A group has beem formed by Air-Stream members to work with interested code developers and every day people to look into practical ways to use OpenWRT able wireless devices and OLSR to build a very low cost grass roots community wireless networks.
There is no need to be a Air-Stream Member as anyone can participate, to join trials of the mesh network, all you need is a OpenWRT able wireless device , volenteer and participate.
So what does any hardcore Air-Stream member do when they get their hands on some hardware?
They look for ways to mod it of course!
The RB/SXT was Mikrotik's first outdoor, integrated CPE solution.
It is a 5ghz, Dual Polarity, 802.11n, MIMO radio device. It is capable of 200mbit throughput (100mbit in each way simultaneously) while maintaining a neat small package which is weather proof and coax free!
It has a 16dBi dual polarity panel antenna inside the case with POE Ethernet socket and a USB socket for 3G modems.
We have interesting plans for this device, in true Air-Stream style, but that is reserved for the next post on the SXT, for now the pictures!
I'd like to put a question to the group as I do not recall this being discussed a lot.
From forums, it has been suggested that Ubiquiti will ask if you have used grounded Ethernet if claiming warranty.
Does the group recommend using grounded Ethernet to connect devices - in this case, the device will be the highest point for quite some distance around.
How is grounded Ethernet used - do you need to have a separate comms ground.
Is just earthing the pole and running the cable within adequate protection.
-J
Often referred to as Client Premesis Equipment (CPE) there are a number of vendors who provide integrated solutions for connecting to existing wide area wireless networks such as the Air-Stream wireless network. This equipment integrates the job of host, wireless radio, antenna and accessories into one product. The main advantage of this is the cost saving and simplicity associated with buying a single product. The main disadvantage is the lack of options in customisation, software and upgradeability.
Mounting and powering electronics in harsh environments such as outdoors or in roof cavities requires special consideration.
Antennas are the most visible part of wireless communication and play the most important role in guiding the radio frequency signals through the air. Antennas are where the 'wireless' part of wireless networking come in to play.
To connect an antenna to a wireless radio invariably requires one or more lengths of of coaxial cable terminated in the right connectors (plugs.)
A module or device which provides IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n MAC layer to a host and a physical layer to an antenna.
