802.11a

Networks using 802.11a operate at radio frequencies between 5.725 GHz and 5.850 GHz. The specification uses a modulation scheme known as orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) that is especially well suited to use in office settings. In 802.11a, data speeds as high as 54 Mbps are possible. There is less interference with 802.11a than with 802.11b, because 802.11a provides more available channels, and because the frequency spectrum employed by 802.11b (2.400 GHz to 2.4835 GHz) is shared with various household appliances and medical devices.

For other 802.11 specifications, see the 802.xx Fast Reference.

Read more about 802.11a: - The IEEE lets you freely download each of the 802.11 specifications from their Web site. - SearchMobileComputing.com provides a Wireless Learning Guide.

Do you have something to add to this definition? Let us know. Send your comments to techterms@whatis.com

Digg This!     StumbleUpon     Del.icio.us

RELATED CONTENT Vendors at Interop in a scrum over WLAN architecture At Interop 2008, a panel discussion on WLAN architecture alternatives turned into an argument between Aruba Networks and Extricom over radio channel... Strategies for enterprise wireless deployment discussed at Interop Paul DeBeasi discusses enterprise wireless deployment strategies and his upcoming session at Interop Las Vegas 2008. Upgrading to 802.11n: Key considerations This 802.11n checklist will help you determine where, how, and when to migrate to 802.11n Wi-Fi, and how to maximize benefit and minimize pain.

RELATED GLOSSARY TERMS Terms from Whatis.com − the technology online dictionary Asynchronous Pulsed Radiated Incident Light  (SearchNetworking.com) Asynchronous Pulsed Radiated Incident Light is a multi-duplicitous communication protocol (MDCP) used to configure wireless local area networks... cognitive radio  (SearchNetworking.com) Cognitive radio (CR) is a form of wireless communication in which a transceiver can intelligently detect which communication channels are in use and...