The mesh network can be scaled even further when clusters are particularly remote. In the example shown below, two subnetworks of sensor devices each have the ability to communicate with an offsite host via satellite, but they also have the ability to use existing data transmission networks (such as the internet or cellular networks) even when such networks are located relatively far (10-15 miles) from the sensor device clusters. This is made possible through the use of microwave bridges, which can transmit data from the sensor device clusters to a remotely located gateway, which then translates the data and transmits it over an available communications network. Bridges can also be used to link relatively distant clusters together, as shown below.
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