Mark's Notebook


	One of the nice parts about heading toward middle age is that you can find all your favorite music in the bargain bin. - Ken Floyd

Wireless Deal for California Parks

New York Times

Tuesday 25 January 2005, 1:11 am
Keywords: Computer Topics , News Articles

By Matt Richtel

SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 23 - One problem with camping is that it is tough to file your taxes while sitting in a tent in the great outdoors. That is no longer a problem in California.

The state last week announced a deal with SBC Communications to provide wireless Internet access points in 85 state parks. Now park visitors can take laptop computers and other portable devices to connect to the Internet from areas formerly known as "wilderness."

The Internet access - provided through Wi-Fi technology - will be available mostly in central spots in the parks. The first access point became operational in a state park in San Diego last week; the other access points will be in place by May, in time for the summer camping, hiking and e-mailing season.

Under the deal, SBC will give park visitors free Internet access to California state government Web pages like those giving road closure information. Mr. Kelso said he hoped that park visitors would use the free connections to learn about campgrounds and safety information.

But campers who want to send and receive e-mail messages or reach more than state government Web sites must pay access charges to SBC; the rate is $7.95 for a 24-hour pass, the company said.

http://www.nytimes.com/2005/01/24/technology/24park.html