En-26
Network Setup
In order to use the media server function (playing back music files saved on a computer), AirPlay, or Internet radio, the
ABX-N300 must be connected to a network.
The ABX-N300 can connect to the network in either of two ways: wirelessly or by a cable. You’ll need to make the
settings that are appropriate for the type of network you’re using.
Connect the ABX-N300 to your wireless LAN or wired LAN as described in “Connections” (page 13).
The ABX-N300’s wireless LAN conforms to Wi-Fi.
A network is a setup in which multiple devices are connected by a cable (or wirelessly) so that they can communicate
with each other.
In a home, it is common to set up a network so that computers or game consoles can connect to the Internet, or so that
data can be transferred between multiple computers.
A network of this type that is limited to a relatively small area, such as a home, is called a Local Area Network (LAN).
If the ABX-N300 is connected to a network server such as a computer, it can play back music files stored on the network
server (computer), or connect to the Internet to play Internet radio.
In such cases, you do not connect the ABX-N300 directly to the other computer or to the Internet.
In order to connect to a computer or to the Internet, several other pieces of equipment (network devices) are required.
The following equipment is required in order to use the ABX-N300’s network functionality.
■ Router
A router is a device that sits between the ABX-N300 and a computer, or between the ABX-N300 and the Internet, and
controls the flow of data.
In a network, the flow of data is referred to as “traffic.” The router plays the role of a traffic controller between the
various devices.
• For use with the ABX-N300, we recommend a broadband router that contains a 100Base-TX switch.
• If you want to connect via wireless LAN, you’ll need to provide a wireless LAN router.
• If your router has DHCP functionality, it will be easy to make network settings.
• If you have a contract with an Internet Service Provider (ISP), use the router recommended by your ISP.
For more information about routers, please consult your dealer or your ISP.
■ Ethernet cable (CAT-5)
Ethernet cable is what is used to actually connect the devices making up the network. There are two types of Ethernet
cable: straight cables and cross cables.
• The ABX-N300 uses an Ethernet straight cable that complies with CAT-5 standards. Consult your dealer for more
information on Ethernet cables.
• If you’re connecting via a wireless LAN, an Ethernet cable is not needed.
■ Network server (such as a computer / if using a network server)
This is a device that stores music files and delivers them to the ABX-N300 for playback.
• The requirements for use with the ABX-N300 will differ depending on the device you’re using as a network server
(see page 32).
• For details about media servers supported by the ABX-N300, refer to page 32.
• The conditions for optimal playback of music files on the ABX-N300 will depend on the network server (the
performance of the computer) that you’re using. For details on each device, refer to the owner’s manual of the
corresponding device.
■ Internet Access (for Internet radio)
To receive Internet radio, your Ethernet network must have Internet access. A narrowband Internet connection (e.g.,
56 K modem, ISDN) will not provide satisfactory results, so a broadband connection is strongly recommended (e.g.,
cable modem, xDSL modem, etc). Please consult your ISP or computer dealer if you’re unsure.
Notes:
• To receive Internet radio with the ABX-N300, your broadband Internet connection must be working and able to access
the Web. Consult your ISP if you have any problems with
your Internet connection.
• The ABX-N300 uses DHCP to configure its network settings automatically. If you want to configure these settings
manually, see “Network connections (Manual)” on page 29.
• The ABX-N300 does not support PPPoE settings, so if you have a PPPoE-type Internet connection, you must use a
PPPoEcompatible router.
• Depending on your ISP, you may need to specify a proxy server to use Internet radio. If your computer is configured
to use a proxy server, use the same settings for the ABX-N300 (page 30).
Network Essentials