New IBBT spin-off in the making

Will wireless networks in buildings soon be performing better? If it is up to the researchers of the IBBT - PATS group at the University of Antwerp, they most certainly will. The research group has developed a technology that optimizes the performance of wireless mesh networks. A new spin-off called Wishbone is already in the making.

A growing number of companies and organizations use wireless mesh networks to provide Internet access in their offices. Without the need for cable connections, the installation can be accomplished quickly and inexpensively, and the system is flexible and easy to expand. The network not only offers Internet access to visitors and employees working inside the office walls. It can also manage the heating and air-conditioning infrastructure and security monitoring.

Sophisticated control system

A wireless mesh network relies on nodes placed at various locations inside the building. They are connected and exchange data with each other. Researchers at the IBBT - PATS group at the University of Antwerp developed a technology that optimizes the interconnection between these nodes. The system manages the traffic and automatically selects the node with the best signal quality for a particular need.

Promising future

The technology has already attracted a great deal of attention from integrators and service providers. The next step is to continue development of the system within an independent spin-off, which will carry the name Wishbone. Stay tuned for further developments.

More information on www.wishbone.be.