Wireless networking that travels through steel

Oki Communication Systems helped co-develop the new system, which uses a device to send electromagnetic waves through steel and piping in a building. The device is attached to the piping, and sends signals through that piping which can be received by mobile devices.

The Nikkei Business Daily reports that the waves can't travel more than 30 meters through the air, but they can be sent distances of up to 2km, through piping and steel framing. Additionally, there is apparently no interference when multiple signals are sent through the same piping.

The systems makes building a wireless network in establishments easy as pie, particularly useful when the buildings would be tough to re-fit with new wiring. The system could also be used for transport, sending signals to passenger seats in airplanes or trains using the vehicle chassis, for example.

Cocomo is to market the new system in September, and is hoping for sales of 3 billion yen in the first year. The system is expected to cost roughly 10 million yen. µ