WiMAX Architecture and Applications

A wireless MAN based on the WiMAX air interface standard is configured in much the same way as a traditional cellular network with strategically located base stations using a point-to-multipoint architecture to deliver services over a radius up to several kilometers depending on frequency, transmit power and receiver sensitivity.

In areas with high population densities the range will generally be capacity limited rather than range limited due to limitation in the amount of available spectrum. The base stations are typically backhauled to the core network by means of fiber or point-to-point microwave links to available fiber nodes or via leased lines from an incumbent wire-line operator.

The range and NLOS capability makes the technology equally attractive and cost-effective in a wide variety of environments. The technology was envisioned from the beginning as a means to provide wireless “last mile” broadband access in the Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) with performance and services comparable to or better than traditional DSL, Cable or T1/E1 leased line services. The market segments that will be addressed in conjunction with the business case analysis are:



SOHO High Speed Internet Access
Today this market segment is primarily dependent on the availability of DSL or cable. In some areas the available services may not meet customer expectations for performance or reliability and/or are too expensive. In many rural areas residential customers are limited to low speed dial-up services.

In developing countries there are many regions with no available means for internet access. The analysis will show that the WiMAX technology will enable an operator to economically address this market segment and have a winning business case under a variety of demographic conditions.

Small and Medium Business
This market segment is very often underserved in areas other than the highly competitive urban environments. The WiMAX technology can cost-effectively meet the requirements of small and medium size businesses in low density environments and can also provide a cost-effective alternative in urban areas competing with DSL and leased line services.

WiFi Hot Spot Backhaul
WiFi hot spots are being installed worldwide at a rapid pace. One of the obstacles for continued hot spot growth however, is the availability of high capacity, cost-effective backhaul solutions. This application can also be addressed with the WiMAX technology. And with nomadic capability, WiMAX can also fill in the coverage gaps between WiFi hot spot coverage areas.

Reference: "The Business Case for Fixed Broadband Wireless Access based onWiMAX Technology and the IEEE 802.16 Standard", WIMAX forum white paper. http://www.wimaxforum.org.