Posted: 6/4/2026 4:08:33 PM EDT
|
We recently reviewed our hurricane planning and I mentioned mesh communication networks with only a minimal understanding . Im here to ask for help in setting up an Emergency use system in case our radio and cell systems fail again. If anyone can guide me to resources or has the time to answer some simpleton questions I would greatly appreciate it . What we need to do. 1. Establish an encrypted and secure text based back up system to our 700/800 MHZ radio system 2.Supply each truck and station (7-8 vehicles and two stations) with communications back up 3. Supply 18-20 People initially ( My Fire Dept) and possibly The city and Police department or additional departments depending on scale possible. 4.Run off USBc in vehicles or battery if needed . I understand the system somewhat as we had a similar when I worked on the ambulance .It worked using a Mobile data terminal and encrypted via UHF or VHF . Im not up to date on the limitations of the new system with meshtastic. I tried watching youtube and its a mess. I need to cover around a 5 mile area at sea level. The two stations are metal which I also understand is a problem. I may be able to place additional nodes if needed via city or public property if i can make them solar or plug in . In closing I need to demonstrate an initial capability before we go nose in . If i can show cheaply the basic functions it may be easier to build or set up a better system. Thanks in advance |
Originally Posted By WinstonSmith:
In the army, if you jump on a hand grenade and save everyone you get a medal. At my job, you get more hand grenades.
In the army, if you jump on a hand grenade and save everyone you get a medal. At my job, you get more hand grenades.
|
I have seen several people asking about this. I don't think civilian public MESH would work in your case over a large area. I would recommend a bunch of Starlink Minis sitting with a paused monthly plans. I would create hotspots at the stations and have more starlinks that get pushed out with the apparatus. Then, mesh from the starlinks out from the vehicle via whatever your choice of mesh product. TT |
|
Fix the infrastructure.... harden the sites, fix/maintain radios, antennas, backhauls. I'd look at what your local hams could do (ares in particular) before spending a bunch of money on something that probably won't work when you need it to. But first I'd exhaust all my options for grants and funding to harden and maintain the rf sites. |
Member
Joined:
May 2024
Posts:
3607
EE: 0% (0)
USA
|
Talk to a Motorola rep. They have used/affordable options for what you are looking for. OR GoTenna Pro is an option, but it still has limitations. https://gotenna.com/ Consumer Meshtastic systems are not something I would not want to use in this scenario. They are too involved and reliant on the user being "techie". You are going to want something one person can manage and is almost impossible for the user to screw up. And commercially available Meshtastic devices are meant for hobbyists that are tech literate, and Jim-Bob fireman that can barely use Outlook will ruin it quickly. If you want, I have 4 Mechtastic devices sitting here collecting dust. They each take a 18650 battery and require a cellphone to use. I will send them to you to play with if you want. I bought them to toy with. Realized Meshtastic is a novelty for tech nerds, and they have been sitting here since. |