14 DAY TRIAL // AMD today announced it is providing the Discovery Channel Pro Cycling Team's directors and riders with an advanced and secure communication system in use throughout the twenty staged Tour de France.
"Communication is critical in every stage of the Tour, and our team depends upon continuous contact through this new communications system to make sure the team knows what's ahead on the various race routes," said Johan Bruyneel, director, Discovery Channel Pro Cycling Team. "Staying ahead of the competition in the world's most demanding cycling race requires pushing every resource we have to its limit. AMD provided communications systems that will be an invaluable asset as we strive to maintain our leadership position."
The new systems feature a number of custom-designed enhancements, including a push-to-talk switch that can be inserted in the rider's gloves or clothing which contains a strong return spring to ensure easy release after message transmission. In addition, AMD's systems include a completely shielded keypad to prevent accidental entries, a newly designed microphone to reduce wind noise and facilitate clear voice pick-up and a protected headset connector retained by a carbon-fiber latch to avoid accidental removal of the cable resulting in loss of all contact with the rest of the team - a major problem in former models.
"We came to AMD with a challenge," says Bart Knaggs, President of the Discovery Channel Pro Cycling Team. "We wanted flawless execution in the communication between Johan and the team at the Tour de France. That meant better clarity of voice, substantially improved range, and increased reliability throughout the race. When communication is better, team performance is better. AMD went to work right away to support our common goal - winning the Tour de France."