WiFi question...

[mouthdrummer]

OK, I've been thinking about this whole WiFi thing. I'm a high school teacher, and I'm wondering if
1) I can use the WiFi card at work, and
2) If it's even worth buying (practically speaking), or if it's just a toy I should wait on.

How does it work?

Yeah, I've done a search here, but I didn't really find the answer to my question....

Anyone want to explain the basics to me? Do I need to subscribe to a service or what?

[kdn102]

The answers are out there, unfortunately muddled in a mess of unrelated topics scattered throughout the forum.

The wifi card for the CLIE is exaclty like a network interface card (NIC) in your computer. However, instead of using wires to connect it uses rf signals. In a typical network all of the computers are hooked up to a hub(or router or switch) by wire through the NIC. To use the WiFi card you need to have a hub(or router or switch) that is capable of receiving the rf signal from your card.

Now, there are some WiFi services you can subscribe to. Mainly they will be in certain retail shops. For example, quite a few Starbuck's coffee shops have wireless hubs in them which are also connected to the internet. This is a pay service through an ISP.

In some airports there are wireless "hot spots". Some are free some are pay. So in essence you pretty much need to be within a hundred feet of a hub to use it.

If you are at work(school) and they happen to have a wireless hub somewhere you are in luck. If they don't you might be able to talk them into letting you bring in your own. If you look hard enough you will find them for around $50 after rebates for an 802.11b wireless hub(or router or switch).

It can be used as a toy. I have a wireless switch at home and sometimes I used it with AIM in bed ;)

You can also use it to browse the web and check email. Some other applications allow you to get their data via the WiFi card, such as worldmate. You can also hotsync wirelessly, but you have to be on a network whre you have installed Palm desktop with your id.

I only got my WiFi because of the good graces of one of the ClieSource members who posted about an offer through best buy for the WL100 for $16.99 after rebate *grin*

Hope that helps!
K

[n2ifp]

Does your school have a WLAN (wireless local area network)?
You would need to talk to an IT person or others who may have access, as to what kind of system it is, what are the restrictions, and what is needed to use it. There are many variables, each setup can be slightly different, depending on who set it up.

You can web browse, send and receive emails, chat, etc.

It works by using high frequency radio waves in the 2.4 GHz region.

Places like Starbucks may require T-Mobile service for example.

I use it for freedom, as I can access the web and my email accounts wirelessly from my Clie through the WAP/router tied to my cable modem.

[mouthdrummer]

Thanks kdn102, that pretty much answers my question and helps me make a decision.

[gulkent]

In some airports there are wireless "hot spots". Some are free some are pay. So in essence you pretty much need to be within a hundred feet of a hub to use it.

So what kind of configuration (ssid, wepspeed, init string etc.) do I need to be able to pick those free hot spots??
I have nx70v and peg wl 110

I appreciate any help.
thanks