Unlike competing technologies that seek to provide a wireless alternative to cable and DSL for the last mile of broadband access, WiMax can provide up to some 30 miles of linear service area range without a direct line of sight. The claim is that the transmission data rate would be approximately 1 Mbit/s DSL level connectivity to a thousand homes.

Real world testing, however, has returned a limited connectivity of around 500 Kbit/s on average. These numbers are expected to improve as the technology continues to evolve and ultimately WiMax will be used to provide VOIP, video, and Internet access simultaneously. Home units the size of a paperback book with phone and network connection ports is already on the market.

Compatibility with Other Wireless Broadband Service

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Potential for interoperability between WiMax and legacy cellular networks is high since the antennas can share a tower without affecting basic functions. A connection to an Internet backbone is possible through fiber optical cable or microwave link. The technology can also be used for increasing bandwidth for a number of data-intensive applications. The potential capability to provide a very high bandwidth platform for network or cellular phone traffic even in remote areas make WiMax a natural choice as an alternative to traditional DSL. The system is cost effective since it can make use of existing cellular towers and is therefore more suitable for deployment in areas of low population density that have long been plagued by limited or nonexistent access.

Spectrum Allocation Issues

A uniform global licensed spectrum is yet to be put in place for this new technology. The largest segment available in the United States is around 2.5 GHz which is currently assigned to Sprint Nextel. Even in countr ies with lesser networks compared to the United States, the maximum possible segment size is 3.5 GHz. WiMax is likely to get around 700 MHz only by 2009 when complete rollout of HD digital TV comes up. Moreover, spectrums are always subject to tough competitions from bidders. The assigned segment and use will therefore vary based on geographical jurisdiction.

Some Final Thoughts

As a next generation technology aimed at replacing standard DSL and cable connections, WiMax, based on the IEEE 802.16 standard, is gradually gaining ground as the wireless broadband ISP of the future. The greatest advantages are faster access to greater numbers of people within the specified range. WiMax technology has the potential to greatly extend broadband access to remote areas and to improve access in existing areas of connectivity.

Understanding 802.11x Wireless Networking Standards
Best Wireless Media Centers
Changing the Face of Communication: Wifi Meets VOIP
Go Global with High-Quality GSM Cell Service
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What are the Technical Reasons to Use Wimax

Compatibility with Other Wireless Broadband Service

Spectrum Allocation Issues

Some Final Thoughts

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