CLU Campus Goes Wireless

This spring more students will be doing on–line research in classrooms and sending e–mails at the tables outside Centrum Café thanks to wireless technology and laptop computers. California Lutheran University implemented a CLUWnet pilot project, titled Sixth Sense Learning, in the fall to provide wireless networking coverage to seven buildings on campus. Phases II and III of the project will provide coverage to the entire campus, including 40 buildings.

The wireless network, which was made possible in part by a W.M. Keck Foundation grant, allows faculty, staff and students to access the Internet, send and receive e–mail and conduct research in areas other than desks and offices. All the cybertravelers need are a CLU e–mail account and password, a laptop and a wireless card. Cards are available through the Information Systems and Services office, and users can access the wireless network in any building that bears the CLUWnet logo.

"CLUWnet is an essential addition to the campus network since nearly 30 percent of our residential students have laptops," explained Zareh Marselian, Director of Technical Services. The new connectivity option is also helpful to commuter students who have previously had to rely on the availability of open computer labs while they are on campus.

"We are grateful to the Keck Foundation for jumpstarting our wireless program," said David Marcey, Ph.D., the Fletcher Jones Professor of Developmental Biology who was instrumental in CLU getting the Keck Foundation grant. "As laptops become more ubiquitous on campus, we will be able to transform any classroom or workspace into a computer lab. The benefits to faculty and students will be tremendous," he added.

For more information, check the interim Web site http://ww2.clunet.edu/wireless/ or contact the CLUnet Help Desk at (805) 493–3698.

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