Terms and Acronyms
20 Installation and User’s Manual for Wi-Fi Module
Section 5: Terms and Acronyms
The following is a limited glossary of terms and acronyms that define the technology used with
Mobile Link Wi-Fi enabled modules and controllers. Understanding these terms is important for
proper and successful diagnosis of connectivity issues.
Term / Acronym Description
Access Point (AP) A networking hardware device that allows a Wi-Fi device to connect to a wired
network. AP mode means the generator Wi-Fi is in broadcasting mode. System is
ready to be connected to a home network.
Application (App) A computer program that operates on a mobile device such as a tablet or smart
phone. Some apps are free, while others must be purchased. Each mobile device
manufacturer operates an “app store” where customers can browse, purchase,
and download apps.
Connecting Establishing a wireless communication link between two electronic devices.
Firmware Permanent software embedded in a computerized device; typically used as the
operating system. Firmware is read-only (non-editable) and can only be installed
or updated by someone with specialized knowledge and system access.
Firmware can also be automatically updated via Wi-Fi if connected to the home
network.
Hardware The electronics, wires, and devices that form the physical structure of a computer-
based system.
Internet Service
Provider (ISP)
A third-party company supplying customers with the hardware, software, and data
plans needed to connect computers and / or mobile devices to the Internet.
Internet Protocol
(IP) Address
A unique number assigned to any device accessing the Internet. A typical IP
address is in the form of a dotted decimal number like: 01.234.567.90.
LAN (Local Area
Network)
A network of computers and peripheral devices that share a common
communication line or file server. LANs can be wired or wireless.
MAC (Media
Access Control)
address
The unique identifier or hardware address of each device on a computer network.
It is also referred to as the physical address and takes the form: xx:xx:xx:xx:xx:xx
Mobile Device A computer, laptop, smart phone, or tablet, frequently used by consumers to
access the Internet.
Ping A test signal transmitted to check if a network component, such as a Wi-Fi
module, is connected to and communicating with the network.
Quick Response
(QR) Code
A two-dimensional bar code consisting of small black squares arranged in a
square grid on a white background. QR codes contain embedded information
about a product or links to websites.They are scanned by optical readers, or
cameras on mobile devices.
Radio frequency
(RF)
The section of the electromagnetic spectrum between 3000 Hz and 300 GHz—
typically used for communication or signaling.
RS-485 A standard defining the electrical characteristics of drivers and receivers for use in
serial communications systems, including Wi-Fi.
Received Signal
Strength Indication
(RSSI)
A measurement of how well a device can receive a signal from an access point
or router.
Service Set
Identifier (SSID)
An alphanumeric character string which uniquely identifies a wireless local area
network (WLAN). SSID is also referred to as the “Network Name” and can be
broadcast or hidden.
Smart Phone A handheld computer primarily intended for use as a cellular phone, but with other
features such as Internet browsers, clock/timer, camera, voice recorder, apps, text
messaging capability, and e-mail.
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