Department of Computer Sciences

Taking WiFi to the Max

8 October 2004Mike Bishop

Tomek CzajkaMatt Henkler

Department of Computer Sciences

What is WiMax?

• Medium range wireless data communication standard (802.16)

• Operates on frequencies between 2-66GHz (bandwidth or specifics not clearly defined yet).

• 1 to 10 mile range (10 miles assuming rural areas with little blockages).

• 70MB/second transfer rate

Image copyright Intel (2004)

Department of Computer Sciences

WiMax (Continued)

• Two different specifications, one for 10-66GHz, one for sub-11 GHz frequencies.

• Plan to offer multiple service options, one targeted to replace T1, T3 deployment in businesses, one for residential DSL-type service.

• Expect WiMax in PDAs and Laptops by 2006

• Article states widespread deployment by 2007

Department of Computer Sciences

Image copyright Intel (2004)

Department of Computer Sciences

Image copyright Intel (2004)

Department of Computer Sciences

Image copyright Intel (2004)

Department of Computer Sciences

Expected players

• Backed by 140 companies in the WiMax Forum (www.wimaxforum.org)

• Intel is producing chips and currently managing 50 test sites around the country

• Covad (currently a big DSL provider) is considering using WiMax for last mile connections.

Department of Computer Sciences

Competing Technologies

• Directional WiFi (802.11[a,b,g])

• Motorola Canopy - 10Mbps, 2-10 miles

• GPRS (cellular phone network) – 30-70kbps

• 3G technologies (newer cellular phone data transfer)

Department of Computer Sciences

Article Analysis

• Describes WiMax in layman’s terms

• Low on technical details, exact performance specifications, or cost

• Does not describe how providers will promote this service

• Does not mention that complete specifications have not been written

Department of Computer Sciences

Opinions

• Hesitant about relying on wireless technologies for sole access for business use (sunspots, foliage, snow, construction, etc.).

• Uncertain as to which competing wireless technology will become dominant by 2007.

• How will cellular companies react to a competing wireless data service?

• What will happen to voice communications (i.e. VOIP) in relation to WiMax?

Department of Computer Sciences

Questions?