Chicago Library System: Wireless

Wi-Fi That Follows You Around

Mon, 04 Nov 2002 17:27:06 GMT

A new type of Wi-Fi system connects existing laptops and other computers by directing beams of coverage through hundreds of tiny antennas. Paul Boutin reports from San Francisco." [Wired News]

Here's another wireless technology that greatly expands mobile computing. Is your library ready for true mobility?

What do wireless technologies and push technology have in common?

Fri, 20 Sep 2002 16:42:33 GMT

What do wireless technologies and push technology have in common?

Cnet's news.com has an article entitled "Wireless Web embraces 'Push'" by Ben Charny. The article details how cell phones have embraced push technologies as part of their wireless services.

One way libraries could take advantage of this is if we could figure out a way to offer local community information and book reviews via partnerships with the wireless service providers. The advantage to the wireless service providers would be added value to their customers and possibly the ability to write off part of the cost of helping libraries implement the service as a charitable contribution. Patrons could sign up for the service either through their local library website or when they purchase their wireless services.

One Step Closer to Wireless Nirvana

Tue, 17 Sep 2002 15:26:55 GMT

One Step Closer to Wireless Nirvana:

"PalmSource ships Web browser. The subsidiary of Palm begins shipping a Web browser to licensees of its operating system, as it tries to distinguish itself from Palm's mostly hardware history." [CNET News.com]

It is probably going to be another 3 to 10 years before the world goes totally wireless. But browsers for handhelds and other Internet devices are helping to speed up that timeline.

Wales' wireless web

Fri, 13 Sep 2002 21:22:12 GMT

Wales gets wireless web:

"Wireless web gives villages free net. Hundreds more web users and businesses could benefit from the expansion of Europe's densest wireless internet network. " [BBC News | TECHNOLOGY]

Tablet PCs

Wed, 04 Sep 2002 18:27:52 GMT

Tablet PCs:

MS Pushes New Tablet on Students. Tablet PCs are just around the corner for some schools. The wealthier schools, that is. Regardless, Microsoft believes they'll replace the laptop in no time. By Elisa Batista. [Wired News]

This article reflects a development that may push the envelope for mobile computing. Just another development for libraries to watch.

protecting a wireless network

Wed, 28 Aug 2002 15:27:32 GMT

Protecting a wireless network:

If you have a wireless network or are considering getting one, this article entitled "War Walking:Detecting Wireless Networks" from PocketPC Magazine will help you detect if your wireless network is vulnerable to an attack from hackers. It also includes some tips on how to make it more secure. Thanks, Lori, for the link.

Also, you may want to visit the official Warchalking site. Warchalking is the symbolic language used to let people know that wireless access is available for use. Thanks, Jenny, for the link.

Pocket Classroom

Tue, 27 Aug 2002 17:43:46 GMT

PDAs in the classroom:

Wired has this article on a project called PocketClassroom, from Wake Forest University. Software developers there have written software that turns Compaq iPaqs into a mobile wireless web server.