STARLINK for Crisis Communication: Powered by a Tesla Vehicle

INTRODUCTION

Imagine a catastrophic earthquake hits Los Angeles, disrupting traditional communication networks and power supplies. In the immediate aftermath, chaos ensues as residents scramble to find safety and contact loved ones. Hundreds of displaced individuals seek refuge in emergency shelters, which are quickly set up to provide essential services. In such dire circumstances, the need for not only basic necessities like food, water, and medical aid becomes paramount but also the need for reliable communication. In a world heavily reliant on digital connectivity, the ability to stay in touch with family, access critical information, and coordinate with emergency responders is crucial. The loss of traditional communication networks can exacerbate the sense of isolation and panic among shelter residents.

This is where this innovative solution comes into play. By ensuring robust and reliable communication within these shelters, we can significantly improve the overall disaster response and recovery process. This system not only provides a means for individuals to reconnect with their families but also supports the operations of emergency services, enhancing their ability to deliver timely and effective assistance. In essence, this network solution becomes a lifeline for those in distress, bridging the gap between disaster and relief, and ensuring that no one is left without a means to communicate during their time of greatest need.

?Network Setup

The primary network setup is powered by a Tesla Model Y equipped with a 300W pure sine wave inverter, ensuring a stable power supply for up to 750 hours on a full charge. A UPS connected to the inverter ensures continuous power to critical network components. The TP-Link ER605 router, paired with the STARLINK Gen3 router, forms the core of the network, providing centralized routing and security features. A TP-Link LS108GP managed PoE switch distributes power and data to various connected devices, including TP-Link AC1350 access points for indoor use and TP-Link AC1200 access points for outdoor use. These access points create a robust mesh network, covering up to 30,000 square feet, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout the shelter. Additionally, IP cameras and VOIP phones, connected via PoE, enhance the security and communication capabilities within the shelter. The secondary setup, powered by a Westinghouse WGen3600 generator and a Jackery 500 portable power station, ensures redundancy and continuous operation. An unmanaged switch connects to the secondary STARLINK Gen3 router, extending the network's reach and providing connectivity to additional devices. This comprehensive setup ensures that shelter residents have access to reliable internet and communication services, greatly enhancing their safety and well-being during disasters.

TOPOLOGY

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POWER

????????? Primary Router – Outdoor Shelter/Space

-???????? Tesla Model Y – Long Range

-???????? 300W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter

- heavy-duty CyberPower ST625U Standby UPS System

-???????? 75-foot heavy-duty extension cord

Secondary Router - Indoor Shelter/Space

-???????? Westinghouse Generator WGen3600

-???????? Jackey 500/550 Explorer Battery

-???????? Heavy duty CyberPower ST625U Standby UPS System

-???????? 75-foot heavy-duty extension cord

NETWORK

????????? Primary – Outdoor the Shelter/Space

-???????? STARLINK Generation 3 Router and Antenna

-???????? TP-Link LS108GP | 8 Port PoE Gigabit Ethernet Switch

-???????? TP-Link Omada Hardware Controller

-???????? TP-Link ER605 V2 Wired Gigabit VPN Router

-???????? TP-Link 8 Port Gigabit Switch

-???????? 10Gbps Snagless Cat 6 Ethernet Cable 10 ft (x2)

-???????? Cat 6 Ethernet Cable 50 ft-Red, High-Speed Internet Cable (x2)

-???????? TP-Link EAP225-Outdoor | Omada AC1200 Wireless Gigabit Outdoor Access Point (x2)

Secondary – Indoor Shelter/Space

-???????? STARLINK Generation 3 Router

-???????? TP-Link LS108GP | 8 Port PoE Gigabit Ethernet Switch

-???????? TP-Link TL-SG108 8 Port Gigabit Unmanaged Ethernet Network Switch

-???????? 10Gbps Snagless Cat 6 Ethernet Cable 10 ft (x2)

-???????? Cat 6 Ethernet Cable 50 ft-Red, High-Speed Internet Cable (x2)

-???????? TP-Link EAP225 Omada AC1350 Gigabit Wireless Access Point (x2)

Software

-???????? Omada

Interacting Devices

-???????? Phone

-???????? Laptop

CONFIGURATION

Primary Network Configuration:

-???????? Power Source: Tesla Model Y with a 300W pure sine wave inverter.

-???????? UPS: Connected to the inverter for stable power supply.

-???????? TP-Link ER605 Router: Connects to the UPS and acts as the primary router.

-???????? STARLINK Gen3 Router: Connects to one of the WAN ports on the ER605.

-???????? PoE Switch (TP-Link LS108GP): Connects to the LAN port of the ER605, distributing power and data to connected devices. i.e. Access Points, IP Cameras, VOIP

-???????? Omada Controller (OC200): Manages all connected network devices.

Secondary Network Configuration:

-???????? Power Source: Westinghouse WGen3600 Generator:

-???????? Jackery 500 Portable Power Station: Provides clean, stable power with pure sine wave output.

-???????? Power Distribution: UPS: Connected to the generator for stable power supply.

-???????? Network Hardware: Secondary STARLINK Gen3 Router: Connects to the UPS and provides satellite internet connectivity.

-???????? Networking Equipment: Unmanaged Switch: Connects to the LAN port of the secondary STARLINK Gen3 route. Plug in Access Points and other IP devices.

Performance and Capabilities:

-???????? Device Support: Supports up to 500 devices.

-???????? VoIP Call Capacity: Handles up to 300 simultaneous VoIP calls.

-???????? Area Coverage: Covers approximately 30,000 square feet.

-???????? Power Duration: Tesla Model Y can maintain the network for over 400 hours on a full charge.

CONCLUSION

This innovative and resilient network solution ensures that emergency shelters can maintain vital communication and internet access during disasters. Integrating advanced technology from STARLINK, Tesla, and TP-Link, provides a robust, reliable infrastructure that remains operational even when traditional networks fail. This system not only significantly enhances disaster response and recovery efforts but also provides a crucial lifeline for our residents, allowing them to stay connected with loved ones, access essential information, and receive timely assistance from emergency services. Investing in this technology demonstrates our commitment to the safety, connectivity, and well-being of our community, ensuring that we are better prepared for any future emergencies. This initiative will help protect our residents and enhance our city's resilience in the face of disaster.

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