91download.com supports a wide range of platforms, including YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, Instagram, Dailymotion, Reddit, Bilibili, Douyin, Xiaohongshu and Zhihu, etc. Click the download button below to parse and download the current video
Have you ever wondered if it's possible to live off the grid while still enjoying high-speed internet? In the vast desert of New Mexico, Eric Mac has been doing just that for the last four years. Let's dive into how he manages to stay connected.
When setting up his online system, Eric uses the same basic components you would find anywhere else—a modem, a router, and some wires leading into the house. However, the unique part is that the other end of these wires is connected to a dish antenna, and the entire system is powered by independent energy sources like solar panels or wind turbines. In Eric's case, solar panels are the power behind his broadband.
But what about during the installation process? Eric found a clever temporary solution by connecting his system to a 12-volt battery and a small inverter. While not ideal, it kept him online until the solar panels were up and running.
So, how does Eric's system actually connect to the internet? He uses a local internet service provider via a fixed wireless connection. This has been a top choice in the area for years, but Starlink is also gaining popularity. Some people are even using their 5G hotspots to stay connected. These options represent significant improvements over the older legacy satellite providers, which were once the only way to get internet in remote or off-grid locations.
When living off the grid, the key factor for a quality internet connection is the physical distance between your receiver and the satellite or tower you're connecting to. For fixed wireless connections like Eric's, a clear line of sight to the tower is crucial. This is why communication towers are often placed on mountains or high ridges. Eric's tower is located in the nearest town, about 15 miles away, providing a strong connection even during adverse weather conditions.
Satellite connections, on the other hand, come with their own set of challenges. Legacy satellite systems like ViaSat and Hughes connect to larger telecom satellites in high orbits, over 20,000 miles above the Earth's surface. While this offers a global view and availability, it also results in higher latency due to the distance the data signals must travel.
Enter Starlink, a game changer for many off-grid individuals. With thousands of satellites operating in low earth orbit, Starlink provides higher speeds and less latency. For Eric, living off-grid has actually resulted in a more reliable internet connection than what he experienced in the city, thanks to the solar panels and backup power sources.
So, can you live off the grid and still enjoy high-speed internet? As Eric Mac's story demonstrates, the answer is a resounding yes. With the right setup and technology, you can stay connected while enjoying the freedom and tranquility of off-grid living.
Share on Twitter Share on Facebook