WiMAX: What's the new buzz in the town?

WiMAX ,the newly introduced technology for reaching internet, is an IP based, wireless broadband access technology that provides performance similar to 802.11or also known as Wi-Fi networks with the coverage and QOS (quality of service) of cellular networks. WiMAX is actually a short form for "Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX).

WiMAX is a wireless digital communications system, also known as IEEE 802.16, that is intended for wireless MAN (Metropolitan Area Network). WiMAX can provide broadband wireless service up to 30 miles (50 km) for fixed stations, and 3 - 10 miles (5 - 15 km) for mobile stations. In contrast, the WiFi wireless local area network standard is limited in most cases to only 100 - 300 feet (30 - 100m). This make this system quite economic compared to the existing Wi-Fi systems.




NTC goes WiMAX:
On 9^th November ,2012, NTC launched it's service on WiMAX. Although initially it was aimed towards corporate sector, now WiMAX is available for the residential customers(as categorized by NTC). NTC claims that this technology is totally secure as NTC's WiMAX Broadband runs on fully licensed and protected radio frequencies. This technology provides as much or more security than traditional wireless Internet solutions.
According to NTC, it's WiMAX base stations range extends from approximately 10 km in built up areas with lots of obstacles, to approximately 20 km in ideal conditions such as flat land. As the speed is what concerns most, NTC claims that customers can get upto 20 Mbps depending upon the types of CPE used and the location of Base Station.
To connect to the WiMAX, you should first have an WiMAX enabled device or you have to use a router or a wireless access point. Multiple users are also supported for the customers if they use these devices.

Should you start using it?
 Although NTC has recently launched its plans for residential users, it has only launched volume based package. In such case, this will be a deal for the users who use heavy bandwidth. But if you can limit the use of your bandwidth, the rates offered are cheaper than the cost of the plans of Wi-Fi presently available in the market. Another drawback of the WiMAX provided by NTC is it's installation charge is very high(not clearly available yet though). So if you see major portion of feature is in your favour then you should certainly go for it. If you want the tariff plan for this service you click here .


Is This The End?
 In the world market, a technology LTE (long term evolution) has already arrived and has almost displaced WiMAX. Why wont it be so popular when it provides us a bandwidth if 100Mbps compared to the 20 Mbps of WiMax! So may be the major rival of NTC, NCell, is planning to launch this technology in Nepal in order to overtake the market covered by NTC in ISP business.

Sources:

Nepal telecom

www.wimax.com