FOI2024/00877 - Induction material related to hard copies of media
Case reference FOI2024/00877
Received 28 September 2024
Published 2 December 2024
Request
Request received: 28 September 2024
Please can you disclose, preferably by PDF, a copy of any current induction material related to keeping hard copies of media etc. due to unavailability, or restricted availability, of streaming services/other internet-provided entertainment media on Antarctica.
Response
Response sent: 24 October 2024
The following information has been extracted from the “IT Guide for Antarctic Stations and Ships”:
“Personal Devices:
Each station and ship have a number of computers available for general use.
If you are bringing a personal device such as a laptop, tablet or mobile phone, ensure it is updated before you leave.
The LEO satellite trial is bringing a lot of fast-moving changes to how internet is consumed on a personal device on station or ship.
You will receive clear instructions on how to connect your device to the network on your arrival.
Do not be surprised to see any of the following:
• Separate Wi-Fi networks for personal devices.
• A captive portal for accessing the internet, similar to using guest Wi-Fi at hotels.
• One device per person connected to the internet at a time.
• Limited daily download limits.
• Periods of peak usage causing inconsistent service.
• ‘WhatsApp only’ if falling back to VSAT internet.
• The network is monitored for misuse and illegal activity.
Please supply your own storage/backup media such as external disks and USB sticks.
Ensure to bring any relevant USB dongles or adaptors. Collaborator and third-party computers that need to access the local IT systems, will require a security check by the local IT representative prior to connection.”
There are also several references to recreation and limited access to internet found in the Guide to Going South 2024
The following titles in particular are worth noting from the Guide to Going South:
• Page 11 - Music, films and books
• Page 17 - Internet
• Page 18 - Living on stations
• Page 19 - Recreation
Documents
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