 Trafalgar Public Wireless NetworkA free wireless computer network available to residents and visitors of Trafalgar.If you are viewing this page FROM the wireless network, you can view a list of websites you can access at full speed, or log in for free basic internet access, Here. To see where you can access the network or if you need further information, click here. What are the aims of this network? The main aim is to create a massive free computer network which will allow individuals and businesses to communicate with each other, check email, swap files, play games, and access information about the local community. All without "connection" and "phone line rental" costs. It is in effect, a free public network. Eventually we also hope to allow access to broadband wireless internet, thanks to a local ISP; but this unfortunately wont be free. Are there any on-going or running costs? If you are not using broadband internet; the only cost is the power it takes to run your computer. You will need to buy the equipment to connect to the network, but that should only be a one off cost. (see "how do I connect.." below for rough prices) Why should I be interested? If you or your family send lots of SMS messages on your phone, make frequent local phone calls, play computer games or chat on the internet a lot, this network could do most of those things for free. Also, if you have low quality phone lines, and your internet access is really slow, this could solve that problem. You could share a friends internet account, if they have better phone lines. Or connect (eventually) to broadband internet - even if you are on some remote farm near Trafalgar. If you run a business, and run a website; you can get emails from customers almost as soon as they send them. This would also free up your telephone line, as it isn't needed in a wireless network. What problems could I have? If you use a 2.4Ghz wireless telephone, or it is raining heavily, or you have a lot of trees blocking the view of the nearest access point; you may find your network speed may slow down, or stop entirely. You need to have "line of sight" to the nearest access point's antenna. Which means, if there is a hill in the way, or a lot of trees; which blocks your view of the antenna - you wont be able to connect unless someone sticks an antenna on top of that hill or tree. How do I connect to this network? You will need an 802.11b or 802.11b+ compatable wireless device, and a 2.4Ghz antenna connected to it, in range of the nearest access point to this network. Or in english, you will need a special box with an antenna connector, and a network plug. The network plug connects to your computer, and the antenna lets you connect to the wireless network. Thats it. You also need a waterproof container for this "box" as it will need to be located near the antenna (Usually on your roof, unless you live on a hill.) If you are within 1 kms of an access point you can probably use the antenna that came with your access point. See the following diagram for an example. 
You can get the equipment yourself, or buy it from us. Either way we can help set it up. For antennas we use recycled galaxy dishes usually. These only cost the price of a cable and connector to plug in the box, (about $20) but you will need to wait until one is available, as we rely on the public donating these. You can also buy a professional antenna for about $150 if you like, but they are only slightly better than the recycled models. There are several types of "special boxes" that all do the same thing, but have different features. Wireless client - Cheapest in theory, but usually requires expensive 2.4ghz cabling. Ideal for laptops where cabling isn't necessary. Costs range from $60 to $150. Ethernet/Wireless Bridge - It directly converts from ethernet to wireless. Costs about $100-$180. Wireless Repeater - similar to a bridge, but also means you help extend the range of the network. Prices range from $100 to $200 Wireless Router - Much like a Bridge, but a little bit more secure. It only allows you to connect to the network, not everyone else to connect to you. Prices range from $150 to $350. Wireless Access point - can usually be configured to behave like any of the other type of boxes, sometimes several modes at once. It also allows people to use your antenna to connect to the wireless network. Prices range from $90 to $900. Most wireless bridges are cut down versions of these. Ok I am connected to the network.. what now? You should be able to load this website: http://www.trafalgar.org.au Your MSN, IRC, and normal (outlook/netscape/eudora) email should work as well. If you want to access any other websites; then you need to ask for a login, or request we add this site to our list of allowed pages. You probably should also install a web browser like "Netscape" "Firefox" or "Opera". You can use Internet Explorer, but this usually has a number of security problems. The allowed sites list gives you access to all the links on this website, plus the whitepages, yellowpages, weather, local schools, and local shire websites. Other sites may be added later depending on how much demand there is. Free internet access is also available but you will need to request a special username and password for that. (*Preferably for non profit groups and unemployed individuals) How can i contact you for more information? You can mail me here: Trafalgar Wireless Network C/O The TCDA Secretary P.O. Box 70 Trafalgar. Vic. 3824 Australia |
