OFCOM could allow UK Broadband to offer WiMax

Ofcom - the UK Office of Communications - is proposing to amend the Wireless Telegraphy Act licence held by UK Broadband Ltd in order to allow the company to provide mobile WiMax services across the UK.

WiMax, which stands for Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, is a technology used to provide wireless data communications over long distances.

The company’s current licence permits the company to operate broadband fixed wireless access in the 3.5 GHz band.

UK Broadband wants Ofcom to make its licence technology and service neutral. This would give it greater flexibility over how it can use the radio spectrum. The company has also asked for an increase in its permitted power levels.

In its consultation document, Ofcom says that it believes that removing usage restraints on the licensee would encourage competition and optimise use of the radio spectrum.