Abstract: An interface chip for a peripheral module connectable to and for use with a host computer is provided which utilizes an static Random access memory (SRAM) within the interface chip for both encryption of data packets and temporary storage of Card Information Structure (CIS) information. The CIS information is stored in the SRAM only during the power-up phase of operation, when encryption of data packets is not necessary and thus the memory is not being utilized for that purpose. This precludes the need for a separate SRAM IC, thus saving space on the card.

Abstract: The location of unmodified wireless assets in a wireless communication network may be identified using time differences of arrivals of a communication sequence at different network receivers. Time-stamping devices may include correlator circuits in parallel with signal decoders to time-stamp communication sequences. Cellular wireless networks may be frequency-multiplexed to increase spatial time-stamping density. Tags may be attached to passive assets to provide location identification information to network devices. Locations of assets broadcasting standard 802.11 radio frequency structures may be identified. Noise inherent in correlating a communication sequence may be reduced by using a selected correlation function.

Abstract: The division of the 802.11 MAC operation into a lower MAC and an upper MAC is described. The lower MAC functionality is provided by a combination of software commands and an RF driver. The RF driver is intended to be appliance independent and will not change based on what type of 802.11 node is being implemented: Mobile Unit (MU), Access Point (AP), Wireless AP (WLAP), phone, pager, etc. The RF driver is not hardware platform independent, due to variations in DMA capability and allotted timers. The upper MAC is intended to be hardware platform independent, but appliance dependent (i.e. it will change based on the product being implemented such as PCMCIA, USB, PCI, etc.).