UNDERSTANDING WIMAX
WiMAX is a fourth generation mobile broadband technology designed to bring high-speed Internet access over a wide area. In fact, WiMAX technology can provide broadband wireless access up to 30 miles for fixed stations, and 3 - 10 miles for mobile stations. These figures are significant considering Wi-Fi’s range is usually limited to only 100 - 300 feet. In July 2001, the WiMAX Forum was formed with the goal of promoting conformity and interoperability of the IEEE 802.16 standard. The name of this wireless technology originated from this forum. The forum envisioned WiMAX as a way to provide universal Internet access to all locations as well as an additional competitor to broadband cable and DSL services. How WiMAX Works WiMAX networks offer two types of services, "fixed WiMAX" and "mobile WiMAX." Line-of-sight service, or "fixed WiMAX," involves the transmission of wireless data between two fixed dish antennas, usually located on towers, rooftops or poles. Rural areas, for example, are perfect candidates for this type of WiMAX deployment because it is much easier and less expensive to transmit broadband data between base station (up to 30 miles) than to lay fiber or cable over long distances. Non-line-of-sight, or "mobile WiMAX," operates similar to cellular towers in that the transmitter broadcasts over a wide area (3-10 miles), connecting to multiple devices, such as laptop cards, cell phones or other Internet devices. WiMax in the US Because of the range, bandwidth and flexibility that WiMAX offers, a number of wireless phone companies have made plans to deploy WiMAX. Clearwire was the first US telecommunication company to operate a WiMAX broadband network in the US. In mid-2006 Sprint announced its plan to spend US$ 5 billion to finance a WiMAX build out of their own called, Xohm. By May of 2008, Sprint joined with Clearwire to form a larger WiMAX network. It is important to note that Sprint and Clearwire also received additional financing from Comcast, Time Warner, Intel, Bright House and Google. Sprint's Xohm WiMAX network
The Xohm WiMAX network will offer mobile broadband that will allow subscribers to:
The company is currently working with major electronic and telecommunication companies such as Intel, Motorola and Samsung to produce laptops, cell phones and other devices that will support XOHM- WiMAX technology. Sprint's WiMAX network will bring broadband access to these types of products:
Sprint envisions that XOHM-WiMAX technology will expand to include other applications. For example, it may become a useful tool in the field of medicine where WiMAX could enable a mobile health monitor to track and transmit information on a patient’s vital signs. Future WiMAX devices may also be able to monitor an athlete's performance and provide useful information to coaches and trainers. This technology may even expand into devices such as WiMAX-enabled portable video players for home entertainment systems, or even kitchen appliances. Hopefully, WiMAX technology will provide, not only an alternative broadband option, but also usher in new innovative products that take advantage of WiMAX’s wireless connectivity. To learn more: |
