The skies over Syracuse may be blue, but the air is orange as the University's new wireless computer network-AirOrange-joins the electromagnetic spectrum across campus. The new system, which has been up and running since August, will enable faculty, staff and students to browse the Internet with their laptop computers in public areas across campus.
"Installing a wireless network on campus has been an important part of the department's strategic, long-range planning process," says Gary McGinnis, director of client services for Computing and Media Services (CMS). "AirOrange is not designed to replace the University's wired network. The goal is to augment the wired network by giving people access to the Web and e-mail in areas where wires are not available."
Currently, wireless networks are installed in the Schine Student Center's dining area, Panasci Lounge and the adjacent conference rooms; the first- and second-floor common areas of E.S. Bird Library; Newhouse II; the third and fourth floors of Slocum Hall; the second, third and fourth floors of the Crouse-Hinds School of Management Building; the math department in Carnegie; and in the CMS areas of Machinery and Hinds Hall.
Networks under construction include the Physics Building, the Goldstein Student Center on South Campus and the Kimmel Hall support area and dining center. Wireless coverage is expected to be available on the Quad, in all student-dining centers and in a variety of other public spaces beginning next summer.
Faculty, staff and students can plug into the system by installing a wireless card into their laptop computers consistent with the 802.11b or Wi-Fi technology standard. Information about installing a wireless card and about connecting to AirOrange can be found on the CMS Web site at (http://cms.syr.edu/), by calling CMS Client Services at 443-2677, or e-mail Consult@syr.edu
