Abstract: A method and system for determining device presence in a mesh network and for directing messages to a destination within the network is presented. Node devices periodically issue device presences messages that are propagated through the network. Receiving devices store and analyze data from received device presence messages to determine presence and nodal distance to other nodes. Device presence message data can be used to route directed messages on the network and for network analysis.

Abstract: A method and system for determining device presence in a mesh network and for directing messages to a destination within the network is presented. Node devices periodically issue device presences messages that are propagated through the network. Receiving devices store and analyze data from received device presence messages to determine presence and nodal distance to other nodes. Device presence message data can be used to route directed messages on the network and for network analysis.

Abstract: A method and system for distributed messaging between a plurality of computer devices using a short range wireless communication protocol (SRWP) is disclosed. The communication protocol can be one in which slave devices provide data to master devices. A device automatically establishes master and slave connections with other devices via the protocol as they come into range. A user-entered message is displayed on the device and broadcast by the device over slave connections to other connected devices. Messages received by the device over its master connections are displayed and also rebroadcast to other connected devices. Messages can be displayed for a limited time period during which they fade or otherwise are altered to provide a visual indication of the display lifetime remaining for that message. A relay can be provided to receive an rebroadcast messages to connected devices and inject into the SRWP network from devices outside the network.

Abstract: A method and system for distributed messaging between a plurality of computer devices using a short range wireless communication protocol (SRWP) is disclosed. The communication protocol can be one in which slave devices provide data to master devices. A device automatically establishes master and slave connections with other devices via the protocol as they come into range. A user-entered message is displayed on the device and broadcast by the device over slave connections to other connected devices. Messages received by the device over its master connections are displayed and also rebroadcast to other connected devices. Messages can be displayed for a limited time period during which they fade or otherwise are altered to provide a visual indication of the display lifetime remaining for that message. A relay can be provided to receive an rebroadcast messages to connected devices and inject into the SRWP network from devices outside the network.