An apparatus includes an image recorder configured to record video images. The apparatus also includes a display screen configured to present the video images to a user and to create notations overlying one or more of the video images based on user input. The apparatus further includes a transceiver configured to stream the video images over a wireless mesh network and to transmit data associated with the notations over the wireless mesh network. The apparatus could also include components for providing cryptographic keys to wireless nodes joining the wireless mesh network, a sensor for detecting or measuring one or more characteristics, and/or an asset tracker for transmitting or receive signals for identifying a location of the apparatus. The apparatus could further include at least one voice unit supporting bidirectional voice communications and/or a site survey unit for identifying signal strengths associated with detected wireless nodes.