Editing WiMAX (section)

=== Specifications ===
As a standard intended to satisfy needs of next-generation data networks ([[4G]]), WiMAX is distinguished by its dynamic burst algorithm modulation adaptive to the physical environment the RF signal travels through. Modulation is chosen to be more spectrally efficient (more bits per [[Orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing|OFDM]]/[[Orthogonal frequency-division multiple access|SOFDMA]] symbol). That is, when the bursts have a high [[Field strength|signal strength]] and a high [[Carrier to Noise Ratio|carrier to noise]] plus interference ratio (CINR), they can be more easily decoded using [[digital signal processing]] (DSP). In contrast, operating in less favorable environments for RF communication, the system automatically steps down to a more robust mode (burst profile) which means fewer bits per OFDM/SOFDMA symbol; with the advantage that power per bit is higher and therefore simpler accurate signal processing can be performed.

Burst profiles are used inverse (algorithmically dynamic) to low signal attenuation; meaning throughput between clients and the base station is determined largely by distance. Maximum distance is achieved by the use of the most robust burst setting; that is, the profile with the largest MAC frame allocation trade-off requiring more symbols (a larger portion of the MAC frame) to be allocated in transmitting a given amount of data than if the client were closer to the base station.

The client's MAC frame and their individual burst profiles are defined as well as the specific time allocation. However, even if this is done automatically then the practical deployment should avoid high interference and multipath environments. The reason for which is obviously that too much interference causes the network to function poorly and can also misrepresent the capability of the network.

The system is complex to deploy as it is necessary to track not only the signal strength and CINR (as in systems like [[GSM]]) but also how the available frequencies will be dynamically assigned (resulting in dynamic changes to the available bandwidth.) This could lead to cluttered frequencies with slow response times or lost frames.

As a result, the system has to be initially designed in consensus with the base station product team to accurately project frequency use, interference, and general product functionality.

The Asia-Pacific region has surpassed the North American region in terms of 4G broadband wireless subscribers. There were around 1.7 million pre-WiMAX and WiMAX customers in Asia – 29% of the overall market – compared to 1.4 million in the US and Canada.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.telegeography.com/cu/article.php?article_id=33959 |title=Asia takes the lead in the 4G market |website=Telegeography.com |date=August 5, 2010 |access-date=October 30, 2012}}</ref>