Wimax wireless trial to roll out in the Midlands

Internet service provider Pipex and wireless networking firm Airspan are to roll out a wireless broadband trial in the Midlands using Wimax technology.

Wimax was recently ratified as a standard and allows providers to supply voice and data services to end users over distances of miles, rather than the short distances supported by 802.11-based wireless hotspots.

Wimax is also seen by providers as an ideal alternative to fixed-line broadband.

Pipex intends delivering both consumer and business broadband services using its own licensed Wimax spectrum, and Airspan's Wimax customers’ premises equipment (CPE).

The trial will also be used to test customer voice over IP services.