By Nicole Kobie
There’s something in the air at the University of Calgary.
A new wireless ethernet network allows students to access the campus network and the Internet with laptops and pdas without the hassle of cables. The pilot program by Information Technologies is known as AirUC and offers connection points in the ict Building, the Information Commons and the fourth floor of Scurfield Hall.
AirUC offers connection speeds up to 11 megabits per second, several times that of a home broadband connection.
While the ieee 802.11b system could eventually expand to cover more of the campus, demand for the wireless network is insufficient.
"The use of laptops is not that prevalent at this organization, but we wondered if it was a chicken-or-egg question," explained Tom Seto, manager of network services at Information Technologies.
Usage is expected to increase as students become aware of the technology and bring laptops to class. The first wireless access points in Scurfield Hall and ict classrooms could help meet demand created by existing wired ports without having to wire entire classrooms. Future hook-ups could include areas where students gather to work, such as MacEwan Hall. As well, the Faculty of Medicine is hoping to implement a laptop program for fall 2004.
With the new network, students will no longer have to queue for wired ports at the Information Commons or Scurfield Hall to use their laptops.
"During busy times, our laptop docking stations are busy," said Head of Information Commons Susan Beatty. "So if someone wants to use their laptop and they have a wireless card then they can come to the Information Commons knowing that they will not have to wait for a spot."
As with any wireless technology, such a network has the potential to be a security and privacy risk. Users will be required to login with their U of C password and if they wish to encrypt their data stream, a virtual private network service is provided.
The pilot program is safe for the university’s budget as well. it saved money by using low cost parts and by building their own server.
"Rather than using a validation server that costs $10,000 we built one out of a Linux box," explained Seto. "The cost is actually more in people resources."
Though it has start-up costs and security issues covered, Seto makes no promises the network will promote students’ social skills.
"We’re a little concerned about the reaction of the food outlets as to the turnover of users at their tables," said Seto. "I don’t know what this will do for social interaction if people retreat to their laptops, even in populated areas."