Q: What do I need to access the San Mateo Public Library wireless network?

A: You need a laptop computer and a Wireless Network PC Card. After you purchase the card, follow the manufacturer's instructions to install it on your computer. This should involve installing the network card driver, and also a client utility program. This program will allow you to configure the settings for your network connection, monitor signal strength, and perform other useful tasks.

Q: What kind of wireless card do I need?

A: You need an 11Mbps 802.11b Wireless Network Card for your laptop.

The following brands have been tested with the wireless network:

• Lucent’s Orinoco Silver
• Cisco’s Aironet
• Netgear

The following brands may be problematic, especially for Windows XP users:

• Linksys SMC D-Link
• US Robotics

For Apple notebooks, their Airport card is recommended.

Most cards are available for about $70 at local computer stores, or one of many online computer stores.

Q: What settings do I use?

A: Below are the settings you should use:

• SSID or Network Name: the word any
• WEP: disabled
• IP or Network Settings: DHCP enabled or obtain an IP address automatically
• DNS: obtain DNS address automatically
• Gateway: no default gateway set – your card should detect it automatically (you may add the Gateway 192.168.1.1, but you will have to remove it to access other wireless networks).

Close settings and restart computer if necessary

Q: What are the minimum requirements for my laptop (PC and Apple)?

A: You should be limited only by the wireless network card you buy. The drivers and software to operate the card must be compatible with your system. See the card’s packaging and documentation for compatibility and minimum requirements.

Q: If there are too many users, will I be blocked from using the wireless network?

A: A pool of resources has been set aside large enough to accommodate users at the library. You will not be “blocked” from accessing the network because of too many users.

Q: What speed is the Internet connection at San Mateo Public Library?

A: San Mateo Public Library has a T1 line. However as with any Internet connection, your speed may fluctuate greatly due to heavy traffic on the Internet at different times of day.

Q: From where can I access the wireless network?

A: The network is accessible from anyplace in the library.

Q: Can I download large files?

A: The bandwidth available for the wireless Internet connection is shared with all other computers in the library. To show consideration for others’ needs, we ask that you not download excessively large files, use peer-to-peer file sharing programs, or access streaming audio/video.