More versatility in wireless data transmission solutions

Newtest and Nokia have developed a wireless data transmission solution for athletic performance testing and reporting test results. Using the Newtest Powertime testing equipment, athletes and equipment can be at training locations and the information can be transmitted to the coach or the test center via mobile phone. The first practical application is the ski testing system, carried out in cooperation with the Finnish Ski Association’s cross-country ski teams. The aim is to achieve a significant competitive advantage in the 2001 FIS Nordic World Ski Championships in Lahti.

The data transfer application between the Newtest Powertimer and Nokia’s Communicator presented today in Lahti enables the instant transfer of ski slide test results from the field to the service team member’s mobile phones by text message and to computers by email. This enables the service team to react faster to changing conditions, and in turn the skiers’ skis are more quickly ready for optimal performance. The Nordic combined team will also start using the data transfer system.

“The most important thing when measuring the sliding ability of skis and waxes is accuracy. Variable weather conditions increase the need for reliable and accurate equipment. An increasing amount of time is spent on analyzing skis and waxes, which is time taken from somewhere else. We have therefore joined forces with Newtest and Nokia to develop a system that can be used to transfer measurement results from the field directly to the service team’s computer. Location independent GSM data transfer accelerates the results analysis process and even enables it to take place in Finland when testing is done abroad,” says Per-Ole Lindell, Finnish Ski Association

As a result of the cooperation between Newtest and Nokia, Newtest is moving into a new phase in the development of testing equipment. “Our products will be more mobile, true field testing equipment, that allow us to better serve our customers,” says Newtest Managing Director Ari Jämsén. “Moreover, the cooperation with Nokia gives us the opportunity to utilize word-class data and communications technology expertise in our product development,” Jämsén continues.

“As the leader in wireless communications, we believe that new wireless applications will also bring excellent opportunities for content development. Newtest with its interesting customerbase offers new opportunities to expand the usage of our products,” says Christian From, Marketing Manager, Nokia Mobile Phones.

Newtest is a leading developer and manufacturer of mobile equipment for testing athletic performance. Newtest products combine a long history of expertise in sports research and performance testing with today's mobile information technology.

Nokia is the world leader in mobile communications. Backed by its experience, innovation, user-friendliness and secure solutions, the company has become the leading supplier of mobile phones and a leading supplier of mobile, fixed and IP networks. By adding mobility to the Internet Nokia creates new opportunities for companies and further enriches the daily lives of people. Nokia is a broadly held company with listings on six major exchanges.

Further information:
Newtest Ltd.
Managing Director Ari Jämsen
Tel. +358 8 537 2277, 2271 ari.jamsen@newtest.com

Nokia Mobile Phones
Communications
Tel. +358 7180 08000

www.nokia.com

Finnish Ski Association
Per-Ole Lindell
Tel. +358 400 867 340