WiMAX Technology


WiMAX is the next-generation of wireless technology designed to enable pervasive, high-speed mobile Internet access to the widest array of devices including notebook PCs, handsets, smartphones, and consumer electronics such as gaming devices, cameras, camcorders, music players, and more. As the fourth generation (4G) of wireless technology, WiMAX delivers low-cost, open networks and is the first all IP mobile Internet solution enabling efficient and scalable networks for data, video, and voice. As a major driver in the support and development of WiMAX, Intel has designed embedded WiMAX solutions for a variety of mobile devices supporting the future of high-speed broadband on-the-go.

The WiMAX future

The only network optimized specifically for mobile broadband Internet, WiMAX is based on a set of global standards covering fixed, portable, and mobile deployments on an open network that will help drive and leverage the openness of the Internet, as opposed to prior generation's, closed systems, such as 3G networks.

The low-cost, all-IP network architecture and backwards compatibility with existing 2G and 3G cellular network deployments makes WiMAX easier and more cost-effective to deploy and operate than current mobile wireless data solutions. As a result, it has already garnered broad support from leading operators—both wired line and wireless—and device manufacturers around the world.

WiMAX provides two to three times the performance of 3G solutions today, with the ability to scale to ten times the performance in the future.² As a driving force in collaboration with industry leaders, Intel is working towards further expansion and support of WiMAX through technology advancements such as Intel® WiMAX/WiFi Link 1000 Series, an integrated module solution for laptops with Intel® My WiFi technology. Laptops with Intel® Centrino® Advanced-N + WiMAX 6250 provide great coverage and reliable connectivity while consuming minimal power.

Expanding connectivity around the globe

With the ability to carry more data traffic than current wireless networks, WiMAX is intended to meet increasing demands for mobile data. WiMAX will also be the first to combine the following standards-based technologies:

  • Efficient support for many simultaneous users with Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA)
  • Increased throughput and range with Multiple Input/Multiple Output (MIMO) smart antenna technology using multiple antennas to carry more data traffic than current networks

Based on the IEEE 802.16e standard, mobile WiMAX is designed to deliver superior data rates and scalability, lower costs, and reduced network complexity. As the first new technology to be added to the International Mobile Telecommuncations-2000 (IMT-2000 also known as 3G) set of standards in nearly a decade, WiMAX is about to revolutionize and mobilize the way we connect around the globe. Learn more about mobile WiMAX by reading these white papers.

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