The Architecture Building is now a totally wireless facility as Ball State University's new campuswide wireless network has become a reality. This network means students can use laptop computers and handheld devices to surf the Internet, e-mail professors, do library research, or join an online class discussion anywhere on campus without having to physically plug in hardware.

The mobility of wireless laptops or handhelds makes it more convenient for students to collaborate and exchange ideas. The wireless system also will help prepare students for jobs in a technology-driven economy.

Ball State's wireless program is part of a growing national trend. Except for individual residence hall rooms, which have pre-wired high-speed Internet connections, the entire campus now has wireless access. The network is secure and capable of handling 10,000 users from 30 buildings simultaneously.

Connecting to the Network
Users connect to the Internet with a wireless network interface card. The card "talks" to access points, which are transmitters attached to interior and exterior building walls. Access points are like an Ethernet hub, but they use radio waves instead of copper wires, operating something like a cell phone network. Access points have a range up to 1,500 feet.

The wireless system is about 200 times faster than a typical modem, but not as fast as an Ethernet connection through a jack in the wall.

For More Information
Roger Whitted, Video/Computer Specialist
College of Architecture and Planning
Architecture Building 022
(765) 717-4918
(765) 285-3726 fax
rwhitted@bsu.edu