Question
What type of equipment is commonly used to implement an amateur radio mesh network?
Answer Options
- A) A 2-meter VHF transceiver with a 1,200-baud modem
- B) A computer running EchoLink to provide interface from the radio to the internet
- C) A wireless router running custom firmware
- D) A 440 MHz transceiver with a 9,600-baud modem
Correct Answer: C
Explanation
Amateur radio mesh networks (such as AREDN) are decentralized, high-speed, digital data networks designed for robust emergency communication. They operate on microwave frequencies (typically 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz) to achieve very high data rates that standard VHF/UHF packet radio cannot match. This approach leverages readily available, high-speed commercial technology.
The most common and cost-effective equipment used to implement these networks is a wireless router running custom firmware (operating system). These commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) Wi-Fi routers are modified with custom amateur radio firmware to comply with amateur band regulations and to function as network nodes in a distributed mesh structure.
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