OVERVIEW
The Mid-Atlantic IP Network (MAIPN) is an organization established by a group of Amateur Radio operators whose mission is to implement a regional wireless data network consistent with the purposes of the Amateur Radio Service, as stated in the governing FCC regulation, 21 CFR 97:
- Recognition and enhancement of the value of the amateur service to the public as a voluntary noncommercial communication service, particularly with respect to providing emergency communications.
- Continuation and extension of the amateur’s proven ability to contribute to the advancement of the radio art.
- Encouragement and improvement of the amateur service through rules which provide for advancing skills in both the communication and technical phases of the art.
- Expansion of the existing reservoir within the amateur radio service of trained operators, technicians, and electronics experts.
MAIPN is part of a national movement within the Amateur Radio community to employ modern wireless technology in our local and regional Amateur Radio networks. We are taking advantage of a new class of low-cost digital microwave radios that have recently appeared in the marketplace. This equipment was originally intended to be used by commercial providers to deliver wireless internet service to customers who are underserved by existing cable and fiber optic networks. However, we have found that this equipment is ideally suited to increase the capabilities of our Amateur Radio networks.
We are particularly interested in the uses of this technology to support local emergency management officials, hospitals, and other public and private organizations that provide disaster response services. Our network is modeled on a similar network that already links emergency operations centers and other critical facilities in six Pennsylvania counties along the Mason-Dixon Line. While our focus is primarily in Maryland, DC, and Northern Virginia, our network already links with the Central Pennsylvania network and will eventually extend coverage throughout our service area. Served agencies may use the network for messaging, VoIP telephony, streaming video, audio- or video-conferencing, and other applications.
MAIPN is incorporated in the state of Maryland as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.