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--- Forwarded Message from Jianxiong Wu <[log in to unmask]> ---
>Date: Wed, 6 Jun 2001 16:57:26 -0500 (CDT)
>From: Jianxiong Wu <[log in to unmask]>
>To: Language Learning and Technology International Information Forum <[log in to unmask]>
>Subject: Re: #6162.1 Online Powerpoint Presentation on Wireless Labs
>In-Reply-To: <[log in to unmask]>
------------------
Hi Jeanette,
I will try to answer some of your questions. I would also like to hear
other people's comments, too.
>
> 1) Is it wiser to purchase the laptops (our institution supports Dell, so
> we will be using Dells.) or to lease? Have you found benefits from either
> option?
I don't know enough about leasing. We spent about $2000 on each
machine. The machines should last about 3 or 4 years without having major
problems. So it really depends on what lease term you can get. Having new
machines every year through leasing should not be a good idea, I think,
because that means you have to redo the setup every year.
> 2) Is there software available which would allow the teacher's computer to
> "control" or monitor all the others? If so, do you have any suggestions
> for quality software packages?
We are currently looking at CAN8, which seems to be a good
product. Another product we are aware of is netop school(www.netop.com).
>
> 3) How "portable" is a 10 - 15 unit cart? Jian Wu indicates in the
> presentation that the 25 unit cart requires two very strong adults to move
> it around. Can you give an idea of the weight and size of the loaded cart?
>
In our case, 25 machines plus the battery charging systems weigh about 200
pounds, the printer about 25 pounds, the cart itself about 70-80 pounds
(we have a very durable cart). The whole thing is about 300 pounds. So a
10-15 unit cart should weigh no more than 150 pounds. The dimension of
our 25-unit cart is W50.5 inches x D22.5 x H39 plus wheel.
> 4) Has anyone had experience with a permanent antenna being stolen? Any
> suggestions on how to prevent this? Can these be installed as to be
> invisible?
You could install it high on the wall or on the ceiling, or within a
locked wooden cabinet.
>
> 5) Can anyone comment on any physical problems students might experience
> from using the laptops? (I guess I'm asking about the screens and lighting
> problems.)
We have not noticed any yet.
> 6) Any creative ideas on securing funding for a wireless lab setup?
> (Probably our biggest concern!)
Our original proposal was very well received. People liked the concept a
lot.
> In advance, thanks very much!
>
> Jeanette Clement
> Duquesne University ESL Program
> Curriculum/Lab Coordinator
> Pittsburgh, PA 15282
Jian Wu, Ph.D.
CLA Language Center
Multimedia Lab Manager
University of Minnesota
[log in to unmask]
612-626-9407
51 Folwell Hall
9 Pleasant St. SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455
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