Optimisation of SlotTime for a single-radio Mid-Range Multi-hop Wireless Mesh Network

This paper presents the business context and results of an optimisation exercise for a single-radio mid-range multi-hop wireless mesh network for the provision of VoIP services. This WiFi mesh network physically covers 30 square kilometres in rural South Africa with a dozen solar-powered nodes. The firmware multiplexes the single radios in adhoc and infrastructure modes, essentially providing a distributed hotspot that can be used for WiFi-based Asterisk attachment in addition to POTS handsets via an ATA adapter in a node. We argue that this architecture is comparable yet cheaper and easier to install and maintain than multi-radio systems with directive antennas. Measurement of a range of values revealed a SlotTime setting that maximises throughput by 115%. We leverage this finding to argue a business case for a ground up community-based mesh network like this one; to provide a win-win situation for local residents and operators with free internal calls backed up by revenues from low cost voice breakout, Internet services and solar-based mobile phone charging. Our novel approach offers an accessible and affordable business model based on increased traffic volume from residents in a rural area that have mobile connectivity yet cannot afford to use it. The optimised architecture described herein offers an attractive and complementary alternative.Telkom, Cisco, Aria Technologies, THRIPDepartment of HE and Training approved lis