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Rugged Communications Connected for Good

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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