Section 161.03. Technical standards.

 

(1)   General standards. The board shall establish technical standards and specifications as necessary for access to data lines or video links provided under the educational telecommunications access program to school districts, private schools, cooperative educational service agencies, technical college districts, private colleges and public library boards. The board shall encourage the use of internationally recognized standards, specifications and technologies, and consider adopting such standards, specifications and technologies as soon as possible, to ensure that access provided under this chapter allows maximum interaction with other networks throughout the world.

(2)   Data line. A data line shall terminate at an internet service provider unless the board determines that an alternative is acceptable. A data line may include transport and associated hardware required by the department for its management of its statewide network. A data line does not include voice services or other non–internet related data transmission or services unless the board determines that other data transmission is acceptable. The direct access to the internet provided by the data line does not include internet services such as subscription services, electronic mail, applications and other services determined by the board.

(3)   Video link. The video link may include transport, switching equipment and software needed to provide 2–way interactive video, maintenance, scheduling software, and equipment needed to compress and decompress video information. A video link may also include direct access to the internet through available channels within the circuit and access to a gateway for purposes of inter–system communication and compatibility. A video link may not include television monitors, video cameras, audio equipment, any other classroom equipment or personnel costs associated with scheduling.

Cr. Register, October, 1998, No. 514 , eff. 11-1-98.