Wireless Internet Launch

June 30 2011
News Release
For Immediate Release

NMIT launches nmifi

Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology is now one of the largest single provider of wireless internet access in the region.

50 wireless internet access points recently went live across the Nelson, Richmond and Marlborough campuses giving 15,000 square metres of coverage. The nmifi wireless network allows students and staff to use any laptop, internet-available cellphone, or ipod touch and ipads to access the internet remotely on campus.

NMIT IT Customer Services Team Leader, Stephen Tanner, says the nmifi service currently runs at throughput speeds of 100 Mbps (megabits per second), which will rise to 300 Mbps later in the year.

“Right now we have about two thirds of our campuses covered by wireless internet, and we’ll working to increase that to close to 90% this summer.”

NMIT Director of Finance and Corporate Services Martin Vanner says the move to complete wireless access has been part of NMIT’s strategy to support students in their learning journeys.

“This is about increasing the services we provide to students to help with their studies and their time on campus. Wireless internet means there’s increased flexibility for learning. They can sit in the café or outside and access their student portal and online learning as well as communicate with friends and keep up their social interaction. “

Stephen Tanner says the preparation took several months but the launch has gone seamlessly.

“The network is password protected, so it is only for students and staff. It’s not like an internet café with open access to everyone, but students and staff can sit in the café and go online.

The nmifi name and logo were the result of a competition NMIT held amongst graphic design students last year.

“We loved the entry because the name incorporated the NMIT brand with the personal nature of the wifi service, (My-fi). The logo combined a recognisable wifi-type symbol with what felt like the Nelson sunshine,” says Stephen Tanner.

The winning student, Amanda Ledger, was rewarded with one of our Power Mac G5 computers for her efforts.

ENDS

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