Meraki Finally Releases Solar Powered Repeaters

Meraki Finally Releases Solar Powered Repeaters

Back in Summer 2007, I gushed over wireless hardware provider Meraki and their announcement of a solar-powered repeater. There are several scenarios — from college campuses to farms — where expanding wireless coverage is limited based on access to electrical outlets. Unfortunately, Meraki’s product wasn’t quite ready for prime time and I was left wondering if it would ever see the light of day.

Well, never underestimate a company partially backed by Google. Their new solar-powered repeaters are now for sale and look more robust and ready for Mother Nature than ever before. From the site,

“Each unit is completely self-contained and ready to mount on roofs, poles, or anywhere else the sun shines. The Solar is completely energy independent and runs on its own state-of-the-art solar-charged battery.”

Also particularly cool is how they’ve catered several different setups depending on what part of the world you reside in. Using the chart on their site, you can easily see if you need a 20-watt, 40-watt, or perhaps your own custom panel to get the bits flying. Those of you living in Northern Alaska appear to be out of luck — perhaps a wind solution?

Jump over to take a look at the various solutions. True innovation — and a product that can deliver a lot of good in areas lacking access to the web. Kudos, Meraki!