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WIMAX STANDARD FINALLY RATIFIED |
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Written by Adam Gosling
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Friday, 09 December 2005 |
A mobile version of the WiMax standard (802.16e-2005) has been approved by the IEEE.
The spec, which was completed nearly two months ago has been awaiting formal approval. The new standard is not compatible with the already ratified 802.16-2004 (802.11d) spec for fixed locations, but makers of carrier equipment are expected to make dual standard base stations available in the New Year.
Mobile WiMax trials and testing will commence in the first quarter next year according to reports, with product expected later in the year. Mobile broadband services may not launch for another 12 months however.
In Australia, wireless broadband carrier Unwired is likely to be the first company to launch a fully compliant WiMax service following a $25 million investment by WiMax champion Intel to help it extend its network footprint.
The standard has had a long gestation period, with final approval only given to the twelfth draft of the specification. Beginning in 2002 the process was expected to take only 18 months but changes ot the make up of the standards committee and competitive infighting lead to a doubling of that time.
Working group chairman, Roger Marks, is reported to have said: “We projected completion in about 18 months. Actual development took about twice that long. Though we all would have preferred to stick closer to schedule, the reality is that the working group changed dramatically during those years."
“I am proud of the fact that we addressed all of the resulting needs, continuing to harmonize and build consensus to ensure a result with broad support and broad applicability," he said.
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