WiMAX alternative to DSL and cable
27 Apr
While I am not at liberty to divulge all the juicy details, I have it on pretty good authority that at&t Alascom will be rolling out WiMAX in the Anchorage area this year. They’ve been in Juneau since last fall and have been testing here in Anchorage for several months.
The golden question is: Will it compete with DSL/cable internet?
First off, what is WiMAX?
I’ll save you the long grueling technical description and try to give it to you in plain words. WiMAX is a combination of a couple different wireless technologies that is designed to extend the range, performance and ability to reflect off surroundings to maximize a clear signal. This combination of wireless frequencies helps WiMAX “bend” around buildings and walls where regular WiFi could not penetrate. Definitely an over-simplification, but you get the idea. More information at the WiMAX Forum.
Does it work?
From a purely technical perspective, I can say from first-hand experience that WiMAX can and does deliver. I used the actual unit in the lead photo for about a week and pushed it pretty hard. Obviously, I had a test account that was provisioned with a much higher Mbps than what is likely to be packaged for retail users…but it definitely works!
Can it compete?
Yes, maybe.
I have no idea how far at&t is planning to rollout WiMAX or where it might reach in the Anchorage bowl or surrounding areas. It’s unknown to me whether WiMAX will reach all of Anchorage (or Eagle River) and if the price/performance will be reasonable. It’s entirely up to at&t Alascom to decide if they really want to compete in the retail ISP arena. It’s theirs to lose or win.
Suggestions for at&t
I do have some suggestions (if you’re listening at&t). Only offer (2) two price points. For the entry level, 1Mbps down and at least 512K up, no usage limits at a price point of about $25/mo. For the power user, give us 4Mbps or better down and at least 1.5Mbps up, no limits for about $75/mo. Offer Alaskans (or at least Anchorage-ites) a real broadband choice – we are dying for something better!
Final thoughts
The cable and DSL options here in Alaska are both abysmal and overpriced. I really hate to say this, but if at&t were to offer some real competition I would have no hesitation in supporting big blue (or is it orange now?). C’mon big blue, this is the one case where I am asking for that Outside option and please expand outside Anchorage as fast as you can. MTA customers are being held hostage out here!
Once I get news of any real launch dates, I’ll post an update!
/kk
I am petitioning for wimax service to the valley. I have contacted the branch manager of att internet service for alaska and what he told me is a petition might help and they do plan on eventually bringing service to the valley within the next several years. (probably 6 or more) sign my petition
http://www.beawindhog.com it’s the blue link in the center of the page. I will be at walmart and fredmeyers in the upcoming weeks petitioning also.
A petition probably won’t help. The higher ups already know where they want to go next with the service and it’s only going to be to an area that they will be able to make money off of. Revenue people. That’s it. Fairbanks was planned this year however with Anchorage not at full coverage yet i don’t think anywhere new will open up soon.
Anchorage bowl has 10 towers each with about a 1 mile radius that provides good coverage. They have a lot more work to be done here then moving elsewhere.
4Mg speeds are also a dream right now. Especially with the limited bandwidth At&t owns, in which GCI has the majority of it.
This article is undated but the first comment is from 2008, and its now May 2011. Still waiting for AT&T Wimax…