Researchers ride on new Internet2 highway

Tad Gallaugher

Anyone who's browsed the Web has experienced frustration from excessive Internet traffic. But the often slow pace of cyberspace has posed a particular problem for university professors who conduct research over the Internet ‹ until now. Welcome Internet2.

Ohio University is among 170 universities across the nation selected to participate in research projects via a new information highway used worldwide by university, government and corporate researchers. Internet2 allows data transfers at 33 megabits per second, about three times quicker than the fastest transfer on the regular Internet.

"Universities have been the leaders in the development of the Internet from its beginning, and Internet2 keeps Ohio University at the forefront of what is possible," says Communication Network Services Director Tom Reid. "By facilitating worldwide collaboration in research and distance learning, Internet2 provides opportunities for faculty and students to participate in the evolution of the information age."

Internet2 is part of several research projects on campus:

• Associate professors of physics and astronomy Peter Jung and Paul Gailey are studying the neurological function of epileptic children via an Internet2 connection linking Clippinger Labs to Cincinnati's Children's Medical Center.
• Using Internet2, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering Bhavin Mehta designed a Web-based virtual manufacturing environment in which students and professionals can simulate manufacturing processes.