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More powerful, stable wireless network coming soon
July 10, 2008
For the past year, Information and Technology Services has been working to replace and expand PLU’s current wireless network to make it more powerful and stable. Rapid deployment of the new state-of-the-art system begins later this summer.
The current network consists of about 60 wireless access points, which must be individually configured and controlled. This often results in hotspot wireless coverage rather than building-wide service.
However, the new wireless architecture relies on a central controller to automatically configure each wireless point and establish an optimal balance of settings. The rollout of the thin-AP system began with the University Center renovation, and is drawing in part on the Technology Initiative Fund.
By the end of this summer, the new network should be installed in: University Center, Columbia Center, Garfield Book Company, Mortvedt Library, Hauge Administration Building, Rieke Science Center and Hinderlie Hall.
Buildings that are next in the queue will receive the system later in 2008. These include: Xavier Hall, Morken Center for Learning and Technology, Tingelstad and South halls, and KPLU’s new building, the Martin J. Neeb Center.
In addition, several buildings will receive the upgrade, though it won’t be building-wide. It will improve wireless service in multiple areas. These include: facilities’ conference rooms, Mary Baker Russell Music Center, Memorial Gym (ROTC offices and classroom), Olson (primarily classrooms) and Ingram.
Residence halls may receive upgrades to increase coverage in lounges and common areas, and extending the new network to buildings such as Ramstad Commons, Nesvig, Health Center, Blomquist and the Wang Center is being investigated.
However, the new wireless architecture relies on a central controller to automatically configure each wireless point and establish an optimal balance of settings. The rollout of the thin-AP system began with the University Center renovation, and is drawing in part on the Technology Initiative Fund.
By the end of this summer, the new network should be installed in: University Center, Columbia Center, Garfield Book Company, Mortvedt Library, Hauge Administration Building, Rieke Science Center and Hinderlie Hall.
Buildings that are next in the queue will receive the system later in 2008. These include: Xavier Hall, Morken Center for Learning and Technology, Tingelstad and South halls, and KPLU’s new building, the Martin J. Neeb Center.
In addition, several buildings will receive the upgrade, though it won’t be building-wide. It will improve wireless service in multiple areas. These include: facilities’ conference rooms, Mary Baker Russell Music Center, Memorial Gym (ROTC offices and classroom), Olson (primarily classrooms) and Ingram.
Residence halls may receive upgrades to increase coverage in lounges and common areas, and extending the new network to buildings such as Ramstad Commons, Nesvig, Health Center, Blomquist and the Wang Center is being investigated.