Students to win IBM ThinkPads to develop wireless networks

IBM Hursley has donated 25 ThinkPads to the University of Southampton as part of its programme to promote greater use of the Linux operating system.

Students at the University's School of Electronics and Computer Science will be able to apply to join in a year's exploration into the use of Linux and will win the use of a ThinkPad as part of the project. The aim is to develop a wireless networked community and investigate collaborative working.

Head of School, Professor Wendy Hall, said: "This is a very exciting opportunity for the University to work closely with industry to provide and encourage students to use the latest software and mobile computing technologies."

Graham Spittle, Lab Director at IBM Hursley, presented the ThinkPads to University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Bill Wakeham, at a ceremony at the School of Electronics and Computer Science.

Mr Spittle said: "We are delighted to be part of this innovative project. Linux is increasingly significant and we want to support creative ways of exploring its future potential. My message to the students is, tell us what you learn, but most of all, have fun."

More than 15 million ThinkPad notebook computers have been produced so far. They have been recognised as design and engineering models and have won more than 1,000 industry awards worldwide. ThinkPads have been trusted for use in some of the world's most extreme settings, including space shuttle launches, at altitudes of more than 17,000 feet above sea level and on the open seas.