FAQ on SPWireless

FAQ on Obtaining Wireless LAN Client Adapters

FAQ on Installing the Wireless LAN adapter

FAQ on Configuring the Wireless LAN adapter for SPWireless

FAQ on Connecting to an Access Point

FAQ on Obtaining an IP address

FAQ on Logging-in via SSL to Access SPWireless (Normal Profile users)

FAQ on EDUWIN Wireless Roaming between IHLs

FAQ on Staff Secure Profile

Other Frequently Asked Questions

What is SPWireless?

SPWireless is the Singapore Polytechnic's campus-wide IEEE 802.11b compliant Wireless LAN network initiative. SPWireless is established to complement the SPICE (Singapore Polytechnic Intelligent Computing Environment) structured LAN, to allow staff and students to gain access to information anytime and anywhere in campus. To date, a total of 495 wireless Access Points (AP) are installed.   (top)

Who can use SPWireless?

SPWireless is available to all staff and students of the Singapore Polytechnic.
- Wireless roaming users from visiting IHL (Institute of Higher Learning).
  Please refer to the EDUWIN site for the updated authorised wireless roaming arrangement.
- Visitor will make use of the Normal profile to access SP wirelessLAN.
  They will get their domain account from respective department IT chairman. (top)

Which part of the Polytechnic's campus is covered by SPWireless?

SPWireless comprehensive coverage includes the following areas:

• Administration Buliding
• Auditorium
• Class Rooms
• Concourse
• Department Offices
• Food Courts
• Lecture Theatres
• Library
• Main Lecture Theatres
• Media Rooms
• Meeting and Seminar rooms
• Open Area with Study Benches
• Staff Offices
• Staff Centre (Vanda and Orchid Rooms)
• Tutorial Rooms
• Convention and Exhibition Centre

For detail location, click here.  (top)

How do I access SPWireless?

Please refer to the respective Quick Start Guide:

* Guest user is required to obtain a Guest Account from the Dept IT Chairman in order to access SPWireless.  (top)

What are the rules and regulations governing my use of SPWireless?

For first time users, you are strongly advised to read through the Usage Policy governing the usage of SPWireless. This document outlines what you can and what you shouldn't be doing on the network.

Please note that any act prohibited by this policy will be grounds for disciplinary action. Disciplinary action includes, fines, suspension of the user accounts, expulsion or suspension from the Polytechnic, depending on the severity and nature of each case. Such disciplinary action will not exclude any action taken by the proper authorities in the prosecution of any breaches of the laws of Singapore.  (top)

Where can I find help should I encounter problems connecting to SPWireless?

If you need help with your machine configuration, please refer to Troubleshooting page.
Or you have a problem to report on SPWireless, please refer to Support Contact Details page on getting help support.   (top)

What Operating Systems are supported on SPWireless?

If you are connecting to SPWireless using the Normal Profile, all Operating Systems are supported, as long as you have an Internet browser installed.   (top)

Can I install a wireless network or access point in my laboratory or office?

Department is required to seek prior approval from CIS (email: noc@sp.edu.sg) on the installation of AP in laboratory or office. This is to ensure adequate security measures are put in place for such installation. Moreover, this will prevent signal interfence between department AP and SPwireless by using appropriate radio channel.
(top)

What should I do if my domain account is locked?

Students should go to the nearest kiosk to unlock their accounts. SP staff will have to wait 30 minutes for their account to unlock before attempting to login again.   (top)

How secure is my data when I am using the Normal Profile?

The Normal profile requires you to login via an SSL webpage to authenticate yourself as a staff or student of SP. Only the login credentials (login username and password) are encrypted, all subsequent data passed over SPWireless is NOT encrypted unless the sites you are visiting provides SSL encryption as well (eg/ SP web mail).

For sensitive transaction such as Internet Banking, it is not recommended to carry out thru' wireless means.
(top)

Are Wireless Client Adapters available for loan?

The Wireless LAN cards are now ready for loan at the Main Library counter. You can check the availability through the library online catalogue by entering the keyword "wireless lan card".  (top)

What are the supported/recommended Wireless Client adapters I should use on SPWireless?

SPWireless supports most IEEE 802.11b compatible or Wi-Fi™ certified wireless adapters for US(FCC), Japan, or Europe (ESTI excluding France). For a list of recommended Wireless Client adapters, please click here.   (top)

Where can I purchase a Wireless Client adapter?

You can purchase Wireless Client adapters from most computer shops.   (top)

What should I look for when purchasing a Wireless Client adapter?

Make sure that the Wireless Client is IEEE 802.11b compatible or look out for the Wi-Fi™ logo on the Wireless Client adapter. Where possible, also look for the "Approved by IDA for use in Singapore" sticker.   (top)

How do I check if my notebook has an integrated Wireless LAN client adapter?

Please check the documentation that comes with your notebook to see if an integrated wireless LAN client adapter is present. You may also want to check to see if you your integrated wireless LAN client adapter is correctly installed.   (top)

What is the different between the 802.11 a, 802.11 b and 802.11 g wireless NIC card?

802.11a and g support up to a bandwidth of 54Mbps with the frequency of 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz respectively.  802.11b supports up to 11Mbps bandwidth with the frequency of 2.4GHz.   (top)

If I’m using 802.11a NIC card and get associated to 54Mbps, another user who is using 802.11b NIC card and get associated at 11Mbps. Will my access speed be affected or get disconnected?

When 2 users are using 802.11a and 802.11b NIC card and get associated to the same AP, their speed would not be affected as they are using different frequency band. 

In the case of 2 users using 802.11b and 802.11g NIC card and associated to the same AP.  The 802.11g NIC card access speed will be reduced from 54Mbps to 11Mbps as per 802.11b card, this is due to both NIC cards are using the same frequency band of 2.4 GHz.   (top)

Is there any special configuration to associate to higher speed mode (e.g. IEEE 802.11a or g) if I’m using a b/g card or a/b/g card?

No special configuration is needed.  Your NIC card will automatically associate to a higher supported speed.   (top)

If I have 802.11 a/b/g NIC card which speed would I be connected to?

You would be connected to the highest speed 54Mbps, if the AP you are associating is tri-band ready.   (top)

Should I upgrade from b to a or g?

If you upgrade to 802.11a or 802.11g card you would have the advantage of connecting to a higher speed of 54Mbps however if you did not upgrade you would still be able to connect at the speed of 11Mbps.   (top)

What is the actual data transfer rate?

Due to the wireless technology implementation, the actual data transfer rate for IEEE 802.11a/b/g will be much lower than the supported transfer rate.  The actual data transfer rate is estimated to be 70% of 11Mbps (IEEE 802.11b) or 54 Mbps (IEEE 802.11a or g) respectivtely.   (top)

How do I install my Wireless LAN client adapter?

Please refer to the documentation that comes with your wireless client adapter. If you are using the Cisco Aironet 340 or 350 series client adapters, you can download the installation and configuration guide here.   (top)

How do I know if my Wireless LAN adapter is correctly configured?

Make sure that you have inserted or connected your wireless client adapter. Go to Device Manager on your Windows 2000 or Windows XP computer.

Under "Network Adapters", you should be able to see your Wireless LAN adapter. If you do not see any Wireless LAN adapters or see a yellow circle with an exclaimation-mark, you will have to reinstall the driver for your wireless client adapter.

Click here to see a how this is done. (Note: Clicking on the link will download an AVI file. To view on Full Screen when using Windows Media Player, press ALT-Enter)  (top)

What are the settings that I have to configure on my Wireless LAN client adapter?

First, you will have to set is the Wireless Network Name or SSID/ESSID to pDa4SP (case-sensitive). Also, ensure that your Network Type is "Access Point" or "Infrastructure". In addition, check that your Transmit Rate has been set to "Auto" or "Auto Rate Select".

Lastly, verify that your Frequency Channel Setting is configured to "Auto". If you are unsure of any of the parameters to configure, it is best to leave them as default.

Click here to see how this is done.(Note: Clicking on the link will download an AVI file. To view on Full Screen when using Windows Media Player, press ALT-Enter)   (top)

How can I check if my Wireless LAN client adapter is correctly configured?

If you have correctly configured your Wireless LAN adapter, you will be able to connect to any of the Access points on campus. Click here to see how to check the status of your wireless connection.   (top)

How do I configure my Windows XP notebook for SPWireless?

Basically, you only need to configure the Network Name (SSID) to pDa4SP, Network Authentication to Open, and Data Encryption to Disabled.

Click here to see how this is done.(Note: Clicking on the link will download an AVI file. To view on Full Screen when using Windows Media Player, press ALT-Enter)

If your notebook is Window XP Centrio, click here to view pdf doucment on how to configure your notebook.  (top)

How can I check if I am connected to an Access Point?

To check that you are connected, Go to Network and Dial-up Connections window, and check the status of the wireless LAN adapter connection is "Enabled". If the status is "Network Cable Unplugged", it means that you are not connected to any Access Point.  Click here to see the sample screen capture.

If you are not able to connect to an Access Point, ensure that you have properly configured your Wireless LAN client adapter, and that you are in an area with wireless LAN coverage.   (top)

What should I do if I cannot connect to an Access Point?

First, check that you are in an area with Wireless LAN coverage.
Secondly, check that your wireless LAN client adapter is properly installed and working.
Next, check that you have correctly configured your Wireless LAN adapter and have entered your SSID correctly. (Please note that the SSID is case-sensitive).  (top)

Will I lose my connection when I leave the vicinity of the Access Point?

If you move from the coverage area of one Access Point to another Access Point, you are strongly recommended to save your data as you might loss connection due to coverage blind spot during your transit.   (top)

What is the coverage area of an Access Point?

An Access Point can typically transmit between 30 to 100 meters at 11 Mbps. The transmission range will vary according to the environment (indoor or outdoor), and depending on the number and types of obstacles in the vicinity.   (top)

How can I check what is my IP address?

• In Windows 98/ME: type winipcfg at the command prompt

• In Windows 2000/XP: type ipconfig at the command prompt

• For LINUX, UNIX machine: type ifconfig at the system prompt

The TCP/IP configuration of your wireless LAN client adapter should be displayed as follows:

  (top)

What is SSL?

SSL or Secure Sockets Layer is a security protocol that provides data encryption, server authentication, message integrity, and client authentication for a TCP/IP connection. Because SSL is built into all major browsers and web servers, simply installing a digital certificate turns on their SSL capabilities.   (top)

Why am I prompted to enter my username and password?

In order to enjoy Internet services using your Normal profile, you must first enter your domain username and password. This is to prevent non-SP staff and students from using SPWireless to access the Internet. Click here to see how this is done. (Note: Clicking on the link will download an AVI file. To view on Full Screen when using Windows Media Player, press ALT-Enter)  (top)

Why am I unable to access SPICE intranet resources?

You are not allowed to access SPICE intranet services (eg/ File/Print Services, MIS, Domino Applications that are not available from internet) on the Normal profile. These services will be made available through the use of the Secure Profile, which will be available at a later date.   (top)

I am able to access the SP homepage, but I cannot access the Internet. What is wrong?

Please remember to configure the Proxy settings on you browser, lese you will not be able to access the Internet. Click here to see how to configure proxy on your browser. (Note: Clicking on the link will download an AVI file. To view on Full Screen when using Windows Media Player, press ALT-Enter)  (top)

What is the data throughput speed of an 802.11b WLAN network connection?

802.11b WLANs operate up to speeds of 11 Mbps. This bandwidth, however, is shared among all users connected to the same Access Point. This means that network speeds may be noticeably slower when many people are using Wireless LAN in the same vicinity. WLAN throughput speed also depends on network topology, load, distance from the access point, etc.   (top)

What happens if I am connected to both wired and wireless networks?

Users are strongly recommended to disable the device wireless radio or disconnect from the wireless profile when you are connected to the SPICE outlet.

If you intend to connect to both wired and wireless networks concurrently, you must change the Interface Metric for your wireless LAN adapter to 2. The default setting is 1. Click here to see how this is done.(Note: Clicking on the link will download an AVI file. To view on Full Screen when using Windows Media Player, press ALT-Enter)   (top)

Are wireless LAN adapters safe to use from a health perspective, since they use radio frequencies?

The wireless LAN devices are safe when used under normal operating conditions as stated in your respective user manuals. The power levels are below that of a typical microwave oven. Click here to read Cisco's whitepaper on health concerns.   (top)

Can I connect two notebooks together using the wireless LAN adapter, but without an Access Point?

Most wireless LAN adapters allow you to configure them to run in Ad Hoc mode. This is only a peer-to-peer connection. One notebook will become the parent, while the other will be the child.   (top)

When my wireless LAN adapter is transmitting data, the speakers on my notebook gives out buzzing sound. What is wrong?

This problem comes from inadequate shielding around the PCMCIA socket itself. The radio energy of the card passing traffic leaks over into the speakers (since it's not sufficiently contained in the card socket) and manifests as a buzz in the speakers. It is not a problem with the card, but with the socket. Resolution needs to come from the manufacturer of the laptop who chose not to shield the socket.   (top)

Will Bluetooth and 802.11bWireless LAN (WLAN) interfere with each other?

No. Both Bluetooth and 802.11b WLAN can co-exist, as they both use different frequency modulation techniques. They may each appear as background noise to the other but should not cause any perceivable performance issues.   (top)

Does a wireless LAN adapter use a lot of power?

Yes. Please note that a notebook's batteries will deplete much faster when using a wireless LAN adapter.   (top)

Are we allowed to use the electrical power points in Lab or Library to charge our personal notebooks?

Yes. You are allowed to use any electrical power point in campus as long as that power point is not in used. In the event all power points in the lab are connected to "live" devices, you should seek permission from Lab-in-charge before disconnecting the "live" devices.   (top)

Which IHLs are ready with the EDUWIN Wireless Roaming? And where can I find such information?

What is the mandatory software that I need to install for EDUWIN?

Who should I contact if I encounter problem at the Host IHL (eg: NUS) ?

How does Wireless Zone signage looks like?

Below is the standard SP Wireless 'Surf Zone' signage.
This signage will be placed in SP public areas like canteens and study areas. 'Surf Zone' indicates a wireless access point is neared the surrounding area.
To achieve ideal transmission signal quality and strength, you are advised to sit near an access point. (top)

 

Who is allow to access using Secure Profile?

Does my personal notebook allow to access using Secure Profile?

Where are the designated areas for Secure Profile? Where can I find such information?

SPWireless comprehensive coverage includes the following areas:

• Administration Buliding
• Auditorium
• Class Rooms
• Concourse
• Department Offices
• Food Courts
• Lecture Theatres
• Library
• Main Lecture Theatres
• Media Rooms
• Meeting and Seminar rooms
• Open Area with Study Benches
• Staff Offices
• Staff Centre (Vanda and Orchid Rooms)
• Tutorial Rooms
• Convention and Exhibition Centre

My network drive is lost when I switch between wired LAN to Secure Profile?

Why can't I access my network drive and print service through Secure Profile ?

Why I am not associate to a wireless network when I switch from other wireless profiles to Secure Profile?

Upon switching to Secure Profile, the login credential will be forwarded to the SPICE domain for authentication. It is likely that your login credential is using your local UserID and password which is different from the SPICE domain credential.
If this scenerio happens on your notebook, you have to logoff and re-logon the Secure Profile using the SPICE domain credential (SF domain account and password) again. (top)

Am I allow to connect to both wired and wireless Secure Profile at the same time?

Which applications can I access though wireless Secure Profile?

-Who is allowed to access using Student Secure Profile?

 Where are the designated areas for Student Secure Profile? Where can I find such information?

-Does my personal notebook allow to access using Student Secure Profile?

-Why I am not able to associate to a wireless network when I switch from other Wireless Profiles to Secure Profile?

-Which applications can I access through Wireless Secure Profile?

- MathCAD 13

-How do I configure my Student Secure Profile?

If my current Student Secure Profile has failed to work, how do I re-configure my Student Secure Profile?