Yesterday, wireless networking provider Meraki started shipping the world’s first solar-powered WiFi mesh device. Meraki’s groundbreaking energy-independent device is powered by a single solar panel and solar-charged battery. Since the unit requires no grid-derived energy, it can be set up in areas lacking power supplies, like parks, golf courses, rural areas, and resorts.
With a price range of $848 to $1,497, Meraki’s set-up isn’t exactly cheap. It is, however, cheaper than most other outdoor wireless network installations. The most expensive item in outdoor wireless networks is often the electrical cabling installation— a step that isn’t necessary for the Meraki unit since it uses a solar-powered battery.
Meraki’s battery is made up of lithium iron phosphate for fast recharging and high-power density. The company provides a web-based dashboard to monitor charging.
While the Meraki device’s release may not impact you directly just yet, start looking for wireless popping up in unexpected places in the near future.
Photo Credit: Meraki
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