The region-specific service is named Regional WiMAX--an abbreviation of Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, which is a new standard for wireless broadband Internet access.
The new technology enables service operators to provide low-cost broadband Internet access to isolated areas, such as mountainous areas and islands, which are difficult to reach with fiber-optic services. The ministry expects the service to end the the debate on the digital divide between cities and rural areas.
The ministry in June issued a license, or a preliminary license, for Regional WiMAX to 42 companies including cable television providers. The panel to promote the service was established Thursday, and comprises 145 organizations and individuals, including broadcasting stations and local governments. Its task will be to discuss measures to expand the areas covered by WiMAX.
The next-generation service enables the Internet to be accessed outdoors, and works similarly to ADSL--asymmetric digital subscriber line--services. UQ Communications Inc., of which telecommunications company KDDI Corp. is a major stock holder, and Willcom Inc., which is the largest personal cell phone system company in Japan, will launch the new service nationwide, as early as spring.
The government wants the entire nation to have access to broadband Internet services, and in this regard, the internal affairs ministry regards Regional WiMAX as the ace up its sleeve.
It would cost a great deal of money to provide homes located in mountainous regions or isolated islands with fiber-optic Internet access. Conversely, Regional WiMAX will only require the establishment of 10 to 20 base stations in each area--at a cost of about 10 million yen per base. This will minimize financial outlays, according to the ministry.
The licensed companies will start operations from the end of this year, with about 630,000 households being covered by the 42 companies, the ministry said.
To help promote the new service, the internal affairs ministry is planning to subsidize the companies that provide Regional WiMAX. About 150 firms, including cable television providers, are considering taking part in the service, the ministry said.
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Autor(en)/Author(s): Shigeaki Ishii
Quelle/Source: The Daily Yomiuri, 20.10.2008
