The Skunkworks team has been working for several years on developing an AREDN mesh network that will create a RF backbone network connection using repurposed commercial radios operating with amateur radio firmware on ham frequencies. This project, created by the Amateur Radio Emergency Data Network team, is intended to provide an alternative high-speed network when internet services aren’t available. Working with the Emergency Management team at Cooper Medical Center in Camden NJ the Skunkworks team was able to temporarily install several different AREDN radios for link testing. We’ve also installed a permanent AREDN collinear unit at about 70 feet on the Clubhouse VHF tower and a similar unit at Rowan University. A AREDN gateway station is operational at the Clubhouse allowing access thru the internet to other AREDN networks and nodes. In addition a PBX for the Skunkworks AREDN network is also operational at the Clubhouse.
Link testing has proceeded slowly due to COVID restrictions but opportunities for adding nodes appear to be increasing. Hams in the Camden/Gloucester County areas who are interested in building out the AREDN network are encouraged to contact the Skunkworks team.