Intel touts long-distance WiFi for rural areas - Engadget
Think about the cultural impact that could be made if we could get WiFi access into rural areas. Intel can make it happen for about $500. The device covers 60 miles with a data rate of 6.5 megabits per second.
In Maine we could use the existing MSLN network and put a device at each school. It would provide access to people who would never have the chance to access the Internet. It wouldn’t take money from other ISP because serious users are going to want faster data rates.
Sometimes you need to think big to make a change in society. Now let’s see what happens.
1 response so far ↓
I wish the bigwigs in Maine would get a clue about this. Not only would it help the tourism immensely (judging from all the campers I see flying down Rt. 2 in the summer), but it’s also great for a backup for local businesses. I work right in Augusta, and at least twice a year someone cuts the cable or a box fries at my ISP.
We have broadband initiatives, but there are many Mainers that will only have dialup for years to come, which is absolutely no fun. Even at dialup speeds, always-on wireless is preferable.
Other countries with little infrastructure are starting out with wireless for their communication needs, as it’s much cheaper to mount a box every few miles than to run cable or fiber.
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