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Printer-Friendly ModeIncreased bandwidth service now online
ITS plans to expand capacity of "Overdrive" service next fall, roll out new wireless hot spots on campus
March 19, 2007 —
ResNet "Overdrive" launched last week and was met with unexpected high demand. The service is designed for residents who regularly use high-bandwidth applications like games or Ruckus, SVSU's music and movie downloading service.
According to Information Technology Services, 40 applications were filed for the available 25 high-bandwidth slots. ITS Executive Director Ken Schindler said that the turnout suggested a built-up desire.
"What it really tells me is that we do have some pent-up demand. We will be installing an additional 45 megabit line next fall, and we will be prepared to open it up to another 50-100 students," he said.
Schindler said that ITS had always received feedback concerning the connections on ResNet, but the initial success of the Overdrive service shows that some people are actually willing to pay for it - $20 per month, to be exact.
"It's easy for people to say 'Oh yeah, we want that' up until they have to put money on the table," he said.
Frequent users of SVSU's wireless network may be pleased to hear that ITS is installing five additional wireless hotspots.
Four of the five will be installed in Living Centers North and South. The lobbies and second floor lounges of both buildings will provide wireless access within the coming weeks. The last spot will be installed in University Village 450, which serves as a community area and laundry room for Village residents.
The spots were chosen as a result of recommendations made to Schindler by the University Residence Association.
"URA gave me a prioritized list, and the budget would support all five spots they gave me," Schindler said.
ITS is also surveying demand for wireless access in Arbury Hall. According to Schindler, the likely destination for a wireless router would be the second floor lounge with the snack machines and desktop kiosks.
If Arbury were equipped for wireless access, Ryder Center, Brown Hall, and Wickes Hall would be the only remaining buildings on campus without wireless support.
With the addition of the five new hotspots, University staff, faculty and students can now access the Internet from 20 locations on campus. For a list of these locations, visit svsu.edu/wireless. For troubleshooting the wireless network, visit svsu.edu/its.