1. LOS Downlink Systems Both systems are base upon commercial of the shelf technology.  900 MHz System based upon Freewave Technologies equipment.  2.4 GHz System based upon technology developed by Avarion.

2. 900 MHz Downlink System System utilizes a 902 – 928 MHz Freewave Technologies 115kBs radio modem and a 5 watt amplifier. This system will link with any computer network, including point-to-point ftp, or a laptop depending upon the needs of incident personnel, with a ground station installed. The distance between aircraft and ground station could be as far as 100 miles line-of-sight. GROUND STATION

3. Freewave setup Tok, Alaska

4. Why 2 Systems? RIPComm\Freewave Comparison Short range (20 miles) High Bandwidth (1 Mbps) Long range (100 miles) Small Bandwidth (56 kbps)

5. Remote Internet Protocol Communication System RIPCom Developed by NASA Goddard Space Flight Center As with 900 Mhz system can be used with a computer network or a single lap top.

6. NIFC Ground and Field tests Field test were conducted by NASA-GSFC, NIFC, and RSAC personnel 3/14 – 3/17. Tests were extremely successful.  3.2 Mbs downloads are possible at 10,000 ft AGL, with a range 9 miles.  We were able to conduct downloads at ranges up to 15 miles. (Approximately 500 kbs)  System is able to tolerate transmission interruptions of up to 45 seconds with out affecting the file transfer.

7. Field Tests The next step is to utilize the system during actual incidents. This will happen early in the 2003 fire season. After successful completion of these tests several systems will be deployed for operational use.

8. RIPCom 2 Only three connections Omni-directional antenna 1 Mb thruput.

9. Granite Complex, Riggins, ID

10. September 5, 2005 Flight Test Only Chance  Radio Issues  Terrain Issues Dedicated Flight Testing  NOT assigned as an IRIN  Ability to follow jet and test in a number of situations First goal to demonstrate RIPCom to NIROPS (R4)