Abstract: A system (100) and method for the production and distribution of random bits is disclosed. The system uses a truly random source (102) to generate random data. The random data is sent to an input interface (104), which converts the random data to a random bit stream. The random bit stream is coupled from the input interface (104) to a processor (106) via bus (109). The processor (106) executes instructions received from memory (110) and converts the random bit stream into a machine-readable format. The machine-readable random bit stream is sent to network connection (108) and made available to network (112). A remote user (114) requests a random bit stream from system (100) over network (112). System (100) sends the requested number of random bits to the remote user (114).

Abstract: A wireless network [100] includes a number of first wireless terminals configured to operate as cluster heads [110] by communicating with at least one other cluster head over a relatively long range backbone link [115]. Each one of the first wireless terminals includes a backbone transceiver. The backbone transceivers may operate in a first frequency range. At least one second wireless terminal is configured to operate as a cluster member [120] by communicating with an associated cluster head over a local link. Each one of the second wireless terminals includes a cluster transceiver. The cluster transceivers may operate in a second frequency range that is different from the first frequency range of the backbone transceivers. At least one of the first and second wireless terminals includes both a backbone transceiver and a cluster transceiver.