The Access Grid is a network of resources that supports large-scale distributed collaboration. The technology, used by both commercial entities and I2 research institutions, takes advantage of extremely high-speed, high-bandwidth IP-based networks to create multipoint interactive environments. The Grid developed out of a project led by Argonne National Labs. Additional details on this effort are available at the Access Grid website.

Access Grid Nodes are technology-enhanced sites within the Access Grid network that enable a high-quality, tele-immersive, and media-rich, group-to-group experience. They consist of multimedia displays, presentation and interaction environments, interfaces to grid middleware, and interfaces to visualization environments. Examples of usage include large-scale distributed meetings, collaborative teamwork sessions, seminars, lectures, tutorials, and training. The nodes are also used as a research environment for the development of distributed data and visualization corridors and for the study of issues relating to collaborative work in distributed environments. Access Grid nodes are maintained by corporations, government entities, and academic institutions in over 50 countries worldwide.

For more information regarding the use of Access Grid at ASU, please contact Jim Casey at 480-965-8437 or jim.c@asu.edu.