Please read the Wireless Howto for further information.

Does Xnet provide Internet Access?

No, we sell and install wireless hardware.

I would like to get involved but how can I see who/what is in my area?

For a list of wireless nodes see www.locfinder.net or Melbourne Wireless.

What is an access point?

An access point is a hardware device situated in an optimum location to be able to provide wireless network access to the surrounding area. Normally this would be on a tall structure or hilltop with good LOS (line of sight) to many businesses and houses.

Do I need line of sight between locations to establish a link?

Generally line of sight (LOS) is a requirement but we have found that in the case of short distances some  obstructions can be penetrated usually under 1 or 2 km. Sites that have good LOS between them are able to communicate up to 25KM. An optional amplifier can be used to boost both transmit and receive performance.

How fast are wireless networks?

Wireless networks support speeds of 2-11Mbps which is hundreds of times faster than modems, keep  in mind this bandwidth is shared amongst all active nodes on the network.

How reliable is this technology?

Microwave wireless connections are very reliable (a lot of mobile phone towers are interconnected using similar equipment). Once a link  is set up with strong performance even heavy downpours and fog make little difference.

What do I need at each location to establish a wireless network

Besides your PC you will need:

• LOS (line of sight) between locations
• a wireless network card
• pigtail adapter
• antenna cable
• directional antenna
• antenna mounting hardware (may be required to get extra height).
• ability to install hardware and software
• approximate cost $375 and dropping all the time

See the online shop page for more details.

Are the wireless network cards compatible with other networks?

The wireless products we are promoting are Industry standard IEEE802.11 Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS) devices which are used all over  the world. There are many wireless networks currently being rolled out that are compatible with these cards.

Can I share an Internet link with my friends and neighbors?

This can be easily set up ( with a little networking knowledge ) over a wireless wide area network. See the schematic diagrams for more information.

Are there microwave radiation concerns when using this equipment?

The debate is still open as to whether low power microwave devices can cause any adverse effects but we do know that the power emitted is generally much lower than that of mobile phones and the transmitting antenna is usually much farther away from users.