Wireless Internet Access at the Pollard Memorial Library
The Pollard Memorial Library offers
wireless "WiFi" access to the Library's Internet service for properly
equipped laptops. When you use the Internet in the Library you are accepting
the Library's Internet Access Policy (Acceptable Use Policy). Please take the
time to read the policy before accessing the network. Copies are available at
the Reference Desk.
Advantages
No waiting for a free PC
No enforced time limits...connect as long
as you like
Spread out at a larger table in a quieter
area of the building
Fast access
Download files
Save your files permanently on your own
device
Limitations
No printing services are available
A WiFi network is less secure than a wired
network (see below)
Signal strength varies within the Library
Your laptop must conform to the
"802.11b" standard, commonly known as "WiFi". New laptops
often come standard with a wireless interface. These laptops usually come
automatically configured to pick up the wireless signal. Older laptops with a
PCMCIA slot or USB port can be fitted with a wired/wireless network interface
card (NIC) for about $80 or even less.
Where You Can Pick Up the Wireless Signal
The wireless signal is strongest in
Memorial Hall on the second floor. The
library shelving may interfere with the wireless signal in other parts of the
library.
What You Will Need
Wireless network interface card (NIC)
A laptop configured to use the Library's
Internet connection
How safe is WiFi?
The Internet is a public communications
network. This means that there can be
untrusted parties between you and anybody with whom you communicate. WiFi
unplugs the Internet and makes personal security risks more visible. WiFi poses
the same risks to your personal information that a wired network poses, as well
as some new risks. WiFi users need to educate themselves about these risks, and
take steps to secure their personal information. Cautious WiFi users may choose
not to transmit their credit card information and passwords while using any
WiFi "hotspot", including the Library's. The Library cannot assure
the safety of your data when you use either our wired or wireless Internet
access.
Wireless Technical Information
Wireless hardware and software varies as
to the operating systems you may use on your laptop, so we can't give you
precise instructions. In many cases, you need to do nothing to hook up (just
click on Internet Explorer), but you might need to check the following in your
configuration:
The "Service Set Identifier"
(SSID) should be set to "Pollard G2".
Wherever your software ask for a "name" or "wireless area"
or "access point name" insert "Pollard G2".
The "Wireless Mode" should be
set to "Infrastructure" (not
"ad hoc").
In Network Neighborhood Properties (right
click on Network Neighborhood and click on "Properties") click on the
Wireless TCP/IP adapter setting and look at its properties. Ensure that you
have checked "Obtain an IP address automatically."
You may want to check the following link
to the Boston Public Library website which explains how to do this for Windows
2000 and Windows 98 operating systems, http://www.bpl.org/general/wireless.htm. If you use
Windows 2000 or XP, and have more than one adaptor, you may have to disable the
one you are not using. Some adaptors have a physical switch (very small) that
must be turned on in order to connect to the Internet.
Most wireless software has an indicator
that tells you a signal is being received. Make sure the link quality and
signal strength is, at least, "good". If not, move about the room to
a location that has a stronger signal.
Click on Internet Explorer and the
Internet should come right up!