Marconi whips up wireless IP solution

ATLANTA--Marconi, (www.marconi.com) taking advantage of the Supercomm crowds this week, introduced the world to WipLL, an IP-based wireless local loop system.

WipLL, which stands for wireless Internet protocol in the local loop, can help carriers reduce start-up costs and time-to-service, said Stephen Macke, Marconi vice president, fixed wireless. The system provides voice, data and video services on a single platform.

"When working with fixed wireless broadband, we can help the carrier plan, build design and operate," Macke said. "WipLL can be an advocate for that."

WipLL is made up of two primary elements: a base station unit and subscriber premises equipment. The base stations can serve thousands of customers and have a range of more than 10 miles.

Macke said WipLL addresses the challenge of integrating different applications. It can extend wireless broadband services while expanding capacity in a cost-effective way.

"ISDN or digital-loop carriers can extend their coverage with IP local loop," Macke said. "Imagine a network damaged by a hurricane. This can help."

Macke said WipLL also could help in areas where laying cable is difficult or extremely expensive. He cited New York City, with its maze of underground cables, and New Orleans, where historic-district requirements make digging up streets unfavorable, as areas where WipLL could help carriers save time and money. Small carriers especially could benefit, he said, because they often don’t have a lot of resources available.

Marconi’s first version of WipLL is available now.

Macke said Marconi had three major efforts: networks, enterprise and wireless. But, he said the segments had to work together because each one depended on the other.

"Wireless, whether it’s mobile or fixed, is the key to bringing about a dynamic network," he said.
Mary Corcoran is a Wireless Review Staff Writer. She can be reached a mary_corcoran@intertec.com.