Abstract: Networks, devices and methods related to wireless networking. A wireless network using nodes that perform both distribution and backhaul functions is provided. These nodes constitute the key elements of a wireless network that would be deployed and controlled by a wireless network operator. Each node contains a distribution wireless module which is wirelessly coupled to the wireless end user device using a point to multipoint scheme. Also integrated into each node is at least one backhaul wireless module with a directional wireless antenna. Each backhaul wireless module communicates by way of a point to point wireless link with the backhaul module of one other node. The nodes in the wireless network are interconnected to form a mesh backhaul network. Because of the nature of a mesh network, data traffic can be routed around obstacles that may prevent line of site links. Furthermore, the mesh network allows dynamic routing of data traffic to avoid congestion points or downed links in the network.

Abstract: An interconnection structure for interconnecting circuitry on a first conductive layer to circuitry on a second conductive layer is provided. The interconnection structure of the present invention comprises a signal conductor via surrounded by a plurality of ground vias. The plurality of ground vias shield the signal conductor via, thus providing electrical isolation for the conductor via from the rest of the circuitry. One feature of the present invention is that the plurality of ground vias can be modified, adjusting their diameters and their placement relative to the signal conductor via, in order to affect the overall characteristic impedance of the interconnection structure. This feature is useful when propagating high frequency signals between signal traces on different conductive layers of a printed circuit board.

Abstract: An interconnection structure for interconnecting circuitry on a first conductive layer to circuitry on a second conductive layer is provided. The interconnection structure of the present invention comprises a signal conductor via surrounded by a plurality of ground vias. The plurality of ground vias shield the signal conductor via, thus providing electrical isolation for the conductor via from the rest of the circuitry. One feature of the present invention is that the plurality of ground vias can be modified, adjusting their diameters and their placement relative to the signal conductor via, in order to affect the overall characteristic impedance of the interconnection structure. This feature is useful when propagating high frequency signals between signal traces on different conductive layers of a printed circuit board.

Abstract: Methods and devices related to wireless networking. A wireless device has multiple directional antennas and multiple backhaul radio modules which provide point to point wireless links with other wireless devices. Each radio module can use any one of the available directional antennas to link to one other routing device. Antennas are automatically selected for each wireless device by merely setting one device in a “hunt” mode and setting another device in a “listen” mode. Devices in a hunt mode cycle through the available antennas by sequentially transmitting transmit messages to devices in the listen mode using each of the available antennas in turn. Devices in the listen mode also cycle through their available antennas by sequentially “listening” for transmit messages.