In an effort to educate you on our product and software details, we have compiled a list of technical terms used throughout this site.
802.11b
The 802.11b standard for wireless local area networks (WLANs) – often called Wi-Fi – is part of the 802.11 series of WLAN standards from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). 802.11b is backward compatible with 802.11. It has a longer network distance than 802.11 g.
802.11g
The 802.11g standard for wireless local area networks (WLANs) is an upgraded standard from the 802.11b standard. 802.11g has higher data rates and is better for a network than 802.11b. Currently, SenSource wireless environmental sensors are compatible with 802.11b/g standard.
Client/Server
The term client/server describes one possible relationship between two software applications in which the client makes a service request from the server. The client/server relationship can apply to two programs running on a single computer or two programs running over a network. In the case of a network, the client/server model provides a convenient way to interconnect programs that are distributed efficiently across different locations.
Data Transmitter
A data transmitter is an electronic device that broadcasts a radio signal containing data from the sensor to a Sensor Server data receiver.
MHz (Megahertz)
A megahertz is a unit measuring radio frequency; 1 MHz = 1,000 Hertz.
RTD Probe (Resistance Temperature Detector)
An RTD probe uses a metallic element to measure changes in heat. RTDs are more stable and accurate than thermistor probes with high sensitivity and a robust signal. (See Thermistor Probe definition below)
Thermistor Probe
A thermistor probe uses a semiconductor device to measure changes in heat. Thermistors measure a narrower temperature range than an RTD probe, but are highly sensitive and also produce a robust signal.
VeaTrak Software
SenSource’s VeaTrak Software program is used in conjunction with sensors to provide real-time data and information in an easy-to-use and customizable format. Click here to learn more about VeaTrak Software.
WEP128
WEP128 – 128-bit Wired Equivalent Privacy – uses Shared Key authentication and encryption to communicate to access points. Although WEP is a commonly used security choice, it is less secure than newer authentication such as WPA2-PSK. (See WPA2-PSK definition below)
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is a high-frequency local area network (LAN) that transmits without wires, enabling internet access in areas cables cannot be run. The term refers to the 802.11b engineering standard.
Wi-Fi Access Point
A Wi-Fi Access Point is a station that transmits and receives data and is sometimes referred to as a transceiver. An access point connects users to other users within the network and can also serve as the point of interconnection between the WLAN (wireless local area network) and a fixed wire network.
WPA2-PSK (AES)
Wi-Fi Protected Access 2 – Pre-Shared Key (Advanced Encryption Standard) is a certification program created by the Wi-Fi Alliance to secure wireless computer networks. More authentication is required to access a network using WPA2-PSK than WEP128. SenSource environmental sensors use the pre-shared key mode, AES encryption, which is designed for home and small office networks, requiring less complex authentication servers.