Advances in Wireless Communications Technologies--WiMax

SUMMARY

Rapid Progress in Wireless Communication Technology Drives WiMAX

Phenomenal growth in the wireless communications market is spurring uptake of wireless interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX)-based products. In fact, WiMAX is likely to become the third most widely used high-speed Internet access technology after digital subscriber line (DSL) and cable modems, which are its key competitors. WiMAX?fs rising popularity can be attributed to the incorporation of specifications and standards that boost end-user confidence. In addition, WiMAX?fs success in mass markets coupled with the increase in the number of technology providers is likely to make WiMAX more accessible and affordable. It also provides the much-needed capital for further investments in research and development for the continued advancement of the technology.

This Frost & Sullivan research service analyzes promising areas of next-generation wireless communications technologies and focuses on the future size and structure of the industry. The study also evaluates key technology drivers and the challenges facing WiMAX technology. Participants can identify potential collaborators, stay ahead of the competition, and keep abreast with critical developments.

Mobile Communications Proving to be Key Area of Growth for WiMAX

Mobile communications such as broadband wireless access is a strong driver for WiMAX. Service providers have already deployed 3G or 4G cellular services for access to advanced voice, video, multimedia, and broadband data services. "WiMAX is standards-based – making it more affordable and competitive in the mass market," says the analyst of this research service. "As most mobile broadband users employ 3G or wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) subscriber units, a gradual movement to voice over Internet protocol (VoIP) on WiMAX technology can also be expected."

WiMAX is likely to find greater acceptance in data communications. Notebook computers and personal digital assistants (PDAs) are likely to incorporate the technology. Hybrid Wi-Fi and WiMAX with user access through Wi-Fi and backhaul by means of WiMAX is another emerging trend.

WiMAX holds Untapped Revenue Potential in Underserved Areas

Growing competition and product maturity in the broadband access domain compels suppliers to seek growth opportunities for WiMAX in underserved areas to create new customer bases and increase market share. "The prime customers for WiMAX are likely to be rural and outlying areas where the cable and DSL infrastructure is limited," says the analyst. The WiMAX standard supports mesh topology and smart antenna technologies that increase coverage and throughput especially in extreme environments.

In such cases, the wireless Internet service providers (WISPs) work in tandem with local utilities and governments to deliver voice services in addition to high-speed data. As prices equalize, WiMAX can look towards upstaging DSL – particularly in Asia and Eastern Europe.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 

Overview

Overview

Introduction

Description

Scope and Methodology

Scope

Methodology of Study

2 WIMAX TECHNOLOGICAL OVERVIEW AND APPLICATIONS

Technology and Standards

Technology

Standards and Specifications

Fixed and Mobile WiMax

Industry Overview

Semiconductor Companies

Networking Firms

Application Spectra

Applications Based on Services

Advantages

WiMax Impact Analysis

Analysis and Ranking of Application Segments

Technology Roadmap

Market Factors

Regulatory Factors

Regional Trends

Competitors and Collaborations

3 WIMAX ADOPTION FACTOR ANALYSIS

Analysis of Drivers and Challenges

Drivers

Restraints

Competing Technologies

Developments in Competing Technologies

Schedulers in WiFi

Mobile Conferencing System using WiFi and Bluetooth

Interworking of WLAN and UMTS

Advancements in Bluetooth Wireless Personal Area Networks

Virtual Private Networks

4 ASSESSMENT OF OPPORTUNITIES

Opportunities in WiMax

WiMax and IT

Cost Constraints

Coexistence with WiFi

Reality Hits 3G and 4G Wireless Systems

Power and Energy in Wireless Networks

TCP in Wireless Communication

Scalability in Fixed BWA

WiMax in PSTN

Future of Communications

Funding

Funding for Wireless Communication Technologies

Funding

5 PATENTS AND CONTACT DETAILS

Patents

Key Patents

Wireless Communication Patents

Contact Details

Developers Details

Research Institutions

6 FROST & SULLIVAN 2005 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AWARDS

Product Leadership

Award Description

Award Recipient

Technology Leadership

Award Description

Award Recipient

Excellence in Technology

Award Description

Award Recipient

7 CRITICAL REFERENCE TABLES

Decision Support Database Tables

Total Broadband Penetration for the period 1999 to 2006

Total Broadband Subscribers for the period 1999 to 2006

Total DSL Broadband Subscribers for the period 1999 to 2006

Total Cable Modem Broadband Subscribers for the period 1999 to 2006

Internet Penetration for the period 1999 to 2006

Internet Subscribers for the period 1999 to 2006

Internet Users for the period 1999 to 2006

Mobile Workforce for the period 1996 to 2004

Mobile Handset Productions for the period 1996 to 2004

Mobile Handsets Installed for the period 1996 to 2004

Nominal Gross Domestic Product for the period 1999 to 2006

Urban Population for the period 1999 to 2006

Total Mainlines for the period 1999 to 2006