Sprint demonstrates Wimax devices at CES 2008

At CES 2008, Sprint demonstrated two computer modems that are compatible with Wimax networks, which are expected to be tested at several new locations outside US cities such as Chicago, Baltimore and Washington.

Two above Wimax compatible modems are expected to be available in April. At the same time, Sprint will provide a service called Xohm that allows devices like cameras and other mobile products to easily connect to the Internet.

Unlike Wi-Fi, Wimax signals can travel at longer distances; And unlike mobile broadband, it can transmit large amounts of data. This capability makes Wimax cheaper than current mobile broadband services (3G) - often with a $ 60 per laptop charge per month.

Sprint does not disclose new service prices, but Atish Gude, senior vice president of mobile broadband operations, said prices will be cheaper than 3G services.

During a demonstration at CES 2008, two new modems (one from ZyXEL Communications - for home computers, or small businesses, and one from ZTE - for laptops) showed that they were easily connected to Wimax networks. .

The family Wimax modem is designed with two antennas to replace the wired broadband network. In addition to Internet connectivity, it also has a port for voice over Wimax network services.

The first digital product with built-in Wimax connectivity is probably the EeePC laptop (new version) of Taiwanese computer maker ASUSTek Computer. The company has started selling a low-cost version of the EeePC laptop (without Wimax) since the fourth quarter of last year.

According to Shih, ASUSTek Computer CEO, the Wimax EeePC will be available in the second quarter. However, the price of this product has not been disclosed. The Eee version currently uses Linux, but subsequent models can use Microsoft Windows XP.

ASUS is also planning to integrate Wiamx for laptops, expected to be available in the second half of this year with a starting price of 999USD.

The second Wimax integrated product model is from OQO (San Francisco, USA). This handheld device runs Windows operating system and has a sliding keyboard. However, OQO does not disclose when it will commercialize this product.

Meanwhile, Nokia, the provider of Wimax networking equipment for Sprint, said it would integrate Intel's Wimax chip for a number of mobile models in 2008, but did not disclose a specific date.

With Intel backing, there will definitely be some other big names like Toshiba and Lenovo jumping into this field. However, there has been no specific information so far.

Van Han