The implementation of WiMAX services is moving forward

Proof-of-concept trials for WiMAX are no longer required as the pilot phase of rolling out WiMAX wireless broadband services to planes, trains and buses has now moved to full deployment.

Questions on the best technology to be applied to trains, how much bandwidth will be required and what the best business model still need to be answered though.

The data and experiences from operators that are already rolling out the technology does, however, help to provide a basis for being able to more easily provide answers in these discussions.

For train operators there are a number of business cases that appear to now follow similar trends irrespective of the technology in operation, whether they choose to use trackside cellular and WiMAX-based options or pulling data traffic from the trains using the cellular and satellite network as a means of backhaul.

The common refusal of passengers to pay for Wi-Fi access even though they love the facility is something that makes justifying the provision of Wi-Fi wireless broadband access to train passengers using a business model that is heavily dependant on revenue quite difficult. Many operators are also finding that they are unable for bring in enough profit using advertising as a revenue stream.

This issue has still not stopped UK operators such as National Express as it moves to free access from per-pay charging, which shows that free Wi-Fi access is increasing in popularity. This form of service is not only seen as an amenity by National Express but also as a method of pulling passengers from rival train operators and other forms of transportation like planes and cars by offering unique services.

Passenger on Virgin UK trains that travel using its first class service, which offers them free access to Wi-Fi, accounts for 80 percent of its 2000 users each day and an increase of 6000 connections every day is being seen by National Express following its free Wi-Fi service.

Source – www.wimax.com