UCInet Mobile Access
Wireless networking is an exciting new technology, and NACS is helping introduce the campus to its benefits. NACS is conducting a pilot assessment of wireless networking and its effectiveness at the current state of this developing technology. The technology used is based on the 802.11b standard for 11MB wireless ethernet networking.
Four areas are currently covered by the UCI wireless network (called UCI Mobile Access): the UCI Student Center, the Main Library (and Gateway Study Center), Engineering Gateway (NACS public labs, and some third-floor Engineering rooms and labs), and the Graduate School of Management.
In the process, NACS has built a wireless backbone that will be able to support extension of the wireless network beyond the pilot sites. We’ve also gained sufficient experience that we no longer require the services of an outside consultant for radio frequency planning.
Other UC campuses have expressed interest in modeling their own wireless efforts on UCI’s example. The UCI Libraries have created a laptop lending program (laptops with wireless cards) so that students studying the the Main Library or Gateway Study Center can connect to the wireless network. Wireless Day (April 11) at the UCI Computer Store was also enthusiastically attended.
NACS is assessing functionality and popularity in hopes that further wireless sites can be justified. NACS is available for consulting with departments whose need for wireless technology is sufficiently urgent to invest departmental funds in extending the current wireless coverage. NACS is also examining the potential of this technology in nearby residential areas.
We expect that in developing this expertise, we can add value to any campus wireless activity. Since wireless networking is inseparable from certain security and shared-use considerations, we strongly recommend that all wireless activities be coordinated through NACS.
Up to date information on UCI Mobile Access can be found at http://www.nacs.uci.edu/ucinet/mobile. NACS also hosts a wireless discussion Listserv mailing list. Send e-mail to listserv@uci.edu with the message “Subscribe ucinet-wireless Yourfirstname Yourlastname”.