As UI Wireless Computing Expands Need to Manage Air Space Arises
Tuesday, May 28 2002
May 28, 2002^MOSCOW -- The University of Idaho now moves from its position as one of the "most-wired campuses" to an expanded wireless system for computing, web access, audio listening, networking and other electronic learning, according to summer work orders of its Information Technology Services.^"Our goal is to eventually become a wireless computing campus, which will reduce the demand for computer labs and allow students to connect in any classroom or public space anywhere on campus," said Harvey Hughett, executive director, UI Information Technology Services.^This summer, ITS plans to install additional transmitters or "access points" fixed to walls inside buildings. These and outside antennas will blanket the campus in a single network, allowing users to roam across access zones. The access points will be connected to UI’s existing wired network. ^"A technical environment of `anytime, anywhere information access' lays the groundwork for new applications in teaching and learning," said Hughett. "Furthermore, planning teams, fire fighters or security personnel can instantly see building floor plans and schematics on portable devices. At some point, visitors to UI will be able to tour or locate sites via wireless interactive kiosk devices that provide real-time information about current events."^Hughett says wireless is economically smart, as well.^“The university will save money on electronic-cabling costs to hard-to-serve areas, and the network will be well-suited to collaborative learning. For instance, with conferencing software, students anywhere on campus would be able to form small online groups and work on presentations or projects for an audience of critical peers.”^ UI first provided wireless network access in the UI Commons last year, offering wireless-capable laptops that students could check out and use within the building. The program was so popular that student leaders assisted the university in offering wireless computing in the UI Library, the Student Union Building and the Polya Math Lab. ITS now works with the Student Computing Advisory Committee to develop a comprehensive expansion plan for the wireless network.^One caveat is necessary to make this wireless system work smoothly.^"The open 2.4 gigahertz (GHz) radio frequency, used to transmit the wireless signal, is not licensed by the Federal Communications Commission," explains Hughett. "So, as other consumer products use this open frequency, potential conflicts arise with the wireless network."^Such devices as 2.4 GHz cordless telephones, wireless area networking devices, wireless video transmitters, some wireless audio speakers and even unprotected microwave ovens and 2.4 GHz computer screen cameras have been known to scramble signals in UI's wireless delivery system. Devices in the megahertz ranges or in other radio wave frequencies appear to cause no problems.^ "In order to assure quality and reliability to users of UI wireless computing, ITS requests that use of other 2.4 GHz devices be discontinued in university-owned buildings and airspace where wireless is installed," said Hughett. In rare cases, exceptions may be made for isolated needs related to specific safety, health, teaching or research applications. But generally speaking, he said, ITS reserves the right to restrict use of interfering 2.4 GHz radio devices in university-owned buildings and campus open spaces where wireless is installed.^Questions may be directed to ITS, its@uidaho.edu, (208) 885-6721 or go to the website at http://helpdesk.uidaho.edu/wireless/ ^Contacts: Harvey Hughett, executive director, UI Information Technology Services, 885-6721, hughett@uidaho.edu or Nancy Hilliard, University Communications, (208) 885-6567, hilliard@uidaho.edu^-30-^NH-5/28/02-ADM/ITS^
About the University of Idaho
The University of Idaho helps students to succeed and become leaders. Its land-grant mission furthers innovative scholarly and creative research to grow Idaho's economy and serve a statewide community. From its main campus in Moscow, Idaho, to 70 research and academic locations statewide, U-Idaho emphasizes real-world application as part of its student experience. U-Idaho combines the strength of a large university with the intimacy of small learning communities. It is home to the Vandals. For information, visit www.uidaho.edu.