COMPUTER users could lose out in the scramble to bring wireless internet coverage to Manchester, experts have warned.

Rival companies are racing to install the wireless internet networks, known as "wi-fi hotspots", to homes and businesses throughout the city centre.

Anyone with a suitable laptop within range of a wi-fi radio transmitter can connect to the internet without plugging their computer into a telephone line socket.

But experts have warned that too many transmitters are being built because of an unregulated free-for-all which could ruin the service.

Michael Beatty, who runs the Telegeneration computer firm, said: "Too many hotspots broadcasting in the same area will reduce the quality of the signal.

Interference

"Three or four hotspots in the same area will cause interference."

Mr Beatty, whose firm installed a wi-fi network in Oxford Road, said companies need to focus new transmitters on areas where computers will be used, rather than aim for blanket coverage. "There are only certain places that people will want to use their computer," he said.

Last month, a telecom firm called The Cloud announced plans to set up a wireless internet network in Manchester, along with eight other British cities.

The firm has already set up a wi-fi transmitter at Old Trafford stadium and aims for total coverage in Manchester city centre with dozens of transmitters.

But hundreds of smaller transmitters are already running in Manchester in private homes and offices.

There are transmitters in the city's three universities and also at Manchester Airport and most conference centres.

Mike Robson, senior IT officer at Manchester University, said: "Because it's an unlicensed bandwidth, it's a bit of a free-for-all. There aren't any planning issues, so anyone can set them up".