When Google chose Kansas City as the first city to receive it’s fiber services, we quickly joined Chattanooga and the growing list of gigabit enabled cities around the world.  One of the first things we did when we came online was do a Google Fiber speedtest to a server based in downtown Kansas City (about 5 miles from the village).  It clocked in at 941.65Mbps download and 943.28Mbps upload.  Not too shabby.

That’s cool and all, but what about REAL WORLD speedtest results? What kind of speeds can we see when one gigabit city connects to another gigabit city?  Thankfully, the EPB has a speedtest server which lets us find out.  Normally, they limit speedtests to their server to a maximum of 100Mbps, but they kindly removed the restrictions for us by whitelisting our IP address.

On a sunny April day in the #KCSV, we fired off a speedtest from Kansas City (Google Fiber) to Chattanooga (EPB) and here are the results: 490Mbps download and 193Mbps upload.  Also, not too shabby.

Now, what’s next for us to do?  While we’re busy thinking about that, why don’t you tell us what YOU would do with a gigabit Internet connection.  We love ideas from fellow entrepreneurs, geeks, technologists and thought leaders.

TGIF!  Let us start your morning off right with a little Fiber Fridays goodness.  Each Friday we showcase something possible when you have the power of Google Fiber and 1Gbps at your fingertips.

This week we focus our attention on upload speeds.  We’ve shown you a few times the power of Google Fiber and downloading data at 1Gbps, but what about uploads?  The average upload speed in the USA according to Ookla, makers of Speedtest.net, is 4.148Mbps (http://bit.ly/WZOV1I).  Compared to Google Fiber’s theoretical upload speeds of 1000Mbps, that’s quite a difference.

In order to show what this means in real-world terms, we’ve decided to upload the same 1.31GB HD 1080p movie to YouTube, once at 4.148Mbps and once at 1000Mbps.  See for yourself the amazing difference in upload times.

Remember, we love Fiber Friday suggestions.  Send your requests to us.  Be sure your idea is something that showcases the true power of super broadband upload/download Internet speeds.

Happy Friday, y’all.  Welcome to today’s episode of the #KCSV Fiber Fridays series.  Each Friday we showcase something possible when you have the power of Google Fiber and 1Gbps at your fingertips.

This week we answer a request from a Fiber Fridays fan.  A. Burd hit us up asking for speed tests to Los Angeles, New York and London.  Keep in mind that most Speedtest.net servers aren’t set up to handle incoming 1Gbps connections, so the numbers you see are realy limited by both bottlenecks and throttling.

Thanks for the request, Mr. Burd.  As you can see, we love Fiber Friday requests, so send your requests to us.

Hello friends!  Apologies for missing last week’s Fiber Fridays yet again.  We’re still trying to sort out our routine, and hopefully we won’t miss any more Fiber Fridays.  In fact, if you have any suggestions or requests, please send them our way.  If it requires SUPER broadband speeds, let us put it to the test.

This week we bring you Synthia Payne, aka Hacker #3 from the Homes for Hackers program, doing her thing on CYBERJAMMER.  This service allows Synthia and her fellow musicians to collaborate and play music together in real-time.  No matter where they are in the world, they can log in, connect their instruments and play together without missing a beat.  Pretty sweet.  By using Google Fiber, these musicians can keep latency to an all-time low, ensuring delay free jam sessions.

For more about the CYBERJAMMER network, visit their website.

First off, apologies for not getting a Fiber Fridays episode out last week.  Our beloved Homes for Hackers resident hacker and Fiber Fridays guru, @NickBudi, was under the weather.  He’s back on his feet now, and delivers an awesome episode this week.

When you have the power of Google Fiber and a 1Gbps pipe, bandwidth is no longer an issue.  Mediocre Internet speeds into and out of the home are a thing of the past.  In fact, as you’ll see in this week’s video, if you’re trying to gobble up as much data as you can with one computer, it’s actually the capacity of the computer itself which becomes the bottleneck.

Remember, if you have any Fiber Fridays suggestions, please send them to us using the #KCSV contact form.

Welcome to Fiber Fridays, a new series by the #KCSV!

Each Friday we’ll showcase something incredible that’s possible when you have Google Fiber and 1Gbps at your fingertips.  This week, our very own Homes for Hackers resident, @NickBudi, brings you a simple speed test from the new Google Fiber server on Speedtest.net.

OK, so this isn’t anything new really, but hey it is only the first episode.  Next week we got something up our sleeves to really put Google Fiber to the test…

In our previous tests, we were hitting a special link provided by Google to perform speed tests.  After some Q&A with a Google rep via their online Google Groups forum, we discovered that the server on the other end of these tests is located here in Kansas City.  So it makes sense that we see some insane speed test results.  However, we also discovered in our research that there is another Google Fiber speed test link which points to a server somewhere in California (we presume Mountain View).  Our speed tests with that server revealed some interesting results.

Kansas City Google Fiber Speed Test: http://speedtest.googlefiber.net
California Google Fiber Speed Test: http://speed.googlefiber.net

Another interesting note.  While we’ve been testing using many network connections, including the newest Wireless AC signal, we uncovered that there is already an 802.11ad standard.  Dubbed “WiGig”, this claims to deliver a theoretical maximum throughput of up to 7Gbit/s over the currently unused 60Ghz frequency.  That’s about as fast as an 8 antenna Wireless AC transmission.

For more on the Wireless Gigabit Alliance, visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IEEE_802.11ad.

The Videos

Visit our KCStartupVillage YouTube Channel for all of our videos, including the videos from these speed tests.

The Setup

The hardware we used to perform our tests included:

• HP Pavilion dv7 laptop
  • Intel(R) Centrino(R) Wireless-N 1030
  • Realtek PCIe GBE Family Controller
• Google Network Box
• ASUS RT-AC66R (equivalent to the ASUS RT-AC66U)
• Netgear A6200

The Hardware

Google Network Box

Again, we’re using the Google Network Box for these tests.  Check out our Round One speed test results for more info on the Google Network Box.

ASUS RT-AC66R Router

The ASUS RT-AC66R is a nicely designed router.  It comes packed with features, a nice web interface and CD to configure the router.  One of the things we like most about this router is it’s external antenna design.  This allows for the option of attaching higher gain antennas to boost the signal greater distances.

Netgear A6200 USB Adapter

Again, we’re using the Netgear A6200 USB Network Adapter for these tests.  Check out our Round One speed test results for more info on this piece of equipment.

The Tests

Each test consisted of a router (Google Network Box or ASUS RT-AC66R), adapter (Ethernet or Wireless), protocol (Gigabit Ethernet, Wireless N or Wireless AC) and in the case of wireless connections, signal frequency (2.4Ghz or 5Ghz).

Test #1

Google Network Box + Realtek PCIe GBE Family Controller

Test #2

ASUS RT-AC66R + Realtek PCIe GBE Family Controller

Note – We later discovered the speeds were so low because we were connected via ethernet at 100Mbps rather than 1000Mbps.  It seems to have been a poor connection.  After we fixed the issue, we were getting some speeds similar to being ethernet connected to the Google Network Box.

Test #3

ASUS RT-AC66R + Intel(R) Centrino(R) Wireless-N 1030 + Wireless N + 2.4Ghz

Test #3

ASUS RT-AC66R + Netgear A6200 + Wireless N + 2.4Ghz

Test #4

ASUS RT-AC66R + Netgear A6200 + Wireless AC + 5Ghz

The Conclusion

Once again we see that being hardlined to the router via Ethernet is the way to go.  That is where you find the most impressive speeds.  After that is the Wireless AC signal which churns out speeds about twice as fast as Wireless N speeds.

It’s safe to say that Local Ruckus, FormZapper and Leap2 are going to enjoy the service no matter what connection they use.  After all, all of the results in our speed tests crush typical ISP speeds in America (for now, anyway).

As part of our tests, we were able to introduce a new technology that hasn’t formally been adopted by the industry yet.  The new 802.11ac wireless standard developed by the IEEE is currently in draft mode, but as with the 802.11n wireless standard which was released in 2009, being in draft mode hasn’t stopped manufacturers like Netgear, ASUS and Buffalo from selling supporting devices.

Once we found out we were getting Google Fiber with a 1Gbps asynchronous connection, we immediately purchased the Netgear R6300 router and a6200 USB adapter, both of which support the Wireless AC standard.  After all, not many people in the world have the opportunity to put a gigabit wireless setup to the test.

The Videos

Visit our KCStartupVillage YouTube Channel for all of our videos, including the videos from these speed tests.

The Setup

The hardware we used to perform our tests included:

• HP Pavilion dv7 laptop
  • Intel(R) Centrino(R) Wireless-N 1030
  • Realtek PCIe GBE Family Controller
• Google Network Box
• Netgear R6300
• Netgear A6200

The Hardware

Google Network Box

We’re not sure of the exact specs for the Google Network Box equipment.  Since we don’t know who actually manufactures the equipment, it’s tough to know all of the details.  The tech who installed the fiber service told us it has three internal antennas which direct the signal outward in three directions.  On the back of the box is power plug, reset button, Internet ethernet port, 4 ethernet ports and a fiber port.  We found it interesting the box has a fiber port, seeing as the fiber lead doesn’t actually plug into it and instead plugs into the Google Fiber Jack.  There is a small internal fan in the box which is quiet and keeps the unit cool.

One interesting note about the Google Network Box is that it doesn’t support the 802.11ac standard.  Considering Google is selling a 1Gbps internet service, we think it makes sense to support those kind of speeds wirelessly, especially now that the technology is available.  Perhaps Google didn’t want to include support for it in v1.0 of their network box since the Wireless AC protocol is still in draft mode..??

Netgear R6300 Router

The R6300 doesn’t lie flat like most routers these days.  It sits up right at a small angle.  It has internal antennas, and on the back it has a power plug, on/off button, reset button, Internet ethernet port, 4 ethernet ports and a USB port.

One thing to note about the R6300.  When we first turned it on, we couldn’t get it to work at all.  After much research, we discovered that the firmware was corrupt.  Really??  Corrupt firmware right out of the box??  Shame on you Netgear.  Thankfully, the following links helped us solve the issue quickly and easily:

• http://forum1.netgear.com/showthread.php?t=78113
• http://avtech.com/Support/index.php?action=kb&article=108
• http://kb.netgear.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/18989/~/router-power-led-blinks-slowly-and-router-no-longer-works
• http://support.netgear.com/product/r6300

Netgear A6200 USB Adapter

This piece of equipment allows your computer to receive the Wireless AC signal.  Until laptop, tablet, smartphone, etc manufacturers start to include internal Wireless AC support in their devices, you need something like the Netgear A6200 to access the 802.11ac signal.  The reason we chose the A6200 is because it’s the only AC supporting USB adapter we could find.  Do you know of any others?  If so, do tell!

The device itself is pretty neat looking, and includes a base with extension cord in case you don’t want to plug the device directly into your computer.  Interestingly, the device only supports USB 1.1 and 2.0.  So, right out of the box you have a bottleneck for the AC signal.  USB 2.0 has a maximum signaling rate of 480 Mbps, where as USB 3.0 has a maximum signaling rate of 5Gbps.  Why Netgear didn’t make the A6200 USB 3.0 compatible makes no sense.  An oversight by Netgear perhaps…???

The Tests

Each test consisted of a router (Google Network Box or Netgear R6300), adapter (Ethernet or Wireless), protocol (Gigabit Ethernet, Wireless N or Wireless AC) and in the case of wireless connections, signal frequency (2.4Ghz or 5Ghz).

Test #1

Google Network Box + Realtek PCIe GBE Family Controller

Note – We had very similar results when hard wired to the Netgear A6300 router.

Test #2

Google Network Box + Intel(R) Centrino(R) Wireless-N 1030 + Wireless N + 2.4Ghz

Test #3

Google Network Box + Netgear A6200 + Wireless N + 2.4Ghz

Test #4

Netgear R6300 + Intel(R) Centrino(R) Wireless-N 1030 + Wireless N + 2.4Ghz

Test #5

Netgear R6300 + Netgear A6200 + Wireless N + 2.4Ghz

Test #6

Netgear R6300 + Netgear A6200 + Wireless AC + 5Ghz

The Conclusion

It’s clear that being directly connected to either the Google Network Box or the Netgear R6300 via ethernet is where the blistering fast speed can be found.  Those speed test results are simply mind numbing.

Another thing to note is the speed test results when using the Netgear A6200 were higher than when using the Intel(R) Centrino(R) Wireless-N 1030.  We presume that’s because the A6200 is much newer and probably has better internal hardware.

Unless the employees of Local Ruckus, FormZapper and Leap2 are going to be fine with 6-14x faster speeds than typical broadband results, it looks like we’ll be installing Cat-5 cabling and outlets throughout the #KCSV 4454 House.  The ability to have 950Mbps download/upload speeds will more than likely be too awesome to ignore.

Next Steps

Stay tuned for more tests when we purchase the ASUS RT-AC66U router and put it to the test.

UPDATE – This event has been postponed by one day.  New date/time is November 13 @ 1pm CST.

When we received the phone call from Google that their technicians would begin the final fiber installation process on November 12 November 13 @ 1pm CST, Matthew Marcus of Local Ruckus let out an almighty hoooooooowwwwwwllllll!  Once he finally composed himself, we started talking about our excitement and anticipation of finally getting to use the Internet at 1Gps speeds.  Then we got to thinking … why should we be the only ones to experience this?  There are probably hundreds if not thousands of people who would love to also be a part of this exciting moment.

After some brainstorming, we figured the best way to include others in the installation, setup, testing and launch event is to live stream it.  So while we snap photos and record videos, we’ll also stream the action live to anyone and everyone around the city, country and world.

You can watch all of the action by clicking HERE.  If you happen to be tweeting during the event, please use the hashtag #KCSV.  We’ll be monitoring that tag for any comments, questions or suggestions you might have.

See you in approximately 2 days, 11 hours, 6 minutes and 22 seconds…

Entrepreneurs, startup owners, Google Fiber employees, lawyers, government representatives and more combined their efforts to turn this newly acquired house by Ben Barreth (founder of the Homes for Hackers project) into a hackers paradise.

For photos and videos of the event, check out the Homes for Hackers Gallery.

Special thanks to Nancy Thomas, Jack Hayhow and the many others who generously donated the supplies, accessories and furniture to the hacker home.

Please consider donating funds to Ben Barreth so he can continue providing free rent to the hackers of the house.  It’s not cheap to buy and maintain a house and dedicate it to hackers for free.  There are bills to pay, supplies to provide, and many bits and pieces which still need to be fixed and maintained.  Ben has sacrificed a lot, and the community can do a lot to support him.  $5, $10, $20 or more will go a long way to ensure the hacker house survives and thrives.

Financial donations can be sent to Ben using Dwolla and/or Paypal:

Ben’s Dwolla ID: 812-594-1215
(Click HERE to see a video on how to send money using Dwolla)

Ben’s Paypal Email: websiteguru [at] gmail [dot] com
(Click HERE to see a video on how to send money using Paypal)