An information node (100) is presented for use within a thermally challenged environment. The cooled information node has a case (110) with a thermoelectric conditioner (120). A thermoelectric controller (190) contained within the case operates the thermoelectric conditioner (120). A transceiver/power conditioner (160) connects to both the thermoelectric controller (190) and a processor (180) and is configured to receive and transmit data signals from an outside source (65). The cooled information node (100) also has a signal input/output module connected to each of the transceiver/power conditioner (160), the processor (180) and the thermoelectric controller (190). The signal input/output module is configured to receive and transmit another data signal from another outside source (80). The information node (100) may be used within an electronic network connecting multiple outside sources (100) to a central source (65). Furthermore, the information node (100) may be used within a gas turbine engine (20) for communication between engine components (80) and the electronic engine control (65) of the gas turbine engine.