This project uses Meshtastic software. Meshtastic is what is called an open-source development. This means that it is developed by and maintained by users and is fully available to use and modify by anyone, for free. There are over 40,000 nodes deployed worldwide at this time. There are over 500 nodes in the San Francisco bay area alone.

www.Meshtastic.org

A typical radio or “node” is a small box with a solar panel. A common cell phone is used to connect with the node via bluetooth. An app is used to “text” in a similar way to texting with a cell phone except no cell phone connection or internet connection is used.

Other users may opt for a stand-alone device with touch screen and no need for a cell phone at all.

Design tools are available to analyze the path between hills to determine if there is a line-of-sight view. Path analysis between Hayward and Telemark is below:

Site planner tools analyze the terrain and plot the predicted coverage from a high point to the surrounding countryside of the hill-top radio transmitters. Coverage simulation map of Hayward below: