[Broadcom] Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get multiple access points to peacefully co-exist in my house?
When you have multiple access points in close proximity to one another, setting each to a different channel should reduce interference and ensure peaceful coexistence. 802.11g offers three non-overlapping channels (1, 6, 11), so you could set one access point on channel 1 and the other on channel 6 or 11. In addition, to make it as easy as possible to roam between access points, you should assign them the same wireless network name (SSID), make sure they use the same encryption type (WPA, AES, etc.), and require the same encryption key or password.

How can I add a printer to my wireless network?
If you have a standard printer (without built-in wireless), you will need a print server to connect it to the network. When purchasing a print server, make sure it supports the exact model number of your printer, and it has the appropriate connector type (parallel port or USB). If your router has a built-in print server, you can simply connect your printer to the router with a cable. Another option is to purchase a printer with built-in Wi-Fi. HP now offers a number of wireless-enabled printers that eliminate the need for a print server. Models include:

• HP Photosmart 2700 All-in-One series
• HP Officejet 7410 All-in-One
• HP Deskjet 6840 Color Inkjet Printer

What can I do if I'm having trouble getting an IP address from the DHCP server?
When a wireless connection is established, the computer requests an IP address from the DHCP server. If the request or the reply isn't received, your computer will assign itself an address such as 169.X.X.X. There are several reasons for this error. Below are a few common problems and their solutions.

1. Your wireless signal is too weak or unreliable to establish a connection
   • Move closer to the AP
2. Your wireless encryption method or password does not match the router's
   • Verify the encryption method and key. Remember the key or passphrase may be case sensitive and beware of leading or trailing spaces.
3. The DHCP server has been disabled
   • Use the router's management application to enable DHCP
   • If you cannot enable DHCP on the router, define a static IP address on your device
4. You have more than one device on your network that is acting as a DHCP server
   • Disable DHCP services on all that devices except the one that you want to deliver IP addresses on your network.

My wireless Access Point seems to block DHCP, how can I fix it?
An access point usually passes data packets directly between the wireless and Ethernet portion of a network without affecting the data. Some high end, enterprise class access points can filter information as it passes from one side to the other, but this is not common in devices designed for the home. If you are not getting a valid IP address (but instead are getting a Windows generated 169.X.X.X address), it more likely due to a poor wireless connection.

If your computer shows a strong wireless signal, a significant amount of interference may be corrupting your wireless data so that the DHCP conversation can not be completed successfully.