Robots from King Mongkut's University of Technology Thon Buri can see better and move faster, all thanks to communication via a wireless local area network.

They are primed and ready for the Robocup Soccer Humanoid League at the Robocup 2008 World Championships.

"We want to be in the final four. There are 30 teams in the competition," says Bantoon Srisuwan, one of six robot creators from the school's Institute of Field Robotics, or Fibo.

Four KM-series robots have onboard computers that enable them to communicate via the network.

"Having a wireless network can help prevent the robots from approaching a ball at the same time and snatching it from one another," Bantoon says.

They can distinguish objects more accurately and quickly and see further.

"Light is no longer a problem for our robots. They can play on a well-lit or poorly lit field," says Pasan Kulvanit, head of the team.

Three compete in each league game - a midfielder, striker and goalkeeper. One is on standby.

Bantoon says the robots can walk as far as 25 metres a minute, compared to last year's robot that could travel just 18 metres a minute. They can get up by themselves if they fall over.

"The KM-series is stronger because we have put bigger motors in them and made their knees thicker," says Bantoon.

Fibo director Djitt Laowattana says artificial intelligence has developed so much that the robots are cleverer and faster. "Our techniques, programs and knowledge are not poorer than others. It's only hi-tech equipment we cannot afford. The institute's technology and knowledge is in the top 10 in laboratory scales worldwide," he says.

Djitt says Fibo's first humanoid robot created four years ago looked "rheumatic" when walking and couldn't keep its eye on a target.

The latest editions can walk smoothly and faster.

Each robot costs more than Bt200,000 and Asian Honda Motor is a key financial supporter, donating Bt442,500.

The KM-series will show their capabilities in the Robocup 2008 World Championships in Suzhou, China, from July 14 to 20.