Chip Rosenthal
<chip@unicom.com>
 
March 12, 2002
Presentation to the City of Austin Telecommunications Commission

• What is Wi-Fi?
• How do I Use Wi-Fi?
• Wi-Fi Performance
• How can Wi-Fi benefit Austin?
• Actions to Consider

• Wireless networking (also called WLAN) is a way to connect computers wirelessly.
• The Wi-Fi Alliance is a non-profit industry association that certifies interoperation of wireless devices based on the IEEE 802.11 specification.
• Thus, when we speak of Wi-Fi, we are referring to wireless networking based on open, industry standards.
• Wi-Fi is exciting because it is: inexpensive, reliable, successful, populist.

• Each device on the network requires a wireless network adapter (or wireless NIC). Current prices start at $50.
• Typically, a base station (or access point or gateway) is used to interconnect the devices. Prices start at $100.

Wi-Fi base station: AirStation Broadband Router Access Point by Buffalo Technology.

The 802.11B specification calls for:

• Data rates to 11Mbps.
  • About 1/10 speed of wired networks.
  • About 10x speed of best broadband connections.
  • Nearly 200x speed of modem connections.
• Range dependent on conditions.
  • Typically 100 feet indoors, with no degradation.
  • Can achieve 1000 feet or more.
  • Speed degrades at further distances.
• Newer standards provide better performance.

• Economic Development
  • Companies to deliver Wi-Fi products and services.
  • Wi-Fi hotspots make Austin a more attractive place to visit and live.
• Digital Divide
  • Internet connectivity is important.
  • Wi-Fi addresses the last mile problem.

• When bidding Internet access contracts, consider wireless access.
• Begin tracking wireless hotspots in city facilities.
• Review wireless plans for new facilities, especially new city hall.
• Work with local business to encourage hotspot deployment.