In the high-stakes battle of Internet providers, WiMAX represents the latest up-and-comer to challenge DSL and cable technologies. This new wireless technology is gaining attention for its ability to provide high-speed, high-throughput broadband connections over distances of up to 30 miles instead of a few hundred feet. Exhibiting a surprising amount of utility, WiMAX can be used for a number of different applications, including “last mile” broadband connections, cellular backhaul, and high-speed enterprise connections for businesses.

Yet, one of the biggest challenges to any advanced wireless operation is the maintenance of continuous and economical service regardless of weather conditions and power irregularities or outages. Without reliability, the battle is over. This necessitates 100% attention to several issues, such as the monitoring of electric power and environmental conditions within each of many sites blanketing a service area, and also mandates the ability to protect and remotely manage multiple communications-related devices.