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The Institute of Electrical
and Electronics Engineers
In late 1999, the IEEE established a standard for
high-speed wireless Local Area Networks. The 802.11(b) standard
provides speeds up to 11 Mbps and uses license-free microwave
frequencies in the 2.4 GHz range. However, this "standard"
actually includes THREE different ways to deliver a wireless signal.
One method uses a Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum technique, referred
to as DSSS, and another method uses a Frequency Hoping Spread Spectrum
technique, known as FHSS. The third method uses infrared frequencies
and is not widely applicable. In addition to these
"standard" wireless systems, some manufacturers have
produced their own proprietary systems that do not conform to any standard.
In part because of the 802.11(b) "standard", the demand for
wireless LAN's has increased. Businesses are more willing to invest in
a technology if there is a lower likelihood of it becoming obsolete.
As a result, wireless systems using DSSS have become the de facto
standard in most offices. With the increased demand and higher
volumes, the cost of equipment has been reduced significantly. The
lower price, in turn, further fuels the growth and we are now in the
midst of what is called "the wireless tornado". Growth
is spiraling up and consumers are the beneficiaries. Wireless networks
using the 802.11(b) DSSS standard are now very affordable.
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The IEEE Established The Standard For Wireless Networks
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