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MERR.COM WIRELESS INTERNET FOR DOWNTOWN MADISON

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. How do I connect to Merr.com Wireless Services?
    
   1. Insert a wireless network card (You would have to purchase one if it doesn't comes with your device)
   2. Select "merr.com" SSID from your available wireless network list.
   3. Open a browser (ie, Internet Explorer)
   4. Enter username and password then click login.
       
2. What do I need to access the service?
   
   You will need 2 things to begin using Merr.com Wireless Service. First you will need a computer with Wi-Fi 802.11b wireless capability. Your existing device may already have this capability built-in. If not, you can purchase a Wi-Fi 802.11b wireless networking card for most laptops and many handhelds from major electronics retailers or direct from the manufacturer. When your device is wireless-enabled, you will need to set your SSID (or network identifier) to “merr.com”. Refer to your wireless network card documentation for specific instructions on how to make this change.
   
   Second, you will need a standard Internet-ready browser on any operating system. No additional software is required.
   
   You do not need a wireless router to use Merr.com.
    
3. Where can I purchase a wireless Ethernet card?
   
   You can purchase a Wi-Fi 802.11b wireless networking card for most laptops and many handhelds from major electronics retailers or direct from the manufacturer.
    
4. I've heard WLANs being called "802.11b/g" and "Wi-Fi" networks. What does that mean?
   
   It means that the WLAN network conforms to the industry standard applicable to WLANs, known by the technical "802.11b" name as well as the "Wi-Fi" name. The Merr.com service is based on the 802.11b/g standard. Although this is a widely adopted industry standard, it will likely evolve to allow higher speeds and greater security in the future. You may learn more about 802.11b/g Wi-Fi at the Wireless Ethernet Compatibility Alliance web site found at www.weca.net.
    
5. Can the wireless signal penetrate concrete and steel? Will it affect the bandwidth?
   
   Wireless transmitters are not the most precise devices and as such there is a certain amount of signal bleed between buildings. We have tried to reduce this as much as possible without compromising the quality of service behind walls.
    
6. I am using Intel ProSet/ Wireless device and cannot find Merr.com in the available network list. What is wrong?
   
   It has been reported that Intel ProSet/ Wireless device required downloading the latest driver. Please connect to the site below and find the appropriate driver: http://downloadfinder.intel.com/scripts-df-external/Support_Intel.aspx?iid=HMPAGE+Header_2_Support_Download¡¯
    
7. How fast is the Merr.com Wireless Service?
   
   The wireless network has been built to offer DSL comparable speeds
    
8. What operating systems are currently compatible with the service?
   
   Merr.com is not OS-specific, and will work with any operating systems as long as there is a compatible, Internet-ready browser such as Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator.
    
9. How do I know if my wireless network card is supported by Merr.com?
   
   Merr.com Wireless Service is a Wi-Fi 802.11b network; therefore, any Wi-Fi certified wireless network card will work. Look for the Wi-Fi certification on the wireless network card before purchasing it.
    
10. Can I connect using a Macintosh computer?
    
    Yes, Merr.com supports Macintosh users. Macs with AirPort cards installed usually require little or no configuration. You will need to set your AirPort card to select the Merr.com Wireless Service network.
     
11. Can I connect using Smartphones devices such as wifi readied Palm and iPaq?
    
    Yes, certain Palm and iPaq smartphones devices that support Wi-Fi 802.11b/g wireless technology and utilizes a standard Internet-ready browser, such as the Tungsten C and iPaq 6315, are compatible with the Mad City Broadband Hot Spot network. Other Palm devices use a web browser that is incompatible with the Merr.com Wireless network.
     
12. Can I use the Merr.com Wireless Service outside or in my home?
    
    Yes, we offer service coverage outside or in your home. The Merr.com network is wireless LAN-based, therefore the service is intended to be used from any physical public locations.
     
13. If there are too many users, will I be prevented from using the wireless network?
    
    A pool of resources has been set aside large enough to accommodate users in the city of Madison. You will not be prevented from accessing the network because of too many users.