Motorola steps up drive for WiMax
US telecom giant Motorola is in talks with Thai telecom operators and Internet service providers (ISPs) to explore the possibility of trying out the wireless broadband technology WiMax, or Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, in Thailand.
WiMax is a technology providing both bandwidth and reach, making it suitable for high-speed data and telecom services, as well as mobile applications. "We're anticipating starting two trials this year, pending the availability and release of trial licenses for the operators and ISPs," said Motorola Thailand's deputy general manager of networks and enterprises, Chawapol Jariyawiro. The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has yet to grant WiMax spectrum licenses, but has permitted those with existing WiMax spectrums, including Shin Satellite, TOT and True Corp, to conduct service trials. ShinSat is testing the new technology on its existing 3.5-gigahertz spectrum to see if WiMax signal transmissions will interfere with its satellite signals, which are carried on the same spectrum. True and TOT are also planning to offer WiMax services on their existing 2.5GHz and 2.4GHz frequencies respectively. The NTC is drafting WiMax licensing regulations and chairman Choochart Phromprasid said last week that the regulator might be able to complete them soon. Ray Owen, Motorola's director for wireless broadband, networks and enterprises in the Asia-Pacific region, said he believed demand for broadband from consumers, enterprises and businesses was growing around the world, including in Thailand. The main barrier to growth in Thailand is the availability of infrastructure to reliably serve demand. This is where he believes WiMax can be deployed very quickly and effectively. He said that among the first beneficiaries of deploying the WiMax in Thailand would be businesses that need reliable broadband Internet, not only in the major cities but also outside metropolitan areas. In addition to personal broadband, WiMax can also be used to enable applications such as video surveillance to monitor areas against theft and other crimes, resulting in enhanced emergency response and safer streets, Chawapol said. Motorola has nine contracts around the world for installation of WiMax networks and is taking part in 25 trials of the technology.
Sirivish Toomgum The Nation
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