[VHFcontesting] Exactly! [was: Explanation]

[Ev Tupis]

----- Original Message ----
From: frank bechdoldt <k3uhf at hotmail.com>
The true challenge out there is to use that spectrum in a manner that looks productive from people outside of our subculture.


<snip>

What if Hams were allowed to use 3 ghz to set up free wireless networks  for non hams?  The we would be providing something to the community.
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Here's *my* "what if".  What if hill-top (VHF Contesting) hams were to actually power-up using COTS components on 802.11b, Channel 1 using self-establishing/healing mesh strategies and setup a true fault-tolerant, IP based "LinkNET"?  Think: OLPC, on steroids.

Think of all of the uses for such a system to both our subculture (IM from remote hilltops during the 10GHz and Above Contest or spot those rover packs as they move and aim your antennas at 'em <g>) as well as to the larger community in times of real need (of course, utilized by us until the rules change to allow the public to access it under dire circumstances).

If anyone knows of a ham-based community that is still trying to make something like this work (or someone who was formerly involved in it at high levels), please send me info OFF-list, please.  I'm interested in learning more.

Otherwise, I'm "out".
73,
Ev, W2EV