Groups claim record-length Wi-Fi link
updated 01:15 pm EDT, Wed August 22, 2007
Record-length Wi-Fi link
A "world record" Wi-Fi link has been established off the coast of Italy, two groups claim. Ubiquity Networks, a wireless electronics company, and the Italian Center for Radio Activities (CISAR) say they have established a 5GHz link between Sardinia Island and central Italy, for a total distance of 188.89 miles. Achieving the connection required a combination of Ubiquity radio modules and 35dBi parabolic dish antennas, producing a maximum bandwidth of 5Mbps.
The purpose of the connection is strictly utilitarian, giving Sardinian ham radio the ability to connect with the Italian mainland. CISAR hopes the link will be the beginning of an all-digital ham network, complementing its FM services scattered throughout the country. In case of an emergency, the new digital nodes may allow Sardinia to request help even when other lines are swamped or cut.
