1. Introduction
The D-Link DWA-160 Wireless Dual Band N600 USB Wi-Fi Network Adapter provides wireless connectivity for desktop or notebook computers. It supports dual-band operation (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) and is designed to facilitate high-definition video streaming and general internet use. This adapter is compatible with 802.11n and backward compatible with 802.11g wireless standards.
2. Package Contents
The DWA-160 package typically includes the following items:
- D-Link Xtreme N Dual Band USB Adapter (DWA-160)
- USB extension cradle
- Quick Installation Guide
- CD-ROM with installation wizard and product documentation
Figure 2.1: D-Link DWA-160 Retail Packaging, showing the adapter, USB cradle, and documentation.
3. Product Overview
The D-Link DWA-160 is a compact USB adapter designed for easy integration with your computer. It features an indicator light for network activity and a standard USB connector.
Figure 3.1: Top view of the D-Link DWA-160 USB Wi-Fi Adapter, showing the D-Link logo and activity indicator.
Figure 3.2: The DWA-160 adapter with its protective cap removed, revealing the USB connector.
Figure 3.3: Angled view of the D-Link DWA-160 USB Wi-Fi Adapter.
Figure 3.4: Graphic illustrating key features such as dual-band support (2.4GHz/5GHz), optimized HD video streaming, and Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS).
4. Setup and Installation
Installation of the DWA-160 adapter involves installing the necessary drivers and utility software, then connecting the adapter to your computer.
- Software Installation: Insert the provided CD-ROM into your computer's optical drive. Follow the on-screen instructions of the D-Link Quick Adapter Setup Wizard to install the drivers and the D-Link Wireless Manager utility. If an optical drive is not available, drivers can typically be downloaded from the D-Link support website.
- Hardware Connection: Once the software installation is complete, plug the DWA-160 USB adapter into an available USB port on your computer. For optimal placement or to avoid interference, use the included USB extension cradle.
- Network Connection: Use the D-Link Wireless Manager or your operating system's wireless utility to scan for available networks. Select your desired network and enter the security key (WPA/WPA2) if prompted.
- Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS): For routers supporting WPS, you can press the WPS button on your router and then activate WPS on the DWA-160 (if supported by the hardware version) to establish a secure connection automatically.
5. Operating Instructions
The DWA-160 adapter supports dual-band wireless technology, offering flexibility in network usage.
- Dual Band Functionality: The adapter can operate on either the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz wireless band.
- The 2.4 GHz band is suitable for general internet browsing and email.
- The 5 GHz band is recommended for high-bandwidth activities such as streaming HD video or online gaming, as it typically experiences less interference and provides higher throughput.
- D-Link Wireless Manager: This utility helps manage your wireless connections, allowing you to view available networks, connect to them, and save profiles for frequently accessed networks.
6. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues encountered during the installation and operation of the DWA-160 adapter.
- Adapter Not Detected or Not Connecting:
- Ensure the adapter is securely plugged into a functional USB port.
- Verify that the drivers are correctly installed. Reinstall drivers from the CD-ROM or D-Link's official website if necessary.
- Check your computer's Device Manager to ensure the adapter is recognized and enabled without errors.
- Slow Connection Speed or Frequent Disconnections:
- Router Settings: For optimal N600 speeds (up to 300Mbps), ensure your wireless router is configured correctly. The router should be an 802.11n dual-band router (e.g., D-Link DIR-855 or DIR-825). The router's wireless mode should include 802.11n. If using encryption, the router's security setting should be WPA2 with AES cipher. The channel width setting on your router should be set to '20/40 Auto' or '40MHz' for the 5GHz band to achieve maximum speeds.
- Interference: Wireless performance can be affected by interference from other devices (e.g., cordless phones, microwaves) or physical obstructions. Try repositioning the adapter using the USB extension cradle or changing the wireless channel on your router.
- Driver Updates: Always ensure you have the latest drivers for your operating system from the D-Link support website.
- Operating System Compatibility: While the DWA-160 supports various operating systems, ensure driver compatibility, especially with newer versions like Windows 10, as some users have reported specific driver requirements or limitations.
7. Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the D-Link DWA-160 Wireless Dual Band N600 USB Wi-Fi Network Adapter:
- Product Dimensions: 3.46 x 1.5 x 0.51 inches
- Item Weight: 6.4 ounces
- Model Number: DWA-160
- Wireless Standards: IEEE 802.11n, IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11g
- Interface: USB 2.0
- Security: Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA/WPA2), Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) Push Button
- LED: Link/Activity
- Certifications: FCC Class B, Wi-Fi
- Operating Temperature: 32° to 104°F (0° to 40°C)
- Operating Humidity: 10% - 90% (non-condensing)
- Manufacturer: D-Link Systems, Inc.
- Date First Available: January 4, 2008
Figure 7.1: Graphic detailing technical specifications, including dimensions, weight, operating conditions, and network setup diagram.
8. Warranty and Support
Warranty Information: The D-Link DWA-160 comes with a 1-Year Limited Warranty. Please refer to the product documentation or D-Link's official website for full warranty terms and conditions.
Technical Support: For further assistance, updated drivers, or firmware, please visit the official D-Link support website. You can also find FAQs and troubleshooting guides there.
