A Solar Wireless Mesh Access Point Solution to Assist Rural, Remote and Border Areas in Brazil
Rafael Herrero Alonso, De Paula Costa, L.C., Gustavo M. Calixto, Knörich Zuffo, M., De Deus Lopes, R. · PubMed · 2013
This paper presents an autonomous wireless mesh access point as a solution to distribute Internet access to remote areas. Recent years have seen Internet connection as a main factor of digital inclusion, leveraging information, education and social integration. Although many places do not have Internet access, 69% of residential in Brazil do not have Internet access. The autonomous access point design was developed based on usage scenarios and consumption characterization curves specifications. Three prototypes were deployed and field tests were conducted, analyzing autonomy and coverage. As a result of this work, we can conclude that the autonomous wireless access point is a feasible solution to distribute Internet access to remote areas in tropical countries such as Brazil. This solution has potential to bridge the gaps of Internet coverage and to contribute to reducing the digital divide.