Examining the Technical and Regulatory Challenges Associated with the Implementation of a Wireless Strategy on a University Campus: What do Proponents Need to Know?

David A. Townsend

Abstract: Wireless infrastructure and services are appearing on university campuses at a rapidly accelerating rate. While some institutions are merely supplementing telephone and Ethernet (wireline) connectivity with wireless PBX systems and with individual wireless LANs, others are implementing campus-wide wireless communication strategies. Some wireless apparatus is being installed by (rogue) users and departments without any institutional control or oversight. This presentation is will discuss, from the perspective of the proponent of a wireless system, the principal technical and regulatory challenges which must be considered as part of a campus wireless strategy. The three main topics discussed with be:

1. Electromagnetic interference (EMI) between wireless technologies and other equipment
2. Security breaches of campus communications through wrongful interception
3. Controversies surrounding human exposure to electromagnetic radiation.

About the speaker: David Townsend has taught administrative law and regulatory policy subjects since 1979. He holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from Dalhousie University and a Master of Laws degree from Osgoode Hall Law School. For the past 15 years his principal research activities have concerned the writing and implementation of legal and technical policies related to wireless communication.

Note: The talk is sponsored by the IEEE New Brunswick Communications Chapter. This seminar is open. It is not necessary to reserve a place or ask if you are permitted to attend. Light refreshments will be available from 9:40 a.m. to 11:20 a.m. in the lounge behind the ADI room.