An alternative method of accessing broadband Internet and high-speed data services was announced in Dublin yesterday by broadband fixed wireless company Formus Broadband.

The company is deploying broadband fixed wireless technology so business customers can access high-speed Internet services without having to wait for a cable or a fibre connection.

The system works by connecting customers to Internet, data and multimedia services via radiowaves rather than conventional wires.

It should prove popular among businesses in the Republic which have to wait long periods to be connected via ISDN. It will also reduce the necessity for digging up roads to lay underground cables.

The company is building several base stations in the Dublin region which transmit the service to small transmitters connected to a customer's building.