Re: [info-tech] Wireless

[Jim Kerns]

We have used 3COM and Proxim, both work well.  In our new middle school, we will be using Extreme gear to match the rest of the switches on our network.  One of the things to watch for regardless of vendor is the firmware.  It seems many of them ship without the latest version, and just getting that up to speed will save headaches.   One thing I really like about the 3COM gear is the site survey tool.  You only need the 3CRPAG175 PCMCIA card.  It allows you to place AP's on carts and work your way through a building and it will identify every AP, every SSID, whether it is part of your network or not, and give you all of the info you need (strength of signal, channel the AP is on, encryption, type of AP, etc).   One of the main attractions of the wireless is the ability to take a mobile lab into the classroom, or really wherever you need it.  Our regular labs are always full, and this just adds a little flexibility.  Special Education is also a consideration now with web IEP's.  All of our teachers who do IEP's have laptops and the wireless gives them the ability to work with parents, etc outside of the regular classroom.  As I upgrade my network, I try to put wireless in at the same time. I have a long way to go, but I can see the benefits right away.   That said, it also adds some headaches.  You have to consider that once installed, your network is extended outside the walls of your buildings.  Security becomes a bigger concern.  Printers are also an issue.  I have a printer that travels with the mobile lab, HP makes a wireless jet direct card that works well.  Otherwise you are installing multiple printers to cover different parts of the building, and of course the students then have to choose the right one.   Hope that helps a little.         Jim Kerns Spencer Community Schools 23 East 7th St P.O. Box 200 Spencer, Iowa 51301 [EMAIL PROTECTED] 712.262.0339 FAX 712.262.1116