Intel Corporation today announced the availability of its first WiMAX product,  Intel® PRO/Wireless 5116 device, providing equipment manufacturers and carriers the ability to deliver wireless broadband networks.

In addition, several service providers worldwide announced plans to begin commercial WiMAX trials based on Intel silicon products later this year, giving consumers and businesses a glimpse at this emerging wireless high-speed broadband technology. Key equipment providers also announced WiMAX solutions based on Intel's product.

WiMAX, short for Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, is based on the IEEE 802.16-2004 standard and offers wireless technology for providing high-speed, last-mile broadband connectivity to homes and businesses and for mobile wireless networks. Initially, the WiMAX technology is expected to complement the existing DSL and cable installations. WiMAX is likely to be used as a back-up to the already existing installations using DSL/Cable, and provide new broadband connections to homes and buildings not currently served by the existing technologies. Because the technology is standards based, it is expected to be cost effective and widely used in the years to come. WiMAX offers high-speed, fixed wireles broadband networks, providing IP and TDM Voice capabilities. It also offers IP based real-time video.

"As a standards-based, high-speed Internet access solution, WiMAX can provide the platform for the next generation of Internet expansion, connecting the next billion Internet users," said Scott Richardson, general manager of Intel's Broadband Wireless Division. "In addition to delivering the first flexible, highly integrated WiMAX system-on-chip, Intel has worked with a number of parties, including carriers and equipment manufacturers, to prepare the industry for the next wave of wireless technology."

The Intel PRO/Wireless 5116 broadband interface is the first 802.16-2004 system-on-chip optimized for cost-effective WiMAX modems and residential gateways. These units may be placed in either homes or businesses to receive and transmit a wireless broadband signal. Intel PRO/Wireless 5116 broadband interface enables both outdoor WiMAX products as well as new indoor solutions, such as self-installable WiMAX modems and residential gateways.

WiMax trials in the US are indicated to be held only by AT&T, Qwest, Speakeasy and Towerstream.