9.3 Input/Output (I/O) Terms

802.11  - A set of standards for wireless local area network (WLAN) computer communication, developed by

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the IEEE LAN/MAN Standards Committee (IEEE 802) in the 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz public spectrum bands. The terms 802.11 and Wi-Fi are often used interchangeably; the Wi-Fi Alliance uses the term "Wi-Fi" to define a slightly different set of overlapping standards.

Bluetooth  - A wireless protocol utilizing short-range communications technology facilitating data transmission over short distances from fixed and/or mobile devices, creating wireless personal area networks  (PANs).

Cellular  - Type of short-wave digital or analog transmission in which a subscriber has a wireless connection from a designated communications device to a relatively nearby transmitter.

Communications Interfaces  - An interface between a computer and another device for sending and receiving data. Common interface types are USB and Ethernet. May be used as a next generation connection to the vehicle.

Ethernet Port  - A connection on a computer which accommodates a cable connection to a network. The Ethernet port on a PC can be used for communicating with a company's network, Intranet, or Internet.

Infrared Data (IrDa) communication  - Method of interconnecting voice or data transmissions across space between two infrared sensors (one transmitting and one receiving) that have a direct line of sight with one another.

Landline  - A telephone cable or similar device through which data is transmitted between interconnecting transceivers.

Modem  - A communication device that enables a computer to transmit information over a telephone line. Modem stands for Modulator/Demodulator.

Parallel Port  - A connection on a computer (usually LPT1) which accommodates a cable connection to a parallel printer. Older vehicle datalink adapters would use the parallel port to communicate between the PC and the vehicle. (See Figure)

Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) or PC Card  - A cartridge containing electronic circuitry, which plugs into an external slot on a computer. A PC card is about the size of a credit card and can be just about anything internally. For example, it might contain memory chips to emulate a floppy disk or to provide additional RAM for temporary data storage. Some PC cards communicate with vehicle SAE/TMC J1708 or other serial datalinks, thus eliminating the need for an external adapter. Most laptop-size and smaller computers are manufactured with PCMCIA slots. Computers without such slots can still access PC cards with an external reader that plugs into the computer's communication port.

RS-232 Serial Communication Ports  - A connection on a computer, usually COM1, where one plugs in the cable for a serial device. RS-232 allows the PC to communicate with printers, modems, etc. The RS-232 port on a PC can be used for communicating with vehicle serial data links by plugging an external communication adapter box into it. (See Figure) Other hardware alternatives may provide direct connection from the PC to the engine or vehicle (without a communication adapter box) if the vehicle or engine control module is equipped with an RS-232 port.

Universal Serial Bus (USB) Port  - An external peripheral serial interface standard for communication between a computer and external devices over an inexpensive cable. USB works at 1.5 and 12 Mbps and supports up to 127 daisy-chained devices. Cables can be up to five meters long and it includes built-in power distribution for low power devices. Low speed USB is intended to replace existing serial ports, parallel ports, keyboard, and monitor connectors and be used with keyboards, and mice. High Speed USB is intended for use with vehicle adapters, printers, data storage, and networks.

Wireless  - General term that refers to the ability to connect a computer to a network of other computers, devices, etc., without the need for a tethered physical connection. See 802.11. Bluetooth,  When configuring a wireless connection, special attention should be paid to securing the wireless network (WEP, WPA, WPA2 in order of security provided).