What is WiMAX? WiMAX stands for the Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access. WiMAX has the same principles as WiFi, it sends data from one computer to another by using radio signals. It's main purpose is to increase coverage and quality of service for customers as well as ensure that broadband wireless radios that are manufactured for customers, use interoperate from vendor to vendor.
There are two parts to the WiMAX System: 1) The Tower- Very similiar to a cell phone tower, this tower provides very large coverage of up to 3,000 square miles. The Tower Station would be able to connect to the internet by using a high bandwidth, wired connection. or through a line-of-sight microwave link. This is what helps WiMAX cover rural areas that are remote. 2) The Receiver- Any type of antenna or receiver that can be built into a laptop which will have access like WiFi.
Benefits of WiMAX 1) Long Range- WiMAX has a range of up to 30 miles, which is well over existing wireless technology ranges. 2) Service- there are two forms for this wireless service, 1) Non Line of Sight- whatever tower is closest to you is where a small antenna on your computer will connect, this type of mode uses a lower frequency range which allows it to go around obstacles more easily, instead of being disrupted by phyical objects, 2) Line of Sight- this is where a fixed dish antenna points right at the tower from a pole or rooftop, this helps the signal become stronger and more stable, with a higher frequency you are able to send more data with fewer erros and there is less interference.
3) High Bandwidth- this technology can support up to 1000 homes or 60 businesses, and has a shared data rate of up to 70Mbps.
4) Wireless- this allows users to be cable free.
5) Low Cost- the cost for a base station will be under $20,000 and still allow customers to receive an T1-class connection.
Will WiMAX replace DSL or Cable?
This answer will vary from region to region. Many developing countries do not have the broadband techonologies to support DSL or Cable connections. In the case of business and infrastructure solutions, whichever techonology solution is cheaper is what will dominate in that field; in developing nations having DSL and Cable is the cheaper solution. The domination of WiMAX will be found outside of major towns. In the US, Cable and DSL are not always available to every customer, however are still growing very fast. When these options are available, sometimes they can not be connected when it is outside the city limits. This is why having a low cost WiMAX available will draw in many new customers. While providing competitve options for carriers and users, WiMAX encourages innovation and improves services.
Other Websites about WiMAX:
Definition of WiMAX
Trends in WiMAX
WiMAX Forum
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