# BRCK 3G WiFi Router

> By Reginald Orton, Erik Hersman, Philip Walton ((New Zealander, born 1981) (American, born 1975) (American, born 1974)); 2013; ABS plastic, rubber, and electronic components; 1 3/4 × 5 3/16 × 2 13/16" (4.5 × 13.2 × 7.2 cm)

**Wikidata**: [Q60960170](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q60960170)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/brck-3g-wifi-router

## Summary
The **BRCK 3G WiFi Router** is a rugged, portable networking device designed to provide reliable internet connectivity in challenging environments. Developed in 2013 by Reginald Orton, Erik Hersman, and Philip Walton, it combines ABS plastic, rubber, and electronic components into a compact form factor (4.5 × 13.2 × 7.2 cm). It functions as both a router and a backup power source, making it ideal for regions with unstable electricity or infrastructure.

## Key Facts
- **Creators**: Designed by **Reginald Orton** (New Zealander, born 1981), **Erik Hersman** (American, born 1975), and **Philip Walton** (American, born 1974).
- **Year of Creation**: 2013.
- **Materials**: Constructed from **ABS plastic, rubber, and electronic components**.
- **Dimensions**: 1 3/4 × 5 3/16 × 2 13/16 inches (4.5 × 13.2 × 7.2 cm).
- **Classification**: A **router**, part of the broader category of **networking hardware**.
- **Function**: Provides **3G WiFi connectivity** and serves as a backup power source.
- **Notable Feature**: Designed for durability in harsh conditions, including power outages and remote locations.
- **Museum Collection**: Acquired by the **Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)** under work ID **188036** (as of January 25, 2019).

## FAQs

### **Q: Who designed the BRCK 3G WiFi Router?**
A: The BRCK 3G WiFi Router was created by **Reginald Orton** (a New Zealander born in 1981), **Erik Hersman** (an American born in 1975), and **Philip Walton** (an American born in 1974).

### **Q: What materials is the BRCK 3G WiFi Router made of?**
A: It is constructed from **ABS plastic, rubber, and electronic components**, ensuring durability and resistance to environmental stressors.

### **Q: What are the dimensions of the BRCK 3G WiFi Router?**
A: The device measures **1 3/4 × 5 3/16 × 2 13/16 inches** (or **4.5 × 13.2 × 7.2 cm**), making it compact and portable.

### **Q: What makes the BRCK 3G WiFi Router unique?**
A: Unlike standard routers, the BRCK is built for **rugged environments**, offering **3G connectivity** and **backup power capabilities**, making it suitable for areas with unreliable infrastructure.

### **Q: Is the BRCK 3G WiFi Router part of any museum collection?**
A: Yes, it is part of the **Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)** collection, cataloged under work ID **188036** as of **January 25, 2019**.

## Why It Matters
The BRCK 3G WiFi Router addresses a critical gap in internet accessibility, particularly in **developing regions and remote areas** where power and connectivity are inconsistent. By integrating **3G WiFi capabilities with a rugged, portable design and backup power**, it enables reliable internet access in schools, businesses, and emergency response scenarios. Its inclusion in **MoMA’s collection** underscores its significance as a **pioneering example of adaptive technology**, blending functionality with resilience to bridge the digital divide.

## Notable For
- **Rugged Design**: Built to withstand power fluctuations, dust, and extreme conditions.
- **Portable & Compact**: Small enough (4.5 × 13.2 × 7.2 cm) for easy transport and deployment.
- **Backup Power**: Includes an internal battery to maintain connectivity during outages.
- **3G Connectivity**: Provides wireless internet access in areas lacking fixed broadband.
- **Museum Recognition**: Featured in the **Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)**, highlighting its cultural and technological impact.
- **Collaborative Creation**: Developed by a multidisciplinary team with expertise in **engineering, design, and African tech ecosystems**.

## Body

### **Design and Construction**
The BRCK 3G WiFi Router was engineered for **durability and adaptability**, using a combination of **ABS plastic and rubber** to protect its internal electronics. Its compact dimensions (**4.5 × 13.2 × 7.2 cm**) allow for easy placement in various settings, from classrooms to field operations. The device’s **modular design** ensures that components can be repaired or replaced, extending its lifespan in resource-constrained environments.

### **Functionality and Features**
Unlike conventional routers, the BRCK integrates **3G WiFi connectivity** with a **rechargeable battery**, allowing it to operate for hours without mains power. This makes it particularly useful in:
- **Off-grid locations** (e.g., rural schools, remote clinics).
- **Disaster relief scenarios** where infrastructure is compromised.
- **Mobile workstations** (e.g., journalism, research expeditions).

The router supports **multiple device connections** simultaneously, functioning as a local network hub even when external internet is unavailable.

### **Creators and Development**
The BRCK was developed by:
- **Reginald Orton** (New Zealander, born 1981): Contributed to the hardware and industrial design.
- **Erik Hersman** (American, born 1975): A technologist and entrepreneur focused on African innovation, co-founder of **iHub** and **Ushahidi**.
- **Philip Walton** (American, born 1974): Provided expertise in electronics and systems integration.

Their collaboration aimed to solve **connectivity challenges in emerging markets**, where traditional networking equipment often fails due to power instability or environmental factors.

### **Cultural and Institutional Recognition**
The BRCK 3G WiFi Router is part of the **Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)**’s permanent collection, acquired in **2019** (work ID: **188036**). This recognition reflects its role as a **symbol of inclusive technology**, designed to empower communities with limited access to digital infrastructure. MoMA’s inclusion highlights the intersection of **functional design, social impact, and engineering innovation**.

### **Comparison to Other Routers**
While most routers (e.g., **Google Wifi, Linksys WRT3200ACM**) prioritize speed and mesh networking for urban or suburban use, the BRCK distinguishes itself through:
- **Power resilience**: Operates during blackouts via internal battery.
- **Environmental ruggedness**: Resistant to dust, humidity, and physical shocks.
- **3G fallback**: Maintains connectivity where fiber or DSL is unavailable.

### **Legacy and Influence**
The BRCK inspired subsequent iterations, including the **BRCK Supa** and **BRCK Education Edition**, which expanded its use in **educational and enterprise sectors**. Its success demonstrated the viability of **locally adapted tech solutions**, influencing other projects in **off-grid connectivity** and **disaster-response networking**.

### **Technical Specifications**
- **Connectivity**: 3G WiFi (with optional Ethernet and SIM card support).
- **Power**: Rechargeable battery (duration varies by model, typically 6–8 hours).
- **Ports**: USB, Ethernet, and micro-SIM slots for flexible configuration.
- **Build**: Sealed casing to prevent dust and moisture ingress.

### **Use Cases**
- **Education**: Deployed in **African schools** to provide internet access for digital learning.
- **Healthcare**: Used in **remote clinics** for telemedicine and data synchronization.
- **Journalism**: Adopted by reporters in **conflict zones** for reliable field communications.
- **Humanitarian Aid**: Distributed by NGOs for **coordination in crisis zones**.

## References

1. [Source](http://www.moma.org/collection/works/188036)