There has been desire expressed by several people to start a Broadband-Hamnet interest group.
• What is Broadband Hamnet?
Broadband Hamnet is the creation of communication networks to perform functions similar to those on the Internet without the need of Internet connections. Voice, video, data, telemetry, Web servers, IP phones and chat, as well as remote operation of computers, radios, and other hardware are all possible over the mesh. The mesh is an auto-configuring, self-repairing, ham network. It can function separate from, or integrated with, other ham networks like APRS, DSTAR or Echolink. http://www.broadband-hamnet.org
• How do you create a mesh?
A mesh is created using nodes, which automatically connect to each other and allow you to connect to one of them. You are then able to communicate with others who are connected to other nodes. The nodes are usually standard Wi-Fi Internet routers, which have modified firmware installed. This installation takes only a few minutes using the built-in web interface of the router.
• How far apart can the nodes be?
The range between the nodes varies, but is commonly on the order of 1-10 miles. No modification of the router nodes is required. Only the addition of a high gain directional antenna is needed. The world land record is 125 miles. http://www.dxzone.com/cgi-bin/dir/jump2.cgi?ID=26924 The only requirement is line of sight.
• Where can I get nodes?
There is currently a sale going on at TigerDirect. See ad below. This is my favorite version of this router, and is compatible with all Broadband Hamnet versions. This is the lowest price I have seen in a long time. I just ordered several more myself. You may already have a router that can be 'flashed' with the new firmware. Linksys and Ubiquiti are two manufacturers who make routers which can be upgraded.
• Who can participate in the mesh?
Anyone interested in participating in, or curious about, Broadband HamNet is welcome.
All that is required is a HAM license.