Introduction
WiMax technology (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) allows the
opportunity for instantaneous network connections across large geographic regions without
wires. This technology developed as a natural progression from LAN (Local Area Networks)
and WIFI (Wireless Fidelity) communication systems. This technology is similar in that the
wireless connection operates on a comparable frequency with much faster connection
speeds. Currently, Intel is the only significant developer of this service. The Institute of
Electrical and Electronic Engineers, (IEEE) designates this service as 802.16.
How WiMax works
WiMax operates on the same principal as a cellular phone infrastructure. Creating a
WiMax link is achieved by connecting a tower directly to a main frame of the internet and
delivering the signal in one of two methods. The first type of service is similar to WIFI in
that it uses a lower frequency to link directly to a consumer’s computer. This type of
transmission has a smaller radius of five miles from the transmission center without wire
connections. An advantage of this type of WiMax is there is not line-of-site requirement, the
closer the consumer to the tower the better the feed.
The second type of WiMax is line-of-site. This type provides a thirty mile radius of
coverage, six times that of a non line-of-site. The disadvantage of this type of service is the
consumer is required to place the receiver in a high elevation so that a line-of-sight
connection can be established. However there are advantages to this type of connection. A
stronger link is established through higher frequencies with less interference and greater
bandwidth.
Once a WiMax link is established, the consumer can access information with great
efficiency. For example, WIFI currently runs at 54 Megabits per second under optimal
conditions. In contrast, WiMax runs at 70 Megabits per second on average. WiMax allows
more consumers to access larger amounts information at faster speeds than WIFI at high
volume peaks.
Domestic and Global applications of WiMax
WiMax allows rural areas more options in speed high connectivity. The fiber optic
infrastructure required for DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) or a broadband connection is no
longer needed. The cost incentive is greater for a provider to place a tower rather than build
the necessary network to connect the rural consumer.
Voice over Internet Protocol, (VoIP) is a design benefit of WiMax. The innovators
had this in mind when they created the larger bandwidth. Consumers could use VoIP
without impacting the speed or efficiency of the rest of the system. This has the greatest
impact for rural communities offering a choice for the consumer communication needs.
The movie industry has also adopted the WiMax system. In Park City, Utah, the
premier of the film Rize, was the first feature film to be delivered by WiMax. This has far
reaching cost saving implications for the movie industry in preventing piracy and cutting
production cost. The film industry spends approximately 1.5 billion dollars in producing,
distributing, and destroying 35mm film. WiMax could lower overall distribution costs saving
capital for movie studios. This would allow smaller, independent studios the chance to
distribute their movies with less financial burden.
Another unique advantage of WiMax allows communication systems to remain
operational during times of natural disasters and terrorist attacks. Traditional communication
systems rely on physical connections that are venerable to the elements. WiMax’s system
eliminates the need for a physical infrastructure. A tower can be easily erected in the event of
need.
Globally, WiMax can be beneficial to developing countries in which new
construction is costly and time prohibitive. Establishing a network of WiMax towers is
relatively inexpensive in comparison to traditional fiber optic infrastructures. A great benefit
of this system allows a transmitter to be placed on existing cellular towers, decreasing the
need for new construction.
Developing third world countries can use this technology as a means of establishing
connections quickly with less initial cost. The duality of the system allowing both voice and
data connection would be greatly beneficial in helping the people of these regions.
Future Implications
The future generation of WiMax technology is GAN (Global Area Network) IEEE-
802.20. This iteration allows the mobility to move within the tower radius coverage area into
the adjoining area without loss of connection. This would provide seamless, uninterrupted
connectivity from coast to coast.
Summary
WiMax offers the consumer a choice in data and voice service offering greater
connectivity with fewer infrastructures. The far reaching implications of this service allow
the consumer a choice in their communication needs while eliminating the need for wires.
This will be greatly beneficial building networks faster and with less expense.
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