ALFA Network AWUS036ACM Dual-Band AC1200 USB Wi-Fi Adapter User Manual

1. Introdución

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your ALFA Network AWUS036ACM Dual-Band AC1200 USB Wi-Fi Adapter. The AWUS036ACM is designed to provide long-range, wide-coverage wireless connectivity, supporting both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands for optimal performance. It is compatible with various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Kali Linux.

Please read this manual thoroughly before using the device to ensure proper setup and functionality.

2. Contido do paquete

Verifique que todos os elementos que se indican a continuación estean incluídos no paquete do produto:

• ALFA Network AWUS036ACM USB Wi-Fi Adapter
• Two (2) High-Sensitivity Dual-Band External Antennas
• Base USB 3.0 con cable
• Driver Installation CD/DVD
• Guía de inicio rápido

Figura 2.1: Contents of the ALFA Network AWUS036ACM package, including the adapter, two antennas, USB cradle, driver disc, and documentation.

3. Características

The ALFA Network AWUS036ACM adapter incorporates advanced features for enhanced wireless connectivity:

• Dual-Band AC1200 Wi-Fi: Supports 802.11ac standard, offering speeds up to 300Mbps on 2.4GHz and 867Mbps on 5GHz.
• High-Sensitivity External Antennas: Two 5dBi dual-band antennas optimize signal reception and coverage.
• Conectividade USB 3.0: Ensures high-speed data transfer with compatible USB 3.0 ports.
• Posicionamento flexible: Includes a USB 3.0 cradle for optimal placement and signal reception.
• Wide Operating System Support: Compatible with Windows XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10, macOS 10.9 to 10.13, and Linux.

Figura 3.1: Diagram highlighting key components of the AWUS036ACM, including high-gain dual-band antennas, 802.11ac chipset, and USB 3.0 connectivity.

4. Requisitos do sistema

Before installation, ensure your system meets the following requirements:

• Sistema operativo: Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10; macOS 10.9 to 10.13; Linux.
• Porto USB: Available USB 3.0 port (backward compatible with USB 2.0, but performance may be reduced).
• Unidade óptica: CD/DVD drive for driver installation (if not downloading drivers).

Nota importante para os usuarios de macOS: Driver support is not available for macOS versions beyond 10.15, nor for systems with M1/M2 chipsets.

5. Configuración

5.1 Instalación do controlador

It is recommended to install the drivers antes connecting the AWUS036ACM adapter to your computer.

1. Inserir o CD do controlador: Place the included driver CD/DVD into your computer's optical drive. If your computer lacks an optical drive, download the latest drivers from the official ALFA Network websitio: www.alfa.com.tw.
2. Executar o instalador: Navigate to the CD/DVD content or downloaded folder and locate the setup file (por exemplo, setup.exe for Windows, or appropriate installer for macOS/Linux). Double-click to run the installer.
3. Siga as instrucións na pantalla: Follow the instructions provided by the installation wizard. You may need to restart your computer after the installation is complete.

Nota: For Linux users, specific commands or additional steps may be required depending on your distribution. Refer to the ALFA Network website or community resources for detailed Linux driver installation guides.

5.2 Conexión de hardware

1. Colocación de antenas: Carefully screw the two external antennas onto the RP-SMA connectors on the AWUS036ACM adapter. Ensure they are securely fastened but do not overtighten.
2. Connect to Cradle (Optional but Recommended): Insert the AWUS036ACM adapter into the USB 3.0 cradle. This allows for flexible positioning of the adapter to achieve optimal signal reception.
3. Conectar ao ordenador: Plug the USB connector of the adapter (or the cradle's cable) into an available USB 3.0 port on your computer. The operating system should detect the device and complete the installation.

Figura 5.1: The ALFA Network AWUS036ACM adapter with its two external antennas attached, ready for connection.

6. Instrucións de funcionamento

6.1 Conectarse a unha rede Wi-Fi

Once the drivers are installed and the adapter is connected, you can connect to a wireless network:

1. Configuración de rede de acceso:
   • Windows: Click the Wi-Fi icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner).
   • macOS: Click the Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar (top-right corner).
   • Linux: Access network settings through your desktop environment's system tray or settings panel.
2. Seleccione Rede: Aparecerá unha lista de redes Wi-Fi dispoñibles. Selecciona a rede desexada (SSID).
3. Introduza o contrasinal: Se a rede está protexida, introduza o contrasinal da wifi (chave de seguridade) cando se lle solicite.
4. Conectar: Click "Connect" to establish the wireless connection.

6.2 Funcionamento de dobre banda

The AWUS036ACM supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi bands. Your network may offer both:

• Banda de 2.4 GHz: Offers wider coverage and better penetration through walls, suitable for general internet browsing, email, and file transferencias.
• Banda de 5 GHz: Provides faster speeds and less interference, ideal for online gaming, HD video streaming, and other bandwidth-intensive applications. However, its range is typically shorter.

You can choose which band to connect to if your router broadcasts separate SSIDs for each band (e.g., "MyWiFi_2.4GHz" and "MyWiFi_5GHz").

Figura 6.1: Visual representation of the coverage difference between 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, showing 2.4GHz with wider spread and 5GHz with more focused, higher-speed coverage.

7. Mantemento

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your AWUS036ACM adapter, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Manter limpo: Limpe o adaptador e as antenas regularmente cun pano suave e seco para eliminar o po. Evite usar produtos de limpeza líquidos.
• Protexer contra danos: Avoid dropping the device or exposing it to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
• Almacenamento adecuado: When not in use for extended periods, store the adapter in a cool, dry place.
• Coidado da antena: Handle antennas carefully to prevent bending or breaking. Ensure they are securely attached.

8 Solución de problemas

If you encounter issues with your ALFA Network AWUS036ACM adapter, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• Non se detectaron redes wifi:
  • Ensure drivers are correctly installed. Reinstall if necessary.
  • Verify the adapter is securely plugged into a functional USB port.
  • Comproba se a wifi do teu ordenador está activada (se é o caso).
  • Confirm your router is powered on and broadcasting a signal.
• Velocidade de conexión lenta:
  • Try connecting to the 5GHz band if available, as it generally offers higher speeds.
  • Reposition the adapter using the USB cradle to improve signal strength.
  • Ensure your computer is connected to a USB 3.0 port for optimal performance.
  • Comprobe se hai interferencias doutros dispositivos electrónicos.
• Desconexións frecuentes:
  • Update your adapter drivers to the latest version from the ALFA Network websitio.
  • Move the adapter closer to your Wi-Fi router or reposition it for a clearer line of sight.
  • Check your router's firmware for updates.
• Adaptador non recoñecido:
  • Proba cun porto USB diferente no teu ordenador.
  • Ensure the drivers are installed correctly.
  • Reinicia o teu ordenador.

9. Especificacións

Detailed technical specifications for the ALFA Network AWUS036ACM:

Figura 9.1: Comprehensive table outlining the technical specifications of the AWUS036ACM adapter.

10. Garantía e soporte

For warranty information, technical support, and the latest driver downloads, please visit the official ALFA Network websitio:

ALFA Network Official Websitio

Conserve o comprobante de compra para reclamacións de garantía.