Welcome to thefree and independent
communications
Ways to connect individuals & communities
CB Radio
Probably the easiest and most affordable option to stay in contact across several kilometers
Why go gridless
Independence from Infrastructure
- No Reliance on Public Networks: Off-the-grid RF communications operate independently of public infrastructure, meaning they're not affected by outages, network congestion, or shutdowns.
- Remote Area Functionality: These methods are ideal for use in remote areas where traditional communication infrastructure is unavailable or unreliable.
Enhanced Privacy and Security
To add privacy and security to your communications, the following 2 communication techiques offer encryption option:- Ham Radio with Digital Modes
- Mesh Networking
Emergency Communication
- Disaster Resilience: In the event of natural disasters or other emergencies that disable traditional communication networks, RF systems can still function, providing a crucial means of communication for first responders and affected populations.
- Reliable Backup: RF communications can serve as a reliable backup when other communication systems fail, ensuring continuous connectivity in critical situations.
Long-Range Communication
- Beyond Line-of-Sight: Depending on the frequency and power, RF communications can cover long distances, making them suitable for communicating over large areas where other methods might be limited.
- Global Reach: Certain RF bands can be used for global communications, such as those used in shortwave radio.
Scalability and Flexibility
- Adaptable Networks: RF communication networks can be quickly set up and scaled as needed, making them ideal for dynamic situations like search and rescue operations or temporary events.
- Mesh Networking: Some RF technologies support mesh networking, where each device acts as a relay, extending the network’s range and reliability without needing a central hub.
Cost-Effective
- Low Operational Costs: Once the equipment is purchased, ongoing costs are minimal, as there are no monthly fees or usage charges like with cellular networks.
- Durable Equipment: Many RF communication devices are built to be rugged and durable, reducing maintenance costs over time.
Brands you should know
Signal Propagation
Line-of-Sight vs Ground-Wave vs Sky wave
Line-of-Sight Propagation
This is the standard method for transmitting radio signals netween a transmitter and a receiver. Line-of-sight means the transmitting and receiving antennas should "see" each other. The range is usually restricted by the height of the antennas and any obstacles between the two antennas like buildings, trees, hills, etc.
Frequencies and applications
- Very high frequency (VHF)
- 30MHz - 300MHz
- HAM Radio, Walkie-Talkies
- Ultra high frequency (UHF)
- 300MHz - 3000MHz
- HAM Radio, LORA & LORAWAN, Walkie-Talkies
- Super high frequency (SHF)
- 3GHz - 30GHz
- 5G-wifi
Courtesy of tekonelectronics.com
Ground-Wave Propagation
In this category of propagation, the signal follows the curve the Earth's surface for a short distance, slightly increasing the range beyond the horizon.
Frequencies and applications
- Medium waves (MW)
- 300kHz - 3MHz
- HAM Radio
Courtesy of unmannedsystems.edu.au
Sky-Wave Propagation
The skywave is a signal that moves away from the Earth's surface and heads toward the ionosphere. Unlike a ground wave, it doesn't follow the Earth's contour but is instead directed upward to the ionosphere. The angle between the skywave signal and the Earth's surface at that location can be either shallow or steep..
Frequencies and applications
- High frequency (HF)
- 3MHz - 30MHz
- CB Radio, HAM Radio
Courtesy of electronics-notes.com