Access points (antennas) transmit radio signals between devices,
connecting them with broadband and network access via wired connections
(backhaul) to an Internet Service Provider (ISP). Similar to a
cellular phone network, many access points can be combined into a "mesh
network" to provide mobile connectivity anywhere in the coverage area.
Mesh network access points do not need to be mounted on towers; they can be
placed on light poles or buildings. They can even be mounted on City
vehicles so that the vehicle becomes part of the mesh network providing
connectivity anywhere within a 300-foot radius of the vehicle. After
several wireless antennae are installed, they create a self-organized and
self-healing wireless cloud or zone for a large area. Although some
access points must include a high-capacity connection to the Internet, most
will only require access to a power source readily available on existing
light poles. Wireless access can be rolled out as units are
installed.