The world of wireless

Are you ready for a future without wires? Find out how to equip your business devices for wireless connectivity.

by Rolf Anderson   As REALTORS®, almost every aspect of our job requires the use of technology. Between communicating with clients through e-mail, maintaining contacts in a personal digital assistant, and searching online MLS listings, we depend on quick, reliable service from many providers and devices. Wireless connectivity gives you the freedom to link your computer, cell phone, PDA, and printer without cords, electrical outlets, or phone jacks.

Wireless compares to the Internet four years ago in its prevalence in the market. As a CRS designee and senior instructor teaching technology courses for the Council of Residential Specialists, I’ve found that not many students know about the different wireless choices. If you’re planning to delve into the wireless world, a general knowledge of the following three options (categorized by size of service area), can help you make informed decisions about the most effective service to fit your lifestyle and business needs.

Personal area network (PAN)

A personal area network is basically a ring of 30 feet around your devices. Within this area, Bluetooth wireless technology can link a computer and printer, headset and cell phone, cell phone and the Internet, and other devices. Bluetooth is a low-cost, secure solution that is compatible with hardware sold today, as well as some older models. This technology provides high-speed capability. It’s like zooming around a six-lane beltway at 80 miles per hour–you’re going fast but restricted to the urban area unless you exit onto a different road.

Previously, infrared communication was the standard for short-range communication, but it worked within the line of sight only. Bluetooth, which is the only wireless PAN standard available, does not have such limitations and enables devices to communicate through walls and other obstacles as long as it falls within the distance restriction of approximately 30 feet. Eventually, all types of Bluetooth-enabled devices will be available, such as keyboards, mice, home-security systems, garage-door openers, and more.

Local area network (LAN)

This category of wireless is also known as Wi-Fi or 802.11. Now, take your PAN and expand it from 30 feet to include an entire building. Wi-Fi allows wireless access within 300 to 500 feet of a network antenna (access point) in a building, such as your office or home. REALTORS® can have the mobility to connect to the Internet or an intranet and network computers from any office, conference room, or cubicle. The connection speed depends on the speed of the Internet connection and is slightly slower than a similar "wired" connection. Now you’re driving on a state highway with the freedom to travel in a larger area.

Many public spaces offer a Wi-Fi Internet connection. Walk into almost any Starbucks, and you can order a vanilla latte, carrot cake, and a high-speed Internet Wi-Fi connection. Fees range from 10 cents per minute to $40 per month for unlimited nationwide access ($30 with an annual contract). There are thousands of public Wi-Fi "hot spots," or places to access a wireless network, across the country. Bookstores, airports, universities, fast-food joints, hotels, airplanes–the number of access points is exploding. Although these hot spots charge nominal fees, I expect this service to be free in the near future as more commercial entities begin catering to the Internet-connected public. You’ll soon be able to drive to a convenience store, gas up your car, and check your e-mail through their free Wi-Fi hot-spot service.

Wide area network (WAN)

A WAN is like driving on the interstate at 55 miles per hour. You may be traveling a little slower than a PAN or LAN connection, but the highway system can take you anywhere. After purchasing a WAN wireless PC card for your laptop or PDA, you pay a monthly service charge to connect to the Internet, like a cell-phone plan. For example, I purchased a WAN card at Sprint PCS and now have wireless access to the Internet anywhere Sprint PCS is available. Check with your cellular provider for more information. For REALTORS®, the ability to check MLS data while parked in front of a house your buyer just discovered is priceless.

The mobility benefits of a WAN connection far outweigh its slower speed, which lags behind PAN and LAN but is faster than a dial-up modem. Additionally, when using WAN service, I typically use the connection for less time than a PAN or LAN. I save my hard-core Internet work for when I’m in the office or at home.

What now?

In regards to the right selection of PAN, LAN, and/or WAN connectivity for you, I recommend exploring the value of all three. Talk with colleagues, read recent articles, and enroll in a technology course to uncover the world of wireless. Between showing houses, teaching, and traveling, the three categories give me the flexibility I need to ensure I’m giving the best in client service, keeping in touch with colleagues, and not missing a beat at home.

Rolf Anderson, CRS, is a third-generation REALTOR® and 21-year veteran of the profession. He owns and operates an 85-year-old family agency in Forest City, Iowa. He is a CRS senior instructor for the Council of Residential Specialists and is a national speaker, consultant, trainer, and author on technology and real estate. He teaches "Technologies to Advance Your Business" and "Marketing with Microsoft Office" to those pursuing the Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) designation.

Photo © Comstock Images.

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