What is a "hexadecimal " format?

[anken]

Hi,
I'm trying again to connect to the internet with my iPAQ 2410. To enter the access key in a hotspot (with the owners permission)
I have been prompted to enter the access key in a hexadecimal format.
Does that mean numbers and letters?
Also, how many bars or numbers (-80 dBm) does it take to successfully connect?
Thanks in advance for your help.

[AnswerDude]

Hexadecimal describes a base-16 number system, 0 to 9 and A to F. So instead of entering passphase as text, you will have to enter as Hexadecimal. Typically the setup program that's used to set up security and other setting of wifi router (usually through web browser) will also display Hex format when the owner set the passphase.