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Wireless Hotspot at the
Library
The Findlay-Hancock County Public Library is
pleased to offer wireless Internet access to our patrons. Simply bring
your wireless-enabled laptop computer or other device to the Library,
turn it on, and go. There is no charge to use the service and the best
part is there is no waiting for an available PC! In order to connect,
your computer must have a WiFi-compatible network card installed
(802.11a, 802.11b, or 802.11g). You'll find that signal strength is best
in the seating areas by the Reference Desk). Wireless users agree to
abide by the Library's Policy on Public Use of the Internet. Copies of
the policy are available at the Reference Desk. Happy Surfing!
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FAQ
What is Wireless Internet Access?
It is the ability to access the Internet with a
portable computing device without having to plug into a wall outlet. Thus
users are free to move about the library and work with their own computers,
even in areas of the library where Internet PCs are not available.
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What Do I Need?
You need a portable laptop computer with a
standard wireless network interface (NIC) card, one that is compatible
with the Wi-Fi standards called "802.11b" or 802.11g.
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Who Can Use Wireless Access? Do I
Need A Library Card?
Anyone who complies with the Library's Wireless
Policy may use our wireless access service. A library card is not required.
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Does the Library Provide Laptops
or NIC cards?
No, users must bring their own.
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Where Can I Get a Wi-Fi Card?
Many new laptops come with Wi-Fi as a standard
feature. Older laptops can be outfitted with an 802.11b or 802.11g wireless
network interface (NIC) card at local electronics and computer stores or by
purchasing online. Consult your laptop manual for specifications.
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Where Do I Register for Wireless
Access?
Currently, the Library does not require users to register
before using wireless access. Staff at the Reference Desk can answer
non-technical questions and the library's Internet policy is posted in
the Computer Room.
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Where Can I Get Help Setting Up
My Laptop for Wireless Access?
If you are not familiar with computers or
networking, we recommend bringing someone with you who can help you
configure your laptop. Reference Staff are not trained or equipped to
configure personal computers for users.
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What If I Have Problems Using
Wireless Access? Where Can I Go for Help?
Library Staff are NOT permitted to provide
direct assistance configuring laptops and the staff are not allowed to
"disarm" the blocking software. Patron's who need to have the full
access to the internet can sign up for the library's Internet PCs.
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How Can I Tell Whether the
Wireless Network is Working?
After your laptop has been properly configured it
should sense the wireless network as soon as you turn it on. If you don't
get a response for two or three minutes, please "re-boot" your
laptop and try again. "Rebooting" means shutting off electrical
power to the laptop using the recommended method and then turning it back on
again.
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How Long does my Wireless
Connection last?
At the present time, there are no time limits.
However, the Library reserves the right to disconnect any device at any
time as needed to manage the wireless network and to provide equal
opportunity for wireless access to all users.
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My Computer works in the Library
but not anymore at home or work. Why?
If you changed your laptop's network configuration
to make it work in the library, remember to change it back when you are at
home or at work.
Thanks to the
Schenectady Public Library
for their assistance
with this web page.
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Is the Information on my laptop
safe from hackers while I am connected?
Utilizing virus protection,
personal firewall, and other measures to protect the information on your
laptop is highly recommended, and is the sole responsibility of the
laptop users. The Library is not responsible for any loss of information
or damage to your laptop that might result from using the wireless
network or other facilities of the library.
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