCLUDING THE IMPLIED WARRANTY
90220, Attn: Customer Service, or call (800)-223-5546, within 15 days
OR CONDITION OF QUALITY, MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A
of the Occurrence. Be prepared to provide the following information:
PARTICULAR PURPOSE, AND SUCH IMPLIED WARRANTIES, IF ANY,
a. The part number of the Belkin product. ARE LIMITED IN DURATION TO THE TERM OF THIS WARRANTY.
b. Where you purchased the product. Some states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty
c. When you purchased the product. lasts, so the above limitations may not apply to you.
d. Copy of original receipt. IN NO EVENT SHALL BELKIN BE LIABLE FOR INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL,
DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL OR MULTIPLE DAMAGES SUCH
2. Y
 our Belkin Customer Service Representative will then instruct you on
AS, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, LOST BUSINESS OR PROFITS ARISING OUT
how to forward your receipt and Belkin product and how to proceed
OF THE SALE OR USE OF ANY BELKIN PRODUCT, EVEN IF ADVISED
with your claim.
OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.
Belkin reserves the right to review the damaged Belkin product. All costs
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have
of shipping the Belkin product to Belkin for inspection shall be borne
other rights, which may vary from state to state. Some states do not
solely by the purchaser. If Belkin determines, in its sole discretion, that
allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental, consequential, or other
it is impractical to ship the damaged equipment to Belkin, Belkin may
damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you.
designate, in its sole discretion, an equipment repair facility to inspect
and estimate the cost to repair such equipment. The cost, if any, of
shipping the equipment to and from such repair facility and of such
estimate shall be borne solely by the purchaser. Damaged equipment
must remain available for inspection until the claim is finalized. Whenever
claims are settled, Belkin reserves the right to be subrogated under any
existing insurance policies the purchaser may have.

Enhanced Wireless USB Adapter 38

Belkin Tech Support Belkin International, Inc. Belkin Ltd.
US: 877-736-5771 501 West Walnut Street 4 Pioneer Avenue
800-223-5546 ext. 2263 Los Angeles, CA 90220, USA Tuggerah Business Park
310-898-1100 ext. 2263 310-898-1100 Tuggerah, NSW 2259, Australia
UK: 0845 607 77 87 310-898-1111 fax +61 (0) 2 4350 4600
Australia: 1800 235 546 +61 (0) 2 4350 4700 fax
New Zealand: 0800 235 546 Belkin Ltd.
Singapore: 65 64857620 Express Business Park, Shipton Way Belkin B.V.
Europe: [Link]/support Rushden, NN10 6GL Boeing Avenue 333
United Kingdom 1119 PH Schiphol-Rijk, The Netherlands
+44 (0) 1933 35 2000 +31 (0) 20 654 7300
+44 (0) 1933 31 2000 fax +31 (0) 20 654 7349 fax

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of respective manufacturers listed. Windows and Windows Vista are either registered trademarks
or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.