Step right up, step right up, and win a wireless cupie doll! NetworkWorld files this amusing and technically interesting report about the use of wireless networks at the California State Fair. The IT director for the carnival firm that runs this event comes in with a staff and lashes Firetide Networks 5 GHz wireless routers up wherever they can make a good line of sight connection to form the network's backbone. They even erect a 65-foot tower as the foundation of the network, on which they stick four directional nodes plus a long-haul link to another area. Firetide's main units mesh over 5 GHz with Ethernet ports to add LAN elements. Cables run down into ticket booths were access points and Ethernet-driven point-of-sale systems are run. Mobile scanners are also used to manage tickets, purchases, logistics, and personnel shift changes.
