A select group of Telkom customers is enjoying the full experience of next-generation WiMAX broadband wireless connectivity as part of trials that could connect many to the Internet for the first time.
The trials are part of on-going efforts to find a solution that will hopefully enable high-speed, broadband wireless access across several kilometres for residential and business customers.
Telkom, SA`s largest broadband provider, recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Intel to collaborate in the trials for the next-generation WiMAX broadband technology in a bid to facilitate a wireless alternative for the "last mile" broadband connectivity.
The MOU signals Telkom`s determination to introduce the necessary infrastructure to leverage the next-generation WiMAX broadband wireless technology, and use it to complement fixed broadband services in a move to provide a total approach to broadband penetration.
In addition to complementing fixed-line networks, said Telkom`s Managing Executive for Network Infrastructure Provisioning Thami Msimango, the technology being tested would potentially open new market opportunities and close gaps.
Msimango said the WiMAX trials began in earnest with a small number of trial customers connected to two sites in Pretoria.
As part of the trials, Telkom has installed two Alvarion base stations operating on the IEEE 802.16a standard at the CSIR and the Lukasrand sites in Pretoria following an agreement with Grintek to run trial sites with Alvarion`s BreezeMax Wireless Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX) solution.
"We have already demonstrated VOIP communication in conjunction with data transmission. The installations at the customer premises are currently of the first generation outdoor type," Msimango.
He said the delivery of last mile access would continue to be one of the biggest technical challenges facing the ICT industry as broadband offering could not only be resolved with DSL or fibre solutions.
"Today`s customers want portability and mobility in addition to just broadband connectivity. Wireless broadband technology has the potential to satisfy these customer demands. In addition, this technology has the potential of opening new market opportunity through fillings gaps and complementing the fixed-line networks," added Msimango.
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