Smart Travel: Technology keeps travelers in touch with Internet, e-mail

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Linda and Dr. Don Overend are principals in The Travel Group, a full-service travel agency.|ret||ret||tab|

New reception zones for wi-fi equipped travelers are springing up all over the country. In the last few months, wi-fi hot-spots are rapidly being added to airports, too. Almost daily it is becoming easier for laptop-toting travelers to connect to the Internet in airport lounges and waiting areas without having to plug in to a data port.|ret||ret||tab|

For the uninitiated, wi-fi is a wireless, high-speed Internet service designed to serve busy travelers who need fast and efficient Internet connections. Wi-fi connection areas or wi-fi zones or hot-spots are opening wherever the public is likely to be stationary for a period of time, such as convention centers, hotels, truck stops, restaurants and coffee shops.|ret||ret||tab|

The wi-fi system works by converting a computer Ethernet (wired connection) signal to a radio frequency signal, which is then transmitted to a computer or other access point. The access point then converts the radio frequency signal back to standard Ethernet signals, and Internet data packets are transmitted as if there was an Ethernet cable attached. Any access point within radio range of the signal source is then able to connect to the Internet.|ret||ret||tab|

Most newer laptop computers and personal digital assistants have built-in wi-fi connections. For those that don't, wi-fi PC cards are available, and add-on cards for PDAs are also available so that essentially everyone with one of these devices will be able to join the legions already taking advantage of this system.|ret||ret||tab|

Springfield-Branson Regional Airport has just announced the addition of wi-fi services in the first floor terminal near the lounge and restaurant (outside the secured area) and in the work area on the second floor on the secure side. In these areas travelers connect with the SSID code "sgf," if they don't connect automatically.|ret||ret||tab|

Kansas City International Airport announced the addition of wi-fi in December. The terminal is almost universally covered for reception, but the setup is different. |ret||ret||tab|

When logging on to the wi-fi system with the SSID code "pcswifi," the traveler encounters the KCI portal page that provides flight information, weather, airport news and entertainment links. For unlimited Internet access, however, the user must pay a nominal fee per 24-hour period. The fee can be paid online with a credit card.|ret||ret||tab|

Across the country now most major airports have at least some areas served by wireless Internet. |ret||ret||tab|

Some offer free service, others have a connection charge. Travelers can usually find out the details of each airport by contacting the information desk or by calling on one of the numerous paging telephones scattered about the terminal. If you are able to connect to the hot-spot, the information will be there.|ret||ret||tab|

As you travel today, you will do so knowing that you are never far from your e-mail and Internet connection, whether it be for business or pleasure. |ret||ret||tab|

Certainly, at most airports, you will be easily able to get your Internet fix quickly and easily.|ret||ret||tab|

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