Jacomo45
@sccoast.net
| AT&T Options
AT&T is in an excellent position.
It has the best Cell (Voice centric) network in place today with some of the best Data services with its new HSDPA network. This network will get better as AT&T upgrades to the new HSPA+ technology in the next few years, effectively sidelining Verizon Wireless lame EVDO networks.
They (AT&T) have both 700Mhz spectrum and a major piece of the AWS (1700MHz and 2100MHz) spectrum nationwide that they can use at anytime for a WiMAX Data Centric (IP Data/Video/Voice) network providing Fixed/Portable and Mobile services (using 801.16e).
Makes sense for them to begin deploying a WiMAX based Wireless Network focusing on IP based Data/Video services in parallel (and complementary)to their existing HSDPA Voice Centric network. By offering Tri- Band Handheld devices (700MHz WiMAX, HSDPA and 802.11n Radios)to the market they will allow subscribers to access either their Voice or Data centric networks in the WAN and WiFi in HotSpots and Enterprise WLAN (FMC anyone??). This new WiMAX 700MHz network will allow AT&T to free up much of their scarce GSM spectrum to focus on its real revenue Voice, while allowing those subscribers seeking high quality, low latency symmetrical data/video links to focus on the new 700MHz WiMAX networks that are designed for these services.
I doubt that AT&T is serious about deploying a 2.3Ghz service in just the SE. I expect they are merely using the spectrum to test what WiMAX can do with a marginal value spectrum. 2.3GHz spectrum is not a very good solution for Rural markets where foliage will be a serious problem and PTP links are not always available. Clearwire will need to addresses this as well and eventually have to move off the 2.5Ghz spectrum if they are to compete with future LTE networks nationwide-maybe using their partners (MSO) AWS Spectrum once the WiMAX forum approves FDD systems
Will be interesting to watch what happens with the 20MHz of AWS Spectrum in the hands of AT&T, MSO as well as the major players in Canada (recent auction). The spectrum requires a FDD type technology to work effectively but would be an excellent spectrum for a FDD based WiMAX product.
Jim A.
Service Provider |
