How Wimax Work?

In practical terms, WiMAX would operate similar to WiFi but at higher speeds, over greater distances and for a greater number of users. WiMAX could potentially erase the suburban and rural blackout areas that currently have no broadband Internet access because phone and cable companies have not yet run the necessary wires to those remote locations.

A WiMAX system consists of two parts:

- A WiMAX tower, similar in concept to a cell-phone tower - A single WiMAX tower can provide coverage to a very large area -- as big as 3,000 square miles (~8,000 square km).

- A WiMAX receiver - The receiver and antenna could be a small box or PCMCIA card, or they could be built into a laptop the way WiFi access is today. built into a laptop the way WiFi access is today.

A WiMAX tower station can connect directly to the Internet using a high-bandwidth, wired connection (for example, a T3 line). It can also connect to another WiMAX tower using a line-of-sight, microwave link.

This connection to a second tower (often referred to as a backhaul), along with the ability of a single tower to cover up to 3,000 square miles, is what allows WiMAX to provide coverage to remote rural areas.

SDIC Card

What RF Frequencies does WiMAX work in?

The most recent versions of both WiMAX standards in 802.16 cover spectrum ranges from at least the 2 GHz range through the 66 GHz range. This is an enormous spectrum range.

However, the practical market considerations of the Forum members dictated that the first product profiles focus on spectrum ranges that offered Forum vendors the most utility and sales potential.

The International standard of 3.5 GHz spectrum will be the first to enjoy WiMAX products. The US license free spectrum at 5.8 GHz should receive some products, but likely will be the last supported.

Licensed spectrum at 2.5 GHz used both domestically in the US and fairly widely abroad will be the second frequency chosen for interoperability testing. There is already a significant amount of precursor product being shipped at all three frequencies. Air interface testing has certified products from many companies. The more enhanced QOS and optional elements testing is up next. As is the interoperability testing for Mobile WiMAX.

The technology appears easily extensible to lower frequencies including the valuable 700 MHz spectrum range. More likely near term frequencies likely to be supported in future product profiles include the 2.3 GHz range (used in Korea and the US) as well as the new 4.9 GHz public safety band (sometimes described as a Homeland security band). The 700 MHz range, partly due to Flarion’s technology being available in this spectrum, may receive more attention. The 900 MHz unlicensed bands are unlikely to receive Forum attention for a long time if ever.

The largest block of frequencies ever auction occurred in the summer of 2006 with the AWS auction from the FCC. This spectrum was split with the bulk being at 1.7 GHz and the rest at 2.1 GHz. Expect to see the Forum address this on an individual vendor basis initially with adapted WiMAX solutions. The potential of the spectrum range is enormous and will almost certainly be met with products from the WiMAX community.

by Michael Wolleben — last modified 2007-03-19 12:56 PM
Source: http://www.wimax.com/education/faq/faq47

The Appeal of Mobile WiMAX in Emerging Countries

Mobile WiMAX may find early adoption in emerging markets, if the right devices become available New technologies like WiMAX are typically successful first in developed markets where disposable incomes are higher and new devices and services are adopted earlier.

However, we expect WiMAX will initially be better suited to emerging markets. We predict in 'WiMAX: Ambitions and Reality' that emerging markets will account for 55 per cent of WiMAX subscribers by 2012.

Source: Senza Fili Consulting, WiMAX: Ambitions and Reality, June 2007.

Emerging countries may take the lead in mobile WiMAX growth due to two trends:

Demand for affordable, flexible broadband, coupled with the lack of wired broadband.

Widespread 3G, lack of spectrum, and non-committal operators will delay mobile WiMAX in many developed markets.

The value of mobile WiMAX is not mobility per se. Up to half of mobile phone calls are placed from the home or office. The percentage should be even higher for data-centric devices and applications. Operators estimate that up to 80 per cent of WiMAX access will be from indoors, where subscribers are stationary.

The true appeal of mobile broadband in developed and developing countries is ubiquitous high-bandwidth network access.

In developing countries, however, mobile WiMAX will be positioned differently.

Rather than targeting high-ARPU business users, early adopters or tech-savvy teens, mobile WiMAX services will attract first-time broadband users without a fixed line data connection who are nevertheless accustomed to mobile phones.

These subscribers cannot afford both fixed and mobile subscriptions. Mobile WiMAX offers them both on a single contract and a single device. Operators can offer mobile broadband ahead of fixed broadband, adding value by combining fixed and mobile access.

For instance, a retailer may need broadband in his shop, using both data and VoIP applications. After work he may take his WiMAX device home where he and his family can make VoIP calls or access personal email.

WiMAX operators, both greenfield and established players, have been very active in markets such as Russia, Eastern Europe, Latin America and India.

In most cases the initial focus is on fixed broadband access, where demand is known and devices, albeit expensive, are available. Most operators, however, see the potential for mobile access and want to enhance their networks when devices become available.

Device availability is key. Operators are still dependent on a limited selection of form factors: desktop modems, PCMCIA cards and, soon, a few PDAs.

Vendors need to offer new form factors, new functionality, and new price points, based on the specific requirements of emerging markets. The traditional model of marketing of low-cost, entry-level devices to emerging countries is no longer sufficient.

The early adopters in developing countries have low price sensitivity. However, laptops and PDAs are too expensive and bulky for the wider market.

Our retailer may not be able to afford, or indeed need, a powerful laptop. A low-cost, durable, portable device that supports key applications such as VoIP and internet access will be enough. The key functionality is connectivity, not computational power.

Devices like this are largely absent from vendor product lines as vendors prefer targeting either early adopters worldwide or the mass market in developed countries.

That is because low-cost data-centric devices tend to have lower margins. However, volumes can be high and vendors should carefully assess the opportunity.

Not only can these devices be profitable, they are also key to WiMAX in emerging markets (and possibly worldwide). They will accelerate adoption in the initial deployment stage which in turn will drive economies of scale stimulating lower device prices, which will make WiMAX services more affordable.

A lack of compelling devices will greatly reduce the appeal of mobile WiMAX as operators will struggle to demonstrate a positive business case. They will need a wide choice of devices to cover their entire customer base, not just the top segments.

If vendors are committed to WiMAX success, they must develop devices targeted at emerging markets as that strategy can, ultimately, open the door to even more promising markets.

Prepared by Zain Shah
Source: http://www.wimax.com/commentary/spotlight

WiMax Launch in Wisconsin First in Nation with Voice, Data

Madison, Wisc., gets one of first full-scale, full-on WiMax deployments: TDS Telecom (1.2m voice lines, 171K DSL lines), a sister company with US Cellular (6m customers, 26 states), rolls out licensed mobile WiMax, albeit in a fixed configuration. The service covers 55,000 households and 10,000 businesses in Madison with service at up to 6 Mbps downstream and 3 Mbps upstream. The combination of voice and data makes this a first in the U.S., although there are other early WiMax data networks deployed.

Residential service is $50/mo. for 2 Mbps symmetrical with phone service, $55 for 4 Mbps, and $60 for 6 Mbps. Dropping phone service cuts $5 per month, and there’s a $10/mo. bundle discount for the first three months. Business service starts at $129/mo. based on contract length. The WiMax receiver will have a two-hour continuously charged battery backup to preserve voice and data during brief power outages. No mention is made of setup costs or minimum residential service term commitments in the pricing document.

They have seven towers deployed, although the precise number in use is a little confusing: a map shows five running, two still in progress, while the press release mentions six towers at one point and seven at another. Each tower has a two-mile radius of coverage, they say, while their licensed are will allow them a total 35 mile radius around Madison. They’re using Alvarion 802.16e 4Motion equipment, but in a fixed not mobile configuration at launch; the hardware is upgradable later to seamless handoffs.

The company’s press release says that service installation requires a visit from a technician. This is typically the case with all new broadband. When I had DSL installed by then-US West in 1997, it meant a truckroll. Just a couple years later, self-install was the name of the game. The rule in telcos—that I read in a DSL textbook, of all places—is that services have to move to 95 percent self-install, 5 percent truckroll, at worst to become profitable and correctly priced offerings.
Prepared by Glenn Fleishman
http://wimaxnetnews.com/

What is WiMAX?

WiMAX is a wireless digital communications system, also known as IEEE 802.16, that is intended for wireless "metropolitan area networks". WiMAX can provide broadband wireless access (BWA) up to 30 miles (50 km) for fixed stations, and 3 - 10 miles (5 - 15 km) for mobile stations.

In contrast, the WiFi/802.11 wireless local area network standard is limited in most cases to only 100 - 300 feet (30 - 100m). With WiMAX, WiFi-like data rates are easily supported, but the issue of interference is lessened. WiMAX operates on both licensed and non-licensed frequencies, providing a regulated environment and viable economic model for wireless carriers.WiMAX can be used for wireless networking in much the same way as the more common WiFi protocol.

WiMAX is a second-generation protocol that allows for more efficient bandwidth use, interference avoidance, and is intended to allow higher data rates over longer distances. The IEEE 802.16 standard defines the technical features of the communications protocol. The WiMAX Forum offers a means of testing manufacturer's equipment for compatibility, as well as an industry group dedicated to fostering the development and commercialization of the technology.

WiMax.com is one of the useful website that provides a focal point for consumers, service providers, manufacturers, analysts, and researchers who are interested in WiMAX technology, services, and products. Soon, WiMAX will be a very well recognized term to describe wireless Internet access throughout the world.

Source: http://www.wimax.com/education

Packet One (P1) appoints Alcatel-Lucent to integrate & deploy one of the world's first and largest WiMAX networks in the 2.3 GHZ spectrum band

Paris and Kuala Lumpur, January 29, 2008 – Packet One Networks (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (P1) has selected Alcatel-Lucent (Euronext and NYSE: ALU) to deploy and manage one of the world’s first large-scale commercial WiMAX networks to date in the 2.3 gigahertz (GHz) spectrum band, a deal valued at USD71 million for Phase 1 of deployment. This project highlights P1’s preeminent position in the commercial introduction of WiMAX 802.16e technology and helps establish Malaysia as one of Asia-Pacific’s wireless broadband leaders.

The contract was signed today at a ceremony witnessed by YB Dato’ Sri Dr Lim Keng Yaik, Minister of Energy, Water and Communications. Under the agreement, Alcatel-Lucent will supply P1, a subsidiary of Green Packet Berhad and WiMAX license-holder, with a complete, turn-key, end-to-end integrated WiMAX wireless broadband solution, including base stations, wireless access controllers, and an operation and maintenance center. Alcatel-Lucent also will be responsible for designing, supplying, constructing, installing, testing, commissioning, integrating, optimizing and maintaining P1’s WiMAX network.

Deployment is already underway in Klang Valley, Penang and Johor and will expand rapidly throughout West Malaysia. P1 plans to provide WiMAX coverage for 25 percent of the population in Malaysia (6.5 million people) by the end of 2008 and 40 percent of the population in Malaysia (10 million people) by the end of 2010. P1 expects to provide WiMAX coverage to 60 percent of the nation’s population - including urban, suburban and rural areas - within five years.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, P1’s CEO Michael Lai said, “The advent of wireless broadband has revolutionized communication and WiMAX is set to change the broadband landscape even further, making the Internet mobile and more personal. Our customers will soon have access to advanced services such as voice over IP (VoIP), high-speed Internet access and other data services instantly and while on the go using WiMAX-enabled devices without being tied down by wires.

“We are convinced that WiMAX, which is an all-IP solution, has the right DNA - that is device, network and application - for a successful platform,” Lai added. “We selected Alcatel-Lucent for this project because we are confident that they will deliver seamless wireless communications network that is poised to deliver fresh new services, improved applications and compelling content. There is strong synergy between both companies and more importantly coherence in our strategy and vision for WiMAX. In addition, Alcatel-Lucent also possesses strong technological competency, capability in the provision of end-to-end solutions for both wireless and fixed broadband networks, local presence, and proven track record as a leader in the development of WiMAX technology.”

“P1 will serve as an important showcase in Southeast Asia for WiMAX Rev-e’s readiness to support a vibrant business,” said Frederic Rose, President of Alcatel-Lucent’s business in Europe, Africa and Asia. “We’ve demonstrated the maturity of our WiMAX solution worldwide, and the terminal ecosystem is now really taking off – P1 being a ready and capable organization stands to benefit from that.”

The new WiMAX 2.3Ghz service will facilitate significantly faster wireless communications and provide a strong foundation to support the further development and growth of information and communications technology in Malaysia. It also supports the government’s National Broadband Plan to foster economic progress through the establishment of a knowledge-based economy.

Dato’ Sri Dr Lim Keng Yaik, Minister of Energy, Water and Communications, expressed delight that P1 is leading the pack by becoming one of the first to commercially deploy mobile WiMAX in the 2.3GHz band in Asia-Pacific and to establish one of the world’s largest mobile WiMAX 2.3Ghz network. “With the solid foundation established today by P1 together with Alcatel-Lucent, Malaysia’s vision to offer the best communications and wireless broadband infrastructure is now within our grasp.”

P1 is the first out of the four Malaysian WiMAX 2.3Ghz license-holders to deliver on its commitment to deploy WiMAX in an effort to help the Malaysian government realize its aspiration to enrich the lives of Malaysians and bridge digital divide.

With more than 70 pilots and deployments across the world and 20 commercial contracts signed since the beginning of 2007, Alcatel-Lucent is No. 1 in the worldwide WiMAX market.

Alcatel-Lucent’s Universal WiMAX solution integrates the latest technological innovations, such as “beam forming”* and MIMO**. Beam forming enables a service provider to dramatically reduce the number of radio sites needed to provide coverage – in some instances by as much as 40 percent – while reducing interference and ensuring better indoor penetration of the radio signal. MIMO helps make radio links more robust, nearly doubling the capacity delivered in dense urban environments.

Source:http://www.alcatel-lucent.com/wps/portal/!ut/p/kcxml/04_Sj9SPykssy0xPLMnMz0vM0Y_QjzKLd4x3tXDUL8h2VAQAURh_Yw!!?LMSG_CABINET=Docs_and_Resource_Ctr&LMSG_CONTENT_FILE=News_Releases_2008/News_Article_000816.xml

Top 10 Wireless ISP Equipment Vendors

There are numerous equipment vendors in the broadband wireless industry selling equipment that allows wireless Internet service providers (WISPs) to provide wireless high-speed Internet access to residential, business and roaming wireless customers.

Over the past six years, we have interviewed hundreds of vendors, talked to thousands of wireless ISP operators and even more wireless end users.

BWE attends a long list of tradeshows, industry conferences and vendor training sessions to get a sense of what technology is available to customers as well as learn the difference between the marketing hype and how the equipment actually performs in the field.

Many newcomers ask for a short list of vendors they should consider when evaluating equipment specs, pricing, customer service, support after the sale and customer satisfaction.

This list below represents what BWE considers to be Top 10 Wireless ISP Equipment Vendors in the broadband wireless industry based on what we know about the vendors as well as what their customers say about their product lines.

Top 10 Wireless ISP Equipment Vendors:

Tranzeo Wireless Technologies
WiNetworks WiMAX
Trango Broadband Wireless
Cisco Outdoor Wireless Solutions
DigitalPath Technology
Aperto Networks
Sputnik Wi-Fi Hotspots
Value Point Mesh Routers and Gateways
Airpath (billing systems)