For the first time, laptop computer or personal digital assistant users at the annual Sarasota 4th of July Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix races will be able to access the Internet through a series of free wireless “hot spots.” It’s part of the expansion of a program engineered by Southeastern Communication Service (SECS) with the guidance of 82 Degrees Tech, an advanced technology advocacy group working in cooperation with Sarasota County. The system is commonly known as Wi-Fi, an abbreviation for wireless fidelity. It symbolizes broadband technology that allows immediate free wireless access to a wide range of information via Internet and e-mail services.

Hot spot antenna arrays are located at Marina Jack, the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, Siesta Key Beach and Lido Beach providing wireless access from virtually every offshore race vantage point. In addition to private, business and civil access, the system can be utilized for police, fire protection and emergency medical purposes. Wireless Internet communication service is offered or being considered by government and municipalities as well as major developers, resorts and larger commercial and residential buildings throughout the U.S. Says SECS Vice President of Technical Operations Tony Ankersmit, “We are pleased to have been part of a pilot program that recognizes the important role inter-computer communications will have in the County’s future.”

For more information about Wi-Fi systems and installations contact Tony Ankersmit at Southeastern Communication Service (SECS) at (941) 378-0080 or you may visit their website at http://www.secs-wireless.com.