The Wimax v/s 3G Debate
By Tabrez Khan
Mumbai, Jul 7, 2008

The broad guidelines for auctioning of radio spectrum for 3G and Wimax are finally being devised and should be out in a few days from now. It is a welcome move, one that would give a shot in the arm to availability of high speed Internet and will go a long way in revolutionizing sharing of data, voice, and video.

However, this has once again brought the old 3G vs. Wimax debate, to the forefront. Both technologies can be used to offer a wide array of services such as video-telephony and high-speed Internet access to mobile subscribers. However, Wimax is claimed to be ten times as fast as 3G. Meanwhile 3G, being a cellular technology, has an edge since it can leverage the existing cellular infrastructure.

Given that telecom operators would prefer a technology that they already have an infrastructure for, 3G seems to have the upper hand. However, the appeal of Wimax lies in the fact that it is much faster and can be deployed where cellular networks don't exist, so it is a definite advantage. It can link-up far flung areas with the mainstream and create conditions ideal for setting up of call centers, BPOs, and other such industries in the more remote areas of the country.

This could provide employment opportunities and give a boost to the semi-urban and rural areas. From a more commercial perspective, Wimax has the edge simply because it is much faster than 3G and can provide far superior data transfer speeds. In a world of converging data, voice, and video needs, such speeds will have to be a norm if applications such as Internet telephony, telepresence and other enterprise collaboration tools are to become mainstream.

Wimax offers much greater potential for value-added services within the mobile Internet and telephony spaces. While some issues such as compatibility of diverse Wimax equipment with each other, efficacy of embedded chips within laptops, power usage, etc. have to be taken care of. However, these are minor glitches that are certain to be ironed out in the course of things. All in all, investment in Wimax promises to pay dividends.