The IP400 Mesh Networking Project was started to develop a next generation data communications system for Amateur Radio by amateurs. It arose from the confluence of several trends:

• A new type of Amateur Radio Operator coming into Amateur Radio (generally more technical – example, software developers) that prefer data, VHF / UHF, open source development models, etc.
• Ongoing potential threats to Amateur Radio VHF / UHF spectrum (the old use it or lose it imperative).
• An increase in use of data modes, but using simplex connections, few networks, just simple hubs, like Winlink Radio Message Servers.
• A need to revitalize old repeater systems and rekindle interest in data modes

A summary of the requirements for a new mode for mesh networking are:

• Designed for amateur equipment, not repurposed commercial gear
• Able to operate on any band and modulation method
• Raise the bar on data rates
• Maximize bandwidth use and reduce retries by adding forward error correction
• Connect to any transceiver using:
  • Mic and Speaker connections
  • Discriminator/Modulator connections if equipped with a data port

Phase 3 of the IP400 project is now in beta testing which introduces both new hardware and firmware. The hardware, called the Advanced Mesh Network Controller (AMNC), connects to any off the shelf radio, and utilizes a new communication mode called ‘OFDM-AB’, which raises the bar with data speeds previously never realized, while preserving all the mesh networking capabilities of its predecessors.

To learn more, please take a look at the presentation below.