Computer Networks, Wireless Networks (Reading Notes)
The development of networks is just another stage in mankind’s
goal to increase communication and exchange through the use of technology. One of the readings listed the internet as an
example of a network. However I think the internet because of its vast range
and scope should be classified differently. It is not surprising that two of
the more common technology standards used to build networks, especially LANs,
are the Ethernet and Wi-Fi. Ethernet presently seems to be the more inexpensive
and dependable of the two. Gaming LAN members tend to prefer Ethernet
connections rather than Wi-Fi because of its high data-transfer rate. Wi-Fi
LANs may experience drops in connectivity affecting gameplay negatively. However
Wi-Fi is being touted as the future. As technological advancements continue in
that area, it is expected that Wi-Fi networking would become more reliable and acquire
and even higher data-transfer rate.
Coyle, in her article, likened RFIDs to the barcodes on
books and other tangible items and saw them as potential replacements. The
National Library in Trinidad and Tobago for several years had initiated the use
of RFID tags on books. A ‘patron self-check-in’ machine, which could sort
submitted books based on their RFID tags, was also brought in. Although the
idea worked well and the conveniences it offered to staff was apparent it came
at pricey tag. In spite of their expense, Coyle suggests that RFIDs can provide
a range of functions once employed effectively. For example library staff will
not be bogged down with running patron cards and library items at a checkout
station and thus will be able to engage in other library-related activities. Doyle
gives the impression that although she acknowledges the potential benefits of RFIDs
she is still grappling with the limitations. She recognizes the relative
expense of RFID tags, the stagnant budgets of libraries and the extent to which
the RFID industry can produce tags which will ultimately meet the needs of
libraries in term of durability, flexibility and functionality. Personally, I wonder how useful RFID would be to libraries if e-books and other digital material are to become the items of preference for users. I do not subscribe to the fact that all libraries should employ its use. Rather librarians should carefully ascertain if such technology is needed and the extent to which it will make the jobs of staff easier. I do not see a need for it in smaller municipal or community libraries with relatively small collections.
References
Coyle, K. (2005). Management of RFID in libraries. Journal of Academic Librarianship, 31(5), 486-489.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Local_Area_Network
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