4G Blog by 4Ginfo.com

Verizon Confirms VZ4G LTE Service to Launch in 38 Markets in 2010

2010-10-06T15:02:00.001-07:00

At today's CTIA Press Conference, Verizon officially announced that they'll be launching their 4G LTE service (dubbed "VZ4G") in 38 markets by the end of 2010. They wouldn't comment directly on pricing, but to our surprise they stated that "there is a place for unlimited plans" as well as pay-per-use models (which is what recent rumors were indicating Verizon planned to use for their 4G service). We won't know until Verizon releases more information, but it sounds like there may be an unlimited option available at launch after all, which puts them on level ground with Sprint and CLEAR, who offer their 4G WiMAX service on an unlimited basis.

Continue reading the full Article: Verizon Confirms VZ4G LTE Service to Launch in 38 Markets in 2010

Sprint Samsung Epic 4G Review

2010-09-15T06:23:00.000-07:00

Sprint recently launched their second 4G phone, the Epic 4G from Samsung, which joined the super-popular HTC EVO 4G as the only 4G-capable phones on the market. The Epic 4G is capable of using Sprint's 3G & 4G networks, meaning that you can potentially get download speeds anywhere from 3 to 7mbps when you're in a 4G coverage area, and you can still expect up to 1-2mbps when you're in a nationwide 3G area. Since both the EVO & Epic are currently the only two phones capable of using Sprint's 4G network, many of our readers have been asking us which Sprint 4G phone is "better", but there really isn't a straight-forward answer. The EVO and Epic both have pro's & con's, and we think that each phone targets a slightly different audience. We've tested both phones extensively, and in this article we'll discuss the Epic's features and performance and how they compare to the EVO - and hopefully help you determine which 4G phone will be best for you!

Read the full review: Sprint Epic 4G Review

Sprint 3G/4G USB U600

2010-09-02T08:51:00.000-07:00

Sprint has just announced their newest 3G/4G hybrid device, the Sprint 3G/4G USB U600. There are several reasons why we think the U600 is currently the best choice for users looking to purchase a 3G/4G dual-mode device. Read our full review to find out why!

Continue Reading the Complete Sprint U600 3G/4G Review

3Gstore U600 Special Introductory Promotions!

2010-09-02T08:49:00.000-07:00

You can Order the Sprint U600 from the mobile broadband experts at 3Gstore.com for FREE after $50 mail-in rebate with a new 2 year service agreement NOW (ships 9/12/10)!

3Gstore is also offering special introductory promotions for the U600. If you need a router for your Sprint U600, for a limited time you can add one of the below routers to your U600 order for an UNBEATABLE price:

Add the PHS300 + Car Charger & Spare Battery for $99.99 (save $130+ off MSRP!)
Add the MBR1000 for $129.99 (save $120 off MSRP!)
Add the MBR1200 for $189.99 (save $160 off MSRP!)

To take advantage of these router promotions, simply add the router of your choice to your U600 order.

All U600's ordered with Sprint service from 3Gstore are shipped pre-activated (so that they are ready to use when you receive your order!) and include our esteemed free technical support. Also, for your convenience, your CradlePoint Router will have the latest firmware installed ($15 Value) - which is required to support the U600.

3Gstore is Now Selling the NexAira Business Class II (BC2) 3G/4G Router

2010-08-17T15:21:00.001-07:00

We are pleased to announce the addition of the NexAira BC2 enterprise router to the lineup of mobile broadband routers at 3Gstore! Like other mobile broadband routers, the BC2 allows you to share a 3G or 4G connection with multiple computers/devices, but it does much more than just that. The linux-based BC2 is specifically developed for enterprise and small business use, and includes a variety of advanced features that set it apart from any other mobile broadband router, including:

Failover with minimal downtime: NexAira's "failover with anti-flap" feature allows the router to switch between a primary connection and a backup connection in under 10 seconds!
Xtreme Speed Optimization: The BC2's optimization feature allows you to get the most out of your internet connection.
Status monitoring: The BC2 provides IT administrators with remote web administration, remote SSH access, and an SNMP server, as well as the option to automatically email multiple administrators for emergency events such as a connection failing.
Minimal Reboots: The BC2 rarely requires a full reboot when changing various settings on the router (on other routers, you have to reboot your equipment every time you make a change to one of the settings). This feature alone can save large corporations time & money as your entire workforce won't be without local network and internet connectivity for several minutes because you had to change a few settings on your network!
QOS: Allows you to prioritize certain devices, applications, or ports on the network, so that your most important services receive priority bandwidth over any other users on the network.

Other features on the BC2 include:

Wireless N WiFi radio (for excellent WiFi range)
1 USB port and 1 ExpressCard port
3G and 4G modem support from the major carriers in North America (click here to view the full compatibility chart)
1 WAN port and 1 LAN port

You can learn more about all of the features the BC2 offers and how it might benefit your business or home office in our review: NexAira BC2 Hands-On Review

The NexAira BC2 is now available at 3Gstore for $189.99 (MSRP $209.99). Save an additional $20 if you're also signing up for a Sprint, Verizon, or CLEAR 2-year contract!

All routers purchased from 3Gstore include our exclusive support CD as well as our esteemed technical support.

EVO 4G Android 2.2 Review

2010-08-05T15:14:00.001-07:00

Sprint has become the first carrier to offer Android 2.2 by providing the update to HTC EVO 4G users. While Android 2.2 is available on Google's Nexus One phone, the update was provided by Google and not any of the carriers that offer the discontinued Nexus One. This makes the EVO 4G the only current Android 2.2 device that is being sold by any carrier. So what exactly will this upgrade offer EVO users?

Read the full review including our video review: EVO 4G Android 2.2 Review

3Gstore's Exclusive HTC EVO 4G Tipsheet and EVO 4G Resource Center

2010-07-29T09:57:00.000-07:00

All customers who purchase the EVO from 3Gstore will get our 10-page HTC Evo Tipsheet FREE!

There are many reasons why people buy from 3Gstore - helpful pre-sales support, a great variety of products, competitive pricing, a solid reputation - but the technical support that 3Gstore provides their customers is what really makes 3Gstore stand out. While many of our competitors claim they offer tech support, when you call them, they will forward you to the manufacturer (which, depending on the manufacturer, can be a nightmare!); others do offer their own support but from inexperienced or poorly-trained reps who have never even used the products they're supporting. 3Gstore provides top-of-the-line tech support from our own 3G experts who use the equipment we sell on a daily basis (and live here in the US!). Our techs are able to troubleshoot issues and resolve the problem from experience, not by reading from a script!

In addition to the support we offer over the phone or email, the mobile broadband experts at 3Gstore also include exclusive resources with many of the products we sell (such as the 3Gstore Support CD we include with Cradlepoint routers, the Pepwave Surf Mini, and IP Switch). Our latest addition to our lineup of exclusive tipsheets for 3Gstore customers is our Sprint HTC EVO Tipsheet. This valuable resource makes setting up your HTC EVO smartphone as easy as possible, and includes lots of valuable guides for getting the most out of your phone. These guides are particularly helpful for new smartphone users who are unfamiliar with the Android platform, but are also helpful for seasoned smartphone users!

The EVO Tipsheet includes Step-by-Step guides on:

Activation
Backup/Syncing
Mac Syncing
Music Syncing
Mobile Hotspot Setup
Changing maximum allowed hotspot clients
Managing authorized hotspot clients
Checking RSSI (Signal Strength)

All customers who order the EVO from 3Gstore will be emailed this tipsheet when their order ships. If you already purchased your EVO from 3Gstore and would like to receive this tipsheet, email support "at" 3gstore.com with "EVO Tipsheet" in the subject line and include your order number in the body of the email.

3Gstore provides tipsheets like this to our customers for free. We have received countless emails from people that purchased elsewhere requesting to purchase our tipsheets to help them solve an issue that had caused them a lot of frustration and wasted time. With the horror stories we've heard of people purchasing from a company that didn't provide any help when they had a problem, it's a no-brainer that 3Gstore is the place to go for all of your mobile broadband needs!

3Gstore has also created the 3Gstore HTC EVO 4G Resource Center where you can find all of the content that we have published about the EVO 4G. Whenever we post any new EVO 4G content, it will still continue to show up on EVDOinfo as usual, but we will also update the EVO 4G Resource Center to include all of our EVO 4G related content.

CLEAR Spot 4G Infomark Biscuit Review

2010-07-21T12:40:00.001-07:00

The CLEAR Spot 4G (AKA the Infomark Biscuit) is an all-in-one unit creates a mobile WiFi hotspot to provide 4G WiMAX internet access for up to 8 users anywhere CLEAR has 4G coverage. The CLEAR Spot 4G is very similar in features to the 3G/4G Sprint Overdrive or CLEAR Spot 4G+, except it can only be used on CLEAR's 4G network (whereas those other devices can also connect to Sprint's 3G network if 4G coverage isn't available). Since it is for 4G use only, the CLEAR Spot 4G is mainly targeted towards users live or work in CLEAR coverage areas and are looking for an alternative to cable, DSL, or dial-up internet. For users who only need 4G coverage and want to share the connection with multiple users, the CLEAR Spot 4G is an excellent choice since CLEAR's 4G monthly service plan is only $40/mo!

Read the full review on 4Ginfo:

CLEAR Spot 4G Infomark Biscuit Review

4G WiMAX and LTE Latest Updates

2010-07-06T15:06:00.001-07:00

The race for 4G technology is really starting to heat up as CLEAR and Sprint continue to expand coverage, Sprint released their much anticipated HTC EVO, Verizon announced LTE test markets and reports LTE capable phones are in the works! Below are the latest updates in the world of 4G:

WiMAX Coverage News:

Both Sprint and CLEAR have been working hard to bring 4G WiMAX to the following new markets, Richmond, Salt Lake City, St. Louis, Kansas City and expanding coverage in Baltimore. CLEAR has also expanded coverage to Merced and Visalia, California; Eugene, Oregon; and Rochester and Syracuse, New York. Throughout the summer they plan to have coverage in 20 more major cities. On a more unofficial note, there have also been reports from customers in parts of New York and California that they are seeing 4G on their devices, despite the fact that 4G has not yet launched there.

WiMAX Equipment:

On June 4th, 2010 was the date that the HTC EVO was released, the worlds first 3G/4G capable phone! This phone is all about changing the way people use their phones with features such as the mobile hotspot (allowing you to use your EVO's 3G/4G connection to share with up to 8 devices via wireless). The device has been so popular, you currently can't find it in any stores as we all wait anxiously for another shipment. If touchscreen only devices aren't your style, Samsung has come to the rescue with the announcement of the Samsung Epic. This device will be the first 3G/4G phone with a full QWERTY keyboard.

As for WiMAX aircards, Sprint's Overdrive had gotten off to a rocky start because of some firmware issues, however, they have released a new firmware version 2.06.06 which has fixed the issue's users were complaining about. When ordering the Overdrive from 3Gstore, we make sure that every Overdrive shipped has version 2.06.06 pre-installed for you! Sprint has also released the new 250U 3G/4G aircard, which is the first device that includes the option for both a 3G and 4G antenna port (antennas currently work on 3G only). CLEAR announced that they'll be releasing 3G/4G portable hot-spots in July, which have been demanded ever since the popularity of the MiFi2200 3G devices.

LTE News:

As Sprint and CLEAR continue to expand coverage, Verizon has been focusing on their final testing phases (user trials in 5 markets - Boston, Seattle and 3 other unnamed cities). In early May, Verizon showed off their LTE network for the first time in Boston and the results were impressive. During the demonstrations they managed to get an 8.55Mbps download speed and a 2.8Mbps upload speed. Rural users can also start getting excited because they plan to partner with local companies that already have towers and backhaul available - Verizon will provide the LTE equipment and let the local providers manage the towers and backhaul. This strategy is planned to help them meet their goal of covering their entire 3G footprint with full 4G LTE coverage by 2013. Tips are also rolling in, rumoring that Verizon will be launching their 4G LTE service in 25 markets on 11/15/10, with several LTE handsets to follow on "Black Friday", which this year falls on 11/26.

LTE Equipment:

With the rumored LTE release date of 11/15, reports of various handset manufactures developing LTE handsets continue to roll in. RIM (manufacturers of Blackberry) is currently working one of the first LTE handsets for Verizon's LTE! This phone is being dubbed the BlackBerry Storm 3 has some impressive rumored spec's. The phone supposedly will feature a 1Ghz Processor, 1GB of RAM and 8GB of storage. Aside from the storm there might be up to five other LTE phones by next May, from manufacturers such as Motorola, HTC, LG and BlackBerry.

Things are certainly heating up as we move through the summer months! We're sure there will be plenty of new devices in the upcoming months and can't wait to see Verizon's network first hand. That's all for now, 4G-lovers, but keep coming back for the latest updates at 4ginfo.com, and join in the 4G discussion on the 4G Forums!

iPad WiFi Issues With Sprint OverDrive

2010-04-29T10:10:00.001-07:00

Since the release of the iPad on April 3rd, many iPad owners have been having issues with connecting to WiFi networks that use WEP security. Since the Sprint OverDrive uses WEP security by default, it has been a problem for some Sprint Overdrive owners who use the device to provide a 3G/4G mobile hotspot for the iPad. If you are having problems connecting your iPad to your OverDrive via WiFi, then we have a solution that will fix the problem! Since the problem is only related to WEP security, you will simply need to change the OverDrive's wireless security mode to WPA instead of using WEP.

For info on how to fix this issue, see the full article: iPad WiFi Issues With Sprint OverDrive

3G/4G Devices Require 3G/4G Plans - Be Careful, Unlimited Users!

2010-04-14T11:59:00.001-07:00

Now that Sprint's 4G service is available in a number of cities across the US, many Sprint 3G users are interested in switching to a new 3G/4G device like the U301 (left) or Overdrive, even if they don't currently need 4G - simply so they can have the latest device and be prepared for when 4G becomes available to them. This is understandable, but for customers who currently have a grandfathered "unlimited" 3G account with Sprint, swapping to a 3G/4G device may not always be the best idea. 3G/4G devices must be activated on Sprint's 3G/4G plan, which is $59.99 and provides unlimited 4G use but only 5GB of 3G use, with overage charges thereafter. This is the ONLY plan that you can activate Sprint's 3G/4G devices with - you CANNOT activate a 3G/4G device on a 3G-only plan.

This may come as a surprise to some, since Sprint does allow customers to do "ESN (Electronic Serial Number) Swaps" from one 3G device to another without changing your contract. Many people assume that they will be able to do an ESN swap from their 3G device to a 3G/4G device, continue using their unlimited 3G service for the time being, and be ready for 4G when it becomes available. This is NOT the case. You cannot do a simple ESN swap from a 3G device to a 3G/4G device. You can do a swap and not extend your contract, but you must change the plan to the 3G/4G plan (also, the swap can't be done online; to swap from a 3G to a 3G/4G device, you have to call Sprint).

For people that live in a 4G area, this isn't a problem since the 3G/4G plan provides unlimited 4G access, but for people that will mainly be relying on the 3G side, giving up your unlimited 3G service might not be worth making the switch just yet. If you have a 3G device with an unlimited Sprint plan and are considering doing a swap to a 3G/4G device, you should only do so if you actually have access to 4G and plan to use it; otherwise, you may want to wait until 4G is available in your area. You can keep up to date with the latest news on 4G, including coverage rollouts, by visiting our sister site 4ginfo.com.

For those that are ready to upgrade, you can purchase the U301 and the Sprint Overdrive both with and without contract from 3Gstore. Click here to purchase with no contract; if you're looking to purchase with a new two-year contract please use the 3gstore Sprint Order Form.

For more info on Sprint's 3G vs 3G/4G service and devices, check out our video debate: 3Gstore Mobile Break.

Cradlepoint Releases Firmware 1.6.12 for MBR1200

2010-03-30T09:32:00.001-07:00

CradlePoint Firmware 1.6.12 for MBR1200 Adds Support for New Devices and Bug Fixes

Firmware 1.6.12 allows you to use your U301 in an MBR1200!

CradlePoint has released Firmware Version 1.6.12 that provides the MBR1200 with official support for the new Sprint 3G/4G U301 modem, as well as support for other modems and long-awaited fixes for stability and bugs.

After last month's firmware updates for the PHS300/CTR500/MBR1000/MBR900, the MBR1200 was Cradlepoint's only 4G-capable router that was not compatible with Sprint's 3G/4G U301. With this firmware update, U301 users can now use their modem with the MBR1200, too!

In addition to adding support for the U301, firmware 1.6.12 also adds support for the following devices:

Pantech UMW190 for Verizon
Pantech UM185 for Cricket
Sierra Wireless 305 USB (AKA "Lightning") for AT&T
Sierra Wireless 306 USB for AT&T and Telus
Ubee PXU1900 for CLEAR
ZTE MF668 for Rogers
ZTE MF637 for T-Mobile
Option GE442 for T-Mobile
Additional newly-added international devices can be viewed in the release notes (PDF)

This latest firmware version also provides fixes for a few bugs:

WiFi Multimedia (WMM) problem, which prevented iPod Touch and iPhone users from connecting to the MBR1200
Blackberry Bold incompatibility issue
Blackberry Curve incompatibility issue
Blackberry Storm OS 5.0 incompatibility issues
Fixes to make WiMAX (4G) connection more reliable
U300 reset issue

Finally, firmware 1.6.12 added a couple new features:

"Agressive Modem Reset" causes the router to attempt various reset techniques to attempt to re-establish connection if the modem becomes unresponsive
"4G auto-reconnect feature" allows you to configure whether you want to connect to 3G or 4G based on various conditions
"Make-before-Break"is a nice feature for dual-mode 3G/4G modem users - if you're connected to 3G and 4G becomes available, the router will connect to 4G before breaking the 3G connection

For full details on what this firmware release provides, view the release notes (PDF)

Important note about upgrading your MBR1200 to firmware version 1.6.12: Due to a bug in the 1.6.3 firmware (the version installed on all current MBR1200's by default), firmware upgrades must be done by using the automatic firmware upgrade option within the router's web administration page (an active internet connection is required) - you cannot upgrade the firmware by saving the file to your computer and then browsing for it. For those ordering the MBR1200 from 3Gstore.com, we can upgrade the firmware for you before shipping your router for a $15 fee.

If you plan to upgrade the firmware yourself, check out this article that demonstrates how to perform the upgrade from 1.6.3 to 1.6.12: MBR1200 Firmware Upgrade Issues

Pricing Note: The MBR1200's retail price is going UP on 4/1/2010 by $50 (MSRP to become $349.99). Also, the current $50 Mail-In Rebate on the MBR1200 ENDS on 3/31/2010. If you are thinking about getting an MBR1200, do so on or before 3/31/2010 to take advantage of the low pricing!

Sprint Announces 4G-Capable HTC EVO

2010-03-23T14:41:00.000-07:00

After months of speculation, Sprint has finally officially announced that they will be offering their first ever 4G-capable phone this summer, the HTC EVO!

The HTC EVO is Android-based and will include such features as 4G WiMAX capability (obviously), an 8.0MP camera, integrated HD video capture, the ability to use it as a wifi hotspot, and more.

You can read the official announcement via this link: Sprint Announces HTC EVO, or read about the HTC EVO Features

The HTC EVO should be available on Sprint's network in the summer of 2010. If you'd like to be notified when the HTC EVO is available, send an email to futureitems "at" 3gstore.com.

Sprint Announces 4G Expansion to LA, Miami, St Louis, and More!

2010-03-23T12:05:00.001-07:00

Sprint 4G Expansion Plans to Stretch Coast-to-Coast from Los Angeles to Miami

Sprint extends its lead in making 4G technology a reality for millions of customers by announcing more planned coverage across the country

OVERLAND PARK, Kan., Mar 23, 2010 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- On a path to equip an expected 120 million Americans by end of the year with a mobile Internet experience that is turbo-charged, Sprint (NYSE:S) today announced plans to bring 4G technology to several additional markets, including Los Angeles and Miami. With 27 markets already equipped with 4G and more being planned for this year, Sprint is fulfilling its promise to light up major metropolitan areas with speeds that are up to 10 times faster1 than 3G.

Newly announced markets that will see 4G in 2010 are Cincinnati, Cleveland, Los Angeles, Miami, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City and St. Louis. Earlier this year Sprint announced that it planned to launch 4G in Boston, Denver, Kansas City, Houston, Minneapolis, New York, San Francisco and Washington, D.C., in 2010.

Continue reading about Sprint's 4G Expansion plans on 4Ginfo.com

2010-03-16T14:27:00.001-07:00

4G WiMAX and LTE Latest Updates

2010-03-16T14:05:00.001-07:00

4G-lovers (like us!) have a lot to be excited these days! CLEAR and Sprint now have WiMAX networks launched in 27 cities, Verizon plans to launch LTE soon, new 4G devices have hit the market... read on for a recap of what's been going on in the 4G world over the past few months!

WiMAX and LTE Coverage:

CLEAR and Sprint have announced that they will be adding service this year to Boston, Denver, Kansas City, Houston, Minneapolis, New York, San Francisco, and Washington D.C. By the end of 2010, Sprint hopes their 4G WiMAX network, currently available in 27 markets, will cover up to 120 million people.

Verizon Wireless has announced more details about their upcoming LTE launch, saying that they plan to launch between 25 and 30 markets this year but will double that to 50-60 markets by the end of 2013. LTE (Long Term Evolution) is the high speed data 4G standard adopted by Verizon, At&t, and T-Mobile and has the potential to provide data download speeds of 5-12 Mbps and 2-5Mbps for uploads - Verizon will be the first US carrier to offer LTE and the second to offer 4G.

Some new 4G devices that came out recently include:

-Sprint U301: A dual-mode device that can connect to both Sprint's 4G WiMAX network and their nationwide 3G EVDO Rev-A network - you'll enjoy super-fast 4G speeds where available, and when you travel outside a 4G market, the U301 will automatically connect to Sprint's 3G network! Sprint has also put together a new mobile broadband plan that gives you access to both their 3G and 4G networks at the SAME price as their 3G plan, just $59.99/month! You get the same 5GB of 3G service plus unlimited 4G access - Sprint is essentially giving away their 4G service at no additional charge!

-The Sprint OverDrive (aka Sierra Wireless W801): A mobile hotspot that allows high speed connections to Sprint's nationwide 3G network as well as their faster 4G WiMAX network, for as many as five wireless devices. You can use the same sprint plan that was listed for the Sprint U301.

-CLEAR "Series M" Home Modem: The new "Series M" modem is the successor to the original Home Modem and features an enhanced internal antenna for improved reception. This is only available in some markets.

-CLEAR 4G Mobile USB Modem (PXU1900): This is the successor to the CLEAR USB modem, and offers some nice benefits over the original. Its internal antenna has been improved for better reception, and it consumes much less power.

-CLEAR USB Performance Dock: This is a great accessory for the new PXU1900 USB modem, and the first of its kind for WiMAX! The Performance Dock provides increased signal and performance to the PXU1900, and is super portable and easy to use.

WiMAX Routers

Customers were so excited when we announced that Cradlepoint came out with a new firmware to support the U301 and other new devices on most of their routers. You can read more about the firmware update for MBR1000/MBR900/CTR500 here, and the info for the new firmware for the PHS300 can be viewed here.

Other interesting news and rumors on 4G services and products:

-CLEAR simplified their plans in March, making it more affordable and easier to order than ever.

-Sprint and CLEAR 4G have devices that are Mac Compatible!

-Verizon's first LTE network will launch by the end of 2010 - stay tuned at 4Ginfo for further developments

-Sprint's first 4G phone is rumored to launch this summer and may be manufactured by HTC on the Android operating system, but Sprint has not released any additional information about it.

-Novatel Wireless is working with operators and plans to launch commercial data devices for LTE in late 2010.

-Clearwire is looking at a number of different technologies for their long-term future goals, including WiMAX 2.0

That's all for now, 4G-lovers, but keep coming back for the latest updates at 4ginfo.com, and join in the 4G discussion on the 4G Forums!

New CLEAR WiMAX Devices and Plan Changes

2010-02-01T14:57:00.000-08:00

CLEAR is kicking off the month of February with some very exciting changes to their lineup of 4G modems and service plans!

New CLEAR Devices:

CLEAR "Series M" Home Modem (left): The new "Series M" modem is the successor to the original Home Modem and features an enhanced internal antenna for improved reception. The "Series M" modem is available for $79.99 or it can be leased for $4.99/mo if you select a 2-year contract.

CLEAR 4G Mobile USB Modem (PXU1900) (right): This is the successor to the CLEAR USB modem, and offers some nice benefits over the original, including the fact that it can be used with the optional USB Performance Dock, which also debuted today, for better signal (see more below)!

The PXU1900 is available for $59.99 or it can be leased for $4.99/mo if you select a 2-year contract.

CLEAR USB Performance Dock (left): This is a great accessory for the new PXU1900 USB modem, and the first of its kind for WiMAX! The Performance Dock provides increased signal and performance to the PXU1900, and is super portable and easy to use. Instead of connecting the modem directly to your computer, you simply place it in the Performance Dock and then connect the Dock to your computer via USB. Best of all, the USB Performance Dock is a bargain at just $9.99!

CLEAR Plan Changes:

CLEAR has responded to Sprint's new 3G/4G pricing by lowering their price for 3G/4G service, too: CLEAR users can now get unlimited 4G access and 5GB of 3G access for just $55/mo (the price was previously $70/mo)!
CLEAR has also added a new promo just for customers in the Portland/Salem market - these lucky folks can get the "Pick 2" service plan (service for either two USB devices or home modem and one USB modem) for just $45/month (regular price is $65/month)!

Order CLEAR devices and services securely from 3Gstore

Sierra Overdrive 3G/4G Portable Hotspot Now Available at 3Gstore!

2010-01-26T13:46:00.000-08:00

As a follow-up product to the success of their first mobile hotspot -- the MiFi 2200 -- Sprint has launched a game-changing product called the Sprint OverDrive. The Sprint OverDrive (aka Sierra Wireless W801) is a mobile hotspot that allows high speed connections to Sprint's nationwide 3G network as well as their faster 4G WiMAX network, for as many as five wireless devices.

The Sprint OverDrive is available from 3Gstore.com right now for $99.99 after rebate with a new 2-year contract. 3G/4G service is available for just $59.99/mo; this plan provides unlimited 4G data use and 5GB of data use on 3G network with overage charge of $0.05/mb. Since the 3G/4G data plan for the OverDrive is the same price as Sprint's 3G-only service, users thinking about 3G service may want to look at the OverDrive as an option, even if they aren't in 4G coverage. You'll be able to use 3G now, and when you travel to a 4G area or when Sprint launches 4G in your area, you'll be set!

Order the Overdrive for $149.99 - $50 mail-in rebate securely from 3Gstore

Sprint 3G/4G U301 USB Modem Now Available at 3Gstore

2010-01-25T13:17:00.001-08:00

Sprint's newest dual-mode USB modem, the U301, is now available at 3Gstore! The U301 is a dual-mode device that can connect to both Sprint's 4G WiMAX network and their nationwide 3G EVDO Rev-A network - you'll enjoy super-fast 4G speeds where available, and when you travel outside a 4G market, the U301 will automatically connect to Sprint's 3G network!

Sprint's new 3G/4G plan makes the U301 an excellent option even for users who aren't currently in a Sprint 4G area. 3G/4G service is the same price as Sprint's 3G-only service - $59.99/mo - and provides unlimited 4G access and 5GB of 3G access. If you were considering signing up for Sprint's 3G mobile broadband service with a 3G-only device, we highly recommend considering the U301 instead - for the exact same monthly price you'll be able to use 3G service now and when 4G does become available in your area (or if you travel to a 4G area) in the future, you'll be prepared with a compatible device!

More about the U301:

* Dimensions: 3.5" x 1.27" x 0.92"
* Weight: 1.25 oz
* Compatibility: Windows XP/Vista/7, Mac OS X 10.4 and later
* Cradlepoint router support coming soon!

The U301 is available from 3Gstore for FREE with a new 2-year contract (pay $49.99 and receive a $50 mail-in rebate). Remember, when you order your Sprint service through 3Gstore you'll have access to our esteemed technical support as well as discounts on routers (Cradlepoint plans on supporting the U301 in an upcoming firmware release) and antennas/amplifiers (there are currently no signal-boosting options for improving the 4G signal, but repeaters can be used to improve your 3G signal)!

Order the U301 for $49.99 - $50 mail-in rebate securely from 3Gstore

Mac + 4G: What works?

2010-01-19T13:09:00.000-08:00

Like the early days of mobile broadband service, the earliest 4G device offerings were not Mac savvy. Thankfully, options that include Mac OS X software are becoming available quicker than with 3G service. Our latest 4Ginfo article contains the latest 4G and Mac compatibility information and links to further resources:

Sprint and CLEAR 4G and Mac Compatibility
order CLEAR 4G service
discusss 4G & Mac on 4gforums.com

Sprint's New Mobile Broadband Plan Offers 3G & 4G for $59.99/mo

2010-01-14T14:20:00.000-08:00

Whenever new technology debuts, customers understandably become concerned about buying products that are going to be outdated or getting stuck in a service contract when something better is on the way. Now that Sprint's 4G internet service is becoming available to users in more and more cities and more dual-mode 3G/4G devices are hitting the market, folks who were considering signing up for 3G mobile broadband service now have another option to contemplate. Luckily, Sprint has put together a new mobile broadband plan that gives you access to both their 3G and 4G networks at the SAME price as their 3G plan, just $59.99/month! You get the same 5GB of 3G service plus unlimited 4G access - Sprint is essentially giving away their 4G service at no additional charge!

3Gstore is Now a CLEAR (4G WiMAX) Dealer!

2010-01-12T15:20:00.000-08:00

3Gstore.com is now a CLEAR online authorized retailer! For nearly five years 3Gstore (formerly booster-antenna.com) has been the go-to source for all things 3G, and now we've expanded to offer our customers the latest in mobile broadband technology.

CLEAR provides 4G WiMAX internet access, which is like 3G mobile broadband technologies like EVDO, but much faster! It provides average download speeds of 3 to 6 mbps with bursts up to 10mbps. There are three different modems available (a 4G USB device, a "home modem", and a dual-mode 3G/4G device) and a myriad of plans available to fit every usage need and budget. Click here to read more about CLEAR!

Click here to order CLEAR products and services from 3Gstore!

2009 in Review: The Year of 4G!

2010-01-04T12:52:00.001-08:00

This has been a really exciting year for 4G services! This time last year, 4G services were available in just a select few markets, and after just one year Sprint/CLEAR have expanded their WiMAX coverage to over 30 markets, several new devices made their debut, and Verizon made sure we didn't forget that LTE is on the way. Lets take a look at the highlights of 4G in 2009!

Sprint/Clearwire Expands 4G WiMax Coverage To New Markets:

Cradlepoint integrates support for the new 4G devices onto their router line with a firmware update.

Sprint, Clearwire’s largest shareholder, expanded it’s network onto the Clearwire infrastructure to become the first national 3G/4G carrier.

Sprint announced the U301 3G/4G Hybrid Modem, the first Mac-compatible 3G/4G Hybrid device

Samsung announced and released the Mondi, the first "MID" or Mobile Internet Device to work on the Clear network.

Verizon completed its initial tests on its LTE network in two lucky cities, Boston and Seattle, and promised coverage to 25-30 markets in 2010.

Going into the new year, we are looking forward to seeing many new developments and advances in 4G. Things that we will be watching for this year include:

CLEAR and Sprint 4G further expanding their 4G coverage to new markets
WiMAX-enabled phones (Sprint & LG To Unveil WiMax 4G Phone at CES?)
Verizon to launch their 4G LTE service
3Gstore.com (4Ginfo's sister site) will begin selling Clear & Sprint 4G products and services in the very near future - check 3Gstore.com/clear for updates!

It looks like 2010 is going to be a very exciting year for 4G services, so stay tuned for the latest news & information!

Clear 4G WiMAX Maps Available on 4Ginfo!

2009-09-02T16:06:00.000-07:00

Clear 4G coverage in Atlanta

CLEAR now has 4G WiMAX networks active in several markets throughout the US - is YOUR hometown covered?

4Ginfo.com has now added an interactive tool to check Clear coverage by city or suburb. Check it out here: 4Ginfo.com/clearmaps

Summer of 4G Recap - Whats New With WiMAX and LTE

2009-09-01T15:59:00.000-07:00

These past few months have been exciting times for fans of 4G, from the early adopters who've been waiting for 4G for years to the folks who hadn't even heard of the technology until it became available in their city. We've seen expansion like crazy, the forming of strategic partnerships, and the beginning of a long drawn out battle between WiMAX and LTE for 4G supremacy. Need to catch up on your 4G news? Here's what's been going on this summer:

Clearwire greatly increased the size of its slice of 4G pie by expanding into Las Vegas, Atlanta, and several other cities this summer.

Sprint, Clearwire’s largest shareholder, expanded it’s network onto the Clearwire infrastructure to become the first national 3G/4G carrier.

Comcast Cable and Time Warner Cable, who are both investors in Clearwire, launch (and announce plans to do so) their 4G service on the Clear networks.

Cradlepoint integrates support for the new 4G devices onto their router line with a firmware update.

Samsung announces and releases the Mondi, the first "MID" or Mobile Internet Device to work on the Clear network.

Northern Michigan University becomes one of the first educational institutions to employ WiMAX as an alternative to campus wide Wifi hotspots.

Verizon also joined in the fray, completing its initial tests on its LTE network in two luck cities, Boston and Seattle.

For more updates on 4G, and for all the current news, check back with us regularly here on the 4G blog, and at 4ginfo.com!

Clear 4G/WiMAX Launch Party on 7/21

2009-07-17T08:28:00.000-07:00

Grab you're party hats and laptops everyone! Clear 4G WiMAX is "officially" coming to Las Vegas (it's been "unofficially" active since early June). In honor of the event, Clear is throwing a launch party at the Town Square Mall on Las Vegas Blvd. Stop on by to learn more information about Clear, or visit one of the several stores now open in the Las Vegas Valley.

Launch Party Details
Tuesday July 21, 2009
4PM-8PM

Clear Retail Store Town Square Mall
6605 Las Vegas Blvd South, Las Vegas, NV

Don't forget that you can always get ALL the latest and greatest WiMAX and 4G news on 4Ginfo.com!

Atlanta Gets Clear!

2009-05-07T13:30:00.000-07:00

At last, Clearwire has added a second market to their CLEAR network!

(And no, I'm not counting Baltimore, which is still mired in a state of XOHM/Clear confusion).

The lucky market to get Clear WiMAX coverage is Atlanta, and judging by the coverage map provided by Clearwire, the coverage area is fairly large and much of the metro and surrounding area should be covered:

Click for larger view of the Atlanta coverage map

Earlier this year Clearwire promised coverage for Atlanta as well as Las Vegas, Chicago, Charlotte, Dallas/Ft. Worth, Honolulu, Philadelphia, and Seattle, but hadn't made any apparent progress until the inclusion of Atlanta on the Clear site this week. Hopefully the launch of Atlanta means that users in Vegas, Chicago, et al can count on getting CLEAR themselves this year, too!

Discuss Clearwire's coverage in Atlanta on the 4G Forums!

Cradlepoint Firmware 1.5.1 Provides Support for WiMAX USB Modems

2009-04-06T15:57:00.000-07:00

Cradlepoint, who manufactures some of the best 3G EVDO/HSPA routers on the market, have created a firmware update for several of their popular routers that allows users to share their WiMAX service!

Cradlepoint had released a new firmware version for the MBR1000, CTR500, CBA250, and MBR800 routers that provides support for the Clear USB modem, Sprint U300, and the ZTE TU25 (the XOHM USB device). With this latest firmware version, you can simply plug in any one of those WiMAX USB modems and share the connection with multiple computers either via WiFi (MBR1000 and CTR500 only) or ethernet cable.

The firmware update is available for FREE on 3Gstore (our sister site) via this link:

http://3gstore.com/151

If you already own a Cradlepoint MBR1000/CTR500/CBA250/MBR800, you can simply install the new firmware and you'll be able to share your WiMAX connection!

Beginning today, all orders for these routers from 3Gstore will include a copy of this firmware on CD.

Who Needs a Landline? Use Clear for VOIP!

2009-03-24T11:39:00.000-07:00

Landline phone providers have already taken a big hit over the past couple years as more and more customers are deciding to rely solely on their cell phones, and now Clearwire is offering one more way to ditch the local phone company: the ClearVoice adapter.

Clearwire's latest addition to their product lineup is the Linksys 2102 ClearVoice adapter, which allows you to utilize your Clear Home Modem and any regular landline telephone for VOIP phone service. The adapter features two ports for phones (or even a fax machine) and 2 ethernet ports - one to connect to the Home Modem and a spare one that you can use for networking.

Best of all, it's affordable. The ClearVoice Adapter is only $15 and the service is just $25 (in addition to any of the Clear home plans) for unlimited calling!

Cradlepoint MBR1100 3G/4G Router: Coming Soon

2009-03-04T11:46:00.000-08:00

New MBR1100 Mobile Broadband Router Supports 3G, 4G Networks and VPN

WiMAX may only be available in two US cities - STILL - but thanks to Cradlepoint you'll soon be able to do more with it if you've got it! Cradlepoint has announced that they will be launching the MBR1100 router during the first quarter of 2009, and it will not only support a huge variety of 3G devices (see 3G router compatibility chart for full list) but also Clearwire's 4G w100 and the Sprint 3G/3G U300.

The MBR1100 will be very similar to the 3G MBR1000 and will retail for an estimated $349.99. Stay tuned for a full review on 4Ginfo.com!

Discuss the MBR1100 on the 4G Forums

2009-02-27T10:03:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since we've updated this blog, but not for lack of interesting news! The tech industry has been buzzing like crazy about the future of 4G, particularly the war between WiMAX and LTE. WiMAX had the early lead, but Verizon has made some bold goals about their LTE plans, promising to debut the service in two markets by the end of the year, and WiMAX is still only (officially) available in Portland and Baltimore.

With Verizon's LTE plans in place, it is imperative that Clearwire and Sprint expand their coverage in order to stay competitive. Before Clearwire can even think about expanding, though, they still need to take care of the issue of integrating XOHM and Clear! Right now, even though Clearwire has taken over, XOHM is still operating as a separate entity and there is no way to "roam" between the two networks - if you're a XOHM customer and travel to Portland, your modems won't work on the Clear network, and vice versa.

According to XOHM employees, they have not even been told whether Clearwire will be closing down the XOHM offices in Arizona or if they will simply become Clearwire employees. Clearwire's offices are in Oregon, so unfortunately it seems likely that they may decide to close that office altogether.

We have been repeatedly assured that XOHM customers will be taken care of and will have no problems continuing to use their service and continuing their existing plans. However, there is no word on how Clear plans to make XOHM user's modems compatible with the network. It could be a firmware upgrade or possibly a swap (XOHM customers would have to return their modems in exchange for a Clear model), but no announcement has been made.

We are standing by like the rest of you, wondering not just how long it will take Clearwire to get service to more cities, but how they will take care of us XOHM-ers!

2009-01-13T13:50:00.000-08:00

We all know that Clear will be taking over XOHM in Baltimore at some point, but neither Clearwire nor XOHM has fully explained how that will effect XOHM users. XOHM's website has some FAQ's on the issue and indicates a couple of interesting points - your XOHM modem won't work in Portland, for instance - but there aren't any "clear" (hardy har har) answers about what will really happen when Clear takes over.

After several chats with XOHM and Clear, I was able to find out the following:

Right now, XOHM modems will NOT work on the Clear network, and vice versa. If you take your ZTE tu25 USB Modem to Portland, you will NOT be able to get Clear.
When Clear takes over in Baltimore, XOHM modems will NOT automatically work! According to a Clear rep, they are hoping to provide firmware updates for the available XOHM modems at that time - you would have to install a new firmware version before being able to access Clear.
If they are UNABLE to create new firmware that would allow XOHM users to use their existing modems when Clear takes over, they will provide an upgrade to a Clear modem free of charge.
XOHM users who have signed up for the "$50/month for Life" plan will be allowed to keep that plan when Clear takes over, even though Clear does not offer that same plan.
NO ONE seems to know just when this takeover will occur. One estimate placed it at about four months, but there is NO indication that that is an accurate guess.

By all accounts, Clearwire is doing their best to keep things simple for XOHM users and the CEO has repeatedly stated that in the future XOHM and Clear users will be able to roam on each other's networks without a problem. However, it doesn't sound like this can be accomplished without - at the minimum - a firmware upgrade. And just WHEN this will start to effect Baltimore XOHM-er's is still the BIG question.

Discuss the future of XOHM - and its relationship with Clear! - on the 4G Forums

2009-01-07T13:35:00.000-08:00

Since XOHM made its debut back in September, many early-adopting techies have experienced WiMAX in several cities. Baltimore was XOHM's sole officially covered WiMAX area, although users have been able to semi-stealthily access the network in other areas, including Chicago and Dallas, and now Portland has become the first network to be "Clear".

Clearwire launched their WiMAX network under the brand "Clear" this week in Portland. The network had been active in the area for a month or so, but this week Clearwire finally made things official and began a marketing campaign to get the word out about Clear and what it can do. Since the network has actually been live for several weeks, this official launch didn't bring any changes in and of itself, but it sets the stage for future launches.

Currently, Clearwire is officially operating WiMAX networks in just 2 cities: Portland and the XOHM-covered Baltimore (the name "XOHM" will be phased out and replaced with "Clear" within the next few months), but they also have "pre-WiMAX" networks operating in about 40 markets in North America. These lucky cities will likely be some of the first to get the upgrade to Clear since some of the infrastructure is already in place. Which other cities are on the list to get equipped with Clear is not, well, clear - no places in particular have been named by the company just yet.

While there aren't any details on Clearwire's roll-out plans, their chief strategy officer Scott Richardson made some interesting announcements in the wake of the launch. For one, he said that the plans and pricing for Clear service - which are pretty flexible and affordable as is - will be adjusted after hearing feedback from users in Portland and Baltimore (click here to read more about Clearwire's pricing and plans). Richardson also spoke about a product they'll soon be offering called the "Clear Voice Adapter", which will hook your landline (who still has one?) to the Clear home modem and allow users to make unlimited calls within the US via VOIP for just $25/month.

Finally, the fact that Clearwire is moving forward with marketing and promoting Clear also means that Sprint 4G should be following suit. Remember, Sprint - who owns 49% of Clearwire - will be offering WiMAX service along with EVDO at some point in the near future with the Franklin u300 dual-mode modem.

It takes a long time (and a lot of money) to deploy a brand new network like this, so patience is obviously going to be important for those of us not living in Portland or Baltimore. However, it looks like Clearwire is either unaffected by or just ignoring the economic troubles plaguing most of us and seem to be moving quickly!

Discuss the Clear launch on 4G Forums

2008-12-17T10:55:00.000-08:00

Sprint announced the industry's first dual mode 3G and 4G device today, the Sprint 4G U300 (by Franklin Wireless). This USB dongle will allow you to access all of Sprint's mobile broadband networks, including EVDO Rev-A and WiMAX! Currently, 4G is ONLY available in Baltimore, but they will be expanding throughout 2009.

The device will cost $199.99 with a 2 year contract and will be available after 12/21/08; the monthly charge will be $79.99 for EVDO and 4G access. It is unclear what the usage limits will be, but I'd imagine it would be 5GB like most mobile broadband. Unfortunately, it is NOT Mac compatible, which is strange, since all other Franklin devices have been Mac compatible out of the box - this is probably because they don't (yet) have Mac support for their 4G network at all.

Related Links:

Sprint U300 Announcement
Sprint 4G U300 - First Announced on 4Ginfo.com
Franklin Reveals First EVDO/WiMAX USB Device: the U300
Discuss the Sprint U300 on EVDOforums.com
When Available, you may be able to buy the Sprint U300 at 3Gstore.com
Read about Franklin Warranty on EVDOinfo.com

2008-12-10T15:09:00.000-08:00

It's a bird... it's a plane... it's... LTE news?!

WiMAX has dominated all of our 4G sites, blogs, and forums lately, but lest you have forgotten, there IS a second 4G mobile broadband internet technology - LTE! Many companies, including biggies like Verizon and AT&T have chosen to work towards building out LTE networks rather than WiMAX, but deployment and availability of LTE has been estimated to be several years behind WiMAX, which is why we don't hear nearly as much about it.

This week, though, brought about not one, not two, but THREE nuggets of LTE news!

First, Qualcomm announced that they are building a dual mode modem that will operate on both LTE and HSPA+ and that they plan to have it ready for second quarter of 2009 - whether there is a network to use it with or not. Senior VP Encrico Salvatori elaborated, saying much "still depends on a number of very uncertain factors, many of which are dependent on mobile network operators' plans and investment priorities about how and when to roll out this next stage of wireless technology" - in other words, they are steaming ahead at full speed with their chip-making plans even though they have no control over actual network availability.

Also in the news this week: LG, another electronics giant you are surely familiar with, showed off their first modem, an LTE-ready chip to be used in future 4G phones. They're estimating that the first 4G phones will come out in 2010, but without a network right now anybody's guess is as good as anyone else's!

Then, on the heels of those two hardware-creation updates, Verizon CTO and VP Dick Lynch announced during a speech that Verizon is accelerating their plans and vows to have an active LTE network "somewhere here in the U.S. probably this time next year." A lofty goal indeed, considering previous estimates were looking more in the 2012 range, but a wise move by Verizon/Vodafone if they do indeed have the resources necessary to build out a new network. Remember, part of the reason Clearwire is able to roll out their WiMAX network so aggressively is because of that 3+ billion in investment dollars the merger with Sprint afforded them - developing, testing, and deploying a new network doesn't come cheap. However, if they can pull it off, they will beat competitors like AT&T to the market, which will pay off big time in the long run!

-----------------------------------------------
Discuss Verizon's LTE plans on the 4G Forums

2008-12-08T11:04:00.000-08:00

The newly formed Clearwire is only a week old, but they are wasting no time picking up where Sprint left off and moving forward with their new brand. As you probably know by now, the closure of the merger between Clearwire and Sprint's WiMAX division gives Clearwire all of Sprint's WiMAX assets as well as access to several billion dollars of investment money from the likes of Google, Intel, and of course Sprint.

Clearwire's WiMAX service is called "Clear", and XOHM is being re-branded to match. As far as we can tell, there won't be any interruption in service for users already signed up with XOHM - it's simply a matter of re-branding. The new Clear WiMAX network debuted in Portland last week, and while the new clear.com website does NOT bother giving us any sort of coverage map to look at, you can type in an address and see if service is available. You can't take a look at the plans or see how much the modems cost unless you confirm your coverage first, so I used the Portland Fire Department's address and was able to peruse their offerings. Here's what I found:

Essentially, Clear's service structure is set up very similarly to XOHM's. You have the option of "home" service with a Motorola home modem - it plugs into the wall and then you can connect either via ethernet or hook it up to a regular WiFi router - or "mobile" service with a Motorola w100 USB dongle. Like XOHM, Clear has no-contract options, but you also have the option of signing a 2-year Clear contract and getting some discounts, including waivers of the $35 activation fee. The cost of the devices themselves is the same whether you sign the contract or not, though - $49.99 for the USB dongle and $175 for the home modem - so I would imagine that most people will opt to steer clear of contracts (pun 100% intended).

The other interesting thing that Clear has done with their plans is give you options for speed with the home modem and usage with the USB device. With the home modem, you are guaranteed unlimited bandwidth (let's see how long that lasts), but you can choose the speed you pay for: $20/month for 768 Kbps/128 Kbps, $30 for 3.0 Mbps/384 Kbps, or $40 for 6.0 Mbps/512 Kbps. With the USB modem, you are limited to 4.0 Mbps/384 Kbps, but you can choose from three bandwidth plans: 200mb for $30, 2GB for $40, or unlimited (again - enjoy it while it lasts!) for just $50/month.

While these new plans offer a lot of flexibility and can help occasional users save money by giving them a cheap, low-usage option, it all seems a bit much. Even the most expensive plans offered by Clear are still very competitive - and cheaper than EVDO - so I doubt many customers will choose to forgo the potentially awesome speeds Clear can offer in favor of saving $10 a month.

Discuss the CLEAR plans and products on the 4G Forums

2008-11-26T10:12:00.000-08:00

Now that the formation of the new Clearwire company has been approved by the Feds as well as their shareholders, it is expected that the deal will be closing on December 1st. What does that mean for us WiMAX-hungry consumers, though?

The closure of the deal will give Clearwire access to a huge chunk of change (several billions of dollars courtesy of Intel and more) and they are going to put it right to use. Portland, Oregon is reported to be the first market deployed, and that will be happening soon - first quarter 2009 - followed by Atlanta, Las Vegas, and Grand Rapids. The lack of big city names like LA and New York is a bit disappointing, but they are hiring for many positions around the country, including Los Angeles and Texas, indicating that those areas will likely be Clearwire markets at some point.

For now, it's back to waiting for XOHM to switch their test markets (Chicago, Philly, et al) to official XOHM networks!

2008-11-24T12:12:00.000-08:00

DC residents have had unofficial access to the XOHM network for a while now, like folks in Chicago and Dallas, but as of this week they are now a "real" XOHM city! XOHM.com is now including DC in their coverage maps:

Sprint must not be anticipating the Obamas needing WiMAX - the area surrounding the White House is wholly uncovered.

Switching from a test market to an official XOHM area should make a significant difference in the experience for the DC users. No more secret activations!

Are you in DC? Used XOHM yet? Share with us at 4G Forums!

2008-11-21T10:16:00.000-08:00

Clearwire and Sprint have had to jump through a lot of hurdles since announcing their plans to join their WiMAX forces back in May of 2008. They faced opposition from AT&T, who unsuccessfully appealed to the FCC earlier this fall to try to stop the merger, as well as from iPCS, then had to wait for approval from the FCC (which they got earlier this month), and then were waiting on a vote from Clearwire stockholders to see that they had their stamp of approval.

It was finally given to the shareholders to vote upon on Thursday, and Clearwire's board of directors unanimously recommended to their shareholders that they vote in favor of the merger - and they did!

The transaction was approved by the shareholders yesterday and Clearwire (remember, the merged Sprint/Clearwire company is going under the name "Clearwire") now has the seal of approval from the law and the people. This is a big step and I'd expect to see their development and deployment schedule really ramp up now.

As Clearwire CEO Benjamin G. Wolff put it,

"Today, our shareholders have taken a transformative step toward enabling an entirely new mobile Internet experience for consumers and businesses across the country. With an unmatched spectrum portfolio, a next generation all IP network, an ever-expanding ecosystem of mobile 4G devices, and the backing of some of the most innovative communications, entertainment and technology companies in the world, Clearwire is ready to redefine mobile Internet services in the U.S."

Join the 4G Forums discussion about the new Clearwire

2008-11-20T14:54:00.000-08:00

The Clearwire/Sprint merger may have been approved by the FCC earlier this month, but that doesn't mean the new WiMAX company is now 100% free to forge ahead with all of their plans. At least two companies have expressed a distaste for the merger - first AT&T, who tried to block the merger earlier this year, and also Illinois-based Sprint partner iPCS, who has a history of blocking Sprint from providing service from merged companies in their territories. Citing exclusivity clauses in their contract with Sprint, iPCS has gone to the courts in hopes of barring Sprint from offering any service from the new Clearwire network in their territories, which include areas of Illinois, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Iowa, Ohio and Tennessee (check out the map above for more detail on where iPCS reigns).

Fortunately for Sprint/Clearwire, on Monday an Illinois circuit court told iPCS that they must immediately withdraw their request for a restraining order, meaning Sprint/Clearwire can move forward with their WiMAX development plans. This is great news for the new company, especially considering the precedent that was set when the Illinois court sided with iPCS when they complained about the Nextel merger. The court did provide an allowance for iPCS to re-file in the future, but for the time being Clearwire will be allowed to continue their development unfettered.

It has been reported that Clearwire plans on rolling out services in iPCS territories in July of 2009, and they have agreed to notify iPCS of their plans 60 days before launch. While it was reported that July 2009 would be the soonest WiMAX would be deployed in those regions, it was not made clear where exactly the service will become available first or which parts of the region will be covered.

Discuss iPCS vs Clearwire on the 4G Forums

2008-10-29T11:37:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we broke the news that a tri-mode WiMAX/EVDO/HSDPA USB device was on the way, the Franklin U300. There is a lot of excitement surrounding the debut of this device, especially as more and more people are having success with WiMAX.

So where is it?!

Well, it's not here yet, but rumors have surfaced about pricing. These aren't official announcements, but the information sounds reasonable and will most likely prove to be true.

The full retail cost of the device itself - AKA the cost you pay without signing up for a 2-year contract - is alleged to be in the $300 range, comparable to the price of EVDO devices and phones without a contract. However, when you purchase it with a contract I'm sure it will be far cheaper.

As for the price of the service, it is rumored to be set at $79.99/month and require a 2-year contract. The EVDO service will be limited to 5GB, and the WiMAX will be unlimited (for now - Sprint has already hinted at applying a similar limit to WiMAX in the future).

Stay tuned for more information!

Read more and get the full specs on 4Ginfo.com
Discuss the U300 and other WiMAX devices on the 4G Forums

2008-10-23T17:10:00.000-07:00

XOHM currently offers three modems for use on their WiMAX network, and they're all different formats: there's the Zyxel Home Modem, SWC-e100 ExpressCard, and their latest offering, the ZTE Tu25 USB dongle. So which one are you supposed to choose? Which one is the "best"? Do they all work the same?

We at 4Ginfo.com have tested all three available XOHM modems, and after comparing the performance and benefits of them we've put together some information that should help you make your choice!

Our Favorite: Zyxel Home Modem: If you're going to use XOHM primarily at home, the Zyxel is far and away the best choice. It's incredibly easy to set up and is compatible with any computer (it is the ONLY one that works with Macs right now) AND can be used with any standard router! It works just like a regular cable or DSL modem: just plug it into the wall and then either connect it directly to your computer via an ethernet cable or use it with a router. Its built-in antennas are powerful, and it is the only modem with antenna ports that can be used with future antennas, like EVDO aircards (there aren't any available yet, but stay tuned).

It also out-performed the other two options. We saw consistent download speeds of 4-5Mbps (even higher than XOHM promises on their site) and we were seeing consistent uploads of well over 1Mbps. Unless you're going to be traveling a lot and don't want to worry about having to find an outlet everywhere you go, this is definitely the best modem to go for.

First Runner Up: ZTE Tu25 USB Modem: If you want to go truly mobile, we suggest the USB option. It worked well for us, and obviously works with any PC that has an USB port (not on Macs, though!). As for speeds, we were able to occasionally hit download speeds of nearly 10Mbs, but the average speeds were much lower than that. The upload speeds, on the other hand, were significantly less than what we saw with the Home Modem, in the range of about 800Kbps as opposed to 1.2+Mbps.

Unlike the Home Modem, there probably won't be an option to hook up an external antenna to this modem. It does have two connectors on the bottom of the modem beneath the label, but they are u.fl connectors and not designed for repeated connecting and disconnecting of an antenna like we do for EVDO aircards.

And in a Distant Third Place: The Samsung ExpressCard: Unless you have too many peripheral devices taking up your USB ports or you just love ExpressCards, we do NOT recommend the SWC-e100 ExpressCard. There have been activation problems, and those that have been able to activate it have experienced slow speeds and difficultly staying connected to the network. In our tests, we maxed out at 1.5Mbps or so down and our fastest upload speed was 791 - the average upload speed was more like 500. Better than dial-up, but those are speeds we expect from EVDO Rev-A, not WiMAX. With the USB modem also available for "on-the-go" users, there is no reason to opt for the ExpressCard.

If you've used a XOHM modem, let us know if you agree with our opinions! Share your experience with the 4G community at the 4G Forums

2008-10-17T15:38:00.000-07:00

Everyone appreciates a device that can serve more than one purpose (like the USB EVDO modems that can double as a flash drive!), and Franklin Wireless has released news that they're coming out with a potentially AWESOME device that is compatible with WiMAX, EVDO Rev-A, AND HSDPA! It's called the U300 and is made by C-Motech, and is set to become available by the end of the year.

I said that it was "potentially" awesome because at this point, we don't know much about it other than the technical specifications released by the company. There is speculation that it will be a pricey device - possibly in the $200-$300 range (but again, that is just speculation at this point), and how the usage will be charged is unknown, too. Sprint's XOHM service doesn't require a contract, but all EVDO providers do. Most likely, we will still be required to sign a contract if we want to use the U300 for EVDO, but hopefully WiMAX will remain contract free. As for monthly costs, I would imagine we'll be paying for both services at full price. Another question is whether it has an antenna port on it - while there aren't currently any antennas available for WiMAX devices, there will be in the future and a lack of antenna port could be a deal breaker for many users. As for use in a router, that's another question that probably won't be answered for a while.

If the u300 is as good as it sounds up front, it will likely become a huge hit.

Read more and get the full specs on 4Ginfo.com
Discuss the U300 and other WiMAX devices on the 4G Forums

2008-10-16T09:06:00.000-07:00

Apple prides themselves on always being on the cutting edge of technology - who had an MP3 player before we all got hooked on iPods? - and it looks like they're aiming to be one of the first manufacturers to jump on the WiMAX bandwagon.

It has been reported that devices like the iPod Touch and some notebooks may soon come equipped with WiMAX chips - in Korea, anyway. Apple and Korean provider KT Corp have signed a "memorandum of understanding," which, while not equivalent to an official partnership, does indicate that Apple is interested in the technology. It makes sense that they would choose Korea as their first market for WiMAX devices, since WiMAX has been available for a while now and covers a large number of subscribers.

Interestingly, one device the Korean market WONT be seeing WiMAX on is the iPhone. Korea hasn't even allowed the iPhone 3G to be sold in the country because Korea requires all smartphones to comply with the WIPI (Wireless Internet Platform for Interoperability) standard, which requires that online-capable phones support Java as well as certain types of executable code. The requirement doesn't apply to the iPod Touch or MacBooks, so Apple would be allowed to integrate WiMAX on those devices.

While it is certainly exciting to see WiMAX expand to other devices, remember that there are a lot of downsides to integrated devices...

Discuss Apple's WiMAX plans on the 4G Forums

2008-10-13T13:17:00.001-07:00

It looks like we might be able to add Kansas-ites to the list of lucky Americans with access to WiMAX soon!

It won't be via Sprint's XOHM network, though. Instead, local company Nex-Tech, a subsidiary of Rural Telephone Service Company, has ordered WiMAX network kits from Redline Communications in order to create a for a multi-city WiMAX network. A lot of rural areas in Kansas are currently unavailable to access high speed services like DSL or cable, so this will be a big upgrade for them and will likely prove to be very popular.

Justin McClung, Internet Solutions Manager at Nex-Tech had this to say about the plans:

"Our customers have come to expect a high level of service from Nex-Tech. Deploying Redline's high capacity 3.65 GHz WiMAX base stations eliminated the issues we encountered using other wireless solutions, including mitigating interference, ensuring high levels of throughput and delivering the Quality of Services (QoS) support we needed for a successful business model. With Redline's 3.65 GHz WiMAX solutions, we can maintain user confidence, reliability and significantly increase upstream and downstream throughput."

Nex-Tech has estimated that the network will be ready to roll out in November in areas including Hays and Great Bend.

Discuss this development and other coverage areas on the 4G Forums

2008-10-13T08:45:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month, we at 4Ginfo.com posted an article on how to get your Sprint XOHM device up and running in areas with XOHM outside Baltimore. It has worked successfully for MANY people, allowing people in Dallas, Chicago, etc to sign up for service and access the SUPER fast network. We've heard a lot of success stories and had success ourselves!

Some people have had trouble, though. I mentioned the accounts of a few of them the other day, but over the weekend one of our own employees experienced a bump in the road in Chicago. After being able to access the network without any problems for a while, he began having a problem when using his ExpressCard. Each time he popped it in his computer, he was asked to re-register. Coincidentally, our employee received a phone call from XOHM, welcoming him to the network (has anyone else received such a call? While it's a nice gesture, it seems a little over the top for Sprint to expend such manpower on welcome calls...), and he decided to take the opportunity to try to find out why he was experiencing this problem.

Upon seeing that he was actually outside the Baltimore region, she informed him that the "workaround" is no longer valid - the Network Operations division had halted activations outside Baltimore. She went on to explain that people in Chicago and Dallas will just have to "be patient" until the network is launched in their areas. However, since he has had his device activated for weeks now, she told him that she wouldn't be canceling his service.

Interestingly, another one of our employees has had NO such problems. He is in Dallas and has been able to connect to the network consistently since signing up a couple weeks ago.

If you've had similar problems, or, better yet, a success story, make sure you join in the discussion at 4G Forums!

2008-10-08T13:27:00.000-07:00

XOHM has recently updated their "products" page on their official site, featuring laptops that have embedded WiMAX chips. The selling point for these laptops is the alleged convenience - simply activate the internal device and access the network wherever you take your laptop (as long as you're in the coverage area, of course)!

Sounds good, right? We don't think so. Let's look at what you get - and don't get - with an embedded device.

Pros:

Convenience. No need to take a device with you.
Save a little money - you don't need to buy a device. However, all of the XOHM devices currently available are so cheap that selecting a laptop based on the prospect of saving $60 seems silly.

Cons:

No option for ever attaching an antenna to improve your signal! Many, MANY people use antennas to improve the performance of their EVDO devices, and with WiMAX still a ways off from being widely available, many WiMAX users are going to be utilizing them as well. With an embedded device, your only option to improve your signal is an expensive cellular repeater, for which you also need to purchase 2 antennas.
No sharing! The only computer on which you'll be able to use your service is the computer its embedded in (obviously). With a dedicated device, like a USB or ExpressCard modem, you can pop it into ANY computer that has the proper port.
No WiFi! You have no option of using a router to share the signal with multiple computers.
Connection manager? It is currently unknown whether these laptops will utilize the carrier's connection manager or if, like the EVDO laptops, you will be limited to using the laptop manufacturer's connection manager. This becomes a big problem when updates to the firmware and new features become available. With a dedicated device, carriers make those updates available immediately - but they do not make it a priority to get these updates to users not using their connection manager.
What if it stops working? Good luck replacing it! It's very difficult just to FIND a replacement chip and even more difficult to actually replace it in the laptop.
How about upgrading? When EVDO upgraded to Rev-A, customers with EVDO embedded laptops were out of luck and stuck only being able to access the Rev-0 network. If WiMAX upgrades their network in a similar manner, embedded chip users would be unable to upgrade.

What do you think? Would you buy one? Discuss on 4G Forums!

2008-10-08T10:47:00.000-07:00

An interesting topic has come up at the 4G Forums, regarding some problems that users have encountered trying to use their activated modems in covered areas outside of Baltimore (Chicago, Dallas, etc). The problems range from not being able to connect to XOHM - despite their successful activation via 4Ginfo's workaround - and XOHM double-charging on a Pick Two plan.

Here are some complaints straight from the mouths (keyboards) of XOHM users:

Not working here in Chicago. I did everything correctly and connected once to Xohm service but now it doesnt even give me the option to connect to wimax. I used a few different Baltimore address but still gettting nothing.

I have to start up the connection manager than re insert the data card for it to work. Now on the home page for xohm it says that its an unknown wimax device. Do i need to activate it again on xohm home page? I am getting frustrated.

You may need to call in to XOHM Support. They fouled up my pick 2 plan and charged me twice and still ONLY had my Xyzel Home modem activated on my plan. I have noticed I have had more issues with the express card itself. May take a little patience for that card has to remain connected to the XOHM network in order to pull down some activation updates. Seeing that signal is spotty at current, it may just not be receiving that neccessary update to remain active.

Its hit or miss with the express card. The connection manager will find Xohm service but everytime it tells me to activate service. I have a receipt that shows what I ordered but it always brings me to xohm home page to activate my card, than I put in the mac address. It does this over and over. Very frustrating but I do realize that the service isnt active yet here in Chicago just using the work around. I might give it 30 days than Im going to send back the card and cancel the service.

To be fair, these problems seem to be occurring mainly when people are attempting to use the service OUTSIDE of the official Baltimore area, so things may clear up when those places are officially launched/supported by Sprint/XOHM. The most troubling complaint is the one regarding double-charges and their failure to activate one of the devices on the Pick Two plan. It's true that their system is brand new and a few hiccups are to be expected along the way, but those are pretty fundamental issues that should not be occurring.

Have you had any problems with your service? Or do you have a success story? Share your info on the 4G Forum.

2008-10-07T14:58:00.000-07:00

Sprint XOHM coverage has been confirmed in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, but how does it measure up to the great results we got from our Chicago XOHM tests last week?

The results, while not horrible, were not nearly as impressive as what we found in Chicago:

The good: The network is definitely there, and the range was wider than expected - for those familiar with the area, it extended far north of the downtown area, north of LBJ/635

The bad: The network is NOT currently stable. We were not able to stay connected for more than 10 minutes at a time.

We used the SWC-e100 ExpressCard to test the area.

Here is the initial speed test:

When we moved closer to downtown, things looked a little better (click to view full size):

Here is a ping test to Google (click to view full size):

And finally, a traceroute, also to Google (click to view full size):

Just to contrast, here is a traceroute from the same location using EVDO Rev A (click to view full size):

We were only able to test with the SWC-e100 ExpressCard - perhaps the Home Modem, with its powerful antennas and ability to connect to towers that are further away, will fare better.

Don't get us wrong - we were happy just to see WiMAX! Once it officially launches in early 2009, the network is bound to be much more reliable.

Discuss coverage throughout the country on 4G Forums

2008-10-06T15:42:00.000-07:00

Last week, a couple websites falsely reported that the two WiMAX devices available from XOHM did NOT have antenna connectors. We are happy to report that that is NOT true! Both the Zyxel Home Modem and the Samsung SWC-E100 ExpressCard have not one but two ports:

Home Modem:

ExpressCard:
At this point, there aren't any antennas you can use with your WiMAX device, but the good folks at Wilson - who make many of the antennas and all of the amps we sell at 3Gstore.com - are currently testing various indoor- and outdoor-use antennas. Stay tuned for more info as we get it!

2008-10-03T08:32:00.000-07:00

WiMAX World was chock full of prototypes and interesting gadgets. Unfortunately... the companies tend to neglect to offer things like tech specs or other such details, so all we can do is lust over them and imagine what cool things they'll offer!

Here's one such device from C-motech, the CMR-300 WiMAX router. It looks pretty much like any standard WiFi router, complete with a built-in antenna to presumably provide greater WiFi range. It appears to have a USB port to pop in your USB WiMAX modem (which.... currently aren't available) and share your signal with the whole household or office. Stay tuned for more details - we'll report them as soon as we can get our hands on them!

On a related note, our good friends at Cradlepoint will be working to make their product line compatible with XOHM/WiMAX devices in the future!

2008-10-01T15:47:00.001-07:00

Now that we've confirmed that there is indeed XOHM available in Chicago (albeit unannounced), it's time to put it to the test!

On the official XOHM site, potential speeds are quoted at 2 - 4 Mbps download and 0.5 - 1.5 Mbps up. There have been rumblings that the actual speeds don't live up the hype, but here's what we found:

Zyxel Mac206M2 Home Modem: We tested the Zyxel directly connected via ethernet to a Mac Powerbook running Leopard. We performed three tests, about 3 hours apart, to account for fluctuations. Those internal antennas built into the modem must really do their job - the average download speed was about 4.5Mbps, faster than XOHM's promises. The upload speed averaged at about 1.2, which, while not as impressive when compared to the download, is still well within the range quoted by XOHM. So far, so good!

For the Samsung SWC-E100 ExpressCard, we switched to a Toshiba laptop running Windows Vista Home (remember: the ExpressCard does NOT work with Macs). Despite the fact that we were in the same location, the results were markedly different. Download came in at 3.1Mbps and upload at just 0.8, right in the middle of XOHM's promise but disappointing after seeing how the Home Modem did.

It is definitely very exciting to see these types of speeds. The true test, though, will be how it holds up as the service becomes more popular and the network traffic increases.

For screenshots and more, check out 4Ginfo.com

2008-10-01T09:20:00.000-07:00

As you may have noticed - or read on the 4G Forums! - there have been XOHM sightings in areas besides the officially announced Baltimore region.

So how can you access the network? You need to register your modem and service, but you need to use an address that IS covered in Sprint's official Baltimore network.

No problem! We have created a super-simple step-by-step set of instructions so that you can get your modem up and running in places like Dallas, Chicago, or Philadelphia. Check it out on 4Ginfo.com and start XOHM-ing!

2008-09-30T13:52:00.000-07:00

Any time a new technology launches, there are bound to be a few questions - and manufacturers/providers/etc aren't always exactly thorough about making things clear.

Case in point: Sprint's confusing home vs mobile XOHM coverage.

Sprint is currently offering two WiMAX devices, one billed as a "home modem" that you use like a standard modem (plug into a power supply and then connect to your computer via an ethernet cable OR plug it into any standard wireless router and access it wirelessly) and the other is an ExpressCard. When you go to check coverage on the XOHM site, you are given two options: search for coverage for "mobile devices" or for "modems." Depending on which you select, the coverage map looks different - but what is the difference between the two?

After searching both the official site and performing an extensive good old fashioned Google search and coming up empty, I decided to bite the bullet and call XOHM. Wireless providers are notorious for not having the greatest customer and technical support (which is why you buy from 3G Store!), so I was very interested (and a tad nervous) to see how Sprint would do with their brand new service. Would the reps be knowledgeable, considering the newness of the service?

Well, it took me three calls with three different reps to get an answer that made sense. I asked the same question each time: "What is the difference between the 'modem' and 'mobile device' coverage shown on your maps?"

The first time I called, the man who answered (who, to his credit, was very nice and professional) listened to my question and responded as if he'd heard this inquiry a thousand times. He confidently explained that XOHM operated on two different frequencies and that the home modem could only access the coverage marked as "modem" and the ExpressCard (and other mobile devices, such as internal laptop modems) would be covered by the other service area. I had never heard of this before and it didn't make any sense. Why would they need or want to create essentially two separate networks that could only be accessed by certain devices?

So I called again, hoping to get a different employee. Another very nice man answered, and like his coworker was more than happy to answer my question. His answer was completely different, though. According to Rep #2, there was only one frequency and any device could access it as long as you're in the coverage area. When I pressed further, asking why the map shows two different coverage areas depending on which type of device you choose, he was stumped. He put me on hold to ask a supervisor; when he came back he told me he wasn't sure WHY the map was like that but that, don't worry, the service was the same and either device would work. I politely asked him to ask again, figuring that there must be SOME reason that they created the map in that fashion - there must be a difference! When he returned after asking another supervisor, he informed me that there was no reason for the maps to be that way and it must have been a mistake.

Strike two.

I called again, because neither answer that I received was remotely satisfactory. With Rep # 3, I finally hit the jackpot with a man who had clearly been paying attention to Sprint's training videos. He explained that the home modem - the Zyxel coffee maker-shaped modem - has very strong omni-directional antennas built into it, and thus the range when you are using it is much wider than when you use an ExpressCard. With the home modem, you'll be able to access XOHM from further away from the tower - which explains the two parts of the coverage map. In other words, there is indeed just ONE type of signal coming off the towers, the home modem's strong built-in antennas simply let you access it from a wider range.

Even though it took a few calls, I would like to mention that all three of the gentlemen were very polite. It just seems that Sprint hasn't been able to provide comprehensive training on their new service yet.

Join the discussion at 4G Forums

2008-09-29T10:37:00.000-07:00

The official launch is still two weeks off, but Sprint's XOHM network is already up and running in Baltimore and some of the surrounding suburbs. They've also released pricing information - and it's good news! You DON'T need a contract, and the prices are very reasonable: plans include a $10 Day pass, $25 monthly Home Internet service and $30 monthly On-the-go service. Special launch pricing also includes a $50 "Pick 2 for Life" monthly service option that covers 2 WiMAX devices!

Some pertinent details from the release:

No long-term commitments or contracts are required, freeing customers from restrictive long-term subsidized plans
Monthly home, on-the-go and day-pass Internet plans provide service choices
A single monthly charge covers service for multiple WiMAX access devices
WiMAX devices are purchased like other computing/consumer electronic devices
XOHM broadband service is self-activated and includes future updates capability

If you live in the Baltimore area, check out the coverage map to see if you are lucky enough to be in the service area:

It's not incredibly wide spread yet, but there's enough coverage to give it a try.

Obviously, you will need a modem. It looks like they are launching with a $79.99 home modem, a $59.99 ExpressCard, and a USB modem. Here's a look at the MAX-206M2 by ZyXEL modem:

The ExpressCard:
And the USB modem:
Now for the bad news on these devices: neither the ExpressCard NOR the USB modem are compatible with Mac!! We hope that sometime in the near future when the network is a bit more widespread we will be able work on some sort of work-around like we did back before EVDO devices offered official Mac support, so stay tuned.

Read the full press release on 4Ginfo.com
Discuss the launch/pricing on 4G Forums

2008-09-24T13:12:00.000-07:00

We mentioned earlier in the month that Illinois service provider iPCS was going to court to attempt to prevent Sprint from offering their XOHM service in their market since Clearwire is involved in the new network. iPCS has exclusive rights to provide Sprint service in the 81 markets in which they operate, and contend that Sprint providing service on other networks or in conjunction with other providers goes against their contract.

Back when Sprint acquired Nextel, iPCS was successful in keeping them from operating the Nextel network in their markets. Sprint has been fighting like crazy ever since to get that overturned, but the Illinois state Supreme Court has upheld the ruling - Sprint still can't operate Nextel in that area.

This latest court ruling (and by the way, they've announced that they are STILL going to continue the appeals... good luck with that) indicates - to me - that the odds of iPCS being able to block Sprint from using Clearwire in their markets is VERY strong. This, of course, means that customers in that area would NOT be able to subscribe to WiMAX, unless iPCS was able to offer the service themselves.

Sprint will absolutely continue to fight this in every court they can get to accept their case, but a contract is a contract. It's unfortunate that they included an airtight exclusivity section in the contract, but now they must honor it. They COULD buy themselves out of the contract - but it would cost them an estimated $1 billion.

If you're an iPCS subscriber with thoughts on this, please share with us at the 4G Forums!

2008-09-23T10:15:00.000-07:00

Are you ready, Baltimore??

Sprint announced today that the WiMAX XOHM network will debut in Baltimore on October 8th - just a little over 2 weeks away.

Sprint has assured the world that the network has been thoroughly tested and is definitely ready for deployment. They didn't release any marketing/sales info yet, though - a "source" says that will probably happen sometime next week. Thus there's no news just yet on how much it will cost per month, whether a contract is needed, what kind of devices will be available and how much those will cost. I would love to speculate on that stuff, but we really just don't know yet! My guess would be that it will cost MORE than EVDO per month, but then again, maybe they'll want to lure early adopters in with good deals. As for devices, I think we can expect a variety of USB and ExpressCard modems, just like they offer for EVDO.

Next step: accessories! Antennas, routers... how long will it take for those to become available?

If you're a Baltimore-ite and become a WiMAX user, please share your thoughts on 4G Forums!

Discuss the Baltimore release on 4G Forums

2008-09-19T11:45:00.000-07:00

In a world where "can't we all just get along?" is nothing more than a meaningless cliche these days, 4G device manufacturers are actually doing something along those lines: creating 4G products that will feature both LTE and WiMAX capabilities!

Not all vendors will create devices like this, and not all carriers will offer them. But Intel and Ericson have already been making chips for laptop companies that work with LTE and WiMAX, and we'll be seeing the same cool feature available in everything from cameras to smartphones to video cameras at some point.

Having the ability to use your device on different networks is huge for consumers. You'd have the option of signing up for both services and being able to access either one depending on which coverage area you're in, and canceling service with one provider to switch to another wouldn't require a new modem/laptop/etc. The question now is whether LTE-only and WiMAX-only service providers (i.e. Sprint and Verizon) will be willing to sell devices that don't lock you into their service.

2008-09-18T16:18:00.000-07:00

From the "I wish my college had been that cool!" files...

The James Clark School of Engineering at the University of Maryland is turning themselves into a WiMAX guinea pig, deploying a fully functional wireless WiMAX broadband on campus. Nodes, routers, and base stations on campus will be used to create the network. The "lab," as they're calling it, is being built in collaboration with the industry group the WiMAX Forum, and there is only one other one in the world right now - in Taiwan.

The school has a research lab right on campus - the Laboratory for Telecommunications Sciences - and they are providing the equipment, a lot of which is made by Motorola, including the base stations and a lot of the devices. This test network is going to be a learning experience for the students, too. Computer Science majors are going to work on applications like real-time campus bus updates that other students will be able to use with the WiMAX system. They also aim to put it to use for security purposes, allowing information about emergency situations to reach security and police much quicker.

This experiment is a huge boon to the lucky students, but it will also benefit locals who live near campus. The WiMAX range is much further than wifi, so folks living in nearby areas will likely be able to take advantage, too!

2008-09-17T08:48:00.001-07:00

WiMAX World, a big meeting of the minds for WiMAX developers, engineers, providers, and device manufacturers, and one of the fun things they do there is recognize the best in the biz in several different categories. Companies can win awards in the following categories:

Service Provider Deployment
System Design
Devices/Peripherals/Application Software
Chip Design
Industry Innovation
Industry Choice

The finalists were announced yesterday, and they include a bunch of names with which we are not too familiar with just yet (but I'm sure we will be as WiMAX keeps rolling on!) and a couple that everybody knows. The most interesting award for most of us consumers is the honor in the devices category, as we've been eagerly awaiting more news and details on just what we'll be using to access the network when we are all finally able to.

Finalists in that category are: Motorola for the USBw100, WiMAX 20/20 for the WiROI, and ZTE USA for the TU25 USB WiMAX Dongle Modem. ZTE USA and Motorola's offerings are modems, obviously, and the WiROI is described as a "business case tool," which calculates and analyzes expenses of a variety of deployment plans and service models - very useful for all the companies rushing to build their networks.

Stay tuned at the end of the month for more news on WiMAX World - including, hopefully, some actual looks at those devices!

2008-09-17T08:48:00.000-07:00

Earlier in the year AT&T tried to put the legal kibosh on Sprint and Clearwire, hoping to prevent them from completing the big merger that would (will) surely make them a WiMAX superpower. The merger is still going through, but AT&T isn't the only company less than thrilled about it.

Illinois' iPCS is a service provider that serves around 640,000 subscribers in portions of Illinois, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Iowa, Ohio and Tennessee with Sprint service, and they have been battling it out with Sprint ever since their acquisition of Nextel back in 2005. With the Nextel issue, iPCS argued that the merger breached the exclusivity portions of their contract with Sprint, and they were successful - court rulings forced Sprint to ditch their Nextel operations in the areas iPCS covers. Now that Clearwire is joining the mix to create a widespread WiMAX network, iPCS is back in the courts again, trying to do the same thing with this merger that they did with the Nextel issue. Timothy M. Yager, president and CEO of iPCS explained their point of view in a news release:

“Over the past few years the exclusivity provisions of our affiliation agreements have been continually tested by Sprint, and we believe that it is appropriate and necessary to continue to defend our rights under the agreements. We firmly believe that the Illinois courts, including the Illinois Appellate Court, that have previously enforced our exclusivity protection will also find that this latest attempt by Sprint to compete with us in our territory is another violation of our agreements.”

Essentially iPCS is arguing that their contract with Sprint promises that iPCS has the exclusive rights to use Sprint's network, and continued mergers with other providers go against this and wreak havoc with their place in the market.

Obviously, Sprint is fighting back. The Clearwire merger is crucial to their goal of creating the first major WiMAX network in the country, and being blocked in 80 markets - however small or large they may be - puts a crimp in their plans. They're heading to the Illinois Circuit Courts to contest iPCS's claims and hope to get things cleared up ASAP as they move forward with their WiMAX plans.

The question now is what will/would happen if iPCS is successful again in their attempts to keep their market exclusively Sprint.

2008-09-15T16:12:00.000-07:00

Virgin Mobile recently began using the EVDO network (via Sprint) for their service, and it looks like they are planning to continue on the broadband trend. It was reported this week that they are looking into offering WiMAX devices when the time comes, since they have access to Sprint's network.

This is all thanks to Virgin's recent acquisition of MVNO Helio. Sprint uses MVNO's network for their 3G and voice services, so Virgin will be able to tag on to their WiMAX network and offer it themselves as well. I wonder if they'll offer something prepaid?

2008-09-15T12:33:00.000-07:00

LTE is still years away from becoming available to us patient USA-ers, but it DOES work - and here's some proof!

Last month we reported on a test that Nortel and LG Electronics ran up in Ottawa, when they took a computer on a cruise through town at 100km/hr to test an LTE connection. The experiment was a success: they stayed connected as they drove and peaked at 50 megabits per second download, and even more impressively, their upload speed was 20 megabits/second.

3G4G blog unearthed a very cool video of the test drive and some cool commentary from Nortel themselves. Check it out:

2008-09-12T16:05:00.000-07:00

Verizon may have a history of rebuffing Google, particularly its Android platform, but such is not the case for Clearwire. In a chat with Unstrung.com, CEO Ben Wolf confirmed that their WiMAX XOHM devices will indeed make use of Android.

Between their earlier timeline and now the confirmation that Sprint/Clearwire XOHM users will get to use Android devices, Verizon is looking further and further behind in the 4G market. They did show some interesting progress this week with talk of their new "open development" policy, but how far will that carry them?

Discuss Clearwire and Android on 4G Forums

2008-09-11T09:56:00.000-07:00

Clearwire's "WiMAX van," complete with computers and WiMAX devices inside for testing (photo courtesy of www.unstrung.com)

The CTIA conference continues to be the amazing wireless event we were all hoping for, showcasing all the latest technology and products. Today's cool news comes courtesy of Clearwire, who demonstrated their WiMAX (XOHM) technology by setting up a few WiMAX towers in the San Francisco area and driving around in their "WiMAX van" to show their broadband service to conference attendees. They're taking folks on tours around the city and letting them see firsthand the speediness and uninterrupted connectivity of the service. They are reporting average speeds between 2-4Mbps, topping out at 10 megs (!). Of course, it's unlikely that WE would see such speeds when we finally get access to WiMAX, because we'll be sharing the bandwidth with our neighbors and whatnot, but it's still exciting to see a new technology actually work in the "real world" (well, a controlled real world environment, to be fair)!

2008-09-10T11:17:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of benefits to the big Sprint/Clearwire merger, which is getting very close to being finalized, but like most everything in this complicated world, there is at least one downside to the partnership. Unlike LTE, Sprint has been promoting WiMAX products as being "dual-mode," meaning they operate on both CDMA and WiMAX systems. With a CDMA option, users can roam the world and activate service in areas that operate on non-SIM networks, a huge plus for consumers that travel globally and need internet access wherever they go.

Really, though?

Not for XOHM users!

Here's the deal: Clearwire/Sprint's WiMAX products will be marketed under the XOHM name, and those products and service are on the way beginning this year. For some reason, Sprint wants to keep XOHM products WiMAX only - no CDMA. They WILL be offering dual-mode products (including a laptop card that will debut sometime next year, most likely), but only on the Sprint-branded not network.

Confusing enough for you? Frustrating?

For many early adopters, it won't make much of a difference. Not everyone travels around the world, and for them CDMA is really a non-issue. But what about business travelers and the like? They will be forced to either wait until they can get a Sprint-only device or go through the pain of switching after some time of using XOHM stuff.

Only time will tell whether this confusing split between dual- and single-mode devices will make a big impact on consumers. We do know that there is a percentage of 3G users that are disappointed by the lack of CDMA support for EVDO from Verizon and Sprint, and I'm sure that will transfer to 4G.

Discuss this news on 4G Forums

2008-09-10T10:02:00.000-07:00

We reported on the Sprint/Clearwire merger back in August, but the merger is still not quite complete. Thanks to the complaint filed by AT&T (a desperate attempt on their part to slow down XOHM and give them a little more time to get their own technology rolling... in my opinion), regulatory approval has taken a bit longer than they would have liked, but Clearwire CFO John Butler has stated that he expects the deal to be finalized by the end of the year.

In addition to teaming up together, Sprint/Clearwire is also partnering up with Google, Intel, Time Warner Cable and Comcast to create their network. It looks like "the more the merrier" is what Sprint/Clearwire thinks will make their XOHM plan a success - and I think they're on to something. Comcast and Time Warner will be able to add WiMAX service to their "bundle" packages available to customers, Intel will provide things like chipsets, and Google, of course, can offer everything from search to maps.

The merger also gives Sprint/Clearwire a lot more cash to work with: the new company is estimated to be worth $14.55 billion! Development and wide-range deployment of a new network is going to cost them, and with money at their disposal they'll be able to move forward much more quickly. With yesterday's news that LTE might not be ready for widespread use until 2015, this partnership and the money they'll have to use is going to give Sprint/Clearwire a huge jump on their competition. Will LTE ever be able to catch up?

Discuss the merger on 4G Forums
Read the press release on 4Ginfo.com

2008-09-09T16:50:00.000-07:00

We've known for quite some time that the timetable for LTE was significantly different from WiMAX - carriers have already started rolling out WiMAX service around the world while LTE was being talked about as a service that wouldn't be ready until about 2012. Now, though, that 2012 date is starting to sound a little optimistic to some experts.

Here is what wireless consultant Andrew Seybold had to say about the matter at his conference (which is being held in conjunction with the CTIA Wireless IT & Entertainment conference in San Francisco):

There is no huge rush on the part of the carriers to provide 4G services
LTE likely wont become available until 2015
LTE download speeds of 71-143 Mbps are entirely theoretical and will be considerably slower when they are applied to the real world.
Handset and chip-makers are pushing to get LTE out there, not carriers

In other words, there is no real threat of LTE usurping 3G technologies like EVDO anytime soon. However, Seybold failed to mention anything about how WiMAX will effect 3G technologies, though - which is unfortunate since that is the technology that is actually becoming available as we speak...

2008-09-08T11:47:00.000-07:00

USA users of carriers like Sprint and Verizon have long wished their cell phones and broadband modems were based on the GSM format so that they could have more flexibility in overseas usage, the technology that most of the rest of the world operates on. Users of non-GSM based wireless products who wish to use their service overseas are either unable (such as EVDO broadband pretty much anywhere but North America) to do so or forced to pay ridiculous roaming fees for the "privilege" of being able to use their phone or internet service that they are already paying for.

We've heard a lot of complaints about this issue, and there are already people wondering if that might change when WiMAX and LTE are debuted. The good news is that WiMAX does not require a physical token like a SIM card. So long as your WiMAX device/internal modem operates on the proper frequency, you could sign up with whatever provider suits your needs on a temporary basis. Unfortunately, it doesn't look as if LTE providers are going to be straying from their SIM-based format as they make the gradual move from 3G to 4G. If you go with LTE, you will remain saddled with the usual 1 or 2-year contract and have to deal with the same pains as always.

Will this prevent people from signing up for LTE when WiMAX is available as an alternative? Or will a SIM-free solution for LTE be developed? There will be some for whom being able to sign up with various providers will be a huge factor, but I'd imagine that the majority of 4G users are going to be more focused on coverage areas and broadband speeds (not to mention bandwidth limits, but let's not go there just yet).

2008-09-05T10:33:00.000-07:00

Anytime a new technology debuts, there are bound to be a few bumps in the road - it's inevitable.

One of the first of such bumps surfaced in Bahrain recently, as it was realized that frequency interferences between WiMAX broadband towers and TV broadcasts are becoming more and more of a problem. The C-band frequency is used for both satellite TV, and many customers are losing service as various providers start installing their WiMAX networks in the area. Television companies have appealed to the government at last year's ITU World Radio Conference to prevent the unrestricted development of WiMAX networks, but to no avail.

What is the fix for such a problem? Are these poor customers forced to choose between television and high-speed internet?

2008-09-04T14:43:00.000-07:00

The WiMAX Forum put out a press release today announcing the introduction of its Interactive Deployment Database, a "comprehensive resource of information featuring more than 300 WiMAX deployments across the world." Essentially, the database functions as a map of sorts, pointing out the areas around the world where development and deployment has taken place. They also put out an interesting series of case studies that take a look at various WiMAX operators and their business models. So far, all of the case studies come from overseas, but as WiMAX becomes available elsewhere they will be updating their database.

Here's a few of the highlights from their "success stories" list:

WiMAX in Western Europe is winning market share over DSL and HSPA
WiMAX delivers cutting edge services to small and medium size cities in the US
WiMAX provides essential broadband services in suburban and rural territories in Spain
WiMAX is a key wireless broadband technology in Central and Eastern Europe
WiMAX utilizes the strong economy and has a winning business case in Central America
WiMAX is achieving success in a highly competitive Eastern European environment

These latest offerings from WiMAX World are some of the more interesting developments we've seen in recent weeks. The map makes it appear that we are getting close to a somewhat widespread network of coverage, with the 2009-2010 rollout projection seemingly right on target!

Take a look at WiMAX World's map
Read the full press release on 4Ginfo.com
Discuss this news on 4G Forums

2008-09-03T09:57:00.000-07:00

WiMAX is really picking up steam, but remember: there are TWO upcoming 4G broadband technologies.

Intel, who is already one of the biggest investors in WiMAX technology, and news has been released that they have invested an additional $3 million in the startup wireless provider Aicent Inc (based in San Jose, CA). Aicent will use the money to further research both WiMAX and LTE technologies, an interesting tactic we haven't seen from Sprint, Verizon, or Altell. Aicent has announced plans to start rolling out WiMAX in the latter half of next year, but other than their promise to "research" LTE, there doesn't appear to be any info on when - or if - they might be debuting that service.

2008-09-02T16:12:00.000-07:00

Another day, another report of WiMAX coverage spreading across the world!

4 major cities in Saudi Arabia are now covered by provider Mobily's "Broadband @ Home" WiMAX service. Unlike what we're used to with Sprint/Verizon et al, Mobily's WiMAX service is offered without a contract on a pre-paid basis, and they are giving away the modems for free during Ramadan!

We've seen a lot of progress in the way of service contracts as WiMAX rolls out around the globe - cheaper monthly pricing, free services - but will US operators like Sprint and Verizon follow suit?

2008-09-02T10:34:00.000-07:00

We've been waiting anxiously for info on the products we'll be using for WiMAX service when it finally becomes available, and today we all get a sneak peek at some of the devices, courtesy of the wonder of the internet and various sites' willingness to link info!

The purported devices include a XOHM phone from Nokia, Samsung SWC-E100 expresscard, ZTE TU25 USB modem, and a ZTE PCMCIA card (why?). Unfortunately, there doesn't appear to be Mac support for the devices at this time, but when the devices become available the crew at 4Ginfo.com will work to explore Mac workaround options. Also, no pricing information has been released at this time.

Here's a look at a couple products:

The ZyXel WiMAX mobile router looks very promising - compact and featuring an optional 4-hour battery:

Pictures of Nokia's N810 WiMAX phone have also been leaked. It appears to be a slider model with full QWERTY keypad:

Sprint is still being tight-lipped about pricing, from the service to the products. With coverage landing in Baltimore any time now, though, I'd assume we will be hearing soon. Stay tuned.

Discuss Sprint XOHM WiMAX's Leaked Products on 4G Forums

2008-08-29T16:25:00.000-07:00

More WiMAX expansions!

In Russia, provider Enforta announced that they are adding coverage to 13 cities this September, three more than they had initially planned to add - the public's reception to the system in the first 55 cities has been so positive they are expanding even faster than they'd thought.

Greek Hellenic Telecommunications Organization has installed a WiMAX system that spans 50km using 6 base stations in the remote village of Mount Athos. The terrain is very rough and mountainous and it's quite the accomplishment to be able to provide broadband to the isolated residents.

More to come!

2008-08-29T00:10:00.000-07:00

A good majority of this blog has been dedicated to WiMAX, but not because we're forgetting about LTE! There simply hasn't been much to discuss in that arena, largely because it is much further behind WiMAX in terms of projected debut date and how far along they are in their development of the technology.

Today, though, we've got a little LTE update! Nortel and LG Electronics ran successful tests of the network in Ottawa, streaming HD video (good luck trying to do that on with 3G!) over a network consisting of multiple cell sites and sectors served by Nortel's eNodeB LTE base station and ATCA-based Access Gateway. They used an LG device (no elaboration was provided on exactly what the device IS, unfortunately) while traveling in a vehicle going up to 100km/hr (AKA about 62mph for our sorry non-metric country), proving that the service can continue connecting to and transmitting from different cell sites seamlessly as it travels through coverage areas.

This news is very encouraging for the future of LTE, and it's nice to see some concrete evidence about WiMAX's competitor. Nothing advances technology (and hurries companies up!) like competition.

Discuss Nortel's Ottawa tests on 4G Forums

2008-08-28T09:45:00.000-07:00

Some lucky American's (that's YOU, Baltimore!) are just weeks away from being able to access the brand new XOHM network from Sprint/Clearwire, and you've got some exciting features to look forward to.

Sprint released info today describing the "location-based" features XOHM will include. They are promoting the WiMAX service as having a "geobrowsing" effect, meaning you will be able to access directions, traffic, news, restaurants, points of interest, etc all depending on where you're using your device. They're going to partner up with device manufacturers and service providers so that we can all get the most out of the features.

It looks like different cities are going to be featuring different services. For example, NAVTEQ of Chicago, Ill., will offer customers NAVTEQ Traffic™ real-time local traffic and commuter updates with links to the Traffic.com® Web site for construction, incident and drive time information, and Boston's WHERE service will provide access to local information including restaurant reviews, news, events, and weather (including Yelp, Eventful, Topix, NAVTEQ and Accuweather).

I'm unclear right now as to whether XOHM will be offering different services in different areas - for instance, if you'll only be able to access navigation in some cities and Yelp and similar sites in others. I suppose we'll see as Sprint expands their coverage!

Read the full press release at 4Ginfo.com
Discuss the location-based services on 4G Forums

2008-08-27T15:30:00.000-07:00

Just yesterday I was pondering the future prices of WiMAX service, but we have admittedly little information on which to base our speculations. All we have to go on at this point is what the different carriers are charging for service overseas, and pricing information has been difficult to track down. For the second day in a row, though, we're getting a sneak peak into what these carriers think their service is worth.

In stark contrast to the very affordable rates Packet One Networks is charging for their service in Malaysia, news has surfaced today that South Africans will be shelling out a lot more dough to get their hands on high speed broadband. Vodacom and partner iBurst (who one "clever" website referred to as "Vodaskum" and "iBust") are set to launch their WiMAX network in October, with two separate packages available: one aimed at small businesses and the other, a leased line, at corporate customers...

...Rich business customers, that is. The pricing for Vodafone's service is allegedly in the $79 - $109 range! I know some of us used to pay $79.99/month for EVDO back in the early days of 3G, but isn't WiMAX supposed to be "more cost effective?"

P1's affordable service in Malaysia has already attracted thousands of customers - I wonder how many South Africans will be willing to shell out the big bucks?

2008-08-26T15:05:00.000-07:00

We've heard a lot of hype about how much more cost-effective WiMAX networks are to create than the current 3G offerings, but thus far we haven't heard any news about what the price to consumers will be. The going rate for EVDO service with both Sprint and Verizon currently stands at $59.99 per month with a 5GB limit, a price tag and usage limit many customers have a problem with.

So, will the "cost-effective" WiMAX be more affordable for consumers? Will the providers pass along the savings to us?

Well... we don't know yet. No US company has provided any information on the subject - they might not even have it figured out themselves just yet - but there is one company revealing information on their cost structure. Packet One Networks, who are currently offering their P1 W1MAX service in Malaysia, have announced that they are offering consumers packages based on fixed speeds. In other words, you pay for the speed you need (or want). Customers can choose between connectivity at speeds of 400Kbps, 700Kbps, 1.2Mbps and 2.4Mbps. Prices range between RM69 and RM209 per month - or around $16-$60 US dollars.

I don't think it is likely that a company like Sprint would choose to offer different contracts based on the max speed you'd like to access (isn't the highest speed possible the point of upgrading from 3G to 4G?), but it is reassuring to see that the highest price does not exceed what we are already paying for EVDO.

2008-08-26T14:55:00.000-07:00

We mentioned last week that Malaysia was getting equipped with a WiMAX network, and despite the fact that Packet One Network (the provider) is just about a month into the release, it's already proved to be a smashing success.

In a matter of weeks, the WiMAX subscriber base in Malaysia is already up to 6,000 consumers - including many folks whose towns aren't even in WiMAX-serviced areas yet. The population is so hungry for 4G broadband, they are ensuring they will be able to take advantage of the service as soon as P1 is able to expand their coverage area.

The great news about the initial success and clamoring for the service is that it is pushing P1 and other providers to accelerate their roll-out plans - P1 is planning to greatly expand coverage by the end of the year. Of course, for those of us that don't live in the far East, but we can cross our fingers that Sprint et al take notice of the high demand and accelerate their deployment plans as well!

2008-08-25T13:03:00.000-07:00

Attention, Baltimore!

If you live in the rural communities of northern Baltimore, you're in luck: Altius Broadband has created the first 4G network in your area! Altius is using Maryland Public Television's broadcast towers to transmit WiMAX service to the towns of Owings Mills, Reisterstown, Butler and Pikesville, with a radius of 10 to 15 miles.

Though they're based in Phoenix, Altius has been providing traditional home internet service to the region for some time now and decided to roll out their WiMAX network there because of the success they've had with traditional broadband. They are anticipating a subscriber base of 400-600 users to sign up over the next 6th months.

If you don't live in northern Baltimore, there is more WiMAX on the way. Sprint/Clearwire is still promising XOHM in Baltimore and DC later this year.

2008-08-22T15:26:00.000-07:00

LTE service seems a long way off, but it's still ahead of fixed-wired systems when it comes to that coveted 100+ Mbps benchmark. GSMA is projecting that LTE will be deployed and allowing consumers to access speeds of up to 186Mbps (the max speed LTE's been tested to reach) before traditional broadband providers are able to improve their fiber optic cables. As you can imagine, it is very costly and time-consuming to replace an entire network of physical cabling, while creating new wireless networks obviously doesn't require such physical labor and is much more cost-effective. Wired broadband providers have a HUGE job ahead of them as the wireless industry goes 4G - it seems inevitable that wireless service will surpass traditional fixed-wired offerings quickly as 3G gives way to 4G.

2008-08-21T15:07:00.000-07:00

On the heels of the news that Intel was developing very affordable laptops that will offer integrated WiMAX capabilities, Toshiba has revealed that they too have WiMAX-ready laptops on the horizon. Unlike Intel's computers, which will be available only in India to start, Toshiba is planning to have these ready for sale in the USA as soon as September, when Sprint is planning to launch the Xohm network. The laptops will run on Intel's quad-core processors, which will provide the processing power necessary to take full advantage of WiMAX's speeds.

Sales for WiMAX-enabled computers will probably be slow for quite some time as Sprint and other providers slowly roll out their WiMAX networks in more locals, but I'd look at it as a great option if you're upgrading computers and also interested in getting on board with WiMAX as soon as it's available.

2008-08-21T12:37:00.000-07:00

Get excited, 4G enthusiasts: a lucky city in the USA will be accessing the internet with the highest wireless broadband speeds available very soon!

Pipeline Wireless, the broadband service provider in Boston, MA, announced today that they will begin deployment of a WiMAX network in the downtown area, using Redline's RedMAX 4G products. Pipeline will be the first provider to use Redline's services to create a WiMAX network - but probably not the last.

2008-08-20T00:52:00.000-07:00

While USA and European residents are sitting tight, waiting patiently (or not) for providers like Sprint/Clearwire to roll out their WiMAX services in our regions, other countries are already enjoying the benefits of the latest high-speed developments. India and Pakistan have been the "test markets" for quite some time now, but with the help of companies like Motorola WiMAX coverage is beginning to spread throughout Asia - and Australia!

The residents of South Australia's Yorke Peninsula have until now only had access to dial-up and a limited broadband network, but ISP Internode has created a WiMAX network in the region and is even offering the service for FREE to "eligible users" - not sure what qualifies a person/business as "eligbile," but being able to access a high-speed network free of charge is an amazing contribution to the peninsula by Internode.

Similar progress is being made in Asia, albeit not free of charge. Along with provider NEC, a small network of a Thailand hospital and two nearby clinics has been hooked up with WiMAX service. This is a huge boon to the medical industry, as it will allow the hospitals and their associated clinics to communicate wirelessly, participate in video teleconferences, and share important test results via high-speed broadband. Such a networking solution could really change the way their medical care is delivered and the efficiency with which patients can be treated.

Over in China, ZTE Corp, a telecom equipment and cell phone provider, has reached a deal with Columbia's Emcali service to begin building out a WiMAX network, and REDTone (a service provider) is hard at work in eastern Malaysia creating a WiMAX network using Motorola systems. The Malaysia contract marks Motorola's 21st contract in 17 countries, giving them a huge chunk of the market share. I'd expect to see a lot more of them, from installations to modems when the time comes.

2008-08-19T13:06:00.000-07:00

WiMAX is still a ways off from being available to the masses (except in India and Pakistan, that is), but if you're really jazzed on the technology and are willing to go on a world-wide quest to track down some coverage, Berkely Varitonics Systems has just the product for you. The design and consulting firm has created a portable hand-held WiMAX receiver and analyzer called the YellowFin WiMAX Analyzer that allows the user to locate coverage (complete with an internal GPS), check RSSI measurements, see Carrier to Interference Plus Noise Ratios (CINR), and more as it sweeps the 2.0 - 5.9 GHz spectrums - all with accuracy to within +1.5dB. The Samsung Q1 tablet UMPC interface along with the YellowFin Data Logger software offers a data collecting capability that will log and analyze all the network data received by the device. Here's a sampling of some of the features and specifications:

FEATURES:
•WiMAX Packet Analysis
•WiMAX Spectrum Analysis
•RF Direction Finding (using optional antenna)
•RF Interference Detection
•Peak Search / Hold with up to 4 Peak Hold waveform traces
•User Selectable Power Triggers
•Waveform Snapshots of any screen

SPECIFICATIONS:
DEMODULATOR SPECIFICATIONS:

Bands Supported
2.3 - 3.8 GHz

RF Sensitivity (Wide Band)
-20 to -90 dBm

ID Cell & Segment

RSSI (Channel)
-20 to -80 dBm

Correlated Multipath Measurements
0 to -10 dBm

CINR
0 to +20 dBm

SPECTRUM ANALYZER SPECIFICATIONS:

Bands Supported
2.0 - 5.9 GHz

Average Noise Floor (no input)
< -100 dBm (reference level -70 dBm, resolution bandwidth=50 kHz)

Dynamic Range
> 40 dB

Level Accuracy
+ 1.5 dB (25º C)

Max Input (safe)
+ 0 dB

Max Input (no saturation)
-20 dB

Reference Level
-20 to -70 dBm (10 dB steps)

Display (iPAQ)
see Samsung Q1 specifications

Operating System
Windows® Tablet XP

TRIGGERING:

User Control Auto or Manual

Packet/Interefrence Trigger Trigger analyzer when input power meets or exceeds threshold (20 MHz span)

Trigger Threshold User settable in dBm

Trigger Delay User settable in mS

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS:

Internal GPS Receiver 12-channel GPS receiver

Input Connector SMA Female 50 ohm

Power Li-PO, AC, DC

Runtime Internal Battery > 3 hours

Recharge Time <>

PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS:

Weight 5 lbs.

Dimensions 1.5" H x 7.5" W x 5" L (water resistant, high-impact ABS plastic case)

The YellowFin is intended for engineers, so they can get a full picture of the wireless scope in any area and aid in installation and research, but I'm sure there will be a smattering of curious consumers and businesses interested in how WiMAX is developing. With any luck, we'll be seeing some data collected in this manner sometime soon!

2008-08-18T13:06:00.000-07:00

A couple years ago, as the 3G boom was reaching more consumers every day, several computer manufacturers debuted various laptops that came equipped with an internal EVDO modem. All laptop owners had to do was sign up for EVDO service and they were ready to surf the net sans an external PCMCIA/ExpressCard/USB modem (the only problem is that there is no way to attach an antenna to boost the signal, but let's not get into that at this juncture). Now, with WiMAX allegedly ready to be rolled out in select locations in a matter of months (cross your fingers), at least one company is prepared to apply that same idea, 4G style!

According to Business Standard, Intel is aiming to release WiMAX-ready laptops in India for just $300-$400. Interestingly, it was only very recently that 3G services even became available in the country, but Intel is ready to capitalize on the widespread popularity (6-7 million new subscribers every month!) of wireless technology and offer the faster, more cost-effective WiMAX service ASAP. It is estimated that the market could reach $5 billion over the next 3 years, and Intel's Managing Director for WiMAX division C S Rao is hoping 7-8% of that market share will be WiMAX subscribers.

Besides Intel's laptops, there is no word on other WiMAX devices at the moment - USB modems, etc. It will be interesting to see how the laptops do in the test market and whether they become the popular choice over traditional external modems when the technology finally makes its way to the US.

2008-08-15T14:15:00.000-07:00

LTE technology, the WiMAX competitor and 4G network that carriers such as Verizon, China Mobile, and Vodafone have hitched their wireless star to, isn't expected to be widely available until 2010 at the earliest, but tech research experts are already predicting it to be a huge hit with subscribers. The ABI Research Institute is estimating that 32 million people will be subscribed to LTE service with one of the carriers by 2013 - just a few short years after it becomes commercially available.

The majority of those future subscribers will likely hail from Asia, mainly because they don't currently have much in the way of 3G technology. With their lack of 3G services, it seems to make sense that carriers would opt to forgo all the research, development, and implementation that equipping the area with 3G would entail in favor of waiting just a couple years to get a 4G system rolling. The rest of the 32 million subscribers are expected to be split between North America and Western Europe.

It's interesting that ABI is expressing such lofty confidence in the market share potential of LTE. I'd like to see their thoughts and predictions regarding Sprint's (and others') future WiMAX services and predict the popularity of that side of the technology.

2008-08-13T14:53:00.000-07:00

Hungry for more news on all things WiMAX? Make sure to keep your eye out for news on the 5th annual WiMAX World event, a conference that will be taking place from September 30th through October 2nd in Chicago. 150+ exhibitors will be showing off products, developments, and research, and lots of big names in the 4G universe will be there serving as keynote speakers - including representatives from Clearwire, Motorola, Redline, and Sprint's XOHM Network. There will also be several workshops and seminars, such as network deployment. The conference should prove to be very interesting and hopefully we'll find out more information on where carriers are at with their deployment plans and what products we can expect to see hit the market.

A particularly interesting aspect to the conference will be to find out how things are developing in light of the recent reports that WiMAX spending is down across the board this year. The hope, obviously, would be that despite the economic downturn the carriers are still able keep on target with their planned deployment/test dates. The truth, though, is that developing an entirely new sector of technology and accompanying products is not a cheap endeavor, and I would not be surprised if we end up waiting longer for WiMAX than we would like.

2008-08-12T15:05:00.000-07:00

Despite all the recent developments in the 4G world - including CTV Infotech's move to using WiMAX over satellite for their wireless triple play product - there are recent reports indicating that overall spending by the carriers has actually dropped over the last quarter.

Netwave is blaming the slowing global economy for the delay in their WiMAX network deployments and they also say that they anticipate the economic downturn will impact sales of their future WiMAX semiconductor products; Airspan also reported a 3% drop in Q2 revenue. For their part, while Alvarion had troubles they remain optimistic about their own future: "Current customers are expanding their networks, bookings are strong, and the pipeline of potential new business is large and growing. This further increases our confidence in our ability to achieve the upper end of our target revenue range of $275 to $300 million for 2008," said CEO and President Tzvika Friedman. It seems like Clearwire is really feeling the crunch though, because of their merger with Sprint: they reported a net loss of $199.1 million for this year, compared with a net loss of $118.1 million this time last year.

What will this mean for the future of WiMAX? Obviously it's going to take a lot of spending to get 4G service available to the public, between research, testing, beta releases, etc. If the economy doesn't pick up and providers are unable to increase their spending, will we see a delay in development?

2008-08-12T14:55:00.000-07:00

4G technology continues to pick up speed, with successful WiMAX implementation currently underway in China and Taiwan. WiMAX carrier Proxim has partnered with CTV Infotech, a subsidiary of Chinese Television Company Ltd, to provide them with WiMAX equipment for their wireless "triple play" product. CTV has replaced their old satellite system with the new Proxim equipment to deliver their IPTV and VOIP and provide a solution for real-time news capabilities.

With Proxim's setup, CTV is able to take advantage of the larger bandwidth, higher capacity, and longer range available from WiMAX to increase the amount of programming available to consumers. They've managed to increase the amount of real-time news information as well as the number of locations from which they can gather news. CTV Infotech's customers can access up-to-the-minute video and audio straight from their wireless devices.

Another bonus? The new WiMAX system is much more cost effective than the old satellite setup!

2008-08-11T15:26:00.000-07:00

Verizon and Alltel have been working on developing products to utilize the upcoming high-speed data service LTE for quite some time now, and now another carrier has jumped on board the popular LTE train: MetroPCS announced during their 2nd quarter conference call that they too have decided to use LTE for all of its 4G technology plans.

President/CEO/Chairman Roger Lindquist expressed his excitement about his company's plans, saying "...4G represents a great opportunity for us because we see that as capacity expansion, higher data rates imply capacity expansion, not just combining speed and download capability.” During the call, Lindquist also said that he anticipates that we'll be seeing "interesting developments" in the arena as soon as within the next year, though he didn't elaborate on what those developments might be. Beta testing? Unveiling products? We shall see...

2008-08-07T09:50:00.000-07:00

4G technology is on the way, and while most of us tech-heads are excited about the advent of the promised high speeds and new devices, there are some folks that aren't so sure about the timing of the release and the necessity of the rush.

One such skeptic is Andrew Seybold of fiercewireless.com, a site that focuses on everything wireless, from handsets to the latest 4G info. He offers some interesting arguments on the subject, considering whether perhaps carriers should instead be focusing on the advancement of 3G and if LTE will really be able to perform as advertised based on the spectrums on which it operates:

"We are hearing wonderful things about LTE, but the data rates and capacity increases being bandied about are theoretical and based on using 20 MHz of spectrum. One reason the WiMAX community can claim data speed and capacity gains over today's EV-DO Rev A and UMTS/HSPA is due to the amount of bandwidth it uses. EV-DO Rev A occupies only 1.25 MHz of spectrum per carrier and UMTS/HSPA occupies 5 MHz per carrier. The WiMAX community is basing its claims on bandwidths of 8 MHz or more. If you normalize these three technologies in 10 MHz of spectrum, you find they offer about the same data rates and capacity.

Not many network operators have 20 MHz of contiguous spectrum to use for LTE, but LTE can run in any amount of spectrum from 1.25 MHz up to 20 MHz so it will fit almost anywhere. The caveat is that when LTE is used in less than 20 MHz of spectrum, data speeds and capacity are lower than the published specifications and, in most cases, are about the same as the next revisions of UMTS/HSPA+ and EV-DO Rev B."

Andrew's essential point here is that it may be unlikely that carriers will have the necessary capability to operate on the 20 MHz spectrum and that if it is running on a lesser spectrum the promised speeds will simply not be achievable. His feeling is that Verizon, AT&T et al are rushing LTE to compete with Sprint/Clearwire's soon-to-be deployed (in beta form) WiMAX when their time and resources would be better spent continuing to advance 3G technology.

Discuss this subject and all your thoughts on the LTE/4G developments over on 4Gforums.com!

2008-08-05T09:08:00.000-07:00

Clearwire has made another step towards providing the world with their high-speed 4G internet service, WiMAX by rolling out beta tests in Portland, Oregon with plans to expand to Las Vegas, Grand Rapids, and Atlanta in 2009.

Back on July 2nd, Clearwire leased 3 1-year licenses on the 39 GHz spectrum from IDT Spectrum, the company that owns myriad spectrums across the nation (expect to hear a LOT about them as Clearwire et al buy up spectrums so that their service and equipment actually work!), meaning that they've now got the hardware (mainly provided by Motorola) and necessary spectrum to really get their XOHM tests going.

2008-08-04T08:44:00.000-07:00

We mentioned last week that there is some hoopla surrounding AT&T and the upcoming (hopefully sooner rather than later) WiMAX 4G technology but that it is unlikely that AT&T will be able to effectively put the kibosh on the release of WiMAX - we can probably get ready/excited for the debut by the end of the year.

The release may be a little ways off, but we've got a sneak peek at a couple WiMAX compatible devices for y'all. Most of them were just non-functional prototypes at the time (CTIA), but they are interesting nonetheless. Let's take a gander:

USB and PCMCIA modems. Wait, PCMCIA? Who uses that anymore?

A USB modem compatible with both EVDO Rev-A as well as WiMAX. I anticipate this will be a very popular device, particularly while we wait for WiMAX to become available across the country. Very smart of them. (PS: Look at those promised speeds!)

Two LTE and WiMax compatible routers - and interesting conversation pieces. Who wouldn't want to plug their modem into a mini R2D2?

Are you ready for the commencement of 4G?

2008-07-31T14:21:00.000-07:00

There hasn't been much 4G info about which to blog of late, because, well, at this point in the development of the various technologies there simply isn't much to discuss just yet.

AT&T satisfied our hunger for high-tech scoop this week, though, by making a bold move in attempts to block Sprint and their new partner Clearwire from rolling out their much-anticipated WiMAX technology in the USA. AT&T appealed to the FCC to keep the Clearwire/Sprint merger from going through - neither carrier could carry out the rollout plan without the other - essentially to buy themselves some time to introduce their own 4G broadband service, LTE.

So long as the FCC ignores AT&T and allows Sprint/Clearwire to move forward, it is expected that the service could become available in select USA metro areas by the end of the year - DC, Chicago, and Baltimore, to be exact. Of course, there are no devices available to the public market at the moment that would allow people to actually access the high-speed network, but various devices DO exist. At this year's CTI conference, some lucky EVDOinfo-ers got to check out some WiMax-compatible hardware that will presumably be available once the technology itself is made available. Motorola has manufactured a WiMax router and Franklin Wireless has created a USB modem that will work with both the WiMax network AND EVDO Rev-A, - a very exciting prospect, particularly because WiMax won't be available everywhere for quite some time.

Stay tuned for an update on AT&T's bid to keep WiMax at bay - and to keep up to date on future availability of 4G devices and services!

2007-11-29T06:37:00.001-08:00

Verizon Selects LTE As 4G Wireless Broadband Direction

Technology Platform to be Trialed in 2008

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Verizon today announced plans to develop and deploy its fourth generation mobile broadband network using LTE – Long Term Evolution – the technology developed within the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) standards organization. The selection of LTE provides Verizon and Vodafone – joint owners of U.S.-based Verizon Wireless – with a unique opportunity to adopt a common access platform with true global scale and compatibility with existing technologies of both companies.

Verizon and Vodafone have a coordinated trial plan for LTE that begins in 2008. Trial suppliers include Alcatel-Lucent, Ericsson, Motorola, Nokia-Siemens, and Nortel. These suppliers, along with others in the world community, have contributed significantly towards development of the standards in 3GPP. Discussions with device suppliers have expanded beyond traditional suppliers such as LG, Samsung, Motorola, Nokia, and Sony Ericsson, as consumer electronics companies anticipate embedded wireless functionality in their future products.

Working within 3GPP, Verizon and Vodafone, as well as a broad group of infrastructure suppliers, device suppliers, and technology companies from around the globe, have advanced the standards to enable a technology that will deliver unprecedented wireless broadband service for high performance mobile computing, multimedia, and consumer electronic devices and applications. The technology is designed to deliver mobile data networks with higher speed and throughput performance, lower latency, global roaming, and improved efficiencies.

Today’s LTE announcement builds on Verizon Wireless’ technology leadership as the first company to launch high-speed wireless broadband service in the United States using CDMA Evolution-Data Optimized (EV-DO) technology. Its data innovation and leadership have been marked by the introduction of new multimedia handsets and innovative applications such as V CAST Music, V CAST Video, VZ NavigatorSM, V CAST games, e-mail, Internet access, and picture and video messaging on a variety of devices, including handsets, PDAs and laptops.

Richard Lynch, executive vice president and chief technology officer of Verizon Communications observed that “while this next generation technology will be exciting to develop and deploy, it comes at a time when we are adding record numbers of customers to our existing CDMA2000 1x and EV-DO networks. We relish the challenge of preparing for the time when our customers start demanding such 4G capabilities, while continuing the expansion and operation of our existing technologies for many years to come.”

“The company’s move toward a 4G network is driven by our vision of pervasive wireless Internet connectivity and mobility,” said Lynch. “Customers want to be truly untethered with advanced communication devices that provide functionality comparable to today’s wired networks – whether it’s downloading or uploading video, gaming, downloading their favorite music, or social networking. They want to be able to communicate in new and innovative ways whenever and wherever they choose around the globe. A number of factors are setting the stage for our 4G network migration; most importantly, our view of customers’ evolving appetite for more information, entertainment, and functionality, combined with an increasing customer expectation for easy access, high speed, easy handling, and seamless mobility. With a host of new devices and applications, and a particular focus on embedded wireless in virtually every piece of electronics you buy in any store, we believe LTE is the best technology with global scale to deliver on the promise.”

“Vodafone is delighted to be working alongside Verizon in the development of LTE technology, and we’re looking forward to assessing the results of the joint engineering trials. We fully support Verizon’s decision to select LTE as their next generation wireless broadband solution,” said Steve Pusey, Vodafone’s global chief technology officer. “We expect LTE to form a key part of Vodafone’s future technology strategy, and the prospect of moving towards a common platform with Verizon Wireless is an attractive long-term goal. LTE will build on the capabilities of Vodafone’s 3G broadband High Speed Packet Access (HSPA) network technology, which is available across the entire Vodafone 3G footprint.”

“Today’s 4G announcement, coupled with our Open Development initiative announced earlier this week present a major growth opportunity for Verizon Wireless,” said Doreen Toben, chief financial officer of Verizon. “Fourth generation’s higher data speeds will usher in a new era of wireless applications and appliances, all of which can benefit from connecting to the nation’s premier wireless network.”

2007-08-16T07:09:00.000-07:00

Sprint sees WiMax spending $2.5 bln through end 08

TYSONS CORNER, Va., Aug 16 (Reuters) - Sprint Nextel Corp the No. 3 U.S. wireless service said on Thursday it would spend $2.5 billion by the end of 2008 to build a network based on WiMax, an emerging high-speed wireless technology.

Sprint had said it would invest about $2.8 billion this year and next year on a network based on WiMax, a technology it plans to use to blanket cities with wireless Web access on everything from cell phones and laptops to digital music players and cameras.

It also said it expects between $2 billion and $2.5 billion in revenue from WiMax in its fiscal year 2010.

Discuss XOHM

2007-08-16T06:54:00.000-07:00

Sprint Nextel Demonstrates Key Technologies for Mobility Strategy

Product Branding and WiMAX Business Plans Showcased

RESTON, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sprint Nextel today demonstrated key technologies and described operational plans to provide unique new services to meet the growing demand for mobile communications during the Sprint Ahead Technology Summit.

The Company detailed the expected capabilities and customer benefits of its planned WiMAX services and also announced its market branding for these services. In a separate release today, the company provided an update on its progress in delivering high-performance push-to-talk service, Nextel Direct Connect, on its CDMA network platform.

Sprint Nextel also provided Technology Summit attendees a first-hand user experience with its Pivot bundled services. Pivot features Sprint wireless services as part of a packaged service offering from joint venture partner cable companies. Additionally, the company showcased a variety of other technologies that are designed to leverage the company's unique portfolio of spectrum, wireless and wireline assets to allow customers to communicate anytime, anywhere.

"We've executed the technology plan we laid out when we merged two years ago, and, in doing so, we have advanced our vision of becoming the mobility services leader," said Gary Forsee, Sprint Chairman and CEO. "Our unique set of assets allows consumers to live the mobile lifestyle and businesses to increase productivity by making any place a workplace. Sprint is best positioned in the marketplace to offer these capabilities."

Sprint announced today that its WiMAX service will be marketed under the XOHM(TM) ingredient brand (pronounced ZOAM). A soft launch of the WiMAX network is expected by the end of 2007 in the Chicago and Baltimore/Washington markets. XOHM commercial services are expected to be available beginning in the first half of 2008.

Barry West, President of 4G Mobile Broadband and Sprint's Chief Technology Officer, noted that XOHM is expected to mobilize the Internet by driving the convergence of telecommunications, consumer electronics and the computer industries. WiMAX service is being designed to create synergies among disparate industries through an ecosystem of chipsets, devices, networks, services/content and distribution to deliver broadband with speeds up to five times faster than current third-generation wireless devices. West said that ecosystem partners have committed to embed 50 million WiMAX chipsets in devices.

There is significant momentum around Sprint's WiMAX efforts. Since announcing its initial plans nearly a year ago, the company has greatly expanded its ecosystem of device, chip and other partners and selected Google to bring WiMAX mobile Internet customers search, interactive communications and social networking tools through a new mobile portal. The company expects to begin offering 4G mobile broadband services up to two years ahead of other national wireless carriers.

Under its planned network sharing agreement with Clearwire, which was announced last month, Sprint Nextel currently expects the network buildout to reach 100 million people by the end of 2008 with Sprint providing coverage to 70 million and Clearwire to 30 million people. Sprint's coverage is expected to grow to approximately 125 million people by the end of 2010. At that level of buildout, the potential market would include an estimated 48 million U.S. households, nearly 5 million small office/home office subscribers, and more than 130 million consumer electronics devices.

Pivot service, now available in 20 markets with plans for at least 40 by year-end, allows Sprint and its cable partners to bring the benefits of mobility and convergence to their customers by leveraging both landline and wireless networks. Paul Saleh, Sprint Nextel's CFO, said the company expects meaningful growth in Pivot subscribers over the next 18 months, and that the service is expected to generate new revenue streams through new services, including remote DVR programming and video-on-demand.

In addition to serving nearly all of the Fortune 500 and thousands of smaller businesses, Sprint's wireline assets are supporting the strong growth in Voice-over-IP (VoIP) services through leading cable companies and are a cornerstone of the company's strategy to deliver converged services, Saleh added. In the second quarter, cable VoIP revenues increased 60 percent annually. The company noted that forecasts call for the overall VoIP market to more than double in the next four years.

Sprint Nextel also announced updated financial targets for its WiMAX business, reflecting final execution of the agreement with Clearwire:

The company expects to generate between $2B and $2.5B in revenues for the fiscal year 2010 with more than 80% generated from new lines of business.
The company expects that the WiMAX initiative will be positive for Operating Income Before Depreciation and Amortization (OIBDA) in 2010.
Sprint Nextel expects to invest approximately $2.5 billion in capital for WiMAX through year-end 2008. Beyond 2008, network build is expected to be increasingly success-based. The company currently expects that extending its coverage to approximately 125 million people by year-end 2010 would require an additional capital expenditure of approximately $2.5 billion.
The WiMAX initiative is expected to generate positive Free Cash Flow beginning in 2011 as the annual OIBDA contribution is expected to exceed capital expenditures, working capital and other cash requirements.

2007-08-06T19:45:00.000-07:00

WiMax Service Nears Its Final Test

Notebook computers should begin reaching stores with the next generation of wireless technology - the long-range technology WiMax - by late 2008, Intel confirmed Friday.

The Santa Clara chip maker this week began shipping a chipset - or package of chips - that includes WiMax to computer makers for testing, said Sriram Viswanathan, a general manager. It anticipates the product, called Echo Peak, will be available commercially in late 2008.

Though add-on cards from small manufacturers have been available for laptops for some time, the delivery of Echo Peak is an important step in the spread of the emerging technology. It will be built into portable computers and mobile Internet devices, making access to WiMax networks easier. Intel has delayed the release of the product several times.

The news about the product comes as service providers move to develop the networks necessary for WiMax computers to connect to the Web. Two weeks ago, Sprint Nextel of Dallas and Clearwire of Kirkland, Wash., announced an agreement to build nationwide WiMax coverage that will reach about 100 million people by the end of 2008.

"The market has seen a lot of traction," said Michael Cai, director of broadband and gaming at the research firm Parks Associates of Dallas.

WiMax networks operate many times faster than the WiFi technology most laptops employ and transmit for 50 miles or so, compared to the 300 feet reach of a WiFi hot spot.

DEMODULATOR SPECIFICATIONS:
Bands Supported	2.3 - 3.8 GHz
RF Sensitivity (Wide Band)	-20 to -90 dBm
ID Cell & Segment
RSSI (Channel)	-20 to -80 dBm
Correlated Multipath Measurements	0 to -10 dBm
CINR	0 to +20 dBm
SPECTRUM ANALYZER SPECIFICATIONS:
Bands Supported	2.0 - 5.9 GHz
Average Noise Floor (no input)	< -100 dBm (reference level -70 dBm, resolution bandwidth=50 kHz)
Dynamic Range	> 40 dB
Level Accuracy	+ 1.5 dB (25º C)
Max Input (safe)	+ 0 dB
Max Input (no saturation)	-20 dB
Reference Level	-20 to -70 dBm (10 dB steps)
Display (iPAQ)	see Samsung Q1 specifications
Operating System	Windows® Tablet XP
TRIGGERING:
User Control	Auto or Manual
Packet/Interefrence Trigger	Trigger analyzer when input power meets or exceeds threshold (20 MHz span)
Trigger Threshold	User settable in dBm
Trigger Delay	User settable in mS
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS:
Internal GPS Receiver	12-channel GPS receiver
Input Connector	SMA Female 50 ohm
Power	Li-PO, AC, DC
Runtime Internal Battery	> 3 hours
Recharge Time	<>
PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
Weight	5 lbs.
Dimensions	1.5" H x 7.5" W x 5" L (water resistant, high-impact ABS plastic case)

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