Glossary
GL-4
Cisco IOS Software Configuration Guide for Cisco Aironet Access Points
OL-29225-01
IP subnet mask
The number used to identify the IP subnetwork, indicating whether the IP
address can be recognized on the LAN or if it must be reached through a
gateway. This number is expressed in a form similar to an IP address; for
example: 255.255.255.0.
isotropic
An antenna that radiates its signal in a spherical pattern.
M
MAC
Media Access Control address. A unique 48-bit number used in Ethernet data
packets to identify an Ethernet device, such as an access point or your client
adapter.
modulation
Any of several techniques for combining user information with a transmitter’s
carrier signal.
multipath
The echoes created as a radio signal bounces off of physical objects.
multicast packet
A single data message (packet) sent to multiple addresses.
O
omni-directional
This typically refers to a primarily circular antenna radiation pattern.
Orthogonal
Frequency Division
Multiplex (OFDM)
A modulation technique used by IEEE 802.11a-compliant wireless LANs for
transmission at 6, 9, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, and 54 Mbps.
P
packet
A basic message unit for communication across a network. A packet usually
includes routing information, data, and sometimes error detection information.
Q
Quadruple Phase
Shift Keying
A modulation technique used by IEEE 802.11b-compliant wireless LANs for
transmission at 2 Mbps.
R
range
A linear measure of the distance that a transmitter can send a signal.
receiver sensitivity
A measurement of the weakest signal a receiver can receive and still correctly
translate it into data.
RF
Radio frequency. A generic term for radio-based technology.