A new type of free Internet software may make it easier for students and faculty to research online.
The software, called “q,” allows Web browsers to save Internet links in groups and refer back to them even after connection to the net has been terminated. The “q” program launches automatically and stores desired information with any Web browser. The technology also has a feature that enables users to send links in organized groups to other “q” users.
Mark Ballard, a spokesman for the company that produces the software, said after “q” is downloaded it will remain in your system for use free of charge.
“Every time you start up your computer and connect to the Internet, “q” will be on your desktop,” Ballard said. “As you go onto the Web and see the links you want, you can drag down each link and store it in the “q” device.
“Then you can open up your computer any time and retrieve the Web links from the “q” device, even if you are offline.”
The software was developed by qMGN, a New York-based technology company, which was founded in 1997.
Lewis Greenberg, director of the MSU computer laboratory, said the big advantage to the “q” program is being able to access information on the Internet without a phone connection.
“Like anything else it has its strengths and weaknesses,” Greenberg said. “If used responsibly “q” could be a very valuable resource.”
Child development senior April Thompson said “q” is something she will look into using.
“At my apartment my roommates and I only have one phone line,” Thompson said. “I have Internet links I need to look at for class, but I don’t like tying up the line.”
Jennifer Frier, qMGN director of account development, said the “q” program can benefit students in several ways.
“The main benefit to students is the organization of the information,” Frier said. “And being able to access online information with a laptop computer in a place like a coffee shop, which may not have Internet access.”
The software, although designed for research purposes, has other applications as well. Information such as HTML links, images, videos and MP3 music files can be downloaded.
John Owen, a packaging senior, said the program sounds like a good idea, but he worries about too much junk being sent to him via the Internet.
“I could see where it would be helpful,” Owen said. “You could get a lot of different sources and it would be a great way to keep them minimized and in the same place.
“But I wouldn’t want people to misuse it; I get enough information I don’t need over the Internet already.”
The service is available at www.qmgn.com.
