Kent students get hyper fast WiMAX broadband

Trial trailled

By Tim Richardson, 23rd May 2005

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The University of Kent (UoK) is to trial a new wireless broadband service that could deliver a blisteringly fast 45 Meg internet connection for Canterbury.

Joining forces with Kent-based wireless outfit Telabria, the UoK is looking to research and develop the deployment of WiMAX wireless networks.

Beginning next month Telabria will begin installing base stations around the university campus ahead of a three-month trial of its service.

As part of the deal, Telabria gets access to some of the finest techie brains on offer at UoK to develop its knowledge of wireless broadband networks, while students get the chance to work in the real world.

Or as Telabria chief exec Jim Baker puts it: "Through this collaboration, Telabria can leverage the University's world-class electronics and computing research facilities and academic staff to help design the very best wireless broadband networks.

"In return, we can provide training and real-world work experience for undergraduate and postgraduate students in technical fields, preparing them for careers in the telecommunications industry.

"Together we can explore the impact that WiMAX will have on broadband communication for business, in areas such as remote training, VoIP (voice-over-IP) and video conferencing," he said.

Should the trial prove successful Telabria reckons it will be able to unveil a commercial WiMAX service when students return to their scholastic duties in the autumn, having spent months over the summer on holiday. ®