Why WiMAX And When?

There’s been a lot of talk surrounding WiMAX lately. So much, in fact, that many technology providers have been forced to determine what’s fact and what’s fiction, creating a lot of misperceptions. During a recent conversation with one expert, I came away with some valuable information that should answer many questions surrounding WiMAX.

Has WiMAX evolved at the rate you expected it to?
Scott McClure, product business unit leader for wireless broadband and networking, TESSCO Technologies: It depends. Fixed WiMAX (802.16d) has developed into a legitimate wireless alternative to DSL or cable with a superior feature set compared to existing wireless platforms or 802.11-based systems. On the other hand, Mobile WiMAX (802.16e) has fallen way short of expectations. Issues with performance, lack of available consumer products, and the threat of LTE (long-term evolution, a next-generation wireless standard) have limited the adoption of Mobile WiMAX systems.

What do you expect to happen in the next year to 18 months in terms of WiMAX penetration of the wireless market?
McClure: I expect the penetration of Fixed WiMAX solutions to grow substantially over the next 18 months. Mobile WiMAX will grow as well, but deployment will be limited to a small number of service providers with the financial resources that do not opt to upgrade their network with LTE. In that regard, I don’t think Mobile WiMAX will reach the lofty predictions set as recently as one year ago.

Do you expect more consumer products to take advantage of WiMAX networks?
McClure: Yes, but not in devices where true mobility is not as important as portability. While it’s possible that WiMAX will be embedded into high-end mobile devices such as the iPhone as a complement or alternative to Wi-Fi, you won't be driving around town utilizing a seamless WiMAX connection. I see a higher probability of incorporating WiMAX into devices such as mini notebooks where high speed Internet access and portability meet.

How are you seeing WiMAX impact the channel?
McClure: Based on the features and functionality of WiMAX systems, system configurations and installations are best performed by properly trained personnel. This creates an excellent opportunity for VARs and integrators willing to invest in getting qualified.

Are there particular verticals where WiMAX best fits?
McClure: Municipalities, mobile service enterprises, oil and gas, and transportation are the verticals that come to mind first, but WiMAX actually is a fit for any market with the need for a WAN network covering a large area.

What are common mistakes VARs make when jumping into their first WiMAX deployment?
McClure: All WiMAX systems are not completely interoperable. Low cost CPE (customer premise equipment) devices do not allow network operators to take advantage of all software-based features built into the base stations.

What objections typically arise when a VAR pitches a WiMAX solution?
McClure: The two I hear the most are concerns over WiMAX not being a proven technology and the higher cost of CPE when compared to Wi-Fi based systems.

What should a wireless or networking VAR do now to be prepared to take advantage of WiMAX growth opportunities?
McClure: Understand the long-term customer benefits of adding WiMAX to their network — where is the system going to save them money over time and provide scalability for the future?