What equipment do I need to access the wireless
network?
To use the wireless network in the library,
your laptop, notebook computer, or PDA must be equipped
with a standard Internet browser and a Wi-Fi compliant
(802.11b) wireless Ethernet card. In most cases, the card
will be installed in the PCMCIA slot on the side of the
computer and will be loaded with the appropriate software.
If you are using XP, you are ready to go. NOTE: Some newer
laptops have built-in Wi-Fi capability, in which case the
operating system alerts the user to the presence of an
available Wi-Fi network when it’s browser is on.
If you have an Apple computer, all you need is an Airport
card or other 802.11b compatible wireless card and the
appropriate software installed.
How do I connect with wireless network?
To access the network, make sure your software
and card are properly installed, and turn on your computer.
If you are using Windows XP, open your web browser. If
you are using Windows XP, you should automatically be able
to pick up a connection from any point on campus. If you’re
not able to connect to the Internet, please first check
and make sure that your laptop has a wireless card. Next,
if you are utilizing Windows XP, ME, 98, or 2000 operating
systems, click Start, Settings, and Network Connections.
Under Network Connections, a wireless network connection
should be available. Choose this connection. Our wireless
network is named NHMCCD. You must first enable this connection
before utilizing the network.
May I borrow a laptop computer for use
in the library?
Laptops which are fully configured for the wireless network
are available for use in the Cy-ber Café, and others
are available for checkout from the Customer Service Desk.
Please refer to the "Borrow a Laptop
Computer" procedures.
Is the wireless network secure?
The CFC wireless network is as secure as any open public
access network like public telephones and dial-up Internet
accounts. It is always a good idea to make sure you are
on an SSL-encrypted web page prior to sending or receiving
confidential data.
How do I print with wireless connections?
If you are using a laptop in the Cy-Ber Café or
one that has been checked out from the library, you can
print as usual to the Library printers. They will print
to the first floor printers
If you are using your personal laptop to access our wireless
network, you will not be able to print on the Library printers.
Library printers are on a pay-per-page basis, and your
personal laptop is not compatible with this system.
What if
I am having a problem?
For additional wireless assistance, please refer to the
Microsoft website at http://www.microsoft.com/.
Harris
County Public Library: Cy-Fair College Branch