How This Book Is Organized
This book is divided into several subjects by chapter:
- Chapter 1 The Standards
Wireless technology has not only produced impressive improvements to communications, but also has produced an impressive list of acronyms. What is the difference between GPRS and GMRS? Which is fastest, 802.11, 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, or 802.16? Exactly how do Wi-Fi and Bluetooth fit into all of this? This chapter will give you a good idea of what problems each technology is designed to solve, their relative strengths and weaknesses, and how to make the best possible use of each to solve your communication needs.
- Chapter 2 Bluetooth and Mobile Data
The last couple of years have brought millions of tiny battery-powered wireless devices to market. Some will get you an Internet connection just about anywhere with mobile phone service, while others keep your devices connected to the “last ten feet.” This chapter demonstrates some uses for these technologies, which will keep your devices (and yourself) hyperconnected, without wires.
- Chapter 3 Network Monitoring
Wireless networking can be a lot of fun, but when it breaks, troubleshooting can be difficult without a good idea of what is really happening. This chapter will give you the tools you need to detect the presence of wireless networks, coordinate spectrum usage to avoid interference, and visualize network performance. It also covers a number of advanced data monitoring techniques to pinpoint networking issues and even get ...