Use of radio transceivers in Sitterson Hall.

Devices with radio interfaces are becoming ever more pervasive. This documents sets forth some guidelines for use of such devices in Sitterson Hall with the goal of maintaining good connectivity for all radio devices while allowing Computer Science affliates the maximum latitude in use of such devices.

Currently there are two "junk" band ranges allowed for use by vendors of radio devices that do not require an FCC license, one at 900 MHz and one at 2.4 GHz. Devices using these band include but are not limited to portable phones, wireless network devices, PDAs, and video links for security systems. Range, sensitivity, and robustness of such devices varies widely, and potential for interference is real. When interfere occurs, the effect may range from insignificant degradation of service to complete blockage of the radio link. Since many devices are used only intermittantly, tracing the source of such interference may be difficult or impossible.

• When choosing a product that relies on a radio interface, try to find one that allows the user to select the radio band to be used. Devices that "walk" through the bands will certainly interfere with other devices.
• Currently, the band populated with the most sensitive equipment is in the 2.4 GHz band. If possible, when choosing a portable phone or other device that will be used intermittantly, try to find one that remains in the 900 MHz band.
• At the current time there are no production services that rely on radio transceivers. There are, however, two services that may sometime in the future, the new wireless LAN system and a radio based version of the head mount in GLAB. Both operate in the 2.4 band area.
• If there are conflicts between various radio devices in Sitterson that cannot be easily resolved, the DFC will be asked to arbitrate between the individuals involved.