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Open Source GSM Network At Dutch Hacker Convention

Posted by timothy on from the working-sort-of-within-the-system dept.

solevita writes "Harald Welte, who's been interviewed previously by Slashdot, has written on his blog about operating an Open Source GSM network at the recent HAR2009 conference. Photographs and a description of the setup, run under license of the Dutch regulatory authority, are provided; essentially the setup consisted of a pair of BTS' (Base Transceiver Stations) running at 100mW transmit power each and tied to a tree. In turn these provided access to the Base Station Controller (BSC), in this case a Linux server in a tent running OpenBSC. The system authenticated users with a token sent via SMS; in total 391 users subscribed to the service and were able to use their phones as if they were on any other network. Independent researchers are increasingly examining GSM networks and equipment, Welte's work proves that GSM is in the realm of the hackers now and that this realm of mobile networking could be set for a few surprises in the future."

2 of 141 comments (clear)

  1. Re:What are the costs? by MBCook · · Score: 5, Informative

    I'm not surprised that little walkie-talkies might not work over long distances. FRS radios (which may not be legal for commercial purposes) are limited to 1/2 watt.

    Amateur Radio would certainly work, with handhelds easily available that do 5W (such as the Yaesu VX-7R) or you could get models designed for cars that do much more.

    The only problem with ham radio is you aren't allowed to use it for business purposes, so for anything other than chatting between farm hands you couldn't use it.

    The only real problem I've seen with little radios like the VX-7R tend to be that the interfaces are horrible. They come from the "here is 20 buttons and 3 function keys, plus holding means something" school of interface design. I don't know if there are any with better interfaces.

    Ooh! I know what you need. GMRS radios can be up to 50 watts and used for commercial purposes (I'm pretty sure). You need a license, but there is no test, just a fee (according to Wikipedia).

    --
    Comment forecast: Bits of genius surrounded by a sea of mediocrity.
  2. Re:What are the costs? by bushing · · Score: 5, Informative

    Can someone put a figure on the cost of equipment involved? This would be very useful for folks on large farms where radio (read Walkie-talkies) do not cut it.

    The setup seems to be:

    • two BTS with two TRX each - Each BTS is a surplus Siemens BS-11, which they are selling for 300 Euro. (I almost bought one at 25C3, until I realized they were almost 46 Kg each)
    • two antennas -- included in the purchase price of the BS11
    • E1-to-PCI interface card - 350 EUR

    So, I'd call that about 1000 EUR, not including the Linux PC driving the whole setup.