Bringing open-access WiFi to the village square

Innovation Institute to host a forum about how to create
a low-cost, downtown, WiFi network

The forum will feature both presentations and breakout sessions, enabling participants to learn about the Orleans project and pursue more in-depth discussions of what the process entailed. The event will conclude with a discussion about the next steps for the “Unwired Village” project, including the next generation of technology.

Among the participants expected to attend are chamber executives, municipal officials, regional planners and local community information technology directors.

Three of the principals involved with the Orleans “Unwired Village” effort will give brief presentations in the morning. Kyle Hinckle of the Orleans Chamber of Commerce will talk about how such a network can become an important tool to promote your region. Peter Barton will provide a technical outline of requirements to create a wireless network. Teresa Martin, who has directed the effort, will discuss the opportunities and advantages of providing connectivity to a community.

To help other communities, the “Unwired Village” team has developed a “cookbook,” and a “Village Kit.”  Participants can learn how to become an Unwired Village through the plug and play technology of the “Village Kit” or they can take the “cookbook” and build a solution that suits their particular requirements.

The forum is first-come, first-served event. Registration is free of charge for the first 75 people. To RSVP, please e-mail burnes@masstech.org.

Return to front page of Convergence.