Fibre in the sky competes with optical speeds

A wireless technology that promises data throughput rates matching those available from optical fibre has been developed by a Sussex-based telecoms company.

The 'fibre in the sky' project is a wireless distribution system which can handle IP, voice, video and data over a single radio channel. Its creator, Convergence Group, claims the Internet Protocol Local Multi-Point Distribution System (IPLMDS) will provide corporate customers with a two-way wireless local loop at data rates of 40Mbps, and upstream rates of up to 10Mbps. The company is currently trialling the technology and plans to ship it late next year.

The microwave distribution system is capable of delivering IP-based services and network management within the European allocated spectrum of between 40.5GHz to 42.5GHz.

The company said: "It is ideal for congested or historic cities where cable installation could be expensive and very disruptive. Network operators and service providers will be able to offer subscribers 'fibre in the sky' technology via the IPLMDS platform."

The firm's chairman, Alan Robinson, said: "It is not constrained by capital costs or the limitations of existing copper wire."