(reposted from email)
I’ve been requested to send out weekly emails to update you on the status of various Center communications and network functions. This will likely go out each Thursday. I will also send out off-schedule announcements as needed to address any critical issues. Today’s review is a bit long, but I wanted to make sure everyone is current on what’s been happening.
Network operations
Over the summer there were two major problems that affected us: intrusions to the K-20 service provider’s systems; and critical unscheduled repairs to parts of the K-20 fiber optic lines that service our Center. We’ve been told that both issues were resolved. Although Campus IT is usually alerted to such problems when they occur, they didn’t think to inform us until asked about the problems. They have promised to keep us better apprised of any issues or scheduled downtime in the future. *see current issues below
Firewall problem
Due to multiple security-related issues and eminent equipment failure, CAHNRS IT replaced the firewall device that “filters” all of our incoming and out-going internet signals. This device helps keep hackers out of our computers and other devices. Replacing this device was the first step in getting us in compliance with campus security protocols and allowing us to communicate better with Campus. It also should help us to increase our bandwidth. However, there were several unpredicted consequences to the new installation. First was that many networks on campus stopped recognizing us being part of WSU. Currently, several critical networks on campus are undergoing upgrades and/or reconfigurations. Once this is completed all of WSU systems will be “harmonized” allowing all parts of campus and the outlying facilities to be fully recognized (we aren’t the only ones that have recognition issues). They have told us that harmonization should be done in about 2 months.
The biggest issue that we have related to this, that I’m aware of, is accessing library journals. They are aware of the problem and given us a temporary, limited fix. If you want to access journal articles you can use https://searchit.libraries.wsu.edu/ . I’ve been told that it will get you most journals. A second solution that Sarah Kostick suggested was to click on the request button while in your search. She said that the librarian emails you the requested article very quickly. When the network harmonization is done, we should regain normal functions.
An additional problem is access to Office365 shared drives. The nature of the problem seems to vary by person. If you are having a problem the best solution is to submit a help ticket to CAHNRS IT. I listed ways to submit a ticket to the Admin website (http://tfrec.cahnrs.wsu.edu/admin/computer-resources/ ). We have two people assigned to help people at our Center, Nick, and Michael. So, whichever way you submit your ticket, you should reference Wenatchee or TFREC either in the subject line or in the body of the message. This will speed up the response time.
AMS/meeting equipment
Over the summer both the Stockwell room and the large conference room underwent major equipment upgrades. The Stockwell room is fully functional and now has a one-page instruction sheet for using the equipment. That said, there are a few things to be aware of. First, both of the existing internet ports were used to connect the new equipment. This means that you cannot use the conference phone or connect a computer to the internet except via WIFI. We are exploring bringing in two more plugs to the room to regain these functions. The only workaround for the phone during an AMS meeting is to run a long line from the front office (something out there would need to be unplugged). The second issue is the microphone placement in the ceiling. Some people have had problems if they sit with their backs to the mic. Their solution was to sit at the back table. But that means it’s hard to see stuff on the monitor. We are exploring possible solutions to this problem.
The large conference room also got new equipment – with more yet to come. This room is a bit higher tech than Stockwell. To share your computer/device content you go through the new high definition projector in the ceiling via an HDMI cord attached to the main equipment box in the front right corner of the room. You should never need to connect directly to the projector. This means that your laptop will need a compatible adapter to connect. We may have one that works for you. But please check well in advance of your meeting/class to ensure there are no last-minute surprises. With so many different laptops out there, it’s nearly impossible to predict what someone may need.
Currently, there are no written instructions for using the equipment in the large conference room. However, the basic functions are the same as for Stockwell. The reason for this is that Nick (the installer) didn’t want to write something up that he knew would be changing in a couple of weeks. We are supposed to get a large hardwired podium (hand-me-down from Puyallup). The podium should have plugs built in for the projector and power. Once this is here and connected we will get written instructions.
Current issues with the large conference room AMS
- Kelsey has reported a problem with the front cameras not working correctly during classes. This has been reported and Nick is working it.
- Currently, Skype meetings aren’t using the room cameras, although it does run through the speakers. Nick is working with his team to figure out why it’s not working. (Stockwell equipment doesn’t have the capability to do this.)
Current issue affecting both internet usage and AMS
Over the past couple of weeks, students have been having problems with their classes getting dropped and having to call back in – sometimes multiple times per session. This has impacted Tues-Thurs classes the most, but not exclusively. Thursdays are definitely the worst. After problems today with three AMS units running simultaneously, all dropped along with some internet connections. We contacted campus and they told us that there was a problem with the capacity of the K-20 system in our area (there are also 12 school districts on the same set of lines). They said that the K-20 network provider is aware of the problem and has been trying to trace the source of the problem and fix it. Until that happens we can expect to have continued problems during peak usage. Unfortunately, it is out of our hands. The only thing that could help is to try to limit use of Skype and streaming videos and other “high bandwidth” activities to off-peak times (peak = time slots with multiple AMS events occurring).