Lucent unveils Ethernet-speed wireless LAN access

Lucent Technologies Global Commercial Networks (GCM) has announced a new high-speed version of its WaveLAN wireless local area network (WLAN) that provides wired Ethernet-equivalent data rates expected by office users.

The WaveLAN/IEEE Turbo system offers a high-speed mode that is reliable and provides improved response time for data-intensive network applications that office workers are accustomed to from their wired LAN. Additionally, the standard mode of the system provides exceptional range and is extremely robust, perfectly suited for retail, warehousing and manufacturing environments.

Fully compliant with the latest IEEE802.11 specification for wireless LANs, it provides interoperability which enables customers to create wireless networks using WLAN terminals, printers and bridges from a variety of manufacturers. The system is one of several wireless data networks available from Lucent to provide high-speed access to the Internet and corporate intranets.

"In addition to the proven reliability of Lucent and its Research & Development arm Bell Labs, we are providing Ethernet-level speed, three times the throughput of existing IEEE802.11-compliant WLAN systems," said Gerard Glanville, regional manager at Lucent Technologies GCM. "We are giving our customers the best of both worlds. If they want high speed, they can use Turbo mode and if they need extended range, tighter security or connectivity with their existing IEEE equipment, they can use standard mode. There is no need to invest in two separate systems."

The new WaveLAN/IEEE Turbo also provides a special Auto Rate Selection (ARS) feature that automatically selects the optimal operating modes for specific environments, enabling users to choose between low cost and maximum range or a high number of users and fast throughput. For existing WaveLAN users, the WavePOINT II Access Point`s unique twin PC card architecture provides an easy migration path to the new WaveLAN/IEEE Turbo technology. Upgrading an existing WaveLAN system simply requires inserting a new Turbo card into one of the two PC card slots on the WavePOINT Bridge. The Turbo card can operate in both Turbo and IEEE modes simultaneously.

A single PC card inserted into the WavePOINT access point will connect at Turbo speed to clients with Turbo cards and at standard speed to clients with WaveLAN/IEEE cards. Most other WLAN systems have the radios integrated into the access point, a process requiring a total replacement of the system if a user wishes to move up to the next generation of wireless LAN. The Turbo system includes new PC card and ISA card hardware, new software for the WavePOINT II, new drivers, and a new version of the WaveMANAGER tools, used to install and configure the wireless network.