Repeater Host FAQ

Fauxreigner

Fauxreigner

— 3 min read
Repeater Host FAQ
Photo by Colin Rowley / Unsplash

1: What will the repeater node be used for?

  • It will expand a community oriented, free, open source community mesh network using low power radio
  • The mesh enables text-based communication in areas with limited cellular or internet coverage, or to users who can't afford cellular or internet service
  • It stays up when power, cellular networks, or the internet goes down, enabling emergency communications and community support

2: What kind of equipment will be installed?

  • Normally a small, waterproof box containing a microcontroller and a battery
  • A lightweight antenna and a small solar panel or two
  • Typically under two pounds, about the size of an internet router with a larger antenna
A triangular box with two small solar panels and an antenna, held in a person's hand for scale. The box and antenna are each about 7 inches long.
A typical node

3: How much power and bandwidth are required?

  • None. Nodes are intentionally self sufficient; they are solar powered and do not connect to the internet

4: How will it be installed?

  • Installation on structures normally uses magnets on a flat metal surface or u-bolts/hose clamps around a mast or pole.
  • Installation in trees normally uses a small rope around a sturdy branch, with the node hanging from below, and a longer rope used to hoist the node in place (like a flagpole).
  • No screwing, nailing, drilling, or adhesives are used unless explicitly agreed on beforehand.
  • If you have specific requirements, let us know. We can almost always find a way to complete installation without requiring any alteration to your property, provided that the solar panel(s) are exposed to the sun.
  • Depending on the circumstance, a cable may be run between the node and the antenna. No cabling will be run into the structure.

5: What is the expected maintenance/access requirement?

  • Very low; nodes are designed to run autonomously for long periods
  • Occasional visits may be needed for firmware updates or hardware checks/maintenance, typically no more than once or twice a year.
  • Access terms can be agreed on and set in writing

6: Will the equipment cause any interference with my existing systems?

  • Extremely unlikely; the RDUMesh network operates on different frequencies from Wi-Fi, cellular, or TV systems (specifically the ISM band, 902-928 MHz)
  • Transmit power does not exceed 1 watt; typically 0.3-0.6 watts
  • Nodes are designed to be non-disruptive and FCC compliant; you can request testing or documentation if concerned

7: What are the security risks for my network/customer data?

  • Virtually non-existent; nodes will not connect to your network/wi-fi in any way
  • Most nodes do not have wi-fi radios at all; those that do have them disabled except during firmware updates, and they do not connect to other networks for updates. We can accommodate requests for nodes with no wi-fi capabilities if needed
  • Nodes typically have low power bluetooth radios, but these are also disabled except during firmware updates
  • Nodes do not have cameras or sensors, except for temperature and voltage sensors used to monitor the node's own hardware.
  • Nodes do not broadcast their own messages except to advertise their presence or report their temperature or battery level; they only repeat messages from end-user devices.

8: What are the liability implications?

  • The property owner carries the liability, although the likelihood of an incident is expected to be minimal

9: Are there any permits, HOA, zoning, or regulatory issues to be aware of?

  • Permits are not needed for small antennas or non-commercial installations
  • HOA or building rules may restrict roof modifications, even non-permanent ones - check before proceeding
  • We recommend getting written permission if you're a tenant or part of a shared property

10: What is the day to day experience like?

  • If you choose to use the mesh, you'll benefit from a reliable link to the network
  • Otherwise, you'll probably forget that it's there. Nodes are designed to function autonomously for long periods with no in-person interaction and don't need anything other than elevation and sunlight.

11: How long is the node expected to stay there? Can it be removed at any time?

  • We will work with you to determine a clear agreement or time frame
  • No long-term obligation is required. Ultimately, you may request removal at any time, with coordination and reasonable time allowance for removal
  • Removal should not leave any long term marks or damage

Credit to Austin Mesh for much of the formatting and content

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