WEIRD testbeds with fixed and mobile WiMAX technology for user applications, telemedicine and monitoring of impervious areas

Abstract

Wireless Metropolitan Area Networks based on IEEE 802.16d/e standards are soon to be deployed in several countries. However, there is lack of published literature with results from actual testbeds. This paper introduces the work done in the EU Sixth Framework Programme Project WEIRD to design and set up WiMAX testbeds in four EU countries. We describe the methodlogy followed, detail our implementation and present results from the testbeds, as deployed in the first phase of WEIRD. The testbeds are used to demonstrate how WiMAX technology can be used to extend the connectivity of the pan-European data communications network (GEANT2) to isolated and impervious areas and, furthermore, to assure end-to-end quality of service to novel applications.