QuRiNet currently consists of 30+ solar-powered communications nodes across the reserve. These nodes are deployed in strategic locations based on line-of-sight constraints, accessibility, and researcher needs. They provide on-site wireless connectivity to about 80% of the reserve and serve as high-speed conduit for transmission of data to the Quail Ridge research station.
QuRiNet is connected to the Internet through a hardwired T1 connection at the research station, which also houses the servers that manage the network. The rest of the testbed is wireless and consists of three tiers: The backbone of the network extends from the research station, DFG Hill, Dan's Repeater and Far Hill using high-powered directional antennas. Nodes in the second tier of the network connect with this backbone using omni-directional antennas, which then connect to their neighbors as well, thereby, creating a mesh network. The omni-directional antennas in the second-tier nodes also create a wireless cloud centered at each site, providing coverage to most of the reserve, and thus creating the third tier coverage. Many of the nodes also serve as environmental interface points, providing data to researchers.
- Mesh Router Hardware
- Infrastructure and Solar Power Equipment
- Video and Audio Equipment
- Meteorological Equipment