FAQ

1. Who should I call if I suspect a network problem?

First check with your Technology Coordinator (TC). They can help you identify whether the problem is in the school's network or somewhere off campus. In most instances the TC will be able to resolve campus problems. If the TC is unable to resolve the problem, they can contact NSSB at 586-3206.

2. Why is it necessary to have scheduled network outages?

Network outages may be necessary when adding, changing, or upgrading equipment and software. Just as with a PC, telecommunications equipment may have to be rebooted after a software upgrade or to clear up an error condition. We try to schedule outages outside of normal business hours and give as much advanced notice as possible.

3. Why do some schools have cable modem service while others have slower Frame Relay connections?

Cable modem connectivity is provided to all schools serviced by Oceanic Cable. Currently this includes all of Oahu except for schools in Hawaii Kai and some military bases. On the Neighbor Islands, the infrastructure for cable modem service is not yet available.

4. I have been hearing that the DOE has run out of IP addresses. How do I get additional IP addresses for my school?

We have not run out of addresses. The school Technology Coordinator should call (377-7701) or e-mail. E-mail must include your call back number and a justification for requesting additional addresses.

5. Why does NSSB require a justification for additional IP addresses? The DOE has been issued a finite number of addresses that must be shared among approximately 300+ schools and offices across the State. We would run out of addresses if we don't manage the allocation of addresses efficiently.

6. What equipment/supplies do I need to enter an IP address in my switch/hub.

PC:

a. Desktop/notebook with an available serial port (COM port)

b. PC to PC file transfer cable. We have found the Belkin cable F3B207-10 (DB-9 to DB-9) or F3X171-10 (DB-9/DB-25 to DB-9/DB25) to work well. "-10" of the cable number refers to the length of the cable. Other cable lengths are also available. The cables are approximately $18 and $25 respectively and are available at most computer stores. Some null modem cables will also work.

c. Terminal emulation program (i.e. Procomm or HyperTerminal) that supports VT100 emulation Macs: PowerPC

d. Desktop/notebook with an available modem port.

e. Modem cable, mini-DIN to DB-9 or DB-25. We have found the Belkin cable F2V088-06 to work. "-06" portion of the cable number refers to the length of the cable. Other cable lengths are also available.

f. PC to PC file transfer cable. We have found the Belkin cable F3B207-10 (DB-9 to DB-9) or F3X171-10 (DB-9/DB-25 to DB-9/DB25) to work well. The cables are approximately $18 and $25 respectively and are available at most computer stores. Some null modem cables will also work.

g. Terminal emulation program (i.e. Claris Works or Microphone) that supports VT100 emulation. iMacs (This has not yet been tested but should work)

MAC:

a. Desktop/notebook with an available USB port.

b. A USB to serial adapter. Belkin carries a "USB Serial Adapter for iMac" which includes a serial adapter and DB-9 to mini-DIN cable. Approximate cost is $95.

c. PC to PC file transfer cable. We have found the Belkin cable F3B207-10 (DB-9 to DB-9) or F3X171-10 (DB-9/DB-25 to DB-9/DB25) to work well. "-10" of the cable number refers to the length of the cable. Other cable lengths are also available. The cables are approximately $18 and $25 respectively and are available at most computer stores. Some null modem cables will also work.

d. Terminal emulation program (i.e. Claris Works or Microphone) that supports VT100 emulation.