Helping WiMAX fit in

The WiMAX Forum has started two new working groups within its organization to focus on the network and applications issues arising as companies look to commercialize the technologies. In particular, the new Network Working Group will help develop high-level specifications for how WiMAX can work with other existing broadband technologies, such as cellular, DSL, cable modem and Wi-Fi, said Mo Shakouri, chairman of the WiMAX Forum marketing working group.

“IEEE doesn't address these issues when it comes up with the standard,” he said. “With the interoperability certification for our standard [802.16 Revision D] happening this year, we need to help build better bridges to existing networks, and that's what the network working group will do.”

In doing so, the group will establish relationships with the groups that develop interoperability specifications for the other markets, such as CableLabs in the cable modem market, Shakouri said.

The purpose of the applications working group is to identify and develop requirements for high-demand applications that will drive consumer demand for WiMAX.

“Equipment vendors, service providers and content providers are actively involved in this group, while network working group members will count vendors and service providers as primary members,” Shakouri said.