What is WiMax ?

I like the simplicity of the Wiktionary definition which states that WiMax ("Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access") is "a telecommunications technology providing wireless data, voice and video over long distances." Though similar to WiFI in how it works, WiMAX offers ultra-fast speeds over greater distances and for a greater number of users.

WiMax coverage extends to those areas where it is not geographically possible or costly to lay down cables or where there are no network towers set-up by mobile phone operators who also offer 3G/ HSDPA services.

How does WiMax work?

A WiMAX system consists of two parts:

• A WiMAX tower, similar in concept to a cell-phone tower - A single WiMAX tower can provide coverage to a very large area -- as big as 3,000 square miles (~8,000 square km). 
• A WiMAX receiver - The receiver and antenna could be a small box or PCMCIA card, or they could be built into a laptop the way WiFi access is today.

How does a user connect to the internet using WiMax?

• There is the non-line-of-sight, WiFi sort of service, where a small antenna on your computer connects to the tower. In this mode, WiMAX uses a lower frequency range -- 2 GHz to 11 GHz (similar to WiFi). Lower-wavelength transmissions are not as easily disrupted by physical obstructions -- they are better able to diffract, or bend, around obstacles. 
• There is line-of-sight service, where a fixed dish antenna points straight at the WiMAX tower from a rooftop or pole. The line-of-sight connection is stronger and more stable, so it's able to send a lot of data with fewer errors. Line-of-sight transmissions use higher frequencies, with ranges reaching a possible 66 GHz. At higher frequencies, there is less interference and lots more bandwidth.

One of the major complaints with regards to delivery of internet connectivity in this country centres around Telkom's delay in installing ADSL lines as well as the rampant cable theft in the country. The other relates to the inaccessiblity of some peripheral areas.

WiMax represents the best answer to both.