Can WiMAX Bring Broadband Wireless Mainstream?

Last month we summarized the early successes achieved by wireless ISPs (WISPs) deploying unlicensed broadband solutions. (See "Wireless Broadband Getting Up To Speed"). These WISPs operate primarily in underserved Tier 2 and 3 markets, delivering broadband IP services to a mix of small businesses and, to a lesser extent, residential customers, typically using pre-standard equipment. While these pioneering efforts have made some headway, the approach does not seem to offer the ingredients needed for broadband wireless to scale in competitive major metropolitan areas. ... ¶ The broadband wireless industry, backed by heavyweights such as Intel Corp., EarthLink and Craig McCaw, is betting on WiMAX to move the technology from the minor leagues to mass market status. WiMAX, an industry term for interoperable metropolitan area wireless products based on 802.16 standards, is expected to boost performance, drive down costs and deliver plug-and-play simplicity. ¶ Should Cable be Concerned? ¶ In the face of the cresting WiMAX hype wave, is the cable industry starting to shake in its boots? Not really. ... Cable Datacom News link