BT to offer wireless networking for SMEs

BT is to roll-out a wireless networking technology aimed at small businesses and home users.

From the start of next year, users will be able to link laptops, PC's and any other digital devices without resorting to re-cabling their homes and offices.

The system was developed by a BT-funded US start-up, Home Wireless Networks. Each device is fitted with a transmitter/receiver, which then allows it to communicate with a main controller or base station. At the heart of the system is a Wireless Gateway, which will support international standards including ADSL and ISDN.

A spokesman for BT denied there would be a problem with groups of users working in close proximity to each other. "There will be no problem because we have 120 available channels to run from with 10 different frequency," he said.

BT estimates the technology will generate sales in excess of £35m in its first year, and predicts that more than 10 million users will sign up by 2004.