BAR Gears Up With Wi-Fi

Airespace, the leader in intelligent wireless networking platforms, and Matrix Communications Group Plc, a fusion of experts in information technology focused on delivering pure performance solutions, today announced the deployment of a Wireless LAN (WLAN) system for British American Racing (BAR) at its Brackley Headquarters in Northants, UK. The Airespace Wireless Enterprise Platform, implemented by Matrix Communications, provides BAR with a secure and reliable wireless communications infrastructure for its commercial visitors and employees.

Everything about BAR is state of the art when it comes to our Formula 1 business and we want to make sure this is also reflected in our communications infrastructure, commented David France, Head of IT at BAR. The rollout of a wireless network to the main public areas of our Brackley HQ will enable clients, sponsors and key customers to access the Internet and other business services for the first time. We have a strong business relationship with Matrix and chose its Airespace solution because the infrastructure is capable of dealing with the vigorous demands we place on our network.

The WLAN solution covers the main public areas of the BAR facility, including the reception and auditorium, providing visitors, clients, sponsors and partners secure and reliable access to the Internet and other business applications, such as Voice over IP (VoIP) telephony networks. The solution comprises multiple Airespace 1200 Access Points connecting into an Airespace WLAN controller, which provides centralised management for the entire wireless network. Key benefits include high Quality of Service (QoS), real-time radio frequency (RF) management, dynamic intrusion protection capabilities and robust WLAN security.

According to Peter Drinkwater, managing director of Matrixs integration business division, wireless is the next phase in the evolution of the BAR network. The whole ethos of BAR is performance, from the F1 drivers through to the IT infrastructure, everything is geared towards achieving maximum results. We worked with Airespace because it offers best in class technology, reliability and security, whilst at the same time providing unparalleled levels of scalability and centralised management. The WLANs high performance, even in areas of high levels of noise interference, means BAR can easily roll it out trackside.

The popularity of BAR as a business venue means that it requires a communications infrastructure that is not only highly reliable but also secure, commented Alan Cohen, vice president of marketing and product management, Airespace. Airespaces airtight security and real time RF management make it an ideal fit for high volume areas and helps BAR provide superior service to its customers, increasing its desirability as a business location.