Wireless Andrew: building a high speed, campus-wide wireless data network

Abstract

Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) has a major program to create a high speed wireless network, known as Wireless Andrew. The first Phase of this network has been operational for over a year and the second Phase, to upgrade this to IEEE 802.11 standard technology, has begun. The Wireless Andrew network uses wireless local area network technology, utilizing spread spectrum in the ISM band. The purpose is not only to support wireless research but also to create a campus-wide mobile computing laboratory. The paper shows the challenge of designing and managing large scale wireless networks. The examples show the differences experienced in wireless versus wireline networks due to the nature of mobility versus static components, the nature of RF propagation versus wireline connection, and the difference in sophistication of tools because of the different place in the product development cycle. The paper describes the lessons learned at completion of the first phase including: installation design issues, issues of RF interference and data throughput, the unique problems of wireless network management, and the release of the system. The paper goes on to describe lessons learned during the first year of operation of the research network. It then discusses experience so far in Phase Two, to create an operational utility for use of all students, faculty, and staff for educational, research, and administrative applications.