Philosophy Rugged Communications aims to extend the frontier of
connectivity by designing and deploying autonomously powered
wireless telecommunications systems that provide the basic
components necessary to leverage the technology for immediate
benefit, to deliver a fast and reliable portal to the internet, and
curating the market from its beginning to its maturation. Both
wireless radios and renewable energy systems are scalable and
simple to install, marking a dramatic advantage over traditional
grid tied power distribution and physical fiber connections. There
no longer needs to be a physical line that connects the network
together, which drastically reduces the capital and logistical
resources required to bring a network to market.
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How did we get there? Peace Corps No electricity, phone, or
internet Met entrepreneurial, motivated indigenous Ngobes Saw
barriers to progress Artisan group, students, medical care
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Peace Corps Takeaway I recognized that connectivity represents
something fundamentally different to the rural poor. It is a
lifeline to opportunity, support, and progress.
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How? Not an engineer The conditions in Panama lead you to
certain insights and I wasnt the only one who had this idea But why
werent telecoms already there?
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Features of Region Low-population density Difficult terrain and
difficult to reach No power Low ARPU Wary population We had to
create a system with an off-grid power supply, that was affordable,
and provided both the long-term value of connectivity and some type
of more immediate benefit. Seeking a model for many communities
like this, billions of people, worldwide
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Initial Solution Solar-powered cellular repeater with maritime
battery storage Grabbed recalcitrant signal Provided electricity to
community Floating Doctors work supplied trust and logistical
foundation Facilitated work of Floating Doctors Everyone needs to
win for this to work Constructed 2 of these systems, connecting 600
people and providing them with a power supply
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Business Reality A sustainable business model allows for us to
spread more quickly, plan more effectively, and, ultimately, help
more people Wanted to partner with operators
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Challenges for Operators Business model based on large-scale,
expensive towers Difficult logistical upkeep for rural settings
New, small-scale technology needs to be more fully embraced Like
any large business, they move slowly, with plans laid out years in
advance
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Shortcomings of Initial Design Small coverage area Dependent on
relatively close GSM radio No clear business model
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Solutions to Shortcomings Universal Access Fund Failure to
deliver services spectrum dispensation TV White Spaces Use GSM
radios connected via wireless backhaul technology designed by
Endaga (endaga.com)
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Beliefs for Future This era is marked by flexibility,
responsiveness, and collaboration Technology to bring service to
the entire planet is available, but society, culture, and the
industry needs to catch up Lower revenue users can be compensated
for by unlocking the value in communications further down the chain
of development. Find organizations that have a stake or opportunity
in bringing these services community organizations, tourism,
ancillary businesses, like maintenance of systems, phone credit
sales, mobile banking, that arrive with connectivity. Share risk
and multiply value. Local knowledge, partnerships, and mutual
benefit are essential to success