Motorola Launches Single RAN Solution for WiMAX Evolution

Motorola's Networks business has announced the introduction of its WiMAX Evolution, a solution made available for operators that want to upgrade the WiMAX 802.16e Enhanced networks. This solution will allow an upgrade of networks to 802.16m (WiMAX 2) or TD-LTE or the addition of LTE to the already existing WiMAX ones. Created mainly for fast-emerging 4G networks, Motorola's current solution was built on a single RAN (Radio Access Network ) technology greatly reducing the costs of any future upgrades.

“As consumer demand for mobile data continues its explosive growth, WiMAX operators around the world are facing 10GB to 30GB average subscriber data usage per month,” Fred Gabbard, vice president of product management, Motorola Networks, said. “Motorola is working closely with these operators to plan capacity for the next five years. Our WiMAX Evolution – Single RAN solution allows operators to migrate to WiMAX 802.16m or LTE, thus reducing cost and offering the best path for 4G growth.”

Capable of reusing almost all of the existing network equipment including backhaul or IP/MPLS core, Motorola’s WiMAX Evolution offers a very cost-effective solution to all the operators preparing to upgrade and expand their 4G networks. The solution also presents an easy way of upgrading WiMAX access points to WiMAX 2, TD-LTE, FDD LTE and even LTE Advanced.

Some of the main advantages of the WiMAX Evolution – Single RAN solution are:
· Equipment reuse: leverages tower top RF heads and antenna as well as existing ancillary cabling, reusing up to 100% of the major network equipment;
· Cost avoidance: requires no expensive crane lifts or tower climbs to implement;
· Capital savings: preserves antenna tower or other site mount costs, site development costs, site acquisition costs, costly battery backup, concrete base, existing electrical and existing backhaul.

Motorola’s WiMAX Evolution has already been confirmed in some very successful products like the Motorola WiMAX WAP 650 and WAP 450 access points.