Wireless Ethernet

[Caryn.Wesner at uspto.gov]

Michael -

There's an article in the March 2001 Computers in Libraries (21(3):28-32) by
James L. "Larry" Glover, called "Look Ma, No Wires! or, The 10 Steps of
Wireless Networking."  His last section is titled "Downsides? Hmm? Anyone?"
and he professes not to be able to find any.  I don't think this article is
in their online version (although I can't check it right now), but hopefully
you should be able to come up with a copy of the paper version.  Between
that and a smattering of other articles I've read recently, I'd really think
that wireless is the way to go.  Good luck!

Caryn S. Wesner-Early, MSLS
Technical Information Specialist
Biotechnology and Chemical Library
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Phone: (703) 308-4501
Fax: (703) 308-4496
caryn.wesner at uspto.gov


-----------original message------------
Date: Thu, 26 Apr 2001 21:05:04 -0500 (CDT)
From: Michael Dargan <darganm at maple.iren.net>
To: web4lib <web4lib at library.berkeley.edu>
Subject: Wireless Ethernet

Our library is contemplating a new building with construction starting in
the Fall of 2002 with completion probably in early 2004.  We're looking at
about 48,000 square feet and about 50 network nodes for webopacs, public,
and staff Internet stations and printers.   (I predict this won't
be enough).

We're in the midst of a heated debate.  I think that wireless
ethernet might well be the way to go within two years or so.  Others tell
me that wireless ethernet is "pie in the sky" and that to be on the safe
side we should run miles of Cat 5.

Are there any libraries on this list who have gone wireless?  If so, are
you glad you did?  Or not?

If you reply to me off list with Yes, No, or maybe I'll compile the
answers and will publish.  Amusing anecdotes and horror stories
are welcome.

I'm especially interested in knowing of anyone who lost his or her job
because of choosing wireless.

---
Michael J. Dargan                               office: 319 291 4496
Technical Systems Administrator                    fax: 319 291 6736
Waterloo and Cedar Falls Public Libraries         Waterloo, IA 50701