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WiMax, a new wireless communications technology, is making quite the splash in the world of wireless internet.  It is promoted as a standards-based technology that enables the delivery of last mile wireless broadband access and an alternative to cable or DSL connections.  WiMax technology is useful in many areas, from connections to Wi-Fi hotspots, to business continuity plans, to portable connectivity.  It seems to have a bright future ahead though it has yet to have caught on strong.

In order to speed up WiMax´s saturation of the marketplace and promote this latest development in internet technology, the WiMax Forum has been created.  Beginning in 2001, the group seeks to promote conformity and interoperability of broadband wireless products based upon the harmonized IEEE 802.16/ETSI HiperMAN standard (in other words, the standard upon which this internet technology functions).  It is a non-for-profit and industry-led organization focused on the global adoption of WiMax as a premier choice for broadband wireless internet.

Today, the Forum consists of more than 500 members, including most operators and vendors involved in the business of WiMax.  One of its main goals is to speed up the introduction and establishment of the cutting edge systems into the market.  

Though WiMax is a growing technology, it is still relatively new in the industry and faces tough competition, including long-range Wi-Fi and mesh networking.  The Forum seeks to aid those involved in the technology to succeed.  One of the premier ways in which the group does this is by certifying the operability of WiMax products.  With the aim of promoting and accelerating the introduction of cost-effective broadband wireless accesses, the WiMax Forum conducts conformance and interoperability testing on products.  Those products that “pass” the test receive the designation of “WiMax Forum Certified,” which they are allowed to display on labels and other marketing materials.  

Another approach the Forum takes in the promotion of WiMax technology is that of education.  The Board of Directors knows that it is important to spread the word and the knowledge about this new wireless option.  This is why the group currently offers a certified training problem in both English and French.  Throughout the year, it also holds several member events in hopes of fostering a WiMax community and spreading news and ideas.  The WiMax Forum endorses industry events as well.

Recently, the Forum organized several working groups composed of industry members and leaders.  The aim of such groups is to address and focus on the most critical current issues of the technology in order to bring more WiMax Forum Certified products to the marketplace.

While those involved in the budding WiMax industry still have a ways to go, the WiMax Forum is sure to be with them every step of the way.  As with any technology, catching on may take some time.  However, the careful planning and cooperation fostered by the WiMax Forum and its members promises a bright future on the horizon for this new and innovative wireless technology.

Tags: About, Bringing, Forum, technology, WiMAX

admin  Apr 30 technology