A new technology developed by a local entrepreneur promises to keep communities connected during natural disasters and other emergencies, offering an affordable solution to the often-devastating communication blackouts that follow such events.

FrogNet, developed by John Fawcett of DisasterComm Innovations and headquartered in Burien, offers an innovative communication network solution for disaster recovery and remote areas.

The system utilizes portable Wi-Fi routers, called “LillyPads,” to create scalable, stand-alone networks that provide critical connectivity without reliance on traditional infrastructure like cell towers, landlines, or the internet.

With the capability to support existing devices such as smartphones and laptops, the goal of FrogNet is to ensure seamless – but affordable – communication during emergencies.

“I can do it for cheap,” Fawcett told The B-Town Blog. “An emergency radio system for 10 users can cost between $15,000 and $25,000 or between $1,500 and $2,500 per user. Repeaters and base stations are extra. A FrogNet, on the other hand, that covers the 10 square miles and 90,000 residents of West Seattle would cost about $20 per person in the first year and $2 per person thereafter (expected numbers).”

In places like Florida, where they went weeks and months without proper Internet connectivity, Fawcett’s technology could have had them up and running, using devices they already owned, the entire time. Battery-powered and connected by WiFi means the systems remain active throughout the disaster.

“FrogNets can also provide local Internet functionality in places where connectivity is expensive or impossible,” Fawcett added. “These FrogNets support things like telemedicine and online library services to communities without Internet access.”

Key Features

Dynamic Networking: FrogNets automatically scale as additional LillyPads are deployed, merging networks to increase coverage and capacity. If an edge node gains internet access, the entire network benefits.
Mobile and Pre-Positioned Deployment: LillyPads can be pre-positioned in disaster-prone areas or deployed dynamically for search and rescue operations.
Critical Messaging: Equipped with LoRaWAN transmitters, LillyPads enable high-priority communications to emergency operation centers, even before full network deployment.
Presence App: This mobile app ensures continuous connectivity, real-time location tracking, and VoIP communication across the FrogNet system.
Cost-Effective: FrogNet delivers its services at an estimated cost of less than $20 per person, making it a practical option for disaster zones and remote communities.

Market Context

The Homeland Security and Emergency Management market, valued at $777 billion in 2020, underscores the growing need for innovative and scalable solutions like FrogNet. Competing solutions, such as StarLink and AT&T’s Cell On Wheels, lack the network-based flexibility and scalability offered by FrogNet.

FrogNet represents a transformative approach to ensuring connectivity during emergencies, empowering communities and first responders with reliable communication tools when they are needed most.

Seeking Early Adopters

Fawcett is transforming how emergency services operate and he needs your assistance.

“We are seeking early adopters to collaborate with us. Our goal is to identify the necessary network services, create workable form factors, design and implement sensor suites, provide the web-based infrastructure victims would need, and more. If you have ideas and are interested in partnering with us, please use the link below, and we will get in touch!”

As an early adopter, you will receive a development kit, comprehensive documentation for developers, and exceptional support from our architects and programmers. Additionally, early adopters will enjoy a significant discount on the kit price and a permanent discount on maintenance services.

For more information about FrogNet and DisasterComm Innovations, visit their website at: