By Rebecca Wyatt, OU Web Writer

Starting this semester, Oakland University’s Recreation Center comes online as the newest building on campus to offer students, faculty and staff a wireless network.

“We’re trying to provide the newest technologies because we’ve always said the Rec Center is a state-of-the-art facility,” said Greg Jordan, director of Campus Recreation.

In order to access the network, users will need a wireless network card. Most of the wireless network cards sold in stores will be supported on OU’s network. Users also will need a GRIZZNET login. For faculty, staff and currently enrolled students, this is the same logon for e-mail and the other wireless networks on campus.

To begin a wireless session, users should open a Web browser. A prompt will appear and users should enter the GRIZZNET information, once it is authenticated, the user will be able to get on the Internet.

The network spans throughout the building and contains six access points to provide a continuous, strong signal. The network can accommodate 180 concurrent connections and supports 802.11 a, b and g technology. Connectivity in the pool area will vary based on humidity.

“As a popular high-use facility on our campus, we wanted to offer patrons the ability to congregate with technology. This initiative meets the on-demand access to technology expectations of students,” said Brandon Bernier, systems specialist for Student Affairs.

With Pic-A-Deli in the building, more people are spending time in the Rec Center and want to have network connectivity, Jordan said. The technology also will be useful for lectures and vendors visits hosted in the Rec Center as visitors can display material on computers rather than display boards or posters.

There are no printers offered in the Rec Center at this time. 

As with the other wireless networks on campus, the network is secure but users should be aware that any data transmitted may possibly be intercepted by people nearby.

Other buildings on campus with wireless capabilities are the Oakland Center, Kresge Library and Dodge Hall of Engineering. For more information, visit the Information Technology Web site.

For trouble with the network, contact the University Technology Services Helpdesk by e-mailing helpdesk@oakland.edu or call (248) 370-HELP.