Q: |
What do I need to access the Library’s
wireless network? |
A: |
You need a laptop computer and a Wireless
Network PC Card. After you purchase the card, follow the
manufacturer's instructions to install it on your computer.
This should involve installing the network card driver,
and also a client utility program. This program will allow
you to configure the settings for your network connection,
monitor signal strength, and perform other useful tasks. |
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Q: |
What kind of wireless card do I need? |
A: |
You need an 11Mbps 802.11b Wireless
Network Card for your laptop. For PCs, we recommend the Orinoco
Silver, made by Lucent. Based on online user opinions, Cisco
Aironet and Netgear brands should also work well, but Linksys,
SMC, D-Link or US Robotics brands may be problematic, especially
for Windows XP users. For Apple notebooks, their Airport
card is recommended. Most cards are available for about $70
at local computer stores, or one of many online computer
stores. |
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Q: |
What are the minimum requirements for
my laptop (PC and Apple)? |
A: |
You should be limited only by the wireless
network card you buy. The drivers and software to operate
the card must be compatible with your system. See the card’s
packaging and documentation for compatibility and minimum
requirements. |
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Q: |
What settings do I use? |
A: |
- SSID or Network Name: the word "any"
- WEP: disable
- IP or Network Settings: DHCP enabled or obtain
an IP address automatically
- DNS: obtain DNS address automatically
- Gateway: no default gateway set - your card
should detect it automatically
Close settings and restart computer if necessary |
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Q: |
If there are too many users, will I
be blocked from using the wireless network? |
A: |
A pool of resources has been set aside
large enough to accommodate users at the library. You will
not be “blocked” from accessing the network because
of too many users. |
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Q: |
What speed is the Internet connection? |
A: |
The Library has a T1 line. However as
with any Internet connection, your speed may fluctuate greatly
due to heavy traffic on the Internet at different times of
day. |
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Q: |
From where can I access the Library’s
wireless network? |
A: |
The network is accessible anywhere in
the library. |
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Q: |
Can I download large files? |
A: |
The bandwidth available for the wireless
Internet connection is shared with all others in the library.
To show consideration for others’ needs, we ask that
you not download excessively large files, use peer-to-peer
file sharing programs, or access streaming audio/video. |
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Important
notice
to Wireless users: |
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The wireless user is responsible for protecting
his/her laptop from viruses and other Internet threats through
the use of antivirus software and personal firewall software. Such
steps are highly recommended. No such protection is offered
by the library's wireless connection. |
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