If you need a dedicated 802.11b access point without the features of an integrated access point, the Belkin F5D6130 Access Point may be just what you are looking for.

This small device, approximately 12Æ’__x6Æ’__, simply plugs into your network via an ethernet cable. Install the setup software on any PC on the network, and you are ready to go. When I say, Æ’_oready to go,Æ’__ I should emphasize that it took me less than 30 seconds to set this unit up and have a client online wirelessly.

This unit is small enough to go about anywhere. It has rubber feet for staying put in Æ’_ositting position,Æ’__ and also provides screw mounts so you can conveniently mount this on a wall out of the way. The adjustable dual antennas provide for adjustment in either position. In either position, sheÆ’_Tll work like a charm.

Overview

This unit features dual antennas and a single RJ-45 input Æ’_” but donÆ’_Tt think that it is short on features. This unit provides for MAC address authentication if you desire Æ’_” keeping your neighbor from tapping into your network, as well as the standard fare of WEP settings for data encryption. Three LED status lights on the top indicate power, link and network status.

Setting this unit up was a breeze. I simply took it out of the box, plugged it in and connected it to an ethernet cable from my router. WAN activity was seen immediately. If there is no need to configure advanced features, you are basically done. The default setting of the unit provides for it to act as a DHCP client and is ready to go.

To setup the unit, you must install the proprietary configuration software. After a short install, you run the setup client. You click an icon to scan your network for the unit, and then the AP is listed in your client software, indicating AP name, MAC address, IP address, subnet mask and state. To configure that specific unit, you highlight the unit and click on the Æ’_oconnectÆ’__ icon. You are prompted by for a password that is clearly indicated in the manual, and are then able to utilize the various setup related icons on the toolbar.

As previously noted, the default setting for the unit is to act as a DCHP client, with WEP disabled. In general setup, you can modify the AP Name, SSID, setting, and assign a static IP if required. The Æ’_oEncryptionÆ’__ button allows you to configure the WEP settings if you choose to use them. In the example shown, I have changed the SSID of the unit to Æ’_o303Æ’__ and the channel to Æ’_o5Æ’__.
To assign MAC address level permissions, simply click on the icon which resembles saloon doors with a Æ’_o+Æ’__ on each side. This will allow you to assign specific MAC addresses for adapters permitted to connect to the access point.

The Æ’_okeyÆ’__ icon in the setup software provides for changing of the APÆ’_Ts password. Additional icons are provided to reset the AP, reload factory defaults, and upgrade the unitÆ’_Ts firmware. The URL to get upgraded firmware is provided in the documentation and took approximately 45 seconds to update to the unit.

Operating Performance

This unit was tested with several PC Card and USB adapters from Belkin, Lucent, and Xircom. TCP throughput was consistently between 4.25 - 4.5 Mbps, going through concrete walls. Accessing the unit from outdoors, approximately 350 feet away, the connection would drop to 3.5 Æ’_” 3.25 Mbps. Still more than fast enough to surf the web.

Enabling the WEP encryption did not seem to impact the performance of the units whatsoever. There was a .1-.25 Mbps drop in throughout with 128-bit encryption enabled.

This unit also appeared to have a great range, providing outdoor access up to about 1200 feet away from the access point, through walls and trees without dropping the signal. The packaging promotes up to 1800 feet of signal, which may be achievable in an open-air environment.

Summary

In all, the Belkin Wireless Access Point F5D6130 provided one of the quickest setup times IÆ’_Tve ever experienced out-of-the-box and had great performance. Although it has a suggested retail of $159.99, this unit is currently hitting the street between $129.99 and $159.99. Great unit for someone who doesnÆ’_Tt want anything fancy and has no experience with network settings and configuration. 30 seconds to setup, years to enjoy the freedom.

Posted on HomeNetHelp.com as a Guest Reviewer