Microprocessor giant Intel Corp. and wireless solutions provider Proxim Corp. have unveiled plans to jointly develop and deliver WiMAX, also known as IEEE 802.16, solutions for fixed and portable broadband wireless access. Under this collaborative deal, the two will develop base-station and subscriber unit access points that deliver fast wireless access for data, voice and video services.

WiMAX is an emerging technology that allows long-range high-speed wireless Internet access, serving both dense metropolitan areas and rural or suburban communities. The jointly developed fixed base stations would support the 802.16a revision d specification, as well as customer premise equipment (CPE) for fixed wireless networks.

Additionally, Proxim intends to develop a WiMAX base station that will be marketed as the Proxim Tsunami MP.16. The new base station can be deployed as a cost-effective alternative for enterprise and service providers looking to provide high-speed broad reach access to their customers. Also, as part of the collaboration, the duo will codevelop a reference design for WiMAX CPE equipment. Intel will provide the CPE architecture, including the key hardware and software components as a reference design for other WiMAX equipment makers. While Proxim will include its core wireless software capabilities that enable subscriber roaming, increased subscriber support and dynamic bandwidth management.

“We as an industry are headed toward the ‘broadband wireless era,’ and WiMAX will play a key role in delivering on our vision,” said Scott Richardson, general manager of Intel’s Broadband Wireless Division. “The next wave is about portability, with people wanting access anywhere. Together, Intel and Proxim will enable people around the globe to use emerging services and content in their homes, businesses, and on the road.”

Furthermore, the two will also work together to develop base stations based on the emerging 802.16e specification designed to enable broadband wireless portability. Portability will enable powerful new applications, and will be ideal for global service providers and carriers looking to introduce advanced data services.

“Proxim strongly believes in both the technological and market potential of WiMAX and particularly portable implementations of WiMAX,” said Kevin Duffy, chief operating officer at Proxim. “We are pleased that Intel has chosen to work with Proxim to address this most exciting prospect for WiMAX technology. We will work closely with Intel to bring industry-leading WiMAX solutions to market, and to drive market adoption both at the system and client level.”

Proxim plans to deliver its fixed WiMAX-certified broadband wireless solution in early 2005, and portable WiMAX-certified solutions in late 2005. Shipment of any WiMAX Forum Certified product is dependent on the start of interoperability and certification testing, which is currently scheduled to begin in late 2004.

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