[lug] Broadband in Eastern/Rural Boulder County?

[Nate Duehr]

David Morris wrote:

> If latency isn't an issue, a satellite internet connection
> is always available:  two-way and download-only.  The later
> uses a phone line for the return link, and decreases latency
> significantly so long as you have virtually no uploading to
> do.  No clue on current cost, providers, or bandwidth.

www.wildblue.com - best out there for residential purposes, and another 
Colorado company.

> Ham Radio has been transmitting digital signals since long
> before the internet and could probably be used to setup a
> link over the 35k feet between your houses.  No clue what
> type of bandwidth is possible.  Also requires a ham radio
> license and expensive initial investment in hardware.  The
> HOA might not like the antenna either.

Nope.  Ham radio may not be used for commercial purposes.  If you were 
to pull up NewEgg.com and buy a part for a computer, you'd be illegal, 
for example.

900 MHz, 5.3 GHz, and 5.8 GHz unlicensed microwave gear (the same stuff 
that Wispertel and Mesa Networks buy) *is* available to the general 
public.

With some help from someone knowledgeable, a rock-solid RF link can be 
done for just the cost of equipment to just about anywhere "nearby" 
another location that has Internet access and is line-of-sight away.

Anyone can order this gear and start up another WISP... or 
"NeighborNet".  Have to be careful that your ISP at the "head end house" 
  allows reselling (most don't), and you have to be willing to be the 
"free tech support guy", something most folks capable of building such a 
network have no time for... Catch 22.

Nate