9 September 2015 15:21

Wireless communications technology developed by Lancaster researchers is being tested for its suitability for use by NATO.

A task group from NATO visited Lancaster University this week to test the technology in Infolab21’s cutting edge facilities.

Professor Garik Markarian, of the School of Computing and Communications, in collaboration with Lancaster-based SME Rinicom Ltd, developed the rapid-deployable wireless communications system in 2011, which was originally designed for use in first-response settings, such as disaster relief efforts.

Professor Markarian said: “Since the introduction of the technology, called PodNode, we have had significant interest from a broad range of potential users. We are pleased that our research work and facilities are acknowledged by NATO and this week’s meeting cements Lancaster’s reputation as the leading centre for Wireless Broadband Communications research.

“The results of this exercise will be presented at the 2015 international conference for military communications in America, opening new opportunities for research collaboration with leading European and North American partners.”

Rather than relying on a central hub, as in most Wi-Fi systems, the technology operates using computer systems which are connected to each other via the Internet, allowing them to transmit multimedia, such as audio, video and data.