6
2 Networking Basics
The Zebra ZXP Series 8 printer has an internal print server that supports both wired and
wireless Ethernet connectivity. The wired Ethernet capability is standard with the printer while
the wireless capability is an option that can be ordered through the factory. The wireless option
is field upgradeable, but requires partial disassembly of the printer covers to remove the wired
daughter card and replace it with a wired/wireless daughter card (see separate document that
describes daughter card installation in the printer). The printer supports simultaneous wired
and wireless connections, a capability referred to as multi-homing, in this case having two
separate interfaces with separate IP addresses. To connect to a wireless network, the printer
uses wireless protocol IEEE 802.11b/g that communicates data through radio transmission.
After installing the printer to a wireless network, cables are not required to communicate with
the computers or devices that are part of the network.
A wireless local area network (WLAN) is a collection of two or more computers, printers, and
other devices linked by radio waves. A WLAN uses high-frequency airwaves (radio) to
communicate information from one point to another.
To connect a computer or device to a wireless network, the computer or device must have a
wireless network adapter. The Zebra ZXP Series 8 printer uses an internal networking
component that contains a wireless radio. No cabling is necessary between networked devices
that use wireless technology, although it is possible to use a USB or wired Ethernet cable to
configure your printer for a wireless network.
Common wireless network adapters include the following:
• USB adapter: An external device that connects to a USB port on the computer.
• Notebook adapter: A PCMCIA card that plugs directly into one of the PCMCIA slots on
your laptop or other portable computer.
• Desktop computer adapter: A dedicated ISA or PCI card, or a PCMCIA card with a special
adapter that plugs into your desktop computer.
Channels and communication modes
The band of radio signals used for IEEE 802.11b/g wireless networking is segmented into
specific frequencies, or channels. For IEEE 802.11b/g wireless networks, 14 channels are
available. Each country/region specifies the channels that are authorized for use. For example,
in North America, only channels 1 through 11 are allowed. In Japan, channels 1 through 14 can
To Next Page
Loading...
Need help?
General
Weight and Dimensions
