Updating drivers and firmware
Every so often the manufacturers of wireless equipment -- including wireless
adapters -- update or upgrade the software drivers and internal firmware
(programmed operating instructions stored within a hardware device). It's a
good idea to check the manufacturer's Web site on a regular basis to see if
they've made something available for your adapter.
Firmware doesn't seem to get upgraded as often as the drivers but, especially
in the case of USB adapters, it does happen. So, how often should you check
the manufacturer's Web site? If you check the site once every three months,
that's plenty. (Okay, if you never check for updates or upgrades, the world
won't come to a screeching halt -- but you might miss out on getting a bit
better performance from your wireless equipment.)
In some cases, you may have to uninstall your currently loaded drivers and
connection utility before you install updated or upgraded drivers. (This prob-
ably won't be the case if you're upgrading firmware.)
Attaching an External Antenna
For the most part -- with the exception of an outdoor directional antenna --
attaching an external antenna is pretty straightforward. There are, however, a
few things worth mentioning, especially if you're planning to mount an exter-
nal antenna outside your vehicle. If you're also including an amplifier, even
then you won't need a working knowledge of rocket science -- but planning
and common sense save wear and tear on nerves.
Depending on whether you're setting up an outdoor omnidirectional antenna
or an indoor antenna (whether directional or omnidirectional), you have dif-
ferent circumstances that influence your planned setup and installation. For
example, if you have an outdoor directional antenna, consider what location
will enable you to rotate it 360 degrees; with an omnidirectional antenna, you
don't need to worry about that, because of the way the antenna works (see
Chapter 3 for details).
No matter the type of antenna you intend to use -- indoor or outdoor, direc-
tional or omnidirectional -- here are a couple of universal rules:
Obstacle avoidance: This rule of thumb applies especially to the folks
who pull a high trailer such as a van or reefer. If that's you, then mount
your antenna as far forward of the trailer as possible. Whether you're
operating a semi pulling a high trailer or an RV pulling a snowmobile
trailer, be sure to mount or place your antenna in an obstacle-free area.
Part I: The Wonderful World of Wireless Fidelity
Page 66
