Abstract: Existing LAN's, whether wired or wireless, rely on a wired-network backbone for connectivity, creating higher installation costs and less flexibility. Wireless access points provide for easier installation and more flexibility, but still rely on the wired backbone for network communication. A truly wireless access point, with a wireless connection back to the rest of the network, provides the ultimate ease of installation and flexibility to configure the network. These wireless access points, applied to the home or office environment, provide wireless networks without the overhead of building a physical, wired network between all networked devices.

Abstract: A wireless system, including a system controller, and a portable device with wireless connection to the wireless system, can be used to link customers to the operations of a business. This link can be used to increase customer efficiency in the use of the business, including scheduling appointments to avoid lines, viewing customer locations on an interactive map, and tracking the locations of other customers traveling in a group. This link also allows the customer to initiate searches for information or products and to make electronic purchases. The business can use the link to send information or advertisements directly to select customers.