Connects Beta Test Program - Timeline & Updates

September 2006:   Connecting Western Massachusetts

Berkshire Connect Inc. and Pioneer Valley Connect were jointly awarded a Regional Priority Grant from the John Adams Innovation Institute, a division of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative.  As one part of this award, the Connects proposed to conduct a test of a wireless broadband network in selected rural areas of Western Massachusetts.

October - December 2006:  The Beta Test Program Concept

Connects developed Beta Test Program concept to test wireless equipment and network models in selected, unserved areas of Western Massachusetts.  Expert consultants began their review of wireless equipment available in the marketplace and possible network models for implementation of the Beta Test networks.   

January - March 2007:  Solicitation of Beta Test Communities

The Connects conducted a solicitation process to identify potential areas to conduct the Beta Tests.  Seventeen applications from fifteen different towns were submitted to the Connects.  An extensive application review process resulted in nine applications identified as semi-finalists.  Expert technical consultants visited the proposed test areas and examined the feasibility of creating a wireless broadband network.  The Connects also evaluated how the participation of the proposed test areas could be used as a model for other unserved areas in the region.             

April - June 2007:  Selection of the Beta Test Network Areas

The Connects selected three areas as finalists for participation in the Beta Test Program, located in Florida in Berkshire County, Worthington in Hampshire County, and New Salem in Franklin County.  An initial meeting was held with the broadband committee of each selected community to review the program, set expectations and visit proposed sites for wireless equipment installation.  The Connects developed a package of materials for distribution to program participants, including a participant agreement form and FAQ sheet. 

July - September 2007:  Implementation of the Beta Test Program

The Connects installed a T1 circuit in each test area to provide the broadband access to connect the wireless network to the internet.  Technical consultants installed wireless radios and corresponding antennas in each test area.  Local broadband groups working with the Connects collected participant forms from individuals who have committed to use and evaluate the Beta Test Network.  The local broadband groups also established general guidelines for their publicly accessible hotspots.  The Connects began meetings with communities that were selected as semi-finalists in the competitive process for selecting Beta Test Program communities.

October - December 2007:   First Test of the Beta Test Program

The Connects launched the three wireless broadband networks of the Beta Test Program. A press release announcing this launch was issued on October 26, 2007.  The Connects held meetings with the local broadband groups and Beta Test Program participants in each community to hear comments and address any questions.  The Program consultants continued to monitor the Beta Test networks and adjusted the equipment to increase the number of potential participants.  In addition, the Connects concluded their meetings with communities that were selected as semi-finalists in the competitive process for selecting Beta Test Program communities.

January - March 2008:   First Survey of Beta Test Participants

The Connects asked registered Beta Test Program participants to complete their first online "Feedback Form" survey.  The responses enable the Connects to map more accurately the areas reached by the equipment installed and evaluate the functionality of the networks over the Beta Test Program period.  This information will be included in a final report about the Beta Test Program to be created by the Connects.  In response to requests, technical consultants visited the Networks and made adjustments to select radios to improve access. 

Current Period!

April – June 2008:  Beta Test Networks Operating   

The Connects are continuing to monitor the networks as the season changes from Spring to Summer.  This period, the Connects will also be meeting with local broadband groups, service providers, technical experts and others to discuss the networks and our options

for the future. 

More updates to come!

July - October 2008

Page last updated on June 19, 2008 .