MeshNetworks Introduces Its Multi-Hopping Software for 802.11
[FAC: We discussed MeshNetworks here briefly several days ago (msgs 4959, 4960). The following is from convergedigest.com ]
MeshNetworks, a start-up based in Maitland, Florida, introduced a
software system for extending the range and robustness of
existing Wi-Fi networks by adding multi-hopping peer-to-peer
capabilities to off-the-shelf 802.11 cards. The MeshLAN software
transforms wireless LAN cards into router-repeaters, which
enhances and extends the wireless reach of each subscriber in the
network. A MeshLAN-enabled Wi-Fi user who is out of range of an
access point can hop through one or more users to reach the
access point. Furthermore, the MeshLAN routing intelligence will
automatically shift transmissions from congested access points to
uncongested ones. The software leverages the built-in peer-to-
peer mode included in every 802.11 card. MeshNetworks said its
software will also work with 802.11 variants, including 802.11a,
802.11b, and 802.11g.
meshnetworks.com
MeshNetworks, February 6, 2002
In January, MeshNetworks was granted an experimental license by
the FCC for demonstrations of its mobile ad hoc peer-to-peer
broadband technology in both the 2.4 MHz and 5.7 MHz bands. The
FCC's action enables MeshNetworks to conduct large-scale
demonstration networks in Orlando/Maitland (FL), Washington, DC,
Denver/Boulder, and Dallas/Fort Worth. The license also grants
MeshNetworks the ability to simultaneously demonstrate small-
scale networks in five different locations anywhere in the US.
In November 2000, MeshNetworks secured $26 million in its second
round of financing. MeshNetworks is working on a chipset for
wireless communications based on ad hoc Quad-Division Multiple
Access (QDMA) technology. The concept would enable mobile
devices, such as cell phones and PDAs, to network through each
other in addition to cell towers so that the devices become part
of the network. Investors include Redwood Ventures, ITT
Industries, BancBoston Ventures, Patricof & Co. Ventures, and
3Com Ventures, among others.
MeshNetworks was founded by Milcom Technologies to commercialize
wireless technology developed for the Department of Defense for a
battlefield handheld terminal supporting voice, data and video
communications. |
