MultiMesh

MultiMesh™ is a mobile or fixed broadband gateway product, providing the key communications link between onboard systems and application servers. At the heart of MultiMesh lies a wireless broadband backhaul connection, which is provided by HSDPA / 3.5G, mobile WiMAX or Wi-Fi.

MultiMesh can be used as the connectivity gateway in a variety of applications, such as CCTV, wireless ticketing, real time passenger information and many more applications. Optionally, a GPS receiver can be incorporated in the MultiMesh unit. This can be used with Global Reach's Odyssys GPS positioning platform to present information in a geographic context on a real time map display.

MultiMesh can also be used to provide internet access: a device, such as a laptop, can connect via Wi-Fi to MultiMesh and be connected to the internet over a different wireless network, such as 3G. This would be the configuration for providing onboard Wi-Fi to passengers while on the move or at locations where fixed broadband is not available.

MiniMesh can be configured to auto-switch between Wi-Fi and 3G modes depending on connectivity. It can also be used in a wider MiniMesh/ MultiMesh network as a 3G offloading solution for mobile operators, reducing the strain on mobile networks supporting newer data-hungry smartphones.

There a full, customisable, back office management suite for this application, which allows the real-time status of each node to be determined on an individual basis. The server can detect whether a node has lost connectivity, and email and SMS alerts can be set up to notify responsible parties. A bandwidth speed test can also be instigated to ascertain the connectivity of a node.

MultiMesh represents a core building block in a strategy for introducing intelligent systems on public transport, to improve operational management and enhance customer satisfaction.

Key benefits

• Compatible with industry-standard, widespread cellular backhaul (HSDPA / 3.5G)
• Sufficient bandwidth for most applications, with downlink up to 3.6 Mbit/s and uplink up to 384 Kbit/s
• Suitable for providing internet access via Wi-Fi (802.11a/g/b). This can mesh with MiniMesh access points to create a rapidly-deployed internet HotZone
• Customisable client portal includes payment gateway, remote management and detailed reporting

Example Applications

• Wi-Fi internet access for passengers on buses, trains, ferries and taxis.
• Temporary or semi-permanent installations for indoor or outdoor events
• Field-based Command and Control posts.