Aircheck: Users Manual

AirCheck ™
Wi-Fi Tester
Users Manual
01/2010, Rev. 4, 08/2013

©2010-2013 Fluke Corporation.
All product names are trademarks of their respective companies.
®
Wi-Fi is a registered trademark of the Wi-Fi Alliance.
LIMITED WARRANTY AND LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
Each Fluke Networks product is warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal use and service. The
warranty period for the mainframe is one year and begins on the date of purchase. Parts, accessories, product repairs and services are
warranted for 90 days, unless otherwise stated. Ni-Cad, Ni-MH and Li-Ion batteries, cables or other peripherals are all considered parts
or accessories. The warranty extends only to the original buyer or end user customer of a Fluke Networks authorized reseller, and does
not apply to any product which, in Fluke Networks’ opinion, has been misused, abused, altered, neglected, contaminated, or damaged
by accident or abnormal conditions of operation or handling. Fluke Networks warrants that software will operate substantially in
accordance with its functional specifications for 90 days and that it has been properly recorded on non-defective media. Fluke Networks
does not warrant that software will be error free or operate without interruption.
Fluke Networks authorized resellers shall extend this warranty on new and unused products to end-user customers only but have no
authority to extend a greater or different warranty on behalf of Fluke Networks. Warranty support is available only if product is
purchased through a Fluke Networks authorized sales outlet or Buyer has paid the applicable international price. Fluke Networks
reserves the right to invoice Buyer for importation costs of repair/replacement parts when product purchased in one country is
submitted for repair in another country.
Fluke Networks warranty obligation is limited, at Fluke Networks option, to refund of the purchase price, free of charge repair, or
replacement of a defective product which is returned to a Fluke Networks authorized service center within the warranty period.
To obtain warranty service, contact your nearest Fluke Networks authorized service center to obtain return authorization information,
then send the product to that service center, with a description of the difficulty, postage and insurance prepaid (FOB destination). Fluke
Networks assumes no risk for damage in transit. Following warranty repair, the product will be returned to Buyer, transportation
prepaid (FOB destination). If Fluke Networks determines that failure was caused by neglect, misuse, contamination, alteration, accident
or abnormal condition of operation or handling, or normal wear and tear of mechanical components, Fluke Networks will provide an
estimate of repair costs and obtain authorization before commencing the work. Following repair, the product will be returned to the
Buyer transportation prepaid and the Buyer will be billed for the repair and return transportation charges (FOB Shipping point).
THIS WARRANTY IS BUYER’S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY AND IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED,
INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY OR MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. FLUKE
NETWORKS SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR LOSSES, INCLUDING
LOSS OF DATA, ARISING FROM ANY CAUSE OR THEORY.
Since some countries or states do not allow limitation of the term of an implied warranty, or exclusion or limitation of incidental or
consequential damages, the limitations and exclusions of this warranty may not apply to every buyer. If any provision of this Warranty
is held invalid or unenforceable by a court or other decision-maker of competent jurisdiction, such holding will not affect the validity or
enforceability of any other provision.
4/04
Fluke Networks
PO Box 777
Everett, WA 98206-0777
USA
Contents
Title Page
Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................................... 1
Registering Your Product ..................................................................................................................................................... 1
The Fluke Networks Knowledge Base ................................................................................................................................. 2
Contact Fluke Networks ....................................................................................................................................................... 2
Safety Information ................................................................................................................................................................ 2
Unpacking ............................................................................................................................................................................. 3
AirCheck Wi-Fi Tester .................................................................................................................................................... 3
AirCheck Frontline Troubleshooting Kit ...................................................................................................................... 4
Physical Features ................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Battery Charging and Life .................................................................................................................................................... 7
Use the AirCheck Manager PC Application for the Best Performance .............................................................................. 8
What You Can Learn About Your Network ........................................................................................................................ 9
What is the Health of My Network? ............................................................................................................................. 9
What is in the Wireless LAN? ........................................................................................................................................ 12
Can Devices Connect to My Network? ......................................................................................................................... 14
What Causes Slow Network Performance or Dropped Connections? ........................................................................ 15
Are There Security Risks in My Network? ..................................................................................................................... 16
How Can I Document My Network and My Test Session? ........................................................................................... 18
How Can I Erase Everything on my AirCheck? ............................................................................................................. 18
i
AirCheck Wi-Fi Tester
Users Manual
Where is an Access Point? .............................................................................................................................................. 18

What Networks or Access Points Come into Range as I Move? .................................................................................. 18
The Home Screen ................................................................................................................................................................... 19
Using AutoTest to Diagnose Your Network Health ............................................................................................................ 20
Air Quality ...................................................................................................................................................................... 21
802.11 Channel Utilization ..................................................................................................................................... 21
Non-802.11 Channel Utilization ............................................................................................................................. 22
Co-Channel Interference ........................................................................................................................................ 23
Rogue Access Points ....................................................................................................................................................... 24
Network Quality ............................................................................................................................................................. 25
Set Up the Tester ................................................................................................................................................................... 26
Change the Language and Country Settings ............................................................................................................... 26
Make a Profile to Connect to Secure Networks ........................................................................................................... 26
Settings ........................................................................................................................................................................... 29
802.11d Operation ......................................................................................................................................................... 36
Change the Thresholds for the Colors in Bar Graphs ................................................................................................... 37
Give Access Points an Authorization Status ................................................................................................................. 38
Discover Networks and Access Points ................................................................................................................................... 39
Notes for Networks and Access Points ................................................................................................................................. 51
If the Tester Does Not Discover an Access Point .................................................................................................................. 54
Channel Usage ....................................................................................................................................................................... 54
Verify Connectivity ................................................................................................................................................................ 57
Connect to a Network or Access Point .......................................................................................................................... 57
Entering Security Credentials Using “Connect” ........................................................................................................... 58
Ping a Device or Application Server .............................................................................................................................. 63
Discover Clients ...................................................................................................................................................................... 65
Discovering Clients through Meru APs ......................................................................................................................... 66
If the Tester Does Not Discover a Client .............................................................................................................................. 70
ii
Contents
Locate an Access Point or a Client ....................................................................................................................................... 70

The External Directional Antenna ....................................................................................................................................... 74
Adjust Signal Strength Measurements to Agree with Other Devices ................................................................................ 78
Save a Test Session ................................................................................................................................................................ 79
Manage Files on the Tester .................................................................................................................................................. 80
About Files on the Tester .............................................................................................................................................. 81
Transfer Files to a PC ..................................................................................................................................................... 82
Maintenance ......................................................................................................................................................................... 82
Clean the Tester ............................................................................................................................................................. 83
Update the Software in the Tester ............................................................................................................................... 83
Restore Factory Defaults ............................................................................................................................................... 84
Erase All Data ................................................................................................................................................................. 84
Device Information ........................................................................................................................................................ 84
If the Tester Will Not Turn Off ...................................................................................................................................... 84
Options and Accessories ....................................................................................................................................................... 85
Specifications ......................................................................................................................................................................... 86
Environmental Specifications ........................................................................................................................................ 86
General Specifications ................................................................................................................................................... 88
Wireless Specifications ................................................................................................................................................... 89
Federal Communication Commission and Industry Canada Interference Statement ....................................................... 92
Important Note: FCC and IC Radiation Exposure Statement ...................................................................................... 92
Europe-EU Declaration of Conformity ......................................................................................................................... 93
iii
Users Manual
iv
List of Figures
Figure Page
1. Physical Features ................................................................................................................................................... 5
2. How to Remove the Battery ................................................................................................................................. 7
3. AutoTest Results Viewed in AirCheck Manager.................................................................................................. 8
4. The Home Screen ................................................................................................................................................. 19
5. AutoTest Results Screen........................................................................................................................................ 21
6. 802.11 Channel Utilization Default Thresholds .................................................................................................. 21
7. Non-802.11 Channel Utilization Default Thresholds .......................................................................................... 22
8. Air Quality Co-channel Default Threshold .......................................................................................................... 23
9. Signal Level Default Threshold ............................................................................................................................ 23
10. Main AutoTest Display.......................................................................................................................................... 25
11. Examining the Network Quality of an SSID ........................................................................................................ 25
12. Change the Thresholds for the Colors in a Bar Graph ........................................................................................ 37
13. Networks (SSIDs) List ............................................................................................................................................. 40
14. Access Points List ................................................................................................................................................... 44
15. Access Point Details Screen................................................................................................................................... 49
16. Channel Usage Screen .......................................................................................................................................... 54
17. Channel Usage Details Screen .............................................................................................................................. 56
18. The Connection Screen ......................................................................................................................................... 61
19. The Connection Log .............................................................................................................................................. 62
20. The Ping Screen ..................................................................................................................................................... 64
v
Users Manual
21. Clients Screen ........................................................................................................................................................66

22. Client Details Screen .............................................................................................................................................68
23. Locate Access Point Screen ...................................................................................................................................71
24. Locate Client Screen ..............................................................................................................................................72
25. Search Pattern for the Omnidirectional Antenna in the Tester .........................................................................73
26. Search Pattern for the External Antenna ............................................................................................................76
27. How to Point the External Antenna.....................................................................................................................77
28. oui_abbr.txt File ....................................................................................................................................................81
vi
Wi-Fi AirCheck™ Wi-Fi Tester
Introduction You can save the test results and use AirCheck™ Manager
software to transfer the results to a PC and make
The AirCheck™ Wi-Fi Tester lets you make sure that 802.11 professional-quality reports. You can use AirCheck Manager
wireless LANs are available to mobile users, examine the to compare information from different test sessions to see
usage of channels to help you do an analysis of network changes in a wireless LAN.
health, and find the source of connection problems. The
tester operates on 802.11 b/g/n networks in the 2.4 GHz
band and 802.11 a/n networks in the 5 GHz band. It has the Registering Your Product
capability of detecting 802.11 ac access points and
Registering your product with Fluke Networks gives you
networks.
access to valuable information on product updates,
The optional PoE detector shows you if Power over troubleshooting procedures, and other services. To register,
Ethernet voltage from 802.3af and higher-power 802.3at fill out the online form on the Fluke Networks website at
devices is available on twisted pair network cabling. www.flukenetworks.com/registration.
1
Users Manual
The Fluke Networks Knowledge Base • Korea: 82 2 539-6311

• Singapore: +65-6799-5566
The Fluke Networks Knowledge Base gives answers to
common questions about Fluke Networks products and • Taiwan: (886) 2-227-83199
includes information on technology and procedures for
network and cable tests. To see the Knowledge Base, go to • USA: 1-800-283-5853
www.flukenetworks.com, then click Support > Knowledge For more phone numbers, go to our website.
Base.
Safety Information
Contact Fluke Networks
Table 1 gives descriptions of the safety symbols used on the
www.flukenetworks.com tester and in this manual.
support@flukenetworks.com
+1-425-446-4519 Table 1. Safety Symbols
• Australia: 61 (2) 8850-3333 or 61 (3) 9329 0244 Warning or Caution: risk of damage to or
• Beijing: 86 (10) 6512-3435

 destruction of equipment or software. See
explanations in the manual.
• Brazil: 11 3759 7600
• Canada: 1-800-363-5853
 Warning: Risk of electrical shock.
• Europe: +31-(0) 40 2675 600

• Hong Kong: 852 2721-3228
• Japan: 03-6714-3117
2
Safety Information
Do not put products that contain circuit Warning

 boards into waste containers. Refer to local
Read all safety information before you use the
regulations for disposal procedures.
Product.
This equipment contains a Class 2 radio. Use the Product only as specified, or the protection
supplied by the Product can be compromised.
Carefully read all instructions.
Use only Fluke approved power adapters to charge

the battery.
Do not use the Product around explosive gas,

vapor, or in damp or wet environments.
Examine the case before you use the Product. Look

for cracks or missing plastic. Carefully look at the
insulation around the terminals.
Batteries contain hazardous chemicals that can

cause burns or explode. If exposure to chemicals
occurs, clean with water and get medical aid.
Remove the batteries if the Product is not used for

an extended period of time, or if stored in
temperatures above 50 °C. If the batteries are not
removed, battery leakage can damage the Product.
3
Users Manual
Do not short the battery terminals together. • Carrying case
Do not disassemble or crush battery cells and • Getting Started Guide

battery packs. Do not put battery cells and battery • Product manuals CD
packs near heat or fire. Do not put in sunlight.
• AirCheck Manager Software CD
Caution
If you use an external antenna, use only the AirCheck Frontline Troubleshooting Kit
antenna that Fluke Networks makes for the • AirCheck with rechargeable battery pack
AirCheck tester. The tester will not operate
correctly with other antennas and may • Extra battery pack
violate
• LinkRunner™ Pro
local regulations.
• External directional antenna with RSMA connector
Unpacking • PoE detector
The AirCheck Wi-Fi Tester comes with the accessories in the • AC adapter
list below. If something is damaged or missing, tell the • USB cable
dealer where you purchased the product.
• Carrying case
AirCheck Wi-Fi Tester • Getting Started Guide
• AirCheck with rechargeable battery pack • Product manuals CD
• AC adapter • AirCheck Manager Software CD
• USB cable
4
Physical Features
Physical Features
G H
F
M
E F1 F2
E
D SELECT I L
C K
B J O
A
ffy01.eps
Figure 1. Physical Features
5
Users Manual
 On/off key.  The LED turns on when you connect the ac adapter. The
LED is red when the battery charges and green when
 Makes a selection on the screen. the battery is fully charged.
 Navigation keys.  Connector for the ac adapter.
 Shows the previous screen.  USB port for connection to a PC. AirCheck will appear
 Softkeys. The function of the softkey is shown above the as a mass storage device.
key.
 Connector for the external directional antenna. See
 Full-color LCD. page 77.
 The LED blinks when the tester tries to connect to a  Screw for the battery pack.
wireless LAN. The LED is on when the tester is connected
to a wireless LAN.
 The LED blinks when the tester transmits data.
 Shows the home screen.
 O: Erases all data collected during the current sequence
of tests. This does not erase the results saved in memory.
P: Saves all data in a session file. See page 82.
6
Battery Charging and Life
Battery Charging and Life

Charge the battery for 4 hours before you use it for the first
time.
To charge the battery, connect the ac adapter to the battery

connector ( in Figure 1). You can use the tester while you
charge the battery.
Figure 2 shows how to replace the battery.
When the tester is off, the battery charges in approximately

3 hours.
Note
The battery will not charge if the internal
temperature of the tester is above 113ºF (45ºC).
The battery life is approximately 5.5 hours during typical

operation. An icon in the upper-left corner of the screen
shows the battery status. See Figure 4 on page 19.
ffy14.eps
Figure 2. How to Remove the Battery
7
Users Manual
Use the AirCheck Manager PC

Application for the Best Performance
To get the most performance from your tester, use AirCheck
Manager to upgrade the AirCheck tester firmware, view
measurement results saved as session files, generate reports
on session files, setup the tester configuration and save it to
a profile, and transfer the profile to the tester. A profile lets
the tester do these tasks:
• Connect to networks that require security credentials.

Security credentials can be entered on the tester or
through the AirCheck Manager software.
• Show the correct authorization status for each access
point. This lets you quickly see which access points are
authorized parts of the network.
• Setup key network devices to Ping and run a TCP Port
Connect test. You should configure security credentials
for the network(s) containing any key devices that you
are pinging. ffy29.bmp
See “Using AutoTest to Diagnose Your Network Health” on Figure 3. AutoTest Results Viewed in AirCheck Manager
page 20. Also use the AirCheck Manager online Help for
instructions.
8
What You Can Learn About Your Network
What You Can Learn About Your

Network
What is the Health of My Network?
9
Users Manual
How is my Wi-Fi Air Quality? Select AutoTest - After the AutoTest has run, select Air Quality to view the
Are my channels overloaded with results of 802.11 Channel Utilization, Non-802.11 Channel Utilization, and Co-
access points and Wi-Fi traffic? Channel Interference health assessment.
Are any of my channels too noisy?
The 802.11 Channel Utilization results include the top three channels having
the most Wi-Fi traffic. The channel utilization value along with the rating of
Pass, Warning, or Fail, is displayed. The test rating is based on a
comparison of the actual value to user settable thresholds. These thresholds
are configured in the Tools > Thresholds / AutoTest Settings.
To see the current AutoTest thresholds used to grade results, press 

Thresholds on the AutoTest (results) screen.
The Non-802.11 Channel Utilization results include the top three channels
with the most non-802.11 interference and noise. The channel utilization
value along with the rating of Pass, Warning, or Fail, is displayed.
The Co-Channel Interference results include the top three channels with the
most APs with a minimum signal strength. The AP count along with the
rating of Pass, Warning, or Fail is displayed.
See Using AutoTest to Diagnose Your Network Health, on page 39.
10
How is my Wi-Fi Network Quality? Select AutoTest - After the AutoTest has run, select Network Quality to
Can I hear any access points that view the results of Coverage, Co-Channel Interference, Security, and
support my networks? Connection health assessment.
Are there coverage holes in this
area? Are there too many close The Coverage results include the number of APs with good signal quality
APs using the same channel supporting a network (SSID) along with the rating of Pass, Warning, or Fail.
making my network slow? The test rating is based on a comparison of the actual values to user settable
Can I connect? thresholds. The AP count and signal quality thresholds of signal level and
signal-to-noise are set in the Tools > Thresholds / AutoTest Settings >
Network Coverage, Signal level and Signal-to-noise Threshold screens.
The Co-Channel Interference results include the number of overlapping APs

for a network along with the rating of Pass, Warning, or Fail. This is based
on single network (SSID) comparison to thresholds. Thresholds for this test
are set in the Tools > Thresholds / AutoTest Settings > Network Quality
co-channel thresholds screen.
The Security results report whether all APs on the SSID use the same security
credentials along with a rating of Pass, Warning, or Fail.
The Connection test attempts to link to each network configured in your

profile (see page 59). Test results indicate whether or not you can connect at
your current location. The health of you connection, e.g., tx rate, packet
retries, and if you can reach other devices on the network, e.g., ping. The
results are presented along with a rating of Pass, Warning, or Fail.
11
Users Manual
What unauthorized or unknown The Rogue Access Points test, an optional part of AutoTest, indicates whether
access points are connected to my unauthorized or unknown access points are detected with a rating of Pass,
Wi-Fi network? Warning, or Fail grading. Results include a list of all rogue access points
Are they a security risk? heard at your location. Identification of rogue access points requires
configuration of an Access Control List (ACL). ACL configuration is available
from the AutoTest screen by selecting Rogue Access Points > ACL or Home>
Access Points > ACL.
By default, the Rogue Access Point test is not enabled. To enable the test and
allow it to run as part of AutoTest, select Tools > Thresholds / AutoTest
Settings > Rogue Access Point AutoTest.
See Using AutoTest to Diagnose Your Network Health, on page 39.
What is in the Wireless LAN?

What wireless LANs are available? Select Networks to see a list of wireless LANs and the access points that
connect to each network. To see all access points that are available at your
location, select Access Points. See page 41.
What access points are available? Select Access Points to see a list of access points available at your location and the
Are the signal strengths sufficient? signal strength of the access points. To see bar graphs of the signal strength and
noise for an access point, highlight the access point, then press L.
Is the access point configured Select Access Points, highlight an access point, then press L. See page 45.
correctly?
12
Are there new access points in the Use the device authorization status (ACL) feature to automatically report when
area? Are they your access points, new access points are discovered at your location. To make use of this feature,
your neighbors, or a rogue? configure access point authorization status for each access point (e.g.
authorized or neighbor), next, set the default authorization status to
Unknown. As a result, the default authorization status of Unknown will
be assigned to any access points not previously discovered. Lastly, select Access
Points from the home screen to see any access points marked as Unknown.
Alternatively, save the test session which includes the list of discovered access
points. Use AirCheck Manager to compare the access point list to a previously
saved session file to see if additional access points have been discovered.
To specify a default device authorization of either unknown or authorized, select

Tools > Set Device Authorization (ACL) default.
What wireless clients use the From the home screen, select Networks, select a network and drill into the Access
network? Point Details screen, then select Clients. You can also drill into the Access Point
Details screen from many locations to see the clients associated with any
specific access point.
To see all clients, includes those connected and probing on all networks within
tester range: select Clients from the home screen.
13
Users Manual
Can Devices Connect to My Network?

Use the tester to verify connectivity.
Note
To connect to a secure network, the tester must have a profile that includes
security credentials. If credentials are not available, the softkey shows as 
Connect*. See page 26.
Can a device connect as a client to Select Networks, highlight a network, then press  Connect. See page 61.
my network (SSID)?
Can a device connect to an access Select Access Points, highlight an access point, then press  Connect. See
point (BSSID)? page 61.
If a device cannot connect to a Look at the connection log. See page 64.
network or access point, where
does the connection procedure fail?
Can a device ping a network Do a ping test. See page 65.
device?
Does the network interface card in From the home screen, select Clients to see if the client transmits probe request
a client operate correctly? frames and to see basic settings such as the channel and SSIDs the client uses in
probes. See page 69.
14
What Causes Slow Network Performance or Dropped Connections?

Is the signal strength sufficient? Select Access Points. The Access Points screen shows the signal strength for
each access point. Select an access point to see more details about the signal
strength and congestion. See page 50.
Is the network too busy? Select Channels to see an overview of channel usage and the number of access
points and connected clients that use each channel. To see a graph, highlight a
channel, then press L. See page 55.
Is there non-802.11 interference on Select Channels. Non-802.11 interference is gray portion of the graph bar. This
a channel? noise can interfere with WLAN connections or performance. Non-802.11 noise
can come from microwave ovens, wireless telephones, Bluetooth® devices,
motion detectors, wireless cameras and other wireless devices. See page 57.
15
Users Manual
Are There Security Risks in My Network?

Do networks have the expected Select Networks. Networks that have unsecured access points show a red open
level of security? lock ( ). See page 41.
Are there any ad hoc networks in Select Networks. Networks that have ad hoc clients show the ad hoc icon
the area? ( ) in the SSID column. Ad hoc clients can be risks to network security or
can violate network policies. See page 41.
Are there rogue access points in the AirCheck can be used to help track the authorization status of discovered access
area? Where are they? points. By default, when access points are discovered, they are assigned an
authorization status of Unknown. You may change the status of individual
or groups of access points to reflect their relationship to your network e.g.,
authorized, neighbor, unauthorized.
You also have the option of changing the default device status from
Unknown to Authorized. Once changed, all discovered access points will
be identified as Authorized. You may then review the list and assign status
to individual access points accordingly. For example, if you know that an access
point is a rogue, you may give it the status of Flagged device or
Unauthorized device. See page 38.
16
Note
AutoTest optionally includes a Rogue Access Point Test which detects and reports rogue
access points. To enable this functionality, go to Tools > Thresholds/AutoTest
Settings > Rogue Access Point AutoTest. For accurate and meaningful test results,
you must configure access point ACLs prior to running AutoTest.
When you save your profile, the assigned ACLs will also be saved as part of that
profile.
You can also set a series of APs to authorized or unauthorized based on the AP
BSSID/MAC or a Vendor MAC prefix by selecting Set AP series to
Authorized or Set AP series to Unauthorized. These options may save you
configuration time and provide quick visibility into potential issues. For example,
if a specific vendor's equipment is not allowed per your network policy, use the
vendor MAC prefix to set the ACL to unauthorized. When those access points are
detected, they will automatically be reported as unauthorized.
17
Users Manual
Where is an Access Point?

Select Access Points, select one access point, then press  Locate on the Access Point Details screen. See page 73. You
may also use the optional Fluke Networks external directional antenna to help you find access points faster. See page 73.
What Networks or Access Points Come into Range as I Move?

Sort the list in descending sequence for the timestamp column ( ). Press O, then move through an area. Networks or
access points that come into range are added to the top of the list. See page 42 or 46.
How Can I Document My Network and My Test Session?

Save the session (see page 73), then use AirCheck Manager software to transfer the data to a PC and make a report. See
page 85.
How Can I Erase Everything on my AirCheck?

If you want to erase all settings, session data and profiles from the tester, select Tools > Erase All - Everything that has
been saved or stored on the AirCheck tester is erased.
18
The Home Screen
The Home Screen Indicates that the external antenna is

connected.
1 5
Note
2 6 AirCheck will not transmit or connect to an
access point when the external antenna is
connected.
3 7
 Networks: Discovers wireless LANs. See page 39.
 Access Points: Discovers access points. See page 39.
4 8
 Channels: Shows usage of WLAN channels. See page
55. The name of the profile the tester uses. The profile is
9 9
Default if you have not loaded a different profile. The
name shows an asterisk if you have changed a setting
10 on the tester since you loaded or saved the profile. See
Home.eps page 84.
Figure 4. The Home Screen
 AutoTest: Automatically checks the health of your
network by looking at air quality (channel usage and
 Shows the battery status. When the battery
interference), network quality (network coverage and
charge is low, the icon blinks. Connect the ac
connectivity), and the presence of ad hoc networks.
adapter to charge the battery and to make
Rogue access point detection is optional and requires
sure the tester continues to operate.
ACL configuration.
Indicates that the ac adapter is connected.
 Clients: Discovers associated and un-associated (e.g.,
probing) clients.
 Tools: Lets you manage files and settings.
19
Users Manual
 Profile: Allows you to load or save a profile. From the Using AutoTest to Diagnose Your
Home screen, press  Profile.
Network Health
 Left: The channel the tester is currently
monitoring. The color of the bars shows the status of AutoTest automatically checks the health of your network
the country code for the regulatory domain. A red icon by looking at Air Quality, Ad Hoc Networks, Network
can indicate the operation of an illegal channel for the Quality, and the potential threat of Rogue Access Points, if
current country setting and/or the receipt of a different configured.
country code. See “802.11d Operation” on page 36.
Note
Right: The number of access points the tester has If no SSIDs have been configured, i.e., added on
heard. This number is a count of physical access points AirCheck, AutoTest will run against all SSIDs. If SSIDs
when Group virtual access points is enabled. See have been added, only those SSIDs will be tested.
The Connection test will run for only those SSIDs
page 32. that have been configured with security
credentials.
Up to 500 access points can be stored in the access point
database on the tester. When the access point icon turns
yellow, this indicates that greater than or equal to 400
access points have been discovered. When the icon turns
red, this indicates that 500 or more access points have
been discovered and the access point database is full.
Any new access points seen will not be included in the
list.
20
Using AutoTest to Diagnose Your Network Health
ffy34.bmp
Save the profile so settings are not lost when the tester is
powered off. From the home screen, press  Profiles,
highlight and select Save profile. Alternately, save profiles
in Tools > Manage profiles / network passwords >
Save profile.
This measurement is based on the thresholds set in the

Tools > Thresholds / AutoTest Settings > 802.11
channel utilization thresholds screen shown in the next
figure.
Figure 5. AutoTest Results Screen
Air Quality
The Air Quality measurement displays 802.11 Channel
Utilization, Non-802.11 Channel Utilization, and Co-channel
Interference.
802.11 Channel Utilization

The 802.11 Channel Utilization results include three Wi-Fi
channels with the highest 802.11 utilization and are
ffy22.bmp
displayed with the measured value and rating symbol:
Figure 6. 802.11 Channel Utilization Default Thresholds
Pass, Warning, or Fail.
Press Thresholds to view the AutoTest threshold
values used to report your network health.
21
Users Manual
Change thresholds in Tools > Thresholds /AutoTest

Settings screen.
Non-802.11 Channel Utilization

The Non-802.11 Channel Utilization results include the
top three channels with the most non-802.11
interference, e.g., noise. The channel utilization value
along with the rating of Pass, Warning, or Fail.
The usage will vary depending on the time of day, the

number of clients that have transitioned from the wired
side of the network to the wireless side, or the amount of
interference from devices such as microwaves or video
ffy23.bmp
cameras, etc.
Figure 7. Non-802.11 Channel Utilization Default
This measurement is based on the thresholds set in the Thresholds
Tools > Thresholds / AutoTest Settings > Non-802.11
channel utilization thresholds screen.
22
Co-Channel Interference
The Co-Channel Interference results include the number
of overlapping APs that exceed the signal quality
threshold and is seen with a rating of Pass,
Warning, or Fail. Thresholds for this test are set in the
Tools > Thresholds / AutoTest Settings > Network Quality
co-channel thresholds screen, and the channel signal
strength threshold is set in the Tools > Thresholds /
AutoTest Settings > Signal level thresholds screen.
ffy25.bmp
Figure 9. Signal Level Default Threshold
This measurement is independent of SSIDs and solely looks

at the number of APs using the same channel and their
signal quality.
Ad Hoc Networks
ffy24.bmp
Figure 8. Air Quality Co-channel Default Threshold The Ad Hoc Networks test results indicate the presence
of client devices with a rating of Pass, Warning, or
Fail. Results include a list of all ad hoc stations heard
at your location.
23
Users Manual
To set the ACL status, go to the home screen, and select the
Access Points screen. Then select  ACL, and edit each
Ad hoc client devices communicate directly with other clients,
access point. Select Set all APs to Authorized to set the
not through an access point. These devices can give hackers
status of all access points discovered to “Authorized.” This
access to data transmitted on the network. (Some IT policies for
can also be done in the AutoTest > Rogue Access Points
networks allow ad hoc devices.)
screen by selecting ACL, highlighting the access point, and
selecting ACL again. Place a check next to the following
Rogue Access Points authorization type and press the back button .
The Rogue Access Points test indicates whether Note
unauthorized access points are detected with a rating of
Pass, Warning, or Fail. Results include a list of If you change the ACL in AutoTest, you must rerun
all rogue access points heard at your location. AutoTest for the changes to apply.
Identification of rogue access points requires
configuration of Access Control List (ACL). The Rogue Unauthorized device
Access Point Test is disabled by default. However, when Authorized device
it is enabled, it runs as part of AutoTest. To enable the
Rogue Access Point Test, select Tools > Threshold / Neighbor device
AutoTest Settings > Rogue AccessPoint Test. Unknown device
Initially, all access points are set to a default status of Flagged device
Unknown, but may also be set to Authorized. See page
39. Set all APs to Authorized
Set all AP Series to Authorized
Set all AP Series to Unauthorized
24
Network Quality Network Quality tests are run for each SSID in the current
profile with results reported on the Network Quality screen.
The Network Quality measurements check for network All discovered SSIDs will be tested against if no SSIDs are set
availability provided, the existence of interference from up in the profile.
access points using the same channel which may cause
The Connection test results indicate whether or not you
network slowness, AP use of consistent security methods for can connect at your current location. The health of your
a network, and the ability to connect and use the network connection, e.g., packet tx rate, packet retries, and if you
(access to services, other devices) and provide network can reach other devices on the network, e.g., ping.
quality.
The results are presented along with a rating of Pass,
Warning, or Fail. In order to run the Connect test, the
SSID security must be setup, otherwise you will see:
ffy26.bmp
Figure 10. Main AutoTest Display
Network security can be set up from the home screen by

selecting Networks > Connect and walking through the
security set up screens. See Entering Security Credentials on ffy27.bmp
page 59 for Connect procedures. Figure 11. Examining the Network Quality of an SSID
25
Users Manual
Set Up the Tester Profiles contain network security credentials/settings for the
tester to be able to connect to networks. The profile can be
To change settings on the tester, select Tools from the home password protected so that unauthorized users cannot use
screen. See Table 2 on page 30. the tester to connect to secure networks, and do not have
access to network security credentials on the AirCheck
Manager PC application.
Change the Language and Country Settings
You can save the settings from the tester as a profile or use
1 Select Tools.
AirCheck Manager to make a profile on a PC.
2 To change the language for the screens, select Set
The home screen shows the name of the profile the tester
language. Highlight a language, then press  Save.
uses. The name shows an asterisk if you have changed a
3 To change the country, select Set country, select the setting on the tester since you loaded or saved the profile.
country where you will use the tester, then press  The tester saves the changes in a temporary file. The tester
Save. See page 35. uses the temporary file as the current profile. When you
save the profile, the tester copies the changes into the
profile shown on the home screen.
Make a Profile to Connect to Secure Networks
Profiles that you make in AirCheck Manager include these
Profiles are files that contain security settings for networks settings:
and configuration settings for the tester. The network
settings include security credentials. Security credentials let • A password for the profile
the tester connect to networks and perform Ping tests,
• Security credentials for networks (encryption, user
discover DNS servers, DHCP servers, and the default Router.
name, password, etc.)
• Authorization status of networks (SSIDs) and access
points
• IP addresses used for ping or TCP Port Connect tests
26
Set Up the Tester
• All 802.11 settings (For example, Enable 2.4 GHz band To load a profile that is in the tester
and Enable 5 GHz band. See page 32.)
1 From the home screen, press  Profiles.
• Country
2 Highlight and press L Load profile.
• AutoTest settings
• Threshold settings for bar graphs 3 Highlight a profile and then press  Load
If you save the profile while you use it on the tester, the Or
tester adds these settings to the profile:
1 Select Tools > Manage profiles / network
• The sound setting for the locate function passwords, then select Load profile.
• The auto shutoff setting
2 Highlight a profile, press L, then press  Load.
• Sequences for the sort order for lists of networks,
access points, and clients Note
To transfer a profile from a PC to the tester If the file is not a valid profile, or if the extension is
not “.ACP”, the tester shows the message “Unable
1 Use the Profile Setup in AirCheck Manager to make a to load selected profile”.
profile.
3 Enter the password for the profile, if necessary.
2 Use the USB cable supplied with the tester to connect
the tester to the PC. Note
You only need to enter the password the first time
3 Use the transfer function in the Profile Setup to you load a profile on the tester. To put password
transfer the profile to the tester. protection on all profiles again, select Tools >
Restore factory defaults.
To save the current settings as a profile
27
Users Manual
1 Select Tools > Manage profiles / network • To save the profile with the edited filename, press
passwords, then select Save profile.  Save. The tester saves the profile in the
“PROFILES” folder.
• To save the profile with the filename shown, press
 Save. The tester saves the profile in the
“PROFILES” folder.
• To overwrite a profile that is saved on the tester,
highlight the profile, press L, press  Save, then
press  OK.
• To edit the filename, press  Edit.
Note
File names can have a maximum of 8 characters
with an extension of 3 characters. The extension
must be “.ACP” if you want to see the profile in
AirCheck Manager.
• To delete characters in the filename, press 

Delete.
• To add characters to the filename, use    to
highlight a character, then press L.
• To move the cursor in the filename, highlight the
filename, then press  .
28
Set Up the Tester
To delete a profile Note
1 Select Tools > Manage files. To save your settings in a profile, select Tools >
Manage profiles / network passwords > Save
2 Select Delete file. profile or press  Profile from the home screen
and then Save profile. The profile name is
3 Select the PROFILES folder. displayed in the upper-right corner of the home
screen. If it displays with an asterisk *, this indicates
4 Highlight the profile and press L. a setting change has been made and the profile has
not been saved.
5 Press Delete.
Settings
Table 2 describes the different settings and the screens they
affect. Settings are accessed from the Tools screen.
When you change a setting, press  Save to save your

changes. To exit and not save your settings, press 
Cancel.
29
Users Manual
Table 2. Settings on the Tools Menu
Thresholds /AutoTest Lets you set the thresholds used for the AutoTest and for other measurements throughout
Settings the tester. See page 37. Measurements can display Pass, Warning, or Fail based
on these thresholds.
AutoTest does not connect to open SSIDs unless they are manually added in AirCheck
Manager and saved into the AirCheck profile.
Connect to networks in a profile - When checked, connectivity to SSIDs in the current
profile will be tested as part of the Network Quality AutoTest. SSIDs with configured security
and open/unsecured SSIDs are included.
Rogue AccessPoint AutoTest - When checked, enables the Rogue Access Point test to run as
part of AutoTest. For accurate test results, you must configure the ACL prior to running the
test. See page 24.
Signal level threshold - Indicates relative distance to AP/client. Seen in the AutoTest >
Network Quality test and in the Client Details screen. Used globally, not just in AutoTest.
Noise threshold - Detected noise level. Seen in NetWork Quality > CoChannel Interference/
Security > by drilling into the AP Details screen. Used globally, not just in AutoTest.
Signal-to-noise threshold - Measures/predicts quality of signal for client’s connection. Seen
in the AutoTest > Network Quality Coverage screen. Used globally, not just in AutoTest.
Network coverage threshold - The number of APs in an SSID required to pass the coverage
portion of the AutoTest > Network Quality test under Coverage.
802.11 utilization threshold - Percent of time the channel has 802.11 packets while
AutoTest was collecting the results. Seen in the Air Quality screen.
Non 802.11 utilization threshold - Percent of time the channel has excessive noise while
AutoTest was collecting the results. Seen in the Air Quality screen.
30
Set Up the Tester
Table 2. Settings on the Tools Menu (continued)
Thresholds /AutoTest Air Quality co-Channel Interference threshold - Multiple APs on same channel interfere.
Settings Seen in the Air Quality screen.
(continued) Network Quality co-channel threshold - APs matching SSID overlap on channel. Seen in
the Network Quality screen under Connection Details.
Retry rate threshold - Percent of ping packets resent during the ping test. Seen in the
Network Quality screen under Connection Details.
Connected Packet Rate Level threshold - Packet rate percent of the AP maximum
supported rate, i.e., actual/max = %. Seen in the Network Quality screen in Connection
Details.
Minimum signal threshold - Co-channel interference tests ignore APs below this signal
level. Seen in the Network Quality screen under Connection Details and Air Quality Co-
Channel Interference results.
Manage Files Rename file - Allows you to rename Profiles and Session files.
Delete file - Allows you to delete Profiles and Session files.
Note
Current measurements are saved to a session file by pressing P.
31
Users Manual
Manage 802.11 settings Lets you set options for channels and access point lists.
• Enable 2.4 GHz band, Enable 5 GHz band: Select one or both frequency bands to see
Note networks and access points from one or both bands.
These settings change
• Transmit probes: To discover access points, the tester listens for SSID broadcasts on
how the tester finds and
each channel. The tester can discover only access points that broadcast their SSID while
displays access points.
the tester is on the same channel. For faster discovery, the tester transmits probe
Make sure that you
request frames by default to get responses from access points.
know what these
settings do before you Because probes increase channel usage, the tester does not transmit them when you
use the tester. look at the channel usage screens or when you connect the external antenna.
• Group virtual access points: When an access point broadcasts multiple SSIDs and/or
MAC addresses (BSSIDs), the MACs are virtual access points. Virtual access points can
support different networks from the same physical access point. An access point that
uses two radios to broadcast multiple MACs can support networks on different channels.
When Group virtual access points is enabled, virtual access points show as one access
point in the Access Points list. If the access point broadcasts a name (shown in the
Name/MAC column), the number of SSIDs it supports shows in the SSID column. For
example, “2 SSIDs” shows in the column.
If the access point does not broadcast a name, it has an asterisk in the column or columns
where the BSID is different from one virtual access point to another. To see the MAC
addresses and SSIDs for the virtual access points, select the access point in the Access
Points list.
By default, this setting is enabled.
32
Set Up the Tester
Manage 802.11 settings • Gray inaudible access points: If the tester has not heard an access point for four cycles
(continued) through all channels, the access point is gray in the Access Points list. This is the default
setting.
• Delete inaudible access points: If the tester has not heard an access point for four
cycles through all channels, it deletes the access point from the Access Points list.
• Use custom signal adjustments: Signal strength measurements from different models
of wireless testers or from clients used as a reference do not always agree with each
other. The differences are caused mainly by differences in the antennas. To make the
devices agree, you can add an offset to the AirCheck measurements in this screen.
33
Users Manual
Manage profiles / Allows you to change the profile password (set to none by default), and edit network
network passwords security credentials/settings you have previously configured. The profile password prevents
unauthorized access to the previously entered network security credentials. To change the
profile password, select Change profile password, enter the password and select
Change. Or select Delete to remove the password.
To change the network security credentials, select Edit Networks, and select the network
to edit. AirCheck supports the following encryption format: Open, WEP, Legacy 802.1X,
WPA Personal, WPA2 Personal, WPA Enterprise, and WPA2 Enterprise.
Note
AirCheck does not support Cisco LEAP authentication or Cisco PPK (Per-Packet
Keying).
Load profile - Loads a previously saved profile. Profiles contain all the tester configuration
settings including SSID security credentials.
Save Profile - Saves the current settings to a profile file. You can change the default name
shown at the bottom of the screen by pressing Edit.
Edit Targets - Allows you to select or deselect pinged targets when running AutoTest. The
available targets are: Default Gateway, DHCP Server, Primary and Secondary DNS. The
default gateway and the DHCP server are selected by default.
You have the ability to add your own IP targets. Select Add to provide a hostname or
an IP address directly on the tester. AirCheck Manager also allows you to add a designated
port number. See the AirCheck online help for additional information.
34
Set Up the Tester
Set time and date Lets you set the time and date. Use   to select a setting, then use  to change the
setting the tester includes with saved results.
Set country Channels that are illegal in the country you select are red on the Channel Usage, Channel
Usage Details, and Access Point Details screens. See “802.11d Operation” on page 36.
Access points that transmit a country code that does not agree with this setting have red
bars in the 802.11 column.
Set language Sets the language for the user interface.
View AirCheck Displays the tester serial number, MAC address, software version, USB version, and radio
information version.
Brightness and Auto- Dim display brightness - Allows you to set the display brightness for low light use. Check
Shutoff the box and select  Save to change the setting
Auto-shutoff enabled - When enabled, the tester turns off automatically after 10
minutes of inactivity (no key pressed). The tester does not save the test session when it turns
off automatically. It does save changes you made to the profile. The tester does not turn off
automatically if the ac adapter is connected. To save your setting, press  Save.
To exit and not save your setting, press  Cancel.
Restore factory defaults Makes all settings go back to default values. See Appendix B.
Erase All Clears all data on the tester including profiles and saved session data.
35
Users Manual
802.11d Operation Green bars: The tester received a country code from
one or more access points. All country codes received are
If an access point uses the 802.11d standard, it transmits an the same, and they all agree with the setting in Tools > Set
ISO country code in its beacons and probe responses. When country. The tester operates on channels and uses power
the tester receives this code, it transmits only on channels levels that are legal in that country.
that are legal in the country, and uses only power levels
that are legal. White bars: The tester has not received a country code.
The tester operates in world mode.
If the tester does not receive a country code, the tester
operates in “world mode”: Red bars: The tester received a country code that is
different from the setting in Tools > Set country. To
• The tester uses only channels and power levels that are identify the network or access point that transmits the
legal in all countries. The channels are 1 to 11 in the code, select Networks or Access Points, then look for the
2.4 GHz band. red bars in the 802.11 column.
• The tester will not transmit probes on channels 12, 13,
The Access Point Details screen shows the 802.11d
and 14 in the 2.4 GHz band.
country code that the access point transmits. Appendix C
• The tester will not transmit in the 5 GHz band unless it shows the countries for the codes.
sees access points that operate in that band.
• The tester uses the lowest transmission power that is
legal in all countries.
The bars at the bottom of the display and icons on the
networks and access point displays show the status of the
country code:
36
Set Up the Tester
Change the Thresholds for the Colors in Bar

Graphs
The bar graphs show you if the signal strength, noise, Signal B
to Noise Ratio (SNR), etc. are above or below specified
thresholds. They are represented as red, yellow, or green.
You can change the thresholds to meet the requirements of A
your network.
To change thresholds
1 Select Tools.
2 Select Thresholds / AutoTest Settings.

C C
3 Select an item. Figure 12 shows how to change the ffy05.eps
thresholds for the colors. Figure 12. Change the Thresholds for the Colors in a Bar
Graph
Note
In AutoTest, results that are green or better pass, results  Use   to select a color. Use  to increase or
that are red and below fail, and results in between red and decrease the measured value for the color.
green produce a warning.
 The vertical lines show where the value you set is on the
bar graph.
 To save your settings, press  Save. To exit and not
save your settings, press  Cancel.
37
Users Manual
Give Access Points an Authorization Status Neighbor device: Discovered Access Points that are
owned by a neighboring business or individual.
When you set the authorization status for each access
point, you can quickly see if an access point is an authorized Unknown device: The access point has not been
part of the network. Access points have Unknown ( ) in previously discovered, or authorization status has not has not
the access control list column (ACL) until you change the been set to reflect the relationship to your network.
status. You can select one access point at a time and change
its status. You can also select Set all APs to Authorized Flagged device: You can use this symbol for access
and then work backwards identifying each access point that points you want to monitor. For example, if you think that
does not have an authorization status. an access point is a rogue, you can put a flag on it until you
learn more about it.
To give an access point an authorization status
Set all APs to Authorized: Sets all APs on the
1 Select Access Points. tester to Authorized.
2 If an access point has more than one MAC address and Set all AP Series to Authorized: Allows you to
you want to give the MACs different authorization set an AP series to authorized based on BSSID/MAC address
statuses, select the access point. or Vendor MAC prefix.
3 Highlight an access point, then press  ACL. Set all AP Series to Unauthorized: Allows you
to set an AP series to Unauthorized based on BSSID/MAC
4 Highlight a status on the Authorization Status prefix or Vendor MAC prefix. Use this option when you
screen, press L, then press . need to exclude (unauthorize) a specific vendor or BSSID
from your network.
Unauthorized device: The access point does not have
an authorization status.
Authorized device: The access point is authorized to

connect to the network.
38
Discover Networks and Access Points
The options to set a series of APs saves you configuration Discover Networks and Access Points
time and provides quick visibility into potential security or
policy issues. For example, if a specific vendor equipment is Note
not allowed per your network policy, use the vendor MAC By default, the tester hears wireless signals on the
prefix to set the ACL to Unauthorized or Flagged. 2.4 GHz (b/g/n) and 5 GHz (a/n/ac) frequency bands.
When detected, those APs will be reported as such. To change this setting, select Tools, then select
To set a default authorization status Manage 802.11 settings.
1 Select Tools. To discover networks or access points
2 Select Set device authorization (ACL) default 1 From the home screen, select Networks or Access
Points. The tester shows the Networks list or Access
3 Choose Set status to “Unknown” or Set Status to Points list (Figures 13 and 14).
“Authorized”, then press  Save.
2 To see details about an access point (Figure 15), use
Note  to highlight the access point, then press L.
If an access point does not transmit, but you know
its MAC address, you can use AirCheck Manager to Notes
give the access point an authorization status. Save
the status in a profile on the PC, then transfer the An SSID is in black text if the network (or access
profile to the tester. point) is in range. An SSIDs text turns gray to
indicate that a network (or access point) has not
been heard recently, or is now out of range (if Gray
inaudible access points is enabled). An SSIDs text
turns purple to indicate that there is a note to the
right with additional information about the status
of the network (or access point).
39
Users Manual
Searching for a Specific Device
You can search for a specific access point in the discovered

access point list.
To search for a specific access point
1 On the home screen, highlight the Access Points icon

and press Search.
2 Highlight and select BSSID/MAC, Vendor MAC, or

Name
3 Enter the information and press  Search.
If the search device is within the discovered range area, the

device will be highlighted on the Access Points screen.
To search for a specific client
1 On the home screen, highlight the Clients icon and

press Search.
2 Highlight and select BSSID/MAC or Vendor MAC.
If the search device has been discovered, the device will be

highlighted on the Access Points screen.
40
N
ffy03.eps
Figure 13. Networks (SSIDs) List
41
Users Manual
 : The time when the tester first heard the network.  : The security status of the network:
To see networks that come into range as you move Red open lock: The network does not have security
through an area, sort the list in descending sequence for enabled.
the timestamp column.
Press O, then move through an area. Networks that Yellow closed lock: One or more access points use
come into range are added to the top of the list. WEP or Cisco LEAP security protocol. These are less
Networks that become out of range become gray if secure than other protocols.
Gray inaudible access points is enabled.
Green closed lock: All access points use security
 ACL: The authorization status of the access point. The protocols that are more secure than WEP, for example,
default status is Unknown but can be changed to WPA or WPA2.
Authorized. Change the status of each access point
(...): All access points in the network do not use the same
to show how it is related to your network. See page 38.
type of security. For example, one uses WEP and another
(...): All access points in the network do not have the uses WPA.
same authorization status.
 : The number of access points the tester hears at your
 : The maximum signal strength of all the access location.
points for a network SSID. You can change the
thresholds for the colors in the bar graphs. See page 37.  SSID: Service Set Identifier. The name of the wireless
network.
 SNR: Signal to Noise Ratio is a measure of signal Networks that the tester has not heard recently are gray
strength relative to noise; an indication of signal
if Gray inaudible access points is enabled (see page
quality for a reliable client’s connection. The ratio is
33).
measured in decibels (dB). The same thresholds are
used both here and in AutoTest, and are adjusted in
the Tools > Thresholds / AutoTest Settings
screen.
42
: The network has ad hoc devices. These are Red bars: The tester received a 802.11d country
devices that communicate directly with other devices, code from the access point. The country does not agree
not through an access point that is part of the network. with the country selected in Tools > Set country in the
Ad hoc devices can give hackers access to data tester.
transmitted on the network. (Some IT policies for
networks allow ad hoc devices.) : One or more access points use a bonded
channel. Access points that use the 802.11n standard
[Hidden]: The network does not broadcast its SSID. can bond a channel with an extension channel above
( ) or below it ( ) to make one 40 MHz channel.
If an SSID shows in square brackets, the tester found the This wider channel gives the network higher
hidden SSID in packets from other wireless clients. In throughput.
AirCheck Manager, these SSIDs show without square
brackets. (...): All access points in the network do not use the same
802.11 standard.
 802.11: The 802.11 standards that the access points in
the network use:  Notes: Press  to scroll to the notes field. The tester adds
802.11a: Uses the 5 GHz band. notes automatically. See page 52. Networks that have
notes are purple.
802.11b: Uses the 2.4 GHz band. (...): The network has multiple notes. To see all notes,
highlight the network, then press L twice to go to the
802.11g: Uses the 2.4 GHz band.
Access Point Details screen.
802.11n: Can be used in the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz bands.
 : Sort 1, descending and ascending sequences
802.11ac: Uses the 5 GHz band. : Sort 2, descending and ascending sequences
Note
The larger arrow indicates Sort 1. The smaller
arrow indicates Sort 2.
43
Users Manual
To sort the list in ascending or descending sequence, use  The number of access points the tester hears at
and   to highlight a column heading, then press your location. This number does not include virtual
L or  Sort 1. For example, to quickly find the access points if Group virtual access points is
access point that has the strongest signal, highlight selected. See page 32.
at the top of the column, then press L or 
Sort 1. This puts the access point with the strongest Up to 500 access points can be stored in the access point
signal at the top of the list. database on the tester. When the access point icon turns
To sort in a secondary sequence, highlight a different access points have been discovered.
column heading, then press  Sort 2.
When the icon turns red, this indicates that 500 or more
 Press  Connect to connect to the highlighted
access points have been discovered and the access point
network. See page 61.
database is full. Any new access points seen will not be
The connect button shows as “Connect*” if the tester included in the list.
cannot connect to the highlighted network. See page
61.  To see descriptions of the icons on the Networks
screen, press  Legend.
 The channel the tester currently monitors. The To see details about the access points in a network, use
color of the bars shows the status of the country code  to highlight a network, then press L See Figure 14.
for the regulatory domain. See “802.11d Operation” on
page 36.
44
ffy02.eps
Figure 14. Access Points List
45
Users Manual
 : The time when the tester first heard the access  Name/MAC: The name or MAC address of the access
point. To see access points that come into range as you point. The address starts with a vendor abbreviation
move through an area, sort the list in descending prefix, if the prefix is available. See “oui_abbr.txt” on
sequence for the timestamp column. page 84.
Press O, then move through an area. Access points *: The access point broadcasts more than one MAC
that come into range are added to the top of the list. address (BSSID). To see the MAC addresses, select the
Access points that go out of range become gray if Gray access point. See “Group virtual access points” on
inaudible access points is enabled. page 33.
 ACL: The authorization status of the access point. The Access points that the tester has not heard recently are
default status is Unknown but may be changed to gray if Gray inaudible access points is enabled (see
Authorized to suit your needs. Change the status of page 33).
each access point to show how it is related to your
network. See page 38.  SSID: Service Set Identifier. The name of the wireless
network.
(...): Virtual access points or MACs from the same access
point have different authorization status settings. If the access point supports more than one SSID, select
Usually, you give them the same authorization status. the access point to see the SSIDs. See “Group virtual
access points” on page 33.
 : The channel that the access point uses.
If you came to this screen from the Networks screen,
 SNR: Signal to Noise Ratio is a measure of signal the screen shows the SSID at the top.
strength relative to noise. The ratio is measured in
decibels (dB). Networks that the tester has not heard recently are gray
if Gray inaudible access points is enabled (see page
 : The strength of the signal. For multiple APs, this 33).
column shows the strength of the strongest signal. You
can change the thresholds for the colors in the bar
graphs. See page 37.
46
: A client device operating in ad hoc mode is

included in the access point list. The other client devices
: Ad hoc networks are created when clients connected to the ad hoc network will be listed under
communicate directly and not through an access point. the “clients” tab.
This type of network may be considered a security risk
be making it easier for unauthorized access to data on (...): All access points do not use the same type of
the network. security. For example, one uses WEP and another uses
WPA.
[Hidden]: The network does not broadcast its SSID.
 802.11: The 802.11 standards that the access point uses:
If an SSID shows in square brackets, the tester found the : 802.11a: Uses the 5 GHz band.
hidden SSID in packets from other wireless clients. In
AirCheck Manager, these SSIDs show without square : 802.11b: Uses the 2.4 GHz band.
brackets.
: 802.11g: Uses the 2.4 GHz band.
 : The security status of the access point:
: 802.11n: Can be used in the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz bands.
Red open lock: The access point does not have
security enabled. 802.11ac: Uses the 5 GHz band.
Yellow closed lock: The access point uses WEP

security protocol. Red bars: The tester received a 802.11d country
code from the access point. The country is different
Green closed lock: The access point uses a security
from the country selected in Tools > Set country in the
protocol that is more secure than WEP, for example,
tester.
WPA or WPA2.
47
Users Manual
: Access points that use the 802.11n  Press  Connect to connect to the highlighted access
standard can bond a channel with an extension channel point. See page 61.
above ( ) or below it ( ) to make one 40 MHz The connect button shows as “Connect*” if the tester
channel. This wider channel gives the network higher cannot connect to the highlighted access point. See
throughput. page 61.
(...): All access points do not use the same 802.11 To connect to a secure access point, the tester must have
standard.
a profile that includes security credentials. See page 26.
 Notes: Press to scroll to the notes field. The tester
adds notes automatically. See page 52. Access points  The channel that the tester currently monitors.
that have notes are purple. The color of the bars shows the status of the country
code for the regulatory domain. See “802.11d
(...): The access point has multiple notes. To see all notes, Operation” on page 36
go to the Access Point Details screen.
 The number of access points that the tester
 : Sort 1, descending and ascending sequences hears at your location. This number does not include
: Sort 2, descending and ascending sequences virtual access points if Group virtual access points is
selected. See page 33.
To sort the list in ascending or descending sequence, use
 and   to highlight a column heading, then press Up to 500 access points can be stored in the access point
L or  Sort 1. For example, to quickly find the database on the tester. When the access point icon turns
access point that has the strongest signal, highlight
at the top of the column, then press L or 
access points have been discovered.
Sort 1. This puts the access point with the strongest
signal at the top of the list.
To sort in a secondary sequence, highlight a different access points have been discovered and the access point
column heading, then press  Sort 2. database is full. Any new access points seen will not be
included in the list.
48
 Press  ACL to change the authorization status for

the highlighted access point. See page 38.
To see details for an access point, highlight the access point,
then press L. See Figure 15.
49
Users Manual
 The channel and frequency of the access point. The

number is red if the channel is illegal for the country
A C selected in Tools > Set country.
B
 : The primary channel () is bonded with
D an extension channel above ( ) or below it ( )
E to make one 40 MHz channel. This wider channel gives
F the network higher throughput. The extension channel
G shows under 802.11n capabilities ().
H  The signal strength (S), noise strength (N), and Signal to
I Noise Ratio (SNR). You can change the thresholds for
the colors in the bar graphs. The bars are gray if the
J tester cannot hear the access point. See page 37.
 Name: The name of the access point, if a name is
included in the beacon frames and probe response
K frames.
L  SSID: Service Set Identifier. The name of the network
M that uses the access points.
N  BSSID: Basic Service Set Identifier. The MAC address of
O the access point.
Note
P Q R S Some access points have different MAC addresses
ffy06.eps for their wired and wireless interfaces.
Figure 15. Access Point Details Screen
 The authorization status for the access point.
50
 The security status of the access point.

 The 802.11 standards that the access point can use.  The channel the tester currently monitors. The
 802.11n capabilities: Notes for access points that can color of the bars shows the status of the country code
use the 802.11n standard. See Table 4 on page 53. for the regulatory domain. See “802.11d Operation” on
page 36
 AP country setting: The country code that the access
point transmits. If the AP country setting does not  The number of access points the tester hears at
agree with the AirCheck country setting, the access your location. This number does not include virtual
point has red bars in the 802.11 column. See “802.11d access points if Group virtual access points is selected.
Operation” on page 36. Appendix C shows the countries See page 32.
for the codes.
Up to 500 access points can be stored in the access point
 AirCheck country setting: The code for the country database on the tester. When the access point icon turns
selected in Tools > Set country. See “802.11d yellow, this indicates that greater than or equal to 400
Operation” on page 36. Appendix C shows the countries access points have been discovered.
for the codes.
 Discovered clients: XX, AP reports: XX: The number
access points have been discovered and the access point
of clients that currently are discovered and the amount
of clients the access point reports. “--” is displayed if the
included in the list.
access point does not report the number of clients it has.
 Seconds since last heard: The number of seconds  Press  Locate to locate the access point. See page
73.
since the tester heard the access point.
 Notes for the access point. See Table 3 on page 52.
 Press  Clients to connect to the access point. See
page 61.
51
Users Manual
Notes for Networks and Access Points

Tables 3 and 4 give descriptions for the notes that the tester
can add to networks and access points.
<c
Table 3. Notes for Networks and Access Points
Ad hoc network operating This SSID is an ad hoc network. Operating in ad hoc mode allows wireless devices
(clients) within range of each other to discover and communicate in peer-to-peer
fashion without using an access point. Ad hoc networks can pose a security threat. They
usually have little or no protection and create a “bridge” for unauthorized users to
access corporate data. Some IT network policies allow ad hoc networks, e.g., temporary
use, e.g., a small group file sharing when mobile.
Channel is not legal for this The access point uses a channel that is not legal in the country selected in Tools > Set
country country. Make sure that the country selected in Tools > Set country is correct.
Possible Interference - The access point uses a channel in the 2.4 GHz band that can have overlap with
overlaps standard channels adjacent channels. This can cause interference on the adjacent channels.
Note
In the United States, the channels that do not have overlap with each other
are 1, 6, and 11.
Network has mixed security All access points for this SSID do not use the same type of security.
types
52
Notes for Networks and Access Points
Table 3. Notes for Networks and Access Points (continued)
40 MHz 802.11n is not You should not bond channels in the 2.4 GHz band because that band has only three
recommended on 2.4 GHz channels that have no overlap with each other. If you bond two channels, then only
one channel is available for other devices to use.
Unexpected country from The country code from the access point does not agree with the country selected in
access point Tools > Set country in the tester.
Table 4. 802.11n Capabilities (shown on the Access Points Details screen)
AP will use 40 MHz channels if In some situations, the access point will not use 40 MHz channels. Examples:
possible
• The access point has heard other access points or clients that use channels that
have overlap with 40 MHz channels.
• A client that uses the access point has heard such access points or clients and told
the access point not to use 40 MHz channels.
See the 802.11n standard for all the situations where access points will not use
40 MHz channels.
AP is set to use only 20 MHz The user has set the access point to use only 20 MHz channels.
channels
AP accepts 802.11n Greenfield The access point can increase speed if it uses Greenfield packets.
packets
53
Users Manual
Table 4. 802.11n Capabilities (shown on the Access Points Details screen) (continued)
AP does not accept 802.11n The access point will not accept 802.11n Greenfield packets. The user has set the
Greenfield packets access point to never use Greenfield packets or the access point hears a, b, or g clients
and will not operate Greenfield 802.11n mode.
AP has detected 802.11a, b, g The access point must use protection so that it does not cause problems with a, b, or g
devices transmissions. Protection procedures decrease the speed of the 802.11n network.
• The access point has heard 802.11a, b, or g access points or clients.

• A client that uses the access point has heard 802.11a, b, or g access points or
clients.
AP has not detected 802.11a, It is not necessary for the access point to use protection to prevent problems with a, b,
b, g devices or g transmissions. The access point can operate at maximum speed.
Max Rx Rate The maximum rate of data reception for the access point at this time. The rate can
change as the access point adjusts for changes in wireless traffic in the area.
• 20 MHz or 40 MHz: The width of the channel that is necessary to get the
maximum rate.
• X streams: The number of data streams that the access point uses to get the
maximum rate.
• 1/2 GI: The access point uses a short guard interval (400 ns instead of 800 ns) to
get the maximum rate. For example, a short guard interval can increase the rate
of reception from 270 to 300 .
54
If the Tester Does Not Discover an Access Point
If the Tester Does Not Discover an To select the bands for this function, select Tools, then select
Manage 802.11 settings. See Table 2 on page 30.
Access Point
In some situations, the tester will not discover an access
point: A
• The tester cannot hear the access point because you
are too far away. B
• The access point does not beacon when the tester
listens to the channel that the access point uses.
• The tester cannot hear the access point because the
signal cannot go through a wall or some other barrier.
• There is too much interference on the channel that the
access point uses. Select Channels to see the
interference from non-802.11 sources on the channel. C D E F
ffy08.eps
Figure 16. Channel Usage Screen

Channel Usage
 The bar graphs show how much of the channel capacity
The channel usage function shows you how much wireless is used by 802.11 devices (blue) and by non-802.11
traffic is on each channel. It also shows interference from devices (gray). The taller the bar, the busier the channel.
non-802.11 sources. Figure 16 shows the Channel Usage
screen. The rings in the bar graphs show how many access
points use the channel. When you highlight the
To see details for a channel (Figure 17), use    to channel, the number of active access points shows
highlight a channel, then press L above the bar graph.
55
Users Manual
Channels that do not have access points can show  The number of access points that the tester
802.11 usage because of overlap from access points on hears at your location. This shows the number of
adjacent channels. physical access points if Group virtual access points is
 By default, the tester shows channels on the 2.4 GHz
and 5 GHz bands. To see only one band, change the Up to 500 access points can be stored in the access point
setting in Tools > Manage 802.11 settings. database on the tester. When the access point icon turns
 Press  AP List to see the access points that use the yellow, this indicates that greater than or equal to 400
highlighted channel. access points have been discovered.
 The channel that the tester currently monitors. When the icon turns red, this indicates that 500 or more
The color of the bars shows the status of the country access points have been discovered and the access point
code for the regulatory domain. See “802.11d database is full. Any new access points seen will not be
Operation” on page 36 included in the list.
 To see descriptions of the icons on the Channel Usage
screen, press  Legend.
56
Channel Usage
 A graph of the 802.11 usage and non-802.11

interference of the selected channel over time in
A I seconds.The more the usage, the busier the channel.
J Very busy channels can make the network slow or affect
connectivity
 Interference, e.g., from a microwave oven.
B
 Non-802.11, 802.11: The percentage of signals on the
C channel that are not from 802.11 devices (gray) and that
are from 802.11 devices (blue).
Non-802.11 noise can come from microwave ovens,
D D wireless telephones, Bluetooth® devices, motion
detectors, wireless cameras and other wireless devices.
This noise can interfere with WLAN connections or
E F G H performance.
ffy09.eps
Figure 17. Channel Usage Details Screen  Press  AP List to see the access points that use the
channel. See Figure 14.
 The channel number and frequency of the channel that  The channel that the access point uses. The
is monitored. The number is red if the channel is illegal color of the bars shows the status of the country code
for the country selected in Tools > Set country. for the regulatory domain. The bars are red if the tester
To change the channel, press   . has received different country codes from two or more
access points. See “802.11d Operation” on page 36.
57
Users Manual
 The number of access points the tester hears at Verify Connectivity

your location. This shows the number of physical access
points if Group virtual access points is selected. See Use connectivity tests to verify the operation of these
page 33. wireless network functions:
Up to 500 access points can be stored in the access point • Clients can connect to the network.
database on the tester. When the access point icon turns • Clients have access to network services (for example,
yellow, this indicates that greater than or equal to 400 DHCP, DNS, and routers).
access points have been discovered.
• Clients can communicate with other devices in a
When the icon turns red, this indicates that 500 or more reasonable amount of time.
access points have been discovered and the access point • The range for client connections is satisfactory.
included in the list. The tests also measure performance parameters that can
show you if the network has a problem.
 Press  Clients to view client details.
 Access Points: The number of access points that use Connect to a Network or Access Point
the channel. This shows the number of physical access
points if Group virtual access points is selected. See The tester can connect to a network (SSID) or to a specified
page 33. access point (BSSID) to make sure that the network or access
point is available to wireless clients.
 Duplicate SSIDs: The number of access points in the
same area that use the same channel and support the You can also use the tester to connect to a secure network
same network. This can be a problem because the access to verify that security credentials are correct.
points can interfere with each other.
The tester shows the steps in the connection procedure, and
gives a log of events that occur (Figures 18 and 19).
58
Verify Connectivity
The connect button shows as “Connect*” if the tester 1 From the Networks or Access Points screen, highlight an
cannot connect to the highlighted network or access point. access point/SSID and select the Connect button. In the
This occurs because the network uses security credentials Channels screen, select AP List, and then select the
that are not included in the profile that is loaded. Connect button.
2 Press the Connect*  button. The popup “This

Entering Security Credentials Using network is not configured - Configure Now?” is
“Connect” displayed.
The tester must have the correct security credentials to
If Connect does not have an asterisk, it is either an
connect to a secure network. Secure networks have a green
open network or the security credentials have already
or yellow closed lock ( ) in the security column. been entered.
To enter security credentials, use the AirCheck Connect* 3 Press OK  to continue to the next screen. The
button and you are guided into the security credentials popup “Creating new network in current profile” is
configuration screens. You can also use AirCheck Manager displayed followed by the Select Authentication screen.
to make a profile that includes the security credentials. If
using AirCheck Manager, you will need to transfer the 4 Highlight the appropriate encryption type and press
profile to the tester and load it. See page 26. Select.
To enter security credentials: 5 Press Next . Depending on the authentication
Note type that was selected, either the WEP > WEP Key
You can also add an SSID and set up its security Setup, Legacy 802.1X > EAP Type Selection, or the WPA/
credentials by going to Tools > Manage profiles / WPA2 > Set Encryption screen is displayed.
network passwords > Edit networks > Add.
59
Users Manual
Note 11 Press Done and the Connect to Network screen is

The WPA/WPA2 encryption type was selected for displayed. AirCheck will then try to connect to the
steps 6 through 11. WEP and 802.1X have slightly network and run a series of tests.
different screens.
Note
6 Highlight the encryption type, press Select, and then AirCheck can only use one set of security credentials
press Next. The EAP Type Selection screen is displayed. per SSID, even if a SSID has multiple Access Points
with different security settings. Therefore, you may
7 Highlight the EAP type and press Select. encounter pressing Connect (no asterisk) and the
connection fails.
8 Press Next. The Setup Username/Password screen is
displayed. To Save the profile with your security credentials
Note A profile is a file which contains the settings you configure

Select Done only after you have finished entering for the tester. Most settings are configured in the Tools
the username and password. If you select Done screen. You can have multiple profiles on the tester, but
and have not finished entering the settings, the only use one at a time.
connection will fail. You will then have to select Once you enter security credentials for an SSID (or multiple
Tools > Manage profiles / network passwords, SSIDs), save them to a profile to avoid losing these settings
select Edit networks, select the network, and when the tester is turned off.
finish entering the security settings.
1 From the home screen, select Tools, then select
9 Press Set username, enter the username using the on- Manage profiles / network passwords.
screen keyboard, and Press Save.
2 Select Save profile. The profile name displays at the
10 Press Set password, enter the password, and press bottom of the screen.
Save.
60
Verify Connectivity
3 Either select  Save or select Edit and change 1 If the access point is secure, you must use a
the profile filename. configuration profile that has security credentials for
the access point. See page 26.
To load a profile
2 From the home screen, select Access Points.
1 From the home screen, select Tools, then select
Manage profiles / network passwords. 3 Highlight the access point in the Access Points list,
then press  Connect.
2 Select Load profile, highlight the correct profile, press
L, then press  Load. To do a ping or a TCP Port Connect test
Or 1 Connect to a network or access point, then press 

Start tests.
3 Press  Profile from the home screen and then Load
profile. Note
Ping or TCP Port Connect test targets can be added by
To connect to a network
selecting Tools > Manage profiles / network
1 If the network is secure, you must load a configuration passwords > Edit targets > Add. You can add a
profile that has security credentials for the network. See target with an IP address or hostname (URL).
page 26. If an * is on the right of Connect, this indicates
security has not been configured on the tester for
2 From the home screen, select Networks.
that network. Press Connect* and you are guided
3 Highlight the network in the Networks (SSIDs) list, through entering the security settings.
then press  Connect.
To connect to a specified access point
61
Users Manual
Review Connection Results

Once  Connect is pressed, the process to connect to a
network or a specific access point begins and the results are A
presented as they become available.
D E F G
ffy04.eps
Figure 18. The Connection Screen
62
Verify Connectivity
 , SNR: The channel number and Signal to Noise

Ratio for the access point. You can change the
 SSID, BSSID: The name of the network and the MAC thresholds for the colors in the bar graphs. See page 37.
address of the access point that the tester uses for the
connection. When you connect to a network, the tester  Press  Start tests to do a ping or a TCP Port
usually connects through the access point that has the Connect test, which includes the Connection range
highest Signal to Noise Ratio. If the network includes test. This test provides visibility into the range of your
secure and unsecure access points and security connection and AP coverage. See page 66.
credentials are available, the tester tries to connect to  The channel that the access point uses. The
the secure access point that has the highest Signal to color of the bars shows the status of the country code
Noise Ratio. Some networks use a controller that for the regulatory domain. See “802.11d Operation” on
connects you to the access point that has the least page 36.
amount of traffic.
 The number of access points that the tester
 The steps in the connection procedure. The list for each hears at your location. This shows the number of
step collapses when the step is completed. To expand or physical access points if Group virtual access points is
collapse the list for a step, highlight the step then press selected. See page 33.
L.
As part of the connection test, the tester pings devices
 Press  Log to see details about the connection
procedure. See Figure 19.
that support the connection (for example, the DHCP
and DNS servers), runs the TCP Port Connect test (user  A connection that failed. The tester stops the
provided hostname or IP address), and IP addresses that connection process after the third attempt.
are included in the profile. The tester shows a green
Appendix A describes log messages that show when the
checkmark ( )if the device responded or a red X ( )
connection fails.
if it did not respond. To ping other devices, do a ping
test. See page 65.
63
Users Manual
Note
On the connection log screen, press  to scroll to see
the timestamps for each entry in the log. The
timestamps are in seconds.
ffy10.bmp
Figure 19. The Connection Log
64
Verify Connectivity
Ping a Device or Application Server The ping screen (Figure 20) shows the results of the ping
test. To ping a different address, press  twice, then
You can enter addresses to ping other devices or application select or enter a different address.
servers (e.g. web servers). This makes sure that other
network devices are accessible and measures the response
time.
1 Connect to a network or access point. See page 61.
2 When the connection is completed, press  Start

tests.
Select an IP address from the list or enter a new address.
To enter a new address
a. Select Enter IP address.
b. Use   to select a value to change.
c. Use  to increase or decrease the highlighted

value.
d. To save the address, press  Done.
Note
Up to 10 ping targets can be configured on the
tester.
65
Users Manual
 The minimum (Min), average (avg), and maximum

(max) periods of time for ping responses from the
A device and the number of packets sent, received, and
lost during the ping test.
B
 Connection range: The connection range shows the
C probability of the best possible connection to the access
D point from your location. The best possible connection
gives a ping response rate of 100% and the maximum
E possible data rate. The connection range value
decreases as you move farther away from the access
point. First, the data rate decreases. As you continue to
F H move away from the access point, the ping response
rate decreases and the connection becomes unreliable
G
This test provides visibility into the connected APs
Network coverage and your connection range. When
I J K L connected to a network, the test results graph will
ffy21.eps indicate when you roam to a different AP.
Figure 20. The Ping Screen
 A graph of the connection range for the last 120
 SSID, BSSID: Network name and access point name for seconds.
the ping target.  Rate: The data transfer rate.
 Pinging or Connecting (HTTP, FTP): IP address for the  SNR: The channel number of the access point and
ping or the TCP Port Connect target and the percentage the Signal to Noise Ratio. You can change the thresholds
of responses not received. for the colors in the bar graph. See page 37.
66
Discover Clients
 Received: The ping response rate (pings responses When an associated client is highlighted in the test. Press
received divided by pings sent).  Access Point Details to see the details of the
associated Access Point.
 Press  Stop tests to stop the ping or TCP Port
Connect test(s). When you use the Clients function, the tester monitors each
 The channel that the access point uses. The channel for a longer time than when you use other
color of the bars shows the status of the country code functions. This lets the tester find more clients on each
for the regulatory domain. See “802.11d Operation” on channel.
page 36 To discover clients
 The number of access points that the tester
From the home screen, select Clients. Figure 21 shows the
hears at your location. This shows the number of
Clients screen.
physical access points if Group virtual access points is
selected. See page 33. To see details about a client, highlight the client, then press
 Press  Log to see details about the connection L. See Figure 22.
procedure. See Figure 19.
Note
Discover Clients The tester shows the most recent information for a
client only when the client transmits data while the
When the tester is on, it monitors each channel for probe
tester monitors the channel that the client uses. To
request frames to discover client devices. To see these
clients, use the Clients button on the home screen. collect client information quickly, go to Tools >
Manage 802.11 settings and enable only one
In addition to the client MAC address, information such as band. This decreases the number of tester
channels used, data rate, probed SSIDs, the connected SSID monitored channels.
and access point of an associated client are shown.
The client screens include a Locate function to help you

find clients. See page 73.
67
Users Manual
To search for a specific client
1 On the home screen, highlight the Clients icon and

press Search.
2 Highlight and select BSSID/MAC or Vendor MAC.
If the search device has been discovered, the device will be

highlighted on the Clients screen.
Discovering Clients through Meru APs

The tester can discover clients no matter how many Meru
APs are configured. If the SSID is configured for virtual port,
or virtual cell is disabled, the tester can connect to the
correct virtual AP.
If the AP is in virtual cell only mode, the tester will show a

client as being connected to all virtual APs supporting the
connected SSID on the channel being used by a client.
68
Discover Clients
ffy12.eps
Figure 21. Clients Screen
69
Users Manual
 Ch: The channel that the client uses. Green closed lock: The access point uses a security
protocol that is more secure than WEP, for example,
 : The strength of the signal. You can change the
WPA or WPA2.
thresholds for the colors in the bar graphs. See page 37.
 MAC: The MAC address of the client. The address starts  AP: The name or BSSID of the access point that the
with a vendor abbreviation prefix, if the prefix is client uses for the network connection.
available. See “oui_abbr.txt” on page 84.  : Sort 1, descending and ascending sequences
 SSID: Service Set Identifier. The client is connected to : Sort 2, descending and ascending sequences
this network.
To sort the list in ascending or descending sequence, use
[Hidden]: The network does not broadcast its SSID.  and   to highlight a column heading, then press
If an SSID shows in square brackets, the tester found the L or  Sort 1. For example, to quickly find the
hidden SSID in packets from other wireless clients. In client that has the strongest signal, highlight at
AirCheck Manager, these SSIDs show without square the top of the column, then press L or  Sort 1.
brackets. This puts the client with the strongest signal at the top
of the list.
 : The maximum and minimum client connect rates last
seen by the tester. To sort in a secondary sequence, highlight a different
column heading, then press  Sort 2.
 : The security status of the access point:
 The channel the tester currently monitors. The
Red open lock: The access point does not have
color of the bars shows the status of the country code
security enabled.
Yellow closed lock: The access point uses WEP page 36.
security protocol.
70
Discover Clients
 The number of access points the tester hears at

your location. This number does not include virtual
access points if Group virtual access points is
 Press  Locate to locate the client. See page 73.
F G H
ffy11.eps
Figure 22. Client Details Screen
71
Users Manual
 The MAC address of the client. The address starts with a  The number of access points the tester hears at
vendor abbreviation prefix, if the prefix is available. See your location. This number does not include virtual
“oui_abbr.txt” on page 84. access points if Group virtual access points is
 Signal: The signal strength of the last transmission from
the client and the time since the tester heard the  Press  Locate to locate the client. See page 73.
transmission. After 120 seconds, the units change to
minutes. After 120 minutes, the units change to hours.
 Connected to: If the client is or was connected to a
network or recently tried to connect, this section shows
information about the access point that the client used.
If this section shows only the BSSID and channel for the
access point, the tester needs more time to collect
information.
 Client probes on: The channels that the client
probes.Client probes for: SSIDs the client uses for
probes. When a client connects to a network, it
sometimes does not probe for other networks, so the
list does not always show all the SSIDs the client can use.
More SSIDs will show if the client roams.
 The channel the tester currently monitors. The
color of the bars shows the status of the country code
page 36.
72
If the Tester Does Not Discover a Client
If the Tester Does Not Discover a Client Locate an Access Point or a Client
In some situations, the tester will not discover a client: 1 To locate an access point: Select Access Points, then
use  and L to go to the Access Point Details
• The wireless card in the client is disabled. screen for the access point you want to locate.
• The tester cannot hear the client because you are too
To locate a client: From the home screen, select Clients.
far away from the client.
Use  to highlight the client you want to locate.
• The tester cannot hear the client because the signal
cannot go through a wall or some other barrier. 2 Press  Locate. Figure 23 shows the Locate Access
Point screen. Figure 24 shows the Locate Client
• There is too much interference on the channel that the screen.
client uses. Select Channels to see the interference
from non-802.11 sources on the channel. 3 Divide the area you want to search into four sections,
as shown in Figure 25. Go to one corner of the area.
• The tester does not scan the band that the client uses.
See the setting in Tools > Manage 802.11 settings. 4 Make a note of the signal strength.
• The client does not transmit a probe when the tester
5 Go to the other three corners of the area and make a
listens to the channel that the client uses.
note of the signal strength at each corner.
6 Go to the first corner of the section that has the

strongest signal.
7 Do steps 4, 5, and 6 again until you find the access

point or client.
73
Users Manual
Notes  Network name (SSID) and access point MAC address

If you do not find the access point or client, look on (BSSID).
the floor above or below you.  The strength of the signal from the access point. The
If you cannot find a client, and the client shows a display shows “---” if the tester cannot hear the access
connection to the network, first find the access point.
point that the client used, then look for the client.  A graph of the signal strength over time. If the tester
In large, open areas the optional external antenna can help cannot hear the access point, the line does not show.
you locate access points or clients more quickly. See page  A gauge that shows the signal strength at the current
77. time. The bar is gray if the tester cannot hear the access
point.
 The channel that the access point uses. The
A B color of the bars shows the status of the country code
page 36
 The number of access points that the tester has
C found. This number does not include virtual access
points if Group virtual access points is selected. See
D
page 32.
 Press  Mute to turn off the sound.
E F G
ffy07.eps
Figure 23. Locate Access Point Screen
74
Locate an Access Point or a Client
To change this channel, press  .

A C  A graph of the signal strength over time. If the tester
cannot hear the client, the line does not show.
B
 A gauge that shows the signal strength at the current
time. The bar is gray if the tester cannot hear the client.
E  The channel that the tester monitors. See .
F The color of the bars shows the status of the country
code for the regulatory domain. See “802.11d
Operation” on page 36
 The number of access points that the tester has

found. This number does not include virtual access
G H I points if Group virtual access points is selected. See
ffy18.eps page 32.
Figure 24. Locate Client Screen
 Press  Mute to turn off the sound.
 The MAC address of the client. The address starts with a
vendor abbreviation prefix, if the prefix is available. See
“oui_abbr.txt” on page 84.
 The name, channel, and frequency of the access point
that the client uses for the network connection.
 The strength of the signal from the client. The display
shows “---” if the tester cannot hear the client.
 The channel that the tester is monitoring for locating.
75
Users Manual
Make a note of the signal strength.
? Go to the first corner of the section

that had the strongest signal.
ffy16.eps
Figure 25. Search Pattern for the Omnidirectional Antenna in the Tester
76
The External Directional Antenna
The External Directional Antenna 3 To locate an access point: Select Networks or Access
Points, then use  and L to go to the Access
In large, open areas, the external directional antenna can Point Details screen for the access point you want to
show you the direction of a signal source more precisely locate.
than the omnidirectional antenna in the tester.
To locate a client: From the home screen, select Clients.
Note Use  to highlight the client you want to locate.
In areas that have many rooms, for example in 4 Press  Locate.
schools and hospitals, use the internal
omnidirectional antenna to locate access points. 5 Point the antenna to each corner of the area. Figure 27
shows how to point the antenna.
To use the external antenna
6 Go to the middle of the section that has the strongest
1 Connect the antenna to the antenna jack on the rear of signal.
the tester. The screen shows the antenna icon ( ) when 7 Repeat steps 2, 5, and 6 until you find the access point
you connect the antenna. The tester uses only the or client.
external antenna when the antenna is connected.
Note
Note If you do not find the access point or client, look on
When the external antenna is connected, the tester the floor above or below you.
will not transmit, so it will not connect to a network
or access point. Use these guidelines when you use the external antenna:
2 Divide the area into four sections, as shown in Figure • Hold the antenna at a constant height. You can get
26. Go to the center of the area. more stable measurements if you hold the antenna
above cubicle walls.
77
Users Manual
• When you point the antenna in different directions, do

not move your arm. Hold the tester and antenna in one
position while you turn your body.
78
The External Directional Antenna
2 The signal can be stronger

above or below you.
Go to the middle of the section that has the

strongest signal until you find the access point.
ffy17.eps
Figure 26. Search Pattern for the External Antenna
79
Users Manual
ffy13.eps
Figure 27. How to Point the External Antenna
80
Adjust Signal Strength Measurements to Agree with Other Devices
Adjust Signal Strength Measurements 3 Select Manage 802.11 settings, then select Use
custom signal adjustment.
to Agree with Other Devices
4 On the User Offsets screen, use  to select a
Signal strength measurements from different models of channel, then use  . to select an offset value.
wireless testers or from clients used as a reference do not
always agree with each other. The differences are caused 5 Repeat step 4 as necessary for other channels.
mainly by differences in the antennas. To make the devices
agree, you can add an offset to the AirCheck 6 To save the offset values, press  Save.
measurements.
When you turn off the tester, it saves the offsets in the
To add an offset to signal strength measurements profile. The offsets also show in reports you make with
AirCheck Manager.
1 Find the offset value:
Use the AirCheck tester and the other device to measure Caution
the signal strength in the same location. Record the To prevent inconsistent measurements later, be
difference in the measurement for each channel that is sure to remember that you adjusted the offsets.
important to you.
2 Select Tools.
81
Users Manual
Save a Test Session • To edit the filename, press  Edit.

Note
You can save the information the tester has collected since
you turned it on or since the last time you saved a session, Session names can have a maximum of 8 characters
pressed O, or disconnected the USB cable. A session with an extension of 3 characters. The extension
includes this information: must be “.ACS” if you want to see the session in
AirCheck Manager.
• AutoTest results (if saved when exiting AutoTest).
• To delete characters in the filename, press 
• Network, access point, client, and channel information Delete.
(does not include graphs)
• To add characters to the filename, use    to
• A list of clients that transmitted probes highlight a character, then press L.
• Results for the last connection you made • To move the cursor in the filename, highlight the
• Results for the last ping test you did filename, then press  .
• The connection log • To save the session with the edited filename, press
 Done, then press  Save.
To save the data from a test session
To see the session file, open it in AirCheck Manager. See
1 Press P. The tester shows a default, sequential filename page 85.
at the bottom of the screen.
• To save the session with the filename shown, press

 Save. The tester saves the session in the
“SESSIONS” folder.
• To overwrite a test session that is saved on the tester,
highlight the test session, press L, press  Save,
then press  OK.
82
Manage Files on the Tester
Manage Files on the Tester To delete a file
To rename a file 1 Select Tools, then select Manage files.
1 Select Tools, then select Manage files. 2 Select Delete file.
2 Select Rename file. 3 Highlight a file, then press L.
3 Highlight a file, then press L. 4 Press  Delete.
4 To edit the filename, press  Edit. To see how much space is available in memory
Note 1 Select Tools > View AirCheck information.
Sessions must have the extension “.ACS” and 2 View Memory Used %.
profiles must have the extension “.ACP” if you
want to see them in AirCheck Manager. or
• To delete characters in the filename, press  Use the USB cable supplied with the tester to connect the
Delete. tester to the PC, then use one of these procedures:
• To add characters to the filename, use    to • Start AirCheck Manager, select AirCheck > View
highlight a character, then press L. Information, then look at the Memory Used graph.
• To move the cursor in the filename, highlight the • Use the file browser in the PC operating system to see
filename, then press  . how much memory space is available on the tester.
5 To rename the file with the name you made, press  If memory is full, the tester shows Memory full when you
Done, then press  Rename. try to save a file.
83
Users Manual
About Files on the Tester To load the latest list of vendor prefixes into the
tester
The tester saves data in XML (Extensible Markup Language)
format. The data in XML files includes identification tags. 1 Start the latest version of AirCheck Manager on your PC,
Software that can read the tags can use the data. For then connect the tester to the PC.
example, a web browser that can read the tags can show
XML files on a web page. 2 Select AirCheck > Update Software, then select the
Vendor MAC Prefix File tab.
The tester makes these types of XML files (default
filenames): 3 Click Update from file, select the prefix file
(oui_abbr.txt), then click Open.
• DEVICE.XML: This file contains the information shown
when you select Tools > View AirCheck Information. If there is a newer list on the Fluke Networks website that is
not included in the latest version of AirCheck Manager,
• CURRENT.ACP: This file contains a copy of the current
copy the file to the “VendorPrefix” folder under AirCheck
profile. It also contains changes you made to settings
Manager (on your PC). Then, do the steps given above to
on the tester since you saved or loaded the profile.
load the list into the tester.
• SNXXXXXX.ACS: Session files contain information
about wireless networks. See “Locate an Access Point If you wish to manually add vendor prefixes into the
or a Client” on page 73. AirCheck Manager uses session oui_abbr.txt file, use Microsoft WordPad, and preserve the
files to create session reports. tab delimited fields.
The text file oui_abbr.txt contains abbreviations for the

names of manufacturers who make interface devices for
networks. The tester uses the abbreviations as prefixes for
MAC addresses.
ffy44.bmp
Figure 28. oui_abbr.txt File
84
Maintenance
Transfer Files to a PC Maintenance

To use AirCheck Manager to look at test sessions or
profiles that are saved on the tester Warning
1 Install the latest version of AirCheck Manager software To prevent possible fire, electrical shock,
on your PC. Start the software. personal injury, or damage to the tester:
2 Turn on the tester. • Do not open the case. You cannot repair or
replace parts in the case.
the tester to the PC. The AirCheck pane shows session • Use only replacement parts that are approved
files that are on the tester. by Fluke Networks.
To use the PC operating system to transfer files • If you replace parts that are not specified as
replacement parts, the warranty will not apply
1 Turn on the tester. to the product and you can make the product
dangerous to use.
the tester to the PC. The PC operating system shows the • Use only service centers that are approved by
tester as a disk drive. Fluke Networks.
3 Use the PC operating system to copy files from the

tester to a disk drive on the PC.
85
Users Manual
Clean the Tester Note
To clean the display, use lens cleaner and a soft, lint-free You can also update the vendor MAC prefix file
cloth. To clean the case, use a soft cloth that is moist with (oui_abbr.txt) used to resolve vendor MACs in the
water or water and a weak soap. AirCheck device list.
7 Click Select, find and select the update file (.xlf

Caution extension), then click Open.
To prevent damage to the display or the case,
do not use solvents or abrasive materials. 8 Click Update.
9 When the transfer is completed, disconnect the USB

Update the Software in the Tester cable from the tester.
1 Download the AirCheck update file from the Fluke 10 The screen on the tester is blank and the tester ticks
Networks website, or contact Fluke Networks to get the while it installs the update file. When the update is
update by other means. Save the file to your hard disk. completed, the home screen shows on the tester.
2 Get the latest version of AirCheck Manager from the Note

Fluke Networks website.
The power key is disabled during a software
3 Start AirCheck Manager on your PC. update. If you remove the battery before the
update completes, the update starts again when
4 Turn on the tester. you turn on the tester.

the tester to the PC.
6 In AirCheck Manager, select AirCheck > Update

Software
86
Maintenance
Restore Factory Defaults 2 View Memory Used %.

Appendix B gives a list of the default settings for the tester. • Serial Number: The serial number is also shown under
To restore factory defaults the battery pack.
1 From the home screen, select Tools, select Restore • MAC Address: Media Access Control address. The
factory defaults, then press  OK. unique address of the tester.
• SW Version: The version of software in the tester.
2 To complete the process, press L, then turn the tester
back on. • Radio Version: The version of the radio in the tester.
• USB Version: The version of the USB driver in the
Erase All Data
tester.
Erase All Data does everything that Restore Factory
Defaults does, plus deleted all the files in the file system.
If the Tester Will Not Turn Off
To totally erase all session data and profiles If the tester will not turn off, hold down the green power
1 From the home screen, select Tools, select Erase All, button for approximately 10 seconds.
then press  OK. If the tester still does not turn off, remove the battery pack
and install it again.
2 To complete the process, press L, and then turn the
tester back on.
Device Information
To see information about the tester
1 From the home screen, select Tools > View AirCheck

information.
87
Users Manual
Options and Accessories For a complete list of options and accessories visit the Fluke
Networks website at www.flukenetworks.com.
Table 5 shows options and accessories available for the
AirCheck Wi-Fi Tester.
Table 5. Options and Accessories
Fluke Networks
Option or Accessory Model Number
External directional antenna with RSMA connector EXTANT-RPSMA
Lithium ion battery pack for the AirCheck tester WBP-LION
Power over Ethernet detector POE-DETECTOR
Adapter/charger for connection to an automobile cigarette lighter MS-Auto-Chg
AC adapter/charger, universal, 120-240 Vac DTX-ACUN
88
Specifications
Specifications
Environmental Specifications
Operating temperature and 32ºF to 113ºF (0ºC to +45ºC)
relative humidity
Note
The battery will not charge if the internal temperature of the tester is
above 113ºF (45ºC).
Operating relative humidity 90% (50ºF to 95ºF; 10ºC to 35ºC)
(% RH without condensation) 75% (95ºF to 113ºF; 35ºC to 45ºC)
Storage temperature -4ºF to 140ºF (-20ºC to +60ºC)
Shock and vibration Random, 2 g, 5 Hz-500 Hz (Class 2) 1 m drop test
Safety IEC 61010-1: CAT none, Pollution degree 2
Altitude 4,000 m; Storage: 12,000 m
EMC FCC Part 15 Class A, IEC 61326-1: Portable
89
Users Manual
Certifications and compliance

Conforms to relevant European Union directives
Conforms to relevant Australian standards
Listed by the Canadian Standards Association
Conforms to FCC Rules, Parts 15.107, 15.109
Note Changes or modifications to the wireless radio not expressly approved by Fluke
Corporation will void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. This device complies with
Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the two conditions that follow: (1) this device
can not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including
interference that can cause undesired operation of the device. Class B digital device: A digital
device that is marketed for operation in a residential environment notwithstanding use in
commercial, business and industrial environments. Examples of such devices include, but are
not limited to, personal computers, calculators, and equivalent electronic devices that are
marketed for operation by the general public. The Meter was tested and found to comply with
the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if
not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, can cause harmful interference to
radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
90
Specifications
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the measures that follow: •
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. • Increase the separation between the equipment
and receiver. • Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. The term
“IC:” before the radio certification number only signifies the device meets Industry’s Canada
specifications.
Certified by the National Agency of Telecommunications

(Anatel)
Conforms to relevant South Korean EMC Standards.
Additional South Korean EMC

Standards Information
[1] This product meets requirements for industrial (Class A) electromagnetic wave
Electromagnetic Compatibility. Applies
equipment and the seller or user should take notice of it. This equipment is intended for
to use in Korea only. Class A Equipment
use in business environments and is not to be used in homes.
(Industrial Broadcasting &
Communications Equipment) [1]
91
Users Manual
General Specifications
Dimensions 3.5 in x 7.8 in x 1.9 in (8.9 cm x 19.8 cm x 4.8 cm)
Weight 14 oz (0.4 kg)
Battery Removable, rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack (18.5 Watt-hrs)
Battery life Typical operating life is 5.5 hours. Typical charge time is 3 hours.
External AC adapter/charger AC input 90-264 Vac 48-62 Hz input power
DC output 15 Vdc at 1.2 amps
Display 2.8 in color LCD (320 x 240 pixels)
Keypad 12-key elastomeric
LEDs 2 LEDs (transmit and link Indicators)
Host interface USB 5-pin mini-B
Wireless antenna Internal
External antenna port Input only. Reverse-polarity SMA connector.
92
Specifications
Wireless Specifications
Specification compliance IEEE 802.11a, 11b, 11g, 11n

Wi-Fi Connectivity 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, 802.11ac (802.11n rates or lower)
93
Users Manual
Operating frequencies Frequencies of channels received

Note
Note The tester receives on all of the frequencies in every country.
These are the center frequencies
of the channels that the AirCheck 2.4 GHz band: 2.412 GHz to 2.484 GHz (channel 1 to channel 14)
tester supports.
5 GHz band: 5.170 GHz to 5.320 GHz, 5.500 GHz to 5.700 GHz, 5.745 GHz to 5.825 GHz
(channels 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, 48, 52, 56, 60, 100, 104, 108, 112, 116, 120, 124, 128,
132, 136, 140, 149, 153, 157, 161, 165)
Frequencies of channels transmitted
Note
The tester transmits only on the frequencies allowed in the country where it is
operating.
2.4 GHz band
802.11b: 2.412 GHz to 2.484 GHz (channel 1 to channel 14)
802.11 g/n 20 MHz BW (HT20): 2.412 GHz to 2.472 GHz (channel 1 to channel 13)
802.11 n 40 MHz BW (HT40): 2.422 GHz to 2.462 GHz (includes all combinations of
legal, bonded pairs of channels)
94
Specifications
Frequencies of channels transmitted (continued)
5GHz band
802.11 a /n 20 MHz BW (HT20): 5.180 GHz to 5.320 GHz, 5.500 GHz to 5.700 GHz,
5.745 GHz to 5.825 GHz (channels 36, 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 100, 104, 108, 112, 116,
120, 124, 128, 132, 1, 36, 140, 149, 153, 157, 161, 165)
802.11 n 40 MHz BW (HT40): 5.190 GHz to 5.310 GHz, 5.510 GHz to 5.670 GHz,
5.755 GHz to 5.795 GHz (includes all combinations of legal, bonded pairs of channels)
Regulatory Domain World Mode, 802.11d compliant
External Directional Antenna
Frequencies Frequency range 2.4 GHz to 2.5 GHz and 4.9 to 5.9 GHz
Minimum gain 5.0 dBi in the 2.4 GHz band and 7.0 dBi in the 5 GHz band
Connector Reverse-polarity SMA plug
95
Users Manual
0 0
-10 10 -10 10
-20 20 -20 20
-30 30 -30 30
-40 40 -40 40
-50 50 -50 50
-60 60 -60 60
-70 70 -70 70
-80 80 -80 80
-90 90 -90 90
-20 -20
-100 100 -100 100
-15 -15
-110 110 -110 110

-10 -10
-120 120 -120 120

-5 -5
-130 130 -130 130

0 0
-140 140 -140 140
5 5
-150 150 -150 150
-160 160 -160 160

10 10
-170 170 -170 170
180 180
2.400 GHz 4.900 GHz

2.450 GHz 5.200 GHz
2.500 GHz 5.500 GHz
5.700 GHz
5.875 GHz
ffy20.eps
Figure 29. Antenna Patterns for the External Antenna (magnitude (dBi)) vs. azimuth (degrees)
96
Federal Communication Commission and Industry Canada Interference Statement
Federal Communication Commission • Consult the dealer or an experienced radio or TV

technician for help.
and Industry Canada Interference
FCC Caution: Any changes or modifications not expressly
Statement approved by the party responsible for compliance could
void the user's authority to operate this equipment.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with
the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC and IC Rules.
the FCC and IC Rules. These limits are designed to provide Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2)
can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and this device must accept any interference received, including
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause interference that may cause undesired operation.
harmful interference to radio communications. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
Important Note: FCC and IC Radiation Exposure
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be Statement
determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user This equipment complies with FCC and IC radiation
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one of exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment.
the following measures: This equipment should be installed and operated with
minimum distance 20 cm between the radiator and your
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
body.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and
receiver. This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in
conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit
different from that to which the receiver is connected. Operations in the 5.15 GHz to 5.25 GHz band are restricted
to indoor usage only.
97
Users Manual
The availability of some specific channels and/or • EN 300328 V1.7.1: (2006-10)

operational frequency bands are country dependent and Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum
not accessible by the end user. Matters (ERM); Wideband Transmission systems; Data
transmission equipment operating in the 2.4 GHz ISM
Europe-EU Declaration of Conformity band and using spread spectrum modulation
techniques; Harmonized EN covering essential
This device complies with the essential requirements of the requirements under article 3.2 of the R&TTE Directive
R&TTE Directive 1999/5/EC. The following test methods
have been applied in order to prove presumption of • EN 301 893 V1.4.1: (2007-07)
conformity with the essential requirements of the R&TTE Broadband Radio Access Networks (BRAN);5 GHz high
Directive 1999/5/EC: performance RLAN; Harmonized EN covering essential
requirements of article 3.2 of the R&TTE Directive
• EN 301 489-1 V1.6.1: (2005-09)

• EN50385: (2002-08)
Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio Spectrum
Product standard to demonstrate the compliance of
Matters (ERM); Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)
radio base stations and fixed terminal stations for
standard for radio equipment and services; Part 1:
wireless telecommunication systems with the basic
Common technical requirements
restrictions or the reference levels related to human
exposure to radio frequency electromagnetic fields • EN 301 489-17 V1.2.1 (2002-08)
(110 MHz to 40 GHz) -General public
Electromagnetic compatibility and Radio spectrum
Matters (ERM); ElectroMagnetic Compatibility (EMC)
standard for radio equipment and services; Part 17:
Specific conditions for 2.4 GHz wideband transmission
systems and 5 GHz high performance RLAN equipment
98
Federal Communication Commission and Industry Canada Interference Statement
This device is a 2.4 GHz wideband transmission system

(transceiver), intended for use in all EU member states and
EFTA countries, except in France and Italy where restrictive
use applies.
In Italy the end-user should apply for a license at the

national spectrum authorities in order to obtain
authorization to use the device for setting up outdoor radio
links and/or for supplying public access to
telecommunications and/or network services.
This device may not be used for setting up outdoor radio

links in France and in some areas the RF output power may
be limited to 10 mW EIRP in the frequency range of
2454 MHz to 2483.5 MHz. For detailed information the
end-user should contact the national spectrum authority in
France.
99
Users Manual
100
Appendix A: Log Messages for Connections
that Fail
The connection log can help you understand why a device

cannot connect to a network. This appendix gives reasons for
log messages that show when a connection fails.
Message Possible Reasons for the Connection Failure
802.11: Found no access points The access point is out of range, disabled, or someone changed the
frequency band.
802.11: Warning: Found access point with The tester does not have the correct types of 802.1X authentication/
SSID, but security configurations mismatch encryption.
95
Users Manual
Authentication failed The access control list and MAC filter on the access point rejected the
MAC of the tester.
The access point uses WEP security, and the low-level 802.11
authentication (open/shared) that the tester uses is different from the
type of authentication that the access point uses.
802.11: Received de-authentication packet When this follows the message 802.1X: Sending EAP 4-way key with
client nonce and info elements, it is frequently caused by an incorrect pre-
shared key (passphrase).
Connect: Fail expected during automatic PAC The tester always shows this message when it uses EAP-FAST
provision (phase 0) authentication to try to connect to an access point. Multiple phases are
necessary for an EAP-FAST connection, and there is usually a failure
during the initial phase.
802.1X: Received EAP fail • When this follows the message 802.1X TLS: Sending client key
exchange, it is frequently caused by an incorrect client certificate.
• When this follows the message 802.1X EAP-MSCHAPv2: Responding to
challenge, it is frequently caused by an incorrect user name or
password.
• When this follows the message 802.1X: NAK, it frequently occurs
because the RADIUS server does not support the EAP type.
96
Appendix A: Log Messages for Connections that Fail
802.1X: Server certificate unverified Ignore this message if you did not select the option Check Server
Certificate in the profile in AirCheck Manager.
802.1X: Server certificate is bad The option Check Server Certificate was selected in the profile in AirCheck
Manager, but an incorrect certificate was loaded into the tester.
DHCP: Timeout occurred • The access point could not communicate with the external DHCP server.
(without the message DHCP: Success after this • The access point has an internal DHCP server, but it is disabled.
one)
• The DHCP server is at its limit for the number of users.
• The tester and the access point are both configured for WEP security,
but they have different key settings.
DHCP: No offer received When this follows the message DHCP: Timeout occurred, see the causes
above.
Static IP: ARP received. Address already in use The option Manual (Static) was selected in the profile in AirCheck
Manager, but a duplicate IP address was found on the network.
97
Users Manual
98
Appendix B: Default Settings
This appendix shows the default settings for the tester when
Signal Level: Green -65 dBm
you select Tools > Restore factory defaults.
Noise Level: Red -65 dBm
Function Default Setting
Noise Level: Yellow -72 dBm
Profile that the tester uses Default
Noise Level: Green -80 dBm
Auto shutoff On
Signal-to-Noise Level: Red 10 dB
Language The language that
Signal-to-Noise Level: Yellow 17 dB
was selected last
Signal-to-Noise Level: Green 25 dB
Country US
Network coverage: 2 APs
Sound for the AP Locate function On
802.11 Utilization level: Green 40%
Thresholds for Bar Graphs
802.11 Utilization level: Yellow 55%
Signal Level: Red -85 dBm
802.11 Utilization level: Red 70%
Signal Level: Yellow -75 dBm
99
Users Manual
Non-802.11 Utilization level: Connected Packet Rate level: Red 10%

20%
Green
Connected Packet Rate level:
20%
Non-802.11 Utilization level: Yellow
30%
Yellow
Connected Packet Rate level:
30%
Non-802.11 Utilization level: Red 40% Green
Air Quality Co-channel level: Minimum Signal Threshold -85dBm

3 APs
Green
802.11 Settings
Air Quality Co-channel level:
4 APs Bands 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
Yellow
Air Quality Co-channel level: Red 6 APs Transmit probes Enable
Network Quality Co-channel level: Group virtual access points Enable

2 APs
Green Gray inaudible access points Enabled
Network Quality Co-channel level: Delete inaudible access points
3 APs Disabled
Yellow
User offsets for custom signal
Network Quality Co-channel level: 0 dB
4 APs adjustments
Red
Network (SSIDs) List
Packet Retry Rate level: Green 10%
Sort 1 SSID
Packet Retry Rate level: Yellow 17%
Sort 2 SSID
Packet Retry Rate level: Red 25%
100
Appendix B: Default Settings
Individual Networks
Sort 1 Name/MAC
Sort 2 Name/MAC
Access Points on a Channel
Sort 1 Name/MAC
Sort 2 Name/MAC
Access Points List
Sort 1 Name/MAC
Sort 2 Name/MAC
Virtual Access Points List
Sort 1 SSID
Sort 2 SSID
Clients List
Sort 1 SSID
Sort 2 MAC
101
Users Manual
102
Appendix C: 802.11d Country Codes
This appendix shows the countries for the country codes that
AD Andorra
the tester shows on the Access Point Details screen.
AE United Arab Emirates
Countries shown in bold text are the countries you can select
in Tools > Set country. AF Afghanistan
AG Antigua and Barbuda
Note AI Anguilla
The tester can show a third character in the country AL Albania
code. You can ignore that character when you look
for the country code in the table below. AM Armenia
AN Netherlands Antilles
AO Angola
AQ Antarctica
AR Argentina
103
Users Manual
AS American Samoa BN Brunei Darussalam
AT Austria BO Bolivia
AU Australia BR Brazil
AW Aruba BS Bahamas
AX Aland BT Bhutan
AZ Azerbaijan BU Burma (transitional)
BA Bosnia and Herzegovina BV Bouvet Island
BB Barbados BW Botswana
BD Bangladesh BY Belarus
BE Belgium BZ Belize
BF Burkina Faso CA Canada
BG Bulgaria CC Cocos Islands
BH Bahrain CD Congo, Democratic Republic of
BI Burundi CF Central African Republic
BJ Benin CG Congo
BL Saint Barthelemy CH Switzerland
BM Bermuda CI Cote d'Ivoire
104
CK Cook Islands DZ Algeria
CL Chile EC Ecuador
CM Cameroon EE Estonia
CN China EG Egypt
CO Colombia EH Western Sahara
CR Costa Rica ER Eritrea
CS Serbia and Montenegro (transitional) ES Spain
CU Cuba ET Ethiopia
CV Cape Verde EU European Union
CX Christmas Island FI Finland
CY Cyprus FJ Fiji
CZ Czech Republic FK Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
DE Germany FM Micronesia
DJ Djibouti FO Faroe Islands
DK Denmark FR France
DM Dominica FX France, Metropolitan
DO Dominican Republic GA Gabon
105
Users Manual
GB United Kingdom GY Guyana
GD Grenada HK Hong Kong
GE Georgia HM Heard and McDonald Islands
GF French Guiana HN Honduras
GG Guernsey HR Croatia
GH Ghana HT Haiti
GI Gibraltar HU Hungary
GL Greenland ID Indonesia
GM Gambia IE Ireland
GN Guinea II International (Cisco only)
GP Guadeloupe IL Israel
GQ Equatorial Guinea IM Isle of Man
GR Greece IN India
GS South Georgia IO British Indian Ocean
GT Guatemala IQ Iraq
GU Guam IR Iran
GW Guinea-Bissau IS Iceland
106
IT Italy LB Lebanon
JE Jersey LC Saint Lucia
JM Jamaica LI Liechtenstein
JO Jordan LK Sri Lanka
JP Japan LR Liberia
KE Kenya LS Lesotho
KG Kyrgyzstan LT Lithuania
KH Cambodia LU Luxembourg
KI Kiribati LV Latvia
KM Comoros LY Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
KN Saint Kitts and Nevis MA Morocco
KP Korea, D.P.R. (north) MC Monaco
KR Korea, Republic (south) MD Moldova, Republic of
KW Kuwait ME Montenegro
KY Cayman Islands MF Saint Martin
KZ Kazakhstan MG Madagascar
LA Lao MH Marshall Islands
107
Users Manual
MK Macedonia NA No country is selected (special situation for

some access points)
ML Mali
NC New Caledonia
MM Myanmar
NE Niger
MN Mongolia
NF Norfolk Island
MO Macau
NG Nigeria
MP Northern Mariana Islands
NI Nicaragua
MQ Martinique
NL Netherlands
MR Mauritania
NO Norway
MS Montserrat
NP Nepal
MT Malta
NR Nauru
MU Mauritius
NT Neutral Zone (transitional)
MV Maldives
NU Niue
MW Malawi
NZ New Zealand
MX Mexico
OM Oman
MY Malaysia
PA Panama
MZ Mozambique
PE Peru
108
PF French Polynesia RU Russian Federation
PG Papua New Guinea RW Rwanda
PH Philippines SA Saudi Arabia
PK Pakistan SB Solomon Islands
PL Poland SC Seychelles
PM Saint Pierre and Miquelon SD Sudan
PN Pitcairn SE Sweden
PR Puerto Rico SF Finland (unofficial)
PS Palestinian Territory SG Singapore
PS United States (public safety) SH Saint Helena
PT Portugal SI Slovenia
PW Palau SJ Svalbard and Jan Mayen
PY Paraguay SK Slovakia
QA Qatar SL Sierra Leone
RE Reunion SM San Marino
RO Romania SN Senegal
RS Serbia SO Somalia
109
Users Manual
SR Suriname TP East Timor (transitional)
ST Sao Tome and Principe TR Turkey
SU USSR (formerly) TT Trinidad and Tobago
SV El Salvador TV Tuvalu
SY Syrian Arab Republic TW Taiwan
SZ Swaziland TZ Tanzania
TC Turks and Caicos Islands UA Ukraine
TD Chad UG Uganda
TF French Southern Territories UK United Kingdom (unofficial)
TG Togo UM U.S. Minor Outlying Islands
TH Thailand US United States
TJ Tajikistan UY Uruguay
TK Tokelau UZ Uzbekistan
TL Timor-Leste VA Vatican City (Holy See)
TM Turkmenistan VC Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
TN Tunisia VE Venezuela
TO Tonga VG Virgin Islands, British
110
VI Virgin Islands, U.S.
VN Viet Nam
VU Vanuatu
WF Wallis and Futuna Is.
WS Samoa
YE Yemen
YT Mayotte
YU Yugoslavia (transitional)
ZA South Africa
ZM Zambia
ZR Zaire (transitional)
ZW Zimbabwe
111
Users Manual
112
Index
Symbols 802.11d, 36
802.11n capabilities, 52
(...)
access points list
802.11, 47 –A–
ACL, 45 a, 42, 46
notes, 47 Access Point Details, 49
security, 46 access points
networks list 802.11d country, 50
802.11, 42 ACL (authorization status), 38
ACL, 41 connect to an access point, 57
notes, 42 details screen, 49
security, 41 list, 44
* locate an access point, 70, 74
access point, 45 ping, 63
Connect, 58 accessories
profile name, 19, 26 optional, 85
standard, 3
Numbers ACL, 38
ACP files, 81
802.11 settings, 32
ACS files, 81
113
Users Manual
ad hoc device interference

networks list, 24, 42 note, 51
AirCheck Manager on usage graph, 56
overview, 1 cleaning, 83
profile, 26 clients, 65
transfer files to a PC, 82 compliance statement, 92
update the software in the tester, 83 connect to a network or access point, 57
antenna connection range, 64
external, 74 country, 35
internal, 73 code from access points, 36
authorization status, 38 codes, 103
authorized device, 38 setting, 35
auto shutoff, 35 CURRENT.ACP, 81
custom signal adjustment, 78
–B– customer support, 2
b, 42
bar graph colors, 37 –D–
battery, 7 date, 35
default settings, 99
–C– Delete inaudible access points, 33
DEVICE.XML, 81
certifications and compliance, 89 discover devices
channels cannot discover a client, 70
channel usage, 54 cannot discover an access point, 54
channel usage details, 56 clients, 65
default, 36 networks or access points, 39
frequency bands, 32
114
Index
–E– –H–
enable 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz band, 32 help (contact Fluke Networks), 2
Hidden, 42, 46, 67
–F– home screen, 19
files
ACP, 81 –I–
ACS, 81 interference
delete, 80 note, 51
profiles, 26 on usage graph, 56
rename, 80
sessions, 79 –K–
transfer to a PC, 82
XML, 81 keys, 6
flagged device, 38 Knowledge Base, 2
Fluke Networks
contact, 2 –L–
Knowledge Base, 2 Language, 35
frequency bands, 32 LEDs, 6
locate an access point or client
–G– use the internal antenna, 70
g, 42 lock icons
Gray inaudible access points, 33 access points screen, 46, 67
Group virtual access points, 32 networks screen, 41
guard interval, 53 log
guest device, 38 screen, 62
115
Users Manual
–M– any address, 63

default addresses, 61
maintenance, 82
power
Manage 802.11 settings, 30, 31, 32, 33
auto shutoff, 35
memory, 80
battery, 7
cannot turn off, 84
–N– power levels for transmission, 36
n, 42 probe request frames
n40+, n40-, 42 from network clients, 65
neighbor device, 38 from the tester, 32
networks profile, 26
connect to a network, 57
list, 41 –R–
ping, 63
registration, 1
security credentials, 26
notes, 51
(...), 42, 47 –S–
safety information, 2, 82
–O– save a file
profile, 27, 29
options, 85
test session, 79
security credentials, 26, 58
–P– session files
password save, 79
network, 26 settings, 26
profiles, 26 802.11, 32
ping minimum, 8
116
Index
restore defaults, 84, 99 –W–

SNR, 62
world mode, 36
SNXXXXXX.ACS, 81
software update, 83
sort a list, 43, 67 –X–
specifications, 86 XML files, 81
streams, 53
–T–
Thresholds, 12, 17, 23, 30, 31, 37
thresholds, 10, 11, 21, 22, 41, 45, 49, 62, 64, 67
thresholds for bar graph colors, 37
time, 35
timestamp
access points list, 45
networks list, 41
transfer files to a PC, 82
Transmit probes, 32
–U–
unauthorized device, 38
update the software, 83
User Offsets, 78
–V–
virtual access point, 32
117
Users Manual
118

Aircheck: Users Manual

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Aircheck: Users Manual

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Aircheck: Users Manual

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

AirCheck ™

01/2010, Rev. 4, 08/2013

Where is an Access Point? .............................................................................................................................................. 18

Locate an Access Point or a Client ....................................................................................................................................... 70

21. Clients Screen ........................................................................................................................................................66

The Fluke Networks Knowledge Base • Korea: 82 2 539-6311

• Beijing: 86 (10) 6512-3435

• Europe: +31-(0) 40 2675 600

Do not put products that contain circuit Warning

Carefully read all instructions.

Use only Fluke approved power adapters to charge

Do not use the Product around explosive gas,

Examine the case before you use the Product. Look

Batteries contain hazardous chemicals that can

Remove the batteries if the Product is not used for

Do not short the battery terminals together. • Carrying case

Do not disassemble or crush battery cells and • Getting Started Guide

Unpacking • PoE detector

AirCheck Wi-Fi Tester • Getting Started Guide

• AirCheck with rechargeable battery pack • Product manuals CD

• AC adapter • AirCheck Manager Software CD

Figure 1. Physical Features

Battery Charging and Life

To charge the battery, connect the ac adapter to the battery

Figure 2 shows how to replace the battery.

When the tester is off, the battery charges in approximately

The battery life is approximately 5.5 hours during typical

Figure 2. How to Remove the Battery

Use the AirCheck Manager PC

• Connect to networks that require security credentials.

What You Can Learn About Your

To see the current AutoTest thresholds used to grade results, press 

See Using AutoTest to Diagnose Your Network Health, on page 39.

The Co-Channel Interference results include the number of overlapping APs

The Connection test attempts to link to each network configured in your

See Using AutoTest to Diagnose Your Network Health, on page 39.

What is in the Wireless LAN?

To specify a default device authorization of either unknown or authorized, select

Can Devices Connect to My Network?

What Causes Slow Network Performance or Dropped Connections?

Are There Security Risks in My Network?

Where is an Access Point?

What Networks or Access Points Come into Range as I Move?

How Can I Document My Network and My Test Session?

How Can I Erase Everything on my AirCheck?

The Home Screen Indicates that the external antenna is

This measurement is based on the thresholds set in the

Figure 5. AutoTest Results Screen

802.11 Channel Utilization

Change thresholds in Tools > Thresholds /AutoTest

Non-802.11 Channel Utilization

The usage will vary depending on the time of day, the

Figure 9. Signal Level Default Threshold

This measurement is independent of SSIDs and solely looks

Set all AP Series to Authorized

Set all AP Series to Unauthorized

Figure 10. Main AutoTest Display

Network security can be set up from the home screen by

To save the current settings as a profile