Mobile WiMAX Updates
Is WiMAX presenting a direct competition to 3G?
Oct 2009
Today it is difficult to agree to the proposition that WiMAX is presenting a direct competition to 3G or HSPA based networks. In fact, to put it very straight- it is acting just like a wireless ISP at the moment.
Presenting a direct competition to 3G is a term which crops up quite frequently, but the fact is that nothing of the sort is happening. If WiMAX was to present real competition, it would be out with handsets which would have VoIP, connectivity to mobile and fixed line networks, a numbering plan and access to broadband and other services. But far from it, most WiMAX operators still continue to mark their presence with only USB modems or plug-in cards which cannot differentiate themselves from HSPA or EV-DO modems.
One reason for this is that there is today no clear framework on how an operator could possibly provide all these services which a mobile phone provides today such as voice calls in the absence of a structure which is defined to the application level such as defined by 3GPP for 3G networks. The specifications are very detailed right from codec types to protocols for streaming, instant messaging, and connectivity to legacy networks. The 3GPP does it under the IMS for the earlier versions of 3G. These are in fact just about the only versions which exist.While the subscriber uptake of 3G networks goes in hundreds of millions, that for WiMAX is limited to a basic wireless ISP like operation with few devices other than USB modems and numbers in hundreds of thousands at best.
This situation is so not only in the US, but also in other markets worldwide. One hope for WiMAX is that it is now approved as one of the interfaces for 3G networks ( OFDMA-TDD). So if one of the 3G operators deploys it for advanced 3G services, it is possible to do it under the 3G framework i.e. make the WiMAX do just about the functions till the network layer. One reason why such an operator would like to do so would be the limitation of 3G spectrum for HSPA or LTE.
There are at present no compelling reasons why customers should insist on WiMAX in their handsets like the Wi-Fi. The 3G data plans are in the range of $30-40 and so are the WiMAX data plans. If WiMAX could do it with $1-2 a month, you have a disruptive technology, which will force its way in handsets. At present, unfortunately there are no such signs and in fact 3G or HSPA+ seem to be disrupting WiMAX as these technologies grow in the well defined framework of 3GPP.
US Shows the way for Rural WiMAX with ATC and Funding
Jan 13,2009
The prospects of Rural broadband through the WiMAX technology have got a philip with Open Range Communications completing its funding and being on a firm path to launch the services using the Global Star satellite and the ancillary terrestrial component. Back in Nov 2008 the FCC had permitted the Globalstar to use the ATC to provide terrestrial extension of Satellite delivered broadband using WiMAX technology. Globalstar had been permitted the use of 19.75 MHz of ATC spectrum by the FCC in April 2008. The use of WiMAX was enabled by the FCC order in Nov 2008 and puts at rest any doubts on this technology being an ideal candidate for rapid rural rollouts.
The Department of Agriculture's Rural Development Utilities Program had earlier committed $267 Million as loan funds for the rural connectivity program which will cover 15% of America’s rural population. Open range communications has now completed the funding with $100 Million committed by One Equity Partners.
Open Range Communications plans to use existing infrastructure such as towers where available for a rapid and cost effective rollout.
The coverage map of communities is here.
http://www.wimaxbook.net
3G and WiMAX Auction starts to roll in India with release of Information Memorandum!
12 Dec,2008
The Department of Telecom has today released the Information memorandum setting in motion the process of 3G and Broadband spectrum auction. The document is available on the DOT website ( http://www.dot.gov.in/as/Auctionindex.htm) The start of the 3G auction is from 16 Jan 2009 and the BWA auction begins two days after the closure of the 3G auction.
For WiMAX, the spectrum will be auctioned in the 2.3 and 2.5 GHz bands. Three blocks of 20 MHz are on the block for auction. The exact frequencies vary from service area. For Delhi and Mumbai these are as follows:
2305.0-2325.0 MHz
2327.5-2347.5 MHz
2535-2555 MHz
Spectrum in the 2635-2655 MHz band with 20 MHz bandwidth has been assigned to MTNL in Delhi and
Mumbai and to BSNL in all the service areas except three service areas where they have been assigned spectrum
in FDD mode.
The eligibility requirement is to be ( or become) a Class A ISP, or a Universal Access Service Provider ( UAS) or a Cellular Mobile Service Provider ( CMTS).
DoT guidelines stipulate that a UAS license can only be awarded to an Indian Company. Hence, foreign applicants will need to form an Indian subsidiary to obtain the UAS license. However they are allowed to participate
in the Auctions directly, and apply for a license subsequently. ISPs as per present policy can have FDI upto 74%.
There is a rollout obligation of coverage of 90% of service area within 5 years.
In addition to the money paid for auction there is an annual charge of 3% of adjusted gross revenues (AGR). In case of BWA ( WiMAX) the revenues to be counted include those from VoIP, IPTV and regular internet access.
The license will be valid for 15 years.
More on this later..
hhttp://www.wimax-home.com
Mobile WiMAX gets disruptive in Yota Russia
Nov 21, 2008
Scartel, which operates a Mobile WiMAX network in Russia( Yota) has demonstrated what the industry forecasters have been saying for long—that the Mobile WiMAX is set to be unleashed as a truly disruptive industry.
Using an HTC Touch 4G-WiMAX and Triple band GSM handset ( HTC MAX 4G) ( see video preview here) Yota now offers 14 channels of Live TV, access to online music catalogue of over 50,000 titles and a video-on demand service). The Touch-screen handset has a 5 Mp camera, a 3.8-inch 800x480 WVGA touch-screen display , TV out capability, integrated GPS and Windows Mobile 6.1 OS. The mobile WiMAX operates in the 2.5 GHz range.
What has been done in Yota should leave many GSM operators with worries as Mobile WiMAX networks rolls out. The fact that when both subscribers have the capability to receive Mobile WiMAX, the call is automatically converted to VoiP is important. What we are really talking about is this happening worldwide in the next 2-3 years.
Also the TV channels ( TV:14 channels) via Mobile WiMAX leads the way in Mobile Broadcasting, leaving the standard terrestrial technologies redundant.
Mobile WiMAX Spotlight on India
21 Nov 2008
With a number of companies moving ahead with investments on rolling out Mobile WiMAX in India and the stage being set for the auction of prime 2.5 Ghz spectrum in the next quarter, the spotlight is now India.
The Indian mobile sector has proved its mettle with a monthly growth figure of 8-9 million customers a month even in difficult economic conditions. The base of subscribers, now standing at 300 million is set to double in the next three years to over 600 million customers. All this is happening with serious gaffes in spectrum allocation.
The stage is now set for the auction of 2G and Mobile WiMAX 2.5 G spectrum and that is what is set to be yet another inflection point in the fastest growing telecom market in the world. With the 2.5 G spectrum falling under the ambit of IMT2000, the battle for the spectrum is set to be keen.
In a separate decision, the government has decided to take away the 3.4-3.6 GHz spectrum away from existing applications such as satellite TV. This is again set to be allocated to users for WiMAX and broadband applications.
With the agenda for WiMAX set for India, Sprint Nextel, which has already launched Mobile WiMAX services in Baltimore has announced its intention of launching WiMAX consultancy in India. As per Barry West president of XOHM, the time is right for such a move as companies in India gear up for a new ecosystem of networks and devices targeting the mobile world with a new technology.
In a similar development Intel has also revealed its plans for investing in the Indian WiMAX story. Known for its investment of $1 billion in Sprint’s XOHM network, Intel is set to be a prime beneficiary of growth in consumer devices and its chipsets. The Indian effort is being spearheaded by Mr Sriram Vishwanathan, General manager for the WiMAX program who has voiced his optimism for the technology in no uncertain terms.“ It is for the first time that India will be able to take a lead in technology evolution. The country presents a phenomenal opportunity for WiMAX.”
Not to be left behind, vendors such as Samsung and Motorola, which have been prime drivers of the Korean WiBrO and XOHM in USA with WIMAX modems, chipsets, USB cards and mobile devices have decided to give a new thrust to their presence in India. Motorola already has successful deployment in Pakistan ( Wateen Telecom) and is set to expand its presence in the region. For Samsung, known for its advanced handsets and leading presence in the WiMAX segment, India today presents the right time, opportunity and scale of growth as per the sentiments expressed by Mr Paul Thurneysen, responsible for 4G/ WiMAX business lines.
The deck is now cleared for the next stage i.e. the auctions which will determine which companies can go ahead with their investment plans.
A Momentous Week in US History
06 Nov 2008
This week has been a momentous one in US history and not only for Obama. The FCC has taken two pathbreaking decisions this week which give a legup to WiMAX and mobile broadband in the country.
The FCC has permitted the use of White Spaces in the TV spectrum for Mobile Broadband services in another decision. The decision by FCC is indeed a key one for many reasons. First, the spectral resources can no longer be afford to be wasted, and white spaces deserve to be allotted to users. Second, the Sprint Nextel-Clearwire combine hold a bulk of WiMAX spectrum in the higher bands and the growth of WiMAX in US is now linked to the performance of these companies. Third, the lower bands of 700 Mhz are important for Mobile devices particularly as these are better suited for indoor penetration. Fourth, the mobile broadcasting will be a key area of growth and innovation and it will take more than the 3G technologies to deliver it.
In another major decision, the FCC has permitted Sprint to hive off its WiMAX to Clearwire to create the biggest WiMAX company worth $14.5 Billion. This will now clear the path for growth of WiMAX network across the US.
Both the decisions, coming in a week of historical changes in the US, signify a lot for the broadband users in the country. The months ahead will change the landscape of WiMAX broadcasting in the country as the key wireless technologies get enabled to enable America to keep its lead in innovative devices and services.
WiMAX Forum in India comes face to face with the Reality of Mobility
New Delhi, Oct 15,2008
The WiMAX Forum Expo in India, organized by the WiMAX world Forum with Intel was an important event, if the new directions it has pointed out for the industry are any clue.
When the it predicted 19 million users in India by 2012 it did not in any way overestimated the potential of this market. In fact they have hit the nail on the head by basing it on the Mobile user growth of 8-9 million a month and the miniscule number of broadband subscribers at 4.5 million. The fact remains that mobility is the key to usage of services today. The fact that Mobile WiMAX provides much superior broadband usage capability than mobile networks is well known today. However it is the enabling factors such as Spectrum and Licensing for Mobile WiMAX which hold the key as brought out by the WiMAX forum.
The WiMAX Expo was held in the backdrop of a very successful launch of Sprint’s XOHM network in Baltimore in Sept 2008 with performance which equaled three times that on 3G networks. This is important for a country just going in for 3G auctions in Dec 2008 and puts the two technologies in the proper perspective. With 1 Mbps+ speeds on the uplink and 5 Mbps on the downlink, with mobility added, the technology today stands apart. This is more so in today’s video based applications.
The fact remains that if WiMAX technology is to break out of its eggshell, it will need to focus on two things: first the development of new generation mobile applications and second the integration with existing Mobile networks as over 300 million users in India alone can not be wished away. Towards this objective the application development Lab which is planned may hold the key.
Mobile WiMAX has to position itself as more than USB modems and Express cards which today operate on Mobile networks as well. It is the new mobile devies which hold the key.As do new applications which can operate on Mobile Phones in the 3G environment using IMS.
The target for the Mobile WiMAX should not therefore be looking at 4.5 broadband subscribers but at coexisting with the 300 Mobile handsets in use- a number which will exceed 500 million by 2012. Just 10 % penetration of this number with dual mode handsets is no less than 50 million users.
http://www.wimaxbook.net
Sprint’s WiMAX Network XOHM officially launches on 8th October 2008
Sept 23,2008
The Mobile WiMAX network of Sprint, XOHM, is now officially being launched on the 8th of October 2008 at Baltimore. The announcement of the official launch comes after many delays and postponed launches for the network for a variety of reasons. The wait is finally over, with the network already “running” and providing performance as expected.
While there are many Mobile WiMAX networks in operation around the globe, the one from Sprint has always held a special place owing to the scale of the launch, the quantum of spectrum held by the Sprint, Clearwire combine and the new devices from Intel, Samsung and Nokia which are moving in tandem with the proposed launch. It is the new devices and their performance which will distinguish the new wireless medium from the broadband provided by Mobile Networks and expectations are high that once Mobile WiMAX delivered wireless connectivity is available, the existing networks will start looking more and more as relics from the past.
The industry expects the Mobile WiMAX networks to prove themselves in an environment as the Mobile industry moves onto new products with HSDPA and EV-DO connectivity.
The partnership of Google, Intel and Cable companies such as Comcast point to a whole new world of devices, applications and delivery models for mobile media.
New Regulations permitting Internet telephony in India: A revolutionary opportunity for WiMAX in India
The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of India ( TRAI), chose the occasion of the Independence day in India to let the Internet Service Providers ( ISPs) loose of the severe restrictions which permitted any form of internet telephony. ( See Amitabh Kumar: "Indian Telecoms: Critical Deviations in the Post WTO Era") The new regulations now allow ISPs to not only provide internet telephony but also connect to telephony switches in India and overseas in order to provide end to end telephony services. ( See TRAI recommendations relating to Internet Telephony).
This changes , in its entirety the business model which the WIMAX operators had been going ahead with in the country. With only data revenues to count on the WiMAX, which is ideally suited for deployment primarily in rural areas, was essentially a non-viable proposition. Despite this serious handicap, high investments have been going in this sector just because any form of wireleless broadband can not be had in the vast hinterlands of the country for love or money.
The business case for WiMAX operators just got stronger with telephony calls being permitted, which can form an important source of revenues in rural areas and also give the new wireless ISPs access to Universal Service Obligation funds.
The recommendations of the TRAI are quite unusual in as much as they signify a complete reversal of its stand wherein it had been holding forth strongly to the view that only the Universal Access Service licensees and Cellular mobile operators, which were otherwise entitled to provide the telephony services were the only ones which could also provide VoIP and Internet telephony services. However these licensees enjoying much higher ARPUs from standard telephony were not inclined to push Internet telephony even though they were enjoying corresponding benefits from overseas Internet telephony operators.
What this means now is that operators can lay an overlay WiMAX network and make their business plans centered around VoIP and telephony amongst other services. Coming just prior to the WiMAX spectrum announcement policy ( 3G spectrum is already announced), the new recommendations convey the serious intent of the TRAI in promoting broadband in the country, presently beset with one of the lowest per capita usage in the World.
WiMAX operators, on the other hand need to quickly revise their business plans.
Completion of Sprint WiMAX trials set the stage for network launch
May 18, 2008
The Washington DC- Baltimore trials which were the staging ground for mobile WiMAX of Sprint Nextel under its XOHM brand have now given the signal for the final launch of the Mobile WiMAX network in USA which will cover over 140 million people by 2010.
The signal for commercial launch came after the trials were declared successful having validated an extensive set of parameters including data rates, handoffs and roaming, MIMO, reception by a range of consumer devices and many more. The trials validated the initial WiMAX devices from Samsung which have been designed to comply with the WiMAX Forum profiles for release 1 wave 2 and will form a part of the initial ecosystem which will be available. Handoffs, synchronization of base stations and delays in handoffs which have been the key differentiators from the Fixed WiMAX technologies have been proven to be acceptable as has the use of the spectrum which will be used for a countrywide rollout.
The signal for the commercial launch of the XOHM service coincides with the announcement of Joint Venture involving Sprint, Clearwire, Intel, Comcast, Time Warner and Google. The cash infusion which the partners are bringing in will enable the physical rollout across the United States as supporting revenues build up from subscription and use.
If the remarks of Barry West, CEO of Sprint are anything to go by, the market for Wireless services and devices is set to take a quantum jump in the USA, much beyond the incremental technologies such as HSDPA and EV-DO have been providing. The new ecosystem of high speed wireless connectivity will generate a host of new applications which were so far not possible owing to the limited set of capabilities in the mobile devices as well as the connectivity via mobile networks. The open architecture of the WiMAX will essentially make the Internet truly mobile and also lead to faster adoption of 3G in the networks.
Seems to be the beginnings of a very exciting era, one which has taken a long time to arrive but is here today like a rainbow with all the colors, excitement and yet always with an element of the unknown.
Sprint,Clearwire, Google,Intel and Major MSOs to come together in a joint Venture for WiMAX
Scene 4: And the 4th Generation Network Gets Set to Go!
May 08,2008
The latest news of Sprint and Clearwire coming together( in a joint venture) to launch the largest WiMAX network was always seen as the beginning of new era of universal connectivity, new devices and new architectures. However, back in mid 2007,the news that Sprint and Clearwire had decided go ahead on independently with their respective rollouts ( Scene 2) had brought in gloom to the industry. At one stage, it was even being said that the technology had serious problems and hence the delay. Next came the news of the major MSOs and Intel supporting a new initiative with fresh infusion of funds. This was scene 3 and the trial launches of XOHM in three markets went ahead. Now we finally have the news of Sprint and Clearwire coming together again, but this time with Time Warner, Comcast, Intel and Google also pitching in to form a joint venture.
Each one of the players is a winner, an innovator and embraces the latest technologies and is a leader in its field. In the new launch, do not expect merely a network such as WiFi but a new ecosystem of devices and applications based on QoS which is guaranteed by WiMAX.. The presence of Google signifies a range of applications developed around the Google portal, mobile and desktop as well as Google Talk, Android phones, Google maps and Google earth to be available in an integrated manner without the limitations of the traditional internet. The Cable MSOs will get the better of quadruple play services with interactive television, broadband wireless internet, VoIP and Video streaming.
As is always the case, when such a large ecosystem falls in place, it emerges with extremely disruptive technologies. The curtains are now up and the new scene about to be begin.
Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of India Issues consultation Paper for Mobile WiMAX and IMT-Advanced bands of 2.3 and 2.5 GHz
May 05, 2008
The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of India ( TRAI) has issued an important consultation paper on the proposed auction of spectrum in the bands which are considered as “ Prime” for mobile WiMAX. These bands are 2.3-2.4 GHz and 2.5-2.69 GHz, which have been recognized by the WiMAX Forum for its certification profiles and where wave 2 certified mobile devices are becoming available. Globally all WiMAX systems are now largely using these bands for future systems.
The TRAI consultation paper comes at quite an appropriate time as the Indian government is getting ready to allot the 3G spectrum. The consultation paper became necessary owing to certain recommendations of the TRAI on the allocation of spectrum which were self contradictory as well as at variance with global practices. The consultation paper also comes in as some of the mobile operators have started demanding that the 2.5-2.69 GHz be kept reserved for 3G-LTE after the WRC 2007 in Nov 2007 had adopted OFDMA-TDD as one of the approved air interfaces under the IMT-Advanced systems.
The paper proposes that the prime bands of 2.3-2.4 GHz and 2.5-2.69 GHz be got vacated by the scattered existing users and be earmarked for Broadband wireless ( meaning WiMAX) or 3G-Long term evolution (LTE). The Regulator has sought comments on whether the use should be technology neutral as in the United states or be specific to WiMAX or LTE. It has also sought comments on the pricing recognizing that the previous reserve prices particularly for BWA were extremely low and in most cases capped at 25% of the prices for 3G. The emergence of Mobile WiMAX worldwide as a strong technology in use in many networks has considerably increased interest in the spectrum and consequently the value which bidders are willing to pay considering that the spectrum is limited. Parts of the spectrum in the 2.5-2.69 GHz are presently in use by the Dept of Space with operating satellites and may not get vacated leaving only limited spectrum for the rest of the bidders of which one needs to be BSNL or MTNL, the state carriers. With 3G players also eying the same spectrum the number of suitors has gone up considerably for the balance left for allocation.
Unlike many countries such as Japan and Korea, India has not placed restrictions on the mobile operators also accumulating valuable wireless and WiMAX spectrum. This has led to the possibility of complete monopolization of the market by some of the existing mobile operators by having both the GSM/CDMA as well as the WiMAX spectrum which they hold in the 3.4-3.6 GHz band. This includes all the major cellular players. The operators have already wrenched a decision in their favor of keeping
foreign bidders out of the forthcoming 3G spectrum auctions despite the ministry of communications seeking to bring in additional players.
The responses and decisions on the present consultation paper will be important in determining whether the existing players will also be able to get the prime spectrum for Mobile WiMAX and LTE and keep other potential bidders which may be willing to offer much higher prices out. The TRAI, seeing a potential Frankenstein’s Monster of cartelization being created step by step in India has now put a question on the cumulative spectrum which a bidder can hold in these bands.
The decisions on this consultation paper are set to be some of the most important policy decisions which India is expected to witness in the current year considering the long term implications of these recommendations. It will also determine how open India’s market will be for foreign players who now have to play second fiddle to a local operator. It will also determine whether other players in the convergence era such as IPTV providers, broadcasters or wireless ISPs can expect to be in fray for new technologies or simply be swept by the wave of cartelization which is today the name of the game in spectrum.
Mobile WiMAX: Updates from NAB 2008
April 17,2008
NAB has not been a fora where wireless or WiMAX technologies take centre stage. This privilege is normally associated with events such as the WiMAX Forum World Congress, CTIA wireless or CES. Of late, with the broadcasting moving to the digital domain and the convergence technologies such as IPTV being the theme ( i.e. at NAB 2008) and mobile TV attracting extraordinary interest, operators attention has also been attracted to the new technologies. In the NAB, keynote speakers have also emphasized on the increasing importance of delivering a multimedia portal rather than just a mobile TV transmission to mobile devices. This has led to considerable attention being focused on the mobile WiMAX technologies in being able to deliver the new “ 4th Generation broadcasting”.
WiMAX broadcasting had moved into the domain of possible new technologies for new generation broadcasting after the demonstration of WiMAX Tv by MobiTV in NAB 2007, which also saw Nortel demonstrating its Mobile WiMAX service with TV streaming capabilities. With the mobile WiMAX wave 2 profiles just having been defined by the WiMAX forum at that time and no certified wave 2 devices being available at that time, that is as far as they could go at NAB 2007.
Considerable water has flown under the bridge since NAB 2007 and the NAB 2008 did not disappoint the viewers except for the delay of the expansion of the XOHM network beyond the initial three cities of Chicago, Baltimore and Washington.
Firstly the Mobile WiMAX is the only wireless technology using which Mobile TV can be delivered in the broadcast mode. This is owing to the multicast and broadcast (MBS) feature of the mobile WiMAX which can enable transmission to tens of thousands of mobile devices without the usual limitations of unicast connections. Wave 2 also supports MIMO and advanced antenna systems which are necessary to provide connectivity to mobile and handheld antennas subject to multipath propagation and low antenna gains. Nextwave® has come out with a WiMAX TV product based on multicasting (called MxTV), which was unveiled just prior to the NAB 2008( at CTIA wireless). At the NAB, UDcast unveiled its product for the same application i.e. WiMAX TV. The demonstrations included the complete ecosystem including the chipsets which will be used in receivers for such an application. Nextwave for example demonstrated its Wave 2 compliantNW2000 series WiMAX subscriber device System-on-a-Chip (SoC). Receiver devices based on this chipset should be available by Mid 2008.
Secondly a number of other Mobile WiMAX compatible devices have been unveiled earlier this year. This includes the Nokia N810 internet tablet, Samsung UMPCs, POSDATA gaming devices and UMPC and Samsung handsets. Over 100 types of CPEs and attachments such as PC cards, USB modems etc are now available which can enable a range of devices for mobile WiMAX. WiMAX laptops have been announced by other vendors as well, such as Acer(Acer Aspire 5920).
Third, the Wave 2 certification of devices by the WiMAX forum has commenced in earnest and at least 8 devices, having been certified were available at the time of the NAB 2008. These included wave 2 base stations as well as receiving devices. While the present certifications have been in the 2.3 GHz band, middle of 2008 should also see a range of devices in the 2.5 GHz band as well.
Fourth, services such as Internet radio have found increasing user acceptance and WiMAX is seen as one of the most effective ways to deliver continuously streaming internet radios to a range of mobile devices. IPTV and mobile TV ( such as ATSC- MPH based on IP data casting) are all based on IP based delivery of multimedia content and WiMAX is seen as the most effective means to deliver these as user portals with embedded news, mobile TV and RSS feeds as compared to terrestrial broadcast media.
Fifth news continued to flow in from many countries of successful commercial launches of mobile WiMAX networks as well as major investments. This included the Wateen Telecom, $ 500 million investment by Tata communications in India and $ 500 million by Intel in Taiwan. This is in addition to investments in Brazil, Malaysia and other countries.
Will WiMAX broadcasting target only mobile handsets for mobile TV where a number of technologies are already jostling for space? Far from it, as NAB has unveiled, it is likely to target the full range of mobile devices from music players and gaming devices to location based products, geographic information systems and multimode WiMAX/ WiFi and mobile devices.
Of great interest at the NAB 2008 were the keynotes and Super sessions, one of the notable ones being from Enrique Rodriguez from Microsoft’s connected TV division whose thrust of delivery was to convey how the broadcast devices ( such as TV) are today isolated from the connected world, such as web portals and social networking which form the core of user interest. The new generation technologies, especially for mobile devices will be of the “connected TV types” involving internet and TV. Mobile WiMAX is one of the most powerful medium to deliver such products.
News from WiMAX Forum World Congress April 9-10, 2008, Singapore
The WiMAX Forum World Congress was held on 9-10 April 2008. One of the biggest events in the region, and not belying expectations, news from the event has started rolling out heralding major developments.
One of the awaited happenings was the WiMAX forum certification of base stations, chipsets and CPEs which can be used interoperably in various networks.
(i) Samsung has now reported receiving the “Formal seal of approval” from the WiMAX forum for its Mobile WiMAX (IEEE 802.16e-2005) products. These include the 2.3 GHz base station, PCMCIA WiMAX card (incorporating Samsung Chipset) and the WiMAX “mobile station”. These are for the WiBro network and are wave 1 compatible.( i.e. do not support MIMO).
(ii) Some of the other devices and Chipsets which obtained the WiMAX forum certification include the Runcom for its mobile WIMAX chipsets and POSDATA for its FLYVO base station and USB modem, all for the 2.3 GHz profiles.
While many devices and chipsets claim conformance to WiMAX Forum profiles for wave 2 including MIMO, the formal certification for these will happen later in the second quarter. 2008 has been characterized by a slew of product announcements such as the Nokia 810 WiMAX Internet Tablet, Samsung handsets, Intel WiMAX/ WiFi modules and devices from Motorola, ASUS and others, the year going ahead will be a true test as the same devices operate in multiple networks. Taiwan for example has WiMAX networks operated by FiTEL and Global Telecom the later of which has also WiMAX roaming agreements with Asian carriers.
With many countries in Asia embarking on the rollout of Mobile WiMAX networks such as Singapore, such developments will lend support to a wide region WiMAX roaming alliance on the lines of GSM or 3G-UMTS.
Mobile WiMAX gathers steam as every week heralds launches of new products!
One of the tests of how ready a technology is to take off is to witness the number of products which are launched. Mobile WiMAX has been one of the technologies which has been constantly under the gaze as one which is “ too expansive” or “ does not work satisfactorily”. However many of these observations are hasty as is evident in the steady progress the technology is now making, week after week.
Earlier most products which were available were for Fixed WiMAX ( IEEE 802.16-2004) or for WiBRO. However the recent trends have accelerated towards increased availability of Mobile WiMAX products such as base stations, Mobile WiMAX embedded devices and external attachments. Many of these are now available with wave 2 compliance ( though the forum certifications may be some time away).
The attachments seem to target all markets and different types of devices such as PDAs, UMPCs, Laptops, gaming devices and Handsets. All these products are in fact signaling the emergence of new carriers with nation wide services in the not too distant future.
Examples of some the recent releases for mobile WiMAX include the Siemens Express PC Card (SE68) which is wave 2 compatible with both MIMO A and B support as well as beamforming. This will enable this device to be used in mobile Wimax networks in an indoor environment. The frequencies supported are in the 2.5 Ghz and 3.5 GHz bands.
POSDATA has already announced its Mobile WIMAX products under the FLYVO series. It provides the full mobile WiMAX ecosystem from base stations to CPEs , embedded user devices and attachments. In fact FLYVO was the first to come out with a gaming device ( G100) based on the IEEE 802.16e-2005 technology.It also has USB modems compatible with Windows XP and Vista.
Motorola already has USB adapters and PC cards and has recently announced its wave 2 compatible Mobile WiMAX base stations under its WAP 450 series of products. The base stations support multi-sector operation with different carrier options and are MIMO capable with mobility support. Being an outdoor unit, it provides a low cost start up option for mobile WiMAX coverage.
But it is Samsung, which today has by far the largest range of products in the mobile WiMAX ecosystem ranging from base stations ( both indoor and outdoor), a wide range of mobile WiMAX embedded products and a range of multi-network external WiMAX attachments. In the embedded products area it has handsets, UMPCs and Internet tablets. Its mobile internet product, PMP (SWT-W100K) for example supports mobile WiMAX for Internet, TDMB for mobile TV and GPS for position location services. A perfect traveling companion! Even its USB dongles are multi-network, supporting Mobile WiMAX along with either 3G( HSDPA), EV-DO or WiFi. It also has PCMCIA cards which go in PDAs and other compatible devices.
We continue to see an increase in the chipsets available, reference designs as well as new devices from various manufacturers incorporating the latest features. All waiting for the Year of the WiMAX!
Intel Announces prices for Mobile WiMAX/ WiFi Modules
Intel has announced the prices for Mobile WiMAX ( IEEE802.16e-2005) and WiFi ( 802.11 a/g/n) modules. These modules have been designed for Intel’s Montevina™ based notebooks. The module called “Echo Peak” will be available in two versions. The 1x2 MIMO version will be priced around $44 while the 3x3 MIMO will be priced at $54.The modules will be available in the Mini card form factor.
The announcement of pricing of WiMAX mini cards by Intel was widely expected before CTIA 2008 and the expectations have not been belied, on the announcement or the price. The price of $44 for 1x2 MIMO and $54 for 3x3 MIMO is well below the expected range considering that the volumes have yet to pickup. The CPE prices of $50 are much more affordable than over $100 which were prevailing earlier for similar WiMAX CPEs.
The WiFi 802.11n and Mobile WiMAX 802.16e-2005 wave 2 present the best combo option for high speed applications such as Video. The WiFi 802.11n can be used for live streaming video at full resolution in a WiFi hot spot owing to its high peak speeds of over 100 Mbps.
XOHM Launch delayed again
CTIA Wireless, April 2008
The launch of XOHM, the pioneer mobile WiMAX service from Sprint which was expected in April 2008 after the commercial trials in three markets ( Chicago, Washington and Baltimore), has been put off again, with no announcement yet on the exact launch dates.
The launch delay in the XOHM service was expected considering that the bulk of new mobile WiMAX devices are expected to be available only by June 2008 onwards. The Wave 2 certified devices (Certification by the WiMAX forum) are also expected to be available at the same time.
On the whole it is better to have a well matured launch rather than one with unwired turnouts.
Nextwave Announces WiMAX based Mobile Tv Platform
10 March 2008
Nextwave® has announced a mobile TV platform based on the use of mobile WiMAX technology. The Mobile WiMAX technology platform is based on Multicast and Broadcast (MBS) feature of the Mobile WiMAX technology. The multicast service in mobile Wimax uses macro-diversity features to ensure that all mobiles are able to receive the multicast transmissions. Unlike a unicast transmission of mobile TV which needs capacity for every mobile using the service, a multicast service can be scaled up to thousands of users in the same spectrum. ( See chapter 16- Mobile Broadcasting Using WiMAX- a technology overview).When dedicated for multicast upto 45 TV channels can be supported in a 10 MHz bandwidth carrier.
Developers of Mobile WiMAX technology and equipment such as Huawei and Alcatel Lucent have already committed to use the Nextwave® technology in their mobile WiMAX products based on IEEE802.16e-2005.
WiMAX is the Key to Next generation Internet- Intel CEO
CES, Las Vegas, Jan 2008
"We’re now in the midst of the largest opportunity to redefine consumer electronics and entertainment since the introduction of the television” - Paul Otellini
Intel, one of the key supporters of the WiMAX technology has outlined its plans for launch of new devices in 2008 which will be based on the use of WiMAX technology.These devices are set to go beyond Notebooks and PDAs and will be based on its ultra low power chipsets platforms "Menlow".
Availability of new devices and "plugins" is expected to be the driver of the new generation "internet on the go" characterized by mobile Web 2.0 applications and video rich interactive connectivity.
Tata Communications to invest $500 Million in WiMAX
Tata Communications, one of the largest telecommunications companies in India has announced its intention to invest $500 million in WiMAX technologies. Tata communications has recently been in news for the erstwhile international long distance and Internet company VSNL ( also a Tata company) being merged in the Tata communications. The new Avtar of Tata communications is India’s largest local, broadband, long distance and VPN company. The investments will be made progressively by 2010 and the number of cities and towns where it is provided be over 300.
Tata communications will initially provide broadband services based on the WiMAX technology in a number of major metros including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Pune, Hyderabad, Cochin, Chandigarh, Kolkatta and Hyderabad amongst others. These will be progressively expanded to other cities. For enterprise customers it has a more aggressive plan of faster rollout ahead of the retail rollout. This could position Tata Communications as one of the most important WiMAX last mile based VPN providers in the country.
WiMAX enabled devices now have matching software for real time streaming applications
CES, Las Vegas, Jan 2008
WiMAX enabled devices ( such as UMPCs, Internet Tablets etc.) can now use software which enables them to stream video over the WiMAX network. This solution is provided by PocketCaster™ software from ComVu®. PocketCaster also provides GPS mapping enhancing its utility for people on the move.
A live demo of the software was available at the CES at Las Vegas in Jan 2008. The software is likely to find widespread application with the launch of mobile WiMAX networks such as XOHM by Sprint Nextel and that by Clearwire in 2008. A number of WiMAX enabled devices are being announced for interface to the WiMAX networks. These include the ultra low power UMPCs based on Intel’s “Menlow” chip family.
The PocketCaster can be used in multiple ways including streaming ( Unicasting) of stored or live video and including its delivery to Web 2.0 enabled devices. While it has been available to operate via existing 3G or WiFi networks( by using a range of handsets such as Nokia N73,N80,E65 etc) the extension to WiMAX is an important development.
WiMAX Forum Congress Asia 2008 and Exhibition, 9-10 April 2008, Singapore to showcase the "Disruptive Potential" of WiMAX
The WiMAX Forum Congress and Exhibition, a much sought after event by the WiMAX industry and users is set to be held at Singapore in April 2008. The excitement in the WiMAX camp is increasing as the launch of XOHM in United States will showcase the differentiating features of the mobile WiMAX technology. Not surprisingly the Forum also features WiMAX Vs. LTE and UMB debate as well as winning strategies for next generation technology. The fact that the disruptive technology of WiMAX is now coming to fruitation is in fact featuring as one of the session topics. The same theme will be echoed in a parallel track “ from walled gardens to fat pipes”, being the way the WiMAX industry wishes to project this technology.The Congress will also provide updates on WiMAX testing and certification and regulatory developments. With Asia being one of the regions where WiMAX has advanced rapidly for providing broadband wireless services, the interest is high.
The Congress will also throw more light on the new opportunities arising from the OFDMA-TDD being accepted by an air interface by WRC-2007 and becoming one of the approved air interfaces under IMT advanced.
A number of new WiMAX devices are also readying for their entry, which include the likes of Nokia 810/830 Internet tablet and ASUS UMPC amongst others. The Exhibition will perhaps provide the best opportunity to see everything from wave 2 devices, base stations, networking equipment and consumer devices.
Almost around the world, in Las Vegas the NAB show(11-17 April 2008) will also open with its theme of IPTV and streaming media for broadcast applications. WiMAX TV System is one of the products being highlighted by UDCast. As the new WiMAX networks go live, Video streaming and multicast is expected to be one of the most important applications of the new technology which provides an assured QoS for services, which go a long way from frozen frames or flickering windows of video delivered by the internet.( For more details on Broadcast Applications of WiMAX Visit WiMAX Home!
Fortune names WiMAX as one of the top ten wireless trends for 2008
Ten reasons why this should be so!
Fortune has named WiMAX as the top ten wireless trend for 2008.The naming of WiMAX as the top wireless trend for 2008 has not come as a surprise to industry watchers. A number of developments, happening in their own areas are now coming together to deliver the promise of a completely new mobile wireless experience, the first in over a decade. There are no less than ten reasons, which we foresee today, which are likely to make this prediction ring true.
Firstly, the price of CPEs based on bill of material costs has for the first time forecast to be below $100 (e.g. by Wavesat®). This is even without any of the large scale introductions of WiMAX networks, and even with relatively low CPE volumes in existence today. With volume the prices are set to nosedive even further.
Second, the year 2008 is slated to be one, where large scale introductions of WiMAX networks will happen. The launch of XOHM by Sprint Nextel and WiMAX from Clearwire® will propel the availability of WiMAX to over 100 million of customers before the year is out. This follows over 200 trials and successful introductions in a number of countries.
Third, WiMAX technologies have now matured with the WIMAX forum certifying Wave 2 compatible mobile WiMAX devices. Chipsets are available e.g. from Beceem or Runcom amongst many others which provide immediate implementation of a variety of customer premises equipment(CPEs).
Fourth, the governments worldwide have now much higher awareness of the power of mobility as well WiMAX as an enabler of rural and urban connectivities and its potential in delivering high speed applications. With many of the countries adding 8-10 million users a month for mobile services, universal connectivity is squarely in focus. This is implying a better focus on regulatory issues to spur WiMAX networks.
Fifthly there is a greater availability of CPEs ranging from PC cards, USB modems, standalone gaming devices and internet tablets. Hence operators who do not possess wireline assets are now willing to take a plunge with the new technologies.
Sixth, there is now much better clarity on the use of spectrum for WIMAX and mobile WiMAX. With the WRC 2007 adopting the OFDMA-TDD as one of the approved air interfaces under IMT-2000 as well as clearly defining the WiMAX spectrum bands, many of the pending allocations can be quickly resolved.
Seventh, the success of programs such as M-Taiwan and Eratech® Argentina amongst many others have demonstrated that e-governance and universal connectivity are key drivers of global competitiveness. Regulators globally are seeking expeditious implementations of WiMAX networks, both through spectrum auctions as well as licensing etc.
Eighth, most of the legacy wireline and wireless networks based on TDM circuit switched architecture are nearing end of life and the new generation networks( NGNs) are invariably being implemented based on IP. WiMAX is one of the key wireless technologies which are based on completely open architectures, use of IETF protocols and use of IPv6. The use of WiMAX is seen not only as a migration to open IP core networks with support for mobility but also migration to IPv6 which is inevitable with growing base of mobile devices and mandates for such migration in many countries.
Ninth, the WiMAX technology, unlike its predecessor the WiFi, provides a number of quality of service classes, which can be defined for each connection and each application running over these connections. Thus it can support VoIP for rural telephony as easily as streaming video with their own QoS classes. It is now being seen as a key technology to enable true broadband capable of supporting a rich multimedia messaging and calling environments. Whether it is pictures with an 8Mp camera or an 80GB iPOD®, WiMAX can keep these wireless. Many applications are now ready to step out of the limited connectivity and the row resolutions enabled by today’s mobile networks.
Tenth and finally, all this would be in vain, were it not for some “big-bang” introductions of the technology, which immediately provide a critical mass for prices to come down sufficiently for even more users to subscribe to the service, thus creating a chain reaction.
With the impending launches in a number of countries, as well as launch of Sprint Nextel XOHM and Clearwire® services in USA, the stage is now fully set for just such a phenomenon.
Just as WiFi changed the landscape in the use of computers and mobile devices in just a couple of years, get set to witness the same for WiMAX this year. The drama is expected to unfold with veterans on the stage with the likes of Intel, Samsung, Motorola and Sprint being a part of the star cast and many years of rehearsing behind them. The drama will be played out on the world theatre, with virtually every country donning its colors and logo.
Sprint Announces Mobile WiMAX Services- To be marketed as XOHM
Sprint has been building the largest single Mobile WiMAX network using the 2.5 GHz band which has already seen successful trials. They are the largest holders of spectrum in this band by virtue of previous holdings and the acquisition of additional spectrum on AT&T Bellsouth merger. It is now known that this will be sold as XOHM.
The WiMAX network being rolled out by the combine is going live Chicago, Washington and Baltimore in the initial phase and will be nationwide by end of 2008 (have a reach of over 100 million in over 16 cities). The tie ups for the equipment, TV technology and the client devices have been made. These involve Motorola, Samsung and Nokia for the equipment and Samsung, Motorola and Intel for the chipsets and user devices. The TV technology is provided by the NDS WiMAX TV portfolio of products.
The network being based on universal mobile WiMAX technology will permit a broad range of devices from portable media players to PCs and various WiMAX cellphones, WiFi, cellular and internet WiMAX enabled devices to offer services ranging from VoIP to WiMAX TV.
A conceptual depiction of initial rollout of Sprint WiMAX network(c)
Sprint intends to offer services in a dual mode manner to its existing CDMA subscribers as Wimax-CDMA services.It was at some stage felt that Sprint-Clearwire breakup will affect the rollout, but that does not expect to be the case.UMPCs and Nokia 810 Notebooks as well as other devices, PC cards and USB adopters will be the way to go before standalone devices make glorious debuts.
( Based on industry reports)
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MobiTV to provide Mobile TV over WiMAX?
MobiTV is one of the largest aggregators of content for mobile TV. It aggregates content and provides it through a network of cellular operators.It also provides content via the AT&T broadband network ( WiFi) to PCs, PDAs and mobile devices.
A Conceptual depiction of MobiTV network
MobiTV is now understood to be extending the delivery of program channels via WiMAX networks as well. For this purpose it has identified a three way arrangement as follows:
Content, Streaming infrastructure and MobiTV application: To be provided by MobiTV
Content protection and Service Protection: To be provided by NDS
Mobile WiMAX infrastructure: To be provided by Runcom
The new service, MobiBlu is designed as a two way interactive service and provides a Unicast and multicast of the channels in different resolutions ( for mobile phones, PDAs and PCs).The service is at the full broadcast frame rate of 30 fps and 640x480 resolution. It uses the NDS encryption for transmission security and NDS DRM for content security.
Will we see the service on the Sprint Network with MobiTV provided user interfaces soon?
It certainly appears to be so.
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WiMAX TV demonstrated at IBC 2007
The demonstration of WiMAX TV at IBC which used the encoding platforms based on H.264 from Envivio® mobile TV encoders showcased in exemplary clarity how mobile WIMAX operators can leverage their networks to deliver streaming TV services. The TV services were delivered to multiple screens( TVs, PCs and mobile Phones) using the same mobile WiMAX network.
The fact that mobile WiMAX also brings high speed broadband along with streaming multimedia services places it in a different class altogether. Being based on open IETF, IEEE and WiMAX forum standards, it presents new opportunities in the mobile TV space crowded by multiple standards.
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Feel restricted in a cell phone environment? WIMAX is the answer.
Many users, even those of advanced smart phones generally feel very restricted in using both office applications as well as multimedia. The screens are too tiny and the operating systems allow only limited leeway on the way the files can be used or external services accessed.
Many of the phones are simply either multimedia or TV. Others are just devoted to “ office applications” , Push mail being at the top, with document viewers and onerous to use applications tagged along.WiMAX changes all this by making high quality multimedia, TV available on standard devices such as UMPCs or just media players.
It appears to be a solution, which could release a long pent up demand. As Intel’s Sean Malony had said” There are so many applications, pent up, just waiting to go mobile”.
OFDMA-TDD ( technology used in Mobile WIMAX ) adopted as an
approved Terrestrial interface in ITU IMT2000
The inclusion of Mobile WiMAX as one of the interfaces under ITU IMT-2000 has the implication that Wimax would be considered as a potential candidate for discussions on allocation of spectrum for IMT-2000 services. At present the 2.5 to 2.69 GHz is reserved for IMT-2000 services (IMT-advanced) and WiMAX would be a candidate for such allocations in various countries and also in any future bands reserved for IMT-2000.
The inclusion of WiMAX OFDMA-TDD as an air interface in the IMT-2000 has additional far reaching implications. First, this means that the band 2.5-2.69, which has been reserved in Europe for IMT-advanced services would be a candidate for allocation to mobile WiMAX services. In USA it is already allocated for mobile WiMAX use. This has the potential of making the band of 2.5-2.69 GHz a prime band for mobile WiMAX where global roaming will be possible in future. Secondly, having a common acceptable band will bring down the cost of chipsets and customer premises equipment (CPEs) owing to a much higher scale of usage. Thirdly it removes impediments in licensing of mobile WiMAX services in various countries which were getting delayed while the governments considered the different frequency bands for licensing WiMAX services. Finally the announcement of including OFDMA-TDD as air interfaces in 3G
technologies comes at a time when many of the countries are just on the verge of entering the 3G services such as India. The inclusion of OFDMA-TDD as an approved interface could lead to mobile WiMAX being deployed much faster than had otherwise be the case.
This also sets the stage for “IMT-Advanced”-the next generation of interfaces to be developed for the 3G evolution and 4G services to also be based on OFDMA-TDD technologies. IMT advanced services are expected to be available between 2010-2015.
How about that?
Multimedia phone shipments are expected to cross TV shipments in 2008
- An industry report
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