Officials are considering disconnecting cable to dorm rooms to improve Wi-Fi.
The idea to disconnect the cable was proposed earlier this year after officials became aware many students don’t use cable in their rooms. Housing is working with student relations to determine if this would benefit students.
Kevin Culbertson, coordinator of housing operations, said he wants to figure out the best use of resources.
There aren’t enough wireless routers and a large enough bandwidth to accommodate the students using campus Wi-Fi.
“Disconnecting the cable would allow the funds previously put toward cable installation and usage to be diverted toward the Wi-Fi issue,” Culbertson said. “This would allow for new infrastructure upgrades, more wireless ports, and faster internet speed.”
Culbertson could not give the exact price the university pays for cable services to Cox Communications, but the number is six figures, he said.
Cable is set up so it is connected to each individual dorm room and lobby area. One compromise option is to keep cable in the lobby, but disconnect it from dorm rooms.
Another scenario officials are considering is to give residents the option of having cable. Students who chose to have cable would pay for it on their own.
This model is used in University Manor, Culbertson said. Prior to this year, Wi-Fi and cable weren’t offered as an amenity, but this year residents were offered Wi-Fi. There have been no complaints so far.
Officials from telecommunications, IT, housing, and student affairs will collaborate to make a decision.
Dr. Amy Ayres, vice president for student affairs and dean of students, said she is preparing a student survey so residents of dorms will have input in the situation.
Students seem to agree that cable should be cut, officials said.
“Most students who have expressed their opinions so far are in support of disconnecting the cable,” Culbertson said.
One student expressed concern about losing cable.
“I don’t want them to disconnect the cable, I watch Project Runway on there,” said McAlyn Forbes, vocal performance freshman.
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