Dynamic. Fast-paced. Innovative.

These are just a few of the words that spring to mind when reflecting on this past year at the Communications Research Centre Canada (CRC). CRC is a federal laboratory whose excellence in telecommunications R&D not only has a great impact on Canadians, but also plays a key role in shaping applications of future communications technologies across the country and around the world.

CRC provides communications technology expertise and advice to its government clients, primarily Industry Canada, the Canadian Space Agency and National Defence. Working closely with these clients and other organizations, CRC translates research into real solutions and contributes to sound decision-making on policies and standards - two qualities that make CRC an asset to its clients and partners.

CRC had a number of notable technical achievements this year. MILTON, an experimental wireless access network designed to provide broadband services to remote areas, has been further developed by CRC and is now ready for field trials with industry. CRC was recognized for its advancements in Software Defined Radio (SDR), and now offers a complete portfolio of software tools for the development of SDR technology by industry. In the area of Digital Television, CRC has developed a datacasting system for data and multimedia transmission over digital television channels, for use in broadcasting as well as rural and remote broadband access.

None of these accomplishments would have been possible without the commitment of CRC's clients, employees and Board members. This team effort ensures CRC's position as Canada's national centre of excellence for communications R&D.

Congratulations to CRC for a successful year - it is an honour to work with such a committed and experienced team.

Dr. Alan E. Winter