Getting Started
Ok, so you think this whole idea is great and you want to get started and put up a node. This quick start guide will help you out.
Contents
Some definitions
You should read the FrequentlyAskedQuestions page, but here are a few important excerpts.
What is a Node?
A "node" refers to a single point on a network. In most cases, a node consists of a tiny router with a few wireless cards and antennas that you stick up on your roof.
Steps to get on the Seattle Wireless network
Add yourself to the node map
The NodeMap is used to keep track of where active and potential nodes are, so even if you aren't quite sure that you are ready to put up a node, you should add yourself to the map. This way if somebody nearby is also interested, they can try to talk you into setting up a link.
Set up the hardware for your node
So what actually needs to go on your roof? There are a few options...
MetrixCommunication has put together a really nice outdoor wireless kit for community networkers. SeattleWireless members get a discounted price], and all profits benefit the network. Check out the MetrixKit page for more information.
If you would rather put your own kit together, you can buy the devices directly from Soekris Engineering. Don't forget that you'll have to buy a radio, weatherproof the whole thing, and figure out some way to mount it on your roof... the MetrixKit really is a good deal!
If you aren't ready to splurge on a MetrixKit, it is possible to run OLSR on cheaper, off the shelf routers such as the Linksys WRT54G. Note however that these devices are very slow, have very little flash, very little RAM, and certainly wont work as well as a MetrixKit. See the HackingAccessPoints page for more information.
Put the node up on your roof!
In most cases, the best place to put your node is on your roof. If you'd like help, you can schedule a PutUpANodeNight.
Link to Other Nodes
Once your node is up, you'll need to set up links to other nodes so you can access the rest of the network. Check out the node map to see if you are near other nodes. If you are, contact the node maintainer and find out if and how you can get a link up. If you need help, there are lots of people that are interested in helping set up links. If you've got a really good view and can see several nodes, you may even get loaner gear to help get you up faster.
If you are not near any nodes, you can set up a tunnel over the internet to another one. If you're interested, stop by HackNight and you should have no problem finding someone to peer with.
Getting Help
If you have any questions make sure you ask! If you need help setting up equipment, check out the VolunteerList or ask some one on the list to help you out. Once you get an answer to your question and you think that info would be helpful to others, put it up on the web site for the next person to find. Maintaining the wiki is key because it helps quell redundant questions and provides a good knowledge base for everyone involved.
Attend Our Events
Attend a PutUpANodeNight event to find out what's involved in getting a node up and running. The experience picked up at one of these is invaluable!
Final Words
Remember, even if you can't make a link to some one else right away, there is no reason why you can't put up a DxNode. Sooner or later some one will come along and be able to see your node. If you already have a DxNode up it will be a lot easier to take the next step. It doesn't take a lot of money to get a node up. Cheap access points can be had for $60 to $200. An 8dB omni antenna can be had for about $70. SeattleWireless can't grow unless you help out. The more nodes we have up and running the more people will join.
Be Informed
Subscribing to the MailingLists and the Planet's RSS feed are both good ways to stay up to date with what's going on in the community. If you have any questions there are a lot of people on the mailing lists that are willing to help.
Of course before asking any questions take an hour and read through the FrequentlyAskedQuestions, the NewbieZone and the rest of this wiki, which is packed full of information and can tell you nearly everything you need to know. Get involved in the community. If you dont understand something or you can clarify, feel free to edit the page in question. If you need help with the wiki, Check out HelpContents.
Be the first on your block to have a SeattleWireless Node!!! 
Or in some cases, second.
