Smartphone mesh network

[cpslashm]

It seems there is free software to turn smartphones into a mesh local network if the phone network/internet goes down.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-27225869
http://www.servalproject.org/ - Not quite there yet but worth keeping in mind.

[soutie]

Love the idea , i might be wrong , but makes me think CB radio for the 21 century !!!

[redskies]

What an interesting idea. I particularly like the difficulty in monitoring it!

[Bad Wombat]

This is smart stuff. But as I live in village we would need a way of making the jump to the next village or to the nearest town. Maybe an amateur radio link, a highly directional long distance wifi link, or in the future WiMAX. If the external link could be put in place before hand then if the phone systems were to go down we would all be up and running in no time!

[cpslashm]

we would need a way of making the jump to the next village or to the nearest town.

If it is a localised loss of communication, fine. If somewhat worse then the nearest town may not survive but you may still find a use for smartphones in your villiage - especially if someone sets up a mini server with a copy of Wikipedia and some how-to prepping sites before TSHTF.

I guess prepping communications takes more than just one's immediate family. Staying in contact with known preppers nearby whilst bugging in is also possible.

[Yorkshire Andy]

Does it hammer the battery like leaving the wifi / bluetooth on?

just thinking how short lived the "network" will be post SHTF Most people will have no way of charging their phone up in a power cut and i bet 60%+ of those with a car and car charger will "forget" about the ability to use the car

[sfcfinchrs]

The problem with this is that in order to make a GOOD mesh network that will work for rock solid Communications over useful distances you still might need to have invest is some good kit.

I guess it depends on what requirements or capabilities you need.

Not saying it is not a good idea. I am working on possibly setting up the capability for one.

There are two possible good uses.

1. Fully mobile - This would work for a group of people, like a patrol element. Thus the group that is in semi-close proximity can data communicate. This would allow for shared video of a view of one of the group. IE a view of an objective or something of interest. Though I believe that everyone having a PMR radio would be a cheaper alternative.

2. Semi-fixed - This can allow you to cover an area and allow for data to be exchanged in that area. Though this is where having some extra kit is required.

You have to think about having easily deploy-able access points with good range extending antennas. This need to be in set up with a self sustaining power capability.

Best I have figured out is to have a good wifi range-extender/access point with a good outdoor omnidirectional antenna. Powered by a battery that is recharger by solar panels.

It is doable and can work well if engineered properly and set-up properly for the terrain you want to cover.

Thinking on this. I will have a think and see if I can do a write-up on the semi-fixed idea.