Here Comes WiMaxHere Comes WiMax

WiMax, a new wireless standard that promises faster data speeds over greater distances than currently available wireless LANs or Wi-Fi hot-spots, took off last week when Intel began shipping its first WiMax chips in volume. WiMax promises data speeds of up to 70 Mbps over distances of 37 miles or more.

Around 15 service providers and 11 equipment vendors have unveiled plans to deliver products based on Intel's PRO/Wireless 5116 chip, known as Rosedale. "You'll see a lot of vendors worldwide actively pursuing the triple-play business model" of IP-based data, voice, and video, says Ron Peck, director of marketing for Intel's WiMax group. AT&T is planning a commercial trial of WiMax in Middletown, N.Y., next month that will include wireless IP-enabled frame-relay and managed Internet services, which could be used to replace wired connections for things such as processing credit-card orders and inventory control.