Chloé Zhao's 'Hamnet' trailer reveals Paul Mescal as Shakespeare and previews a grief‑driven drama set for TIFF and global release later this year.
Hamnet – The Amateur Radio Mesh Network
When talking about Hamnet, a community‑driven, self‑organising radio network built by amateur radio operators for resilient communications. Also known as HAMnet, it brings together hobbyists, emergency responders, and tech enthusiasts to create a flexible, low‑cost communications backbone.
Amateur radio, the global hobby of using radio frequencies for personal, non‑commercial communication is the foundation of Hamnet. Without the licensing framework and worldwide community of ham operators, the mesh couldn’t exist. Ham operators bring licensed equipment, technical know‑how, and a spirit of public service that fuels the network.
Mesh networking, a decentralized networking approach where each node relays data for others, creating redundant paths is the core technology behind Hamnet. The network doesn’t rely on a single tower; instead, each radio station acts as a node, passing messages along until they reach their destination. This means Hamnet can keep talking even if one or more nodes go offline.
Emergency communications, the rapid exchange of information during disasters or crises is a primary use case for Hamnet. When conventional internet or mobile services fail, Hamnet provides a reliable channel for first responders, NGOs, and volunteers to coordinate rescue efforts. In practice, the network can relay text, GPS coordinates, and sensor data over VHF, UHF, or HF bands.
Digital modes such as APRS, FT8, and Winlink expand Hamnet’s capabilities. These modes compress data into short bursts, allowing low‑power radios to transmit over long distances. By combining digital modulation with mesh routing, operators can send emails, weather updates, and even images without a traditional internet connection.
Community organizations like the International Amateur Radio Union, the global federation of national amateur radio societies promote standards and training that keep Hamnet interoperable across borders. Local clubs host “field days” where members set up portable nodes, test equipment, and practice disaster drills. These activities sharpen skills and ensure the network can scale when real emergencies strike.
All of this adds up to a resilient, adaptable, and citizen‑powered communications layer. Below you’ll find articles that dig into Hamnet’s technical setup, real‑world deployments, and tips for getting started as a ham operator. Whether you’re curious about the technology, looking to support community emergency services, or just love tinkering with radios, the collection gives you a solid footing to explore the world of Hamnet.
