Question

What is the IEEE 802.11a center frequency in GHz, and what are its max/min data rates in Mbps? What is the IEEE 802.11b center frequency in GHz, and what are its max/min data rates in Mbps? Assuming other factors are the same, which one has larger wireless coverage (a or b), and why? (1 point)

Answer 1

Explanation:

What is IEEE 802.11?

IEEE 802.11 is a set of WLAN standards for communication developed by the Institute for Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and is unarguably most widely used WLAN technology.

Features: IEEE 802.11a

• The operating frequency band is 5 GHz.
• The maximum theoretical data rate is 54 Mbps, the typical throughput is around 25 Mbps and minimum data rate is 6 Mbps.
• It can support 64 users per access point.

Features: IEEE 802.11b

• The operating frequency band is 2.4 GHz.
• The maximum theoretical data rate is 11 Mbps but typical throughput is around 6 Mbps and minimum data rate is 1 Mbps.
• It can support 32 users per access point.

Wireless Coverage IEEE 802.11a Vs IEEE 802.11b:

• Signal coverage is one of the most important factors among users.
• The transmission range of IEEE 802.11a is not greater than 100 ft in indoor setting whereas IEEE 802.11b has a superior performance in this regard with transmission range up to 150 ft in indoor setting.
• The data rate has a direct relation with the access point coverage area, a higher data rate means less coverage area and a lower data rate results in increased coverage.