WiMAX interoperability - 28 May 2005
WiMAX interoperability:
First WiMAX is an IEE standard which defines the use of licensed and unlicensed spectrum bands. It is a a grown-up version of the successful Wi-Fi standard, but differentiate from it by using licensed and unlicensed operations, by higher speeds up to 75Mbit/s with non-line-of-sight communications, and spanning about 30 miles. The interference risk issue has been solved.
In addition, research has been done to make the standard compatible with ETSI HiperMAN wireless MAN European standards. The 802.16 working group and the WiMAX Forum have worked out on interoperability issues, and the ratification of 802.16b is expected soon. Carrier-grade capability (i.e. QoS) and interoperability are the two mandatory features WiMAX needs to have to be a credible candidate for deploying public services.
The worlds first WiMAX Forum Certified products will be available by years end, meaning the market growth is expected beyond 2006.