[IP] Why Helio Didn't Connect

[David Farber <dave@farber.net>]

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From: Christian Huitema [huitema@windows.microsoft.com]
Sent: Monday, July 07, 2008 2:25 PM
To: David Farber; Jonathan P Gill
Subject: RE: Re:    Why Helio Didn't Connect

> What could we do with
> wireless communications if we embraced an Open Spectrum model
> supported by software defined radios that leveraged receiver
> developments, which I am assured, are now following Moore's Law?

We could certainly do a lot, and the progress of the 802.11 series with 802.11n attests that. However, there is a small problem with the open mesh type of solutions. As the density of mesh nodes increases, the range of each radio has to decrease. That works fine for short range applications currently served by Bluetooth and 802.11. But if your goal is to build a new internet, you have a problem.

Connecting short range radios to build a long range network is a lot like driving long distances through surface streets. It can be done, but it does not compete well with railroads, airplanes or freeways.

-- Christian Huitema






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