CSIRO develops wireless bush broadband

CSIRO has developed wireless technology that could bring 12Mbps connectivity to rural Australia via a television set-top box.

The so-called Ngara system provided up to six users with a constant data transfer rate, regardless of others' uploads, within the spectrum of a single, seven-megahertz television channel.

According to Gartner's wireless research director Robin Simpson, the network could use analogue television channels as Australia moved to digital technology.

"This means any rural property or business that can currently receive TV signals could in future connect to high-speed internet just by using a new set-top box," he stated.

Ngara had a spectral efficiency of 20 bits per second per Hertz - 10 times the industry's minimum standard, CSIRO claimed.

The researchers were currently testing the downlink component of the technology, which would also be 12Mbps per user, in accordance with the Government's connectivity promises.

CSIRO ICT centre director Ian Oppermann said Ngara would enable those outside the National Broadband Network's reach to access broadband internet.

"Even with just half of our system completed, CSIRO is already helping define the future of wireless technology," he said.