The communication environment concerns are complex because of considerations for an actual deployment. Since we will test the system s ability to monitor rare plants, we will need to place our equipment in a variety of habitats, ranging from scattered low shrubs to dense tropical forests. Topographic extremes will vary, too. We need to get our data through the forests, around mountains and down valleys. Environmental conditions can be severe, too.
Some locations frequently freeze.
Finally, we are challenged to build a system that is reliable. We need to have network nodes that automatically configure themselves. They must also adapt to their location and role in the overall system. They must conserve their resources, such as power. They must also be cryptic so that don t interfere with what they are measuring or observing and minimize the possibility of their being harmed or stolen.