WiMax Training

The WiMAX pre-learning introduces the concept of radio communications, including: Propagation Characteristics, Modulation Techniques, Multiple Access techniques (TDMA, CDMA, OFDM, OFDMA, etc) and Radio Planning. In addition the pre-learning also defines key radio measurements, such as power levels, sensitivity, dB measurements, propagation losses, feeder losses etc.

This course is structured into 7 sections covering:

1. WiMAX Architecture and Profiles
In this section, features and functions of the subscriber / mobile station are discussed. In addition, the WiMAX fixed and mobile system profiles are introduced, along with the certification profiles for both Frequency and Time Division Duplexing. The concepts of network releases, conformance and interoperability testing is also outlined. Finally, the capabilities of Mobile WiMAX are discussed for Release 1 deployment.

2. IEEE MAC Operation
This section examines the MAC functions, Service Specific Convergence Sublayer, higher layer data compression and classification. The Common Part Sublayer features are discussed along with classification mechanisms. The section goes on to explore system access, connection establishment, bandwidth allocation and MAC security features. Finally, reliability through ARQ and HARQ operation is examined.

3. IEEE 802.16 Physical Layers
This section includes a summary of the five WiMAX physical layers. It details the functions of the Physical Layers, this includes: FEC, framing, ARQ and HARQ, randomization, power control and modulation. It then goes on to discuss the features of WirelessMAN-SC, WirelessMAN-SCa, WirelessMAN-OFDM and WirelessMAN-OFDMA. Finally, the concept of WirelessHUMAN is discussed for SCa, OFDM and OFDMA systems. 

4. WiMAX OFDM Operation
This section examines the OFDM concepts and features. This includes the definition of the cyclic prefix, FFT and IFFT, subcarriers and sub channelization aspects. The WirelessMAN-OFDM system is introduced, along with its downlink and uplink sub framing, frame duration and prefix formats. The section discusses enhancements made as part of OFDM 802.16e, indicating that more vendors / service providers prefer the manufacture and deployment of OFDMA systems.

5. WiMAX OFDMA Operation
This section examines in detail the mobile OFDMA physical layer. It discusses the OFDMA features and terminology, such as PUSC, FUSC, AMC, OPUSC and also clarifies full and fractional frequency reuse schemes. The section additionally includes discussion on OFDMA symbols, sample rates and carrier spacing. Finally, OFDMA resource allocation is examined by detailing the OFMDA frame format and options available.

6. WiMAX Initial Procedures
This section examines network acquisition and downlink synchronization through the use of the preamble, DL MAP and DCD information. It also discusses uplink synchronization, detailing the UL MAP and UCD information. In so doing, the initial CDMA ranging, invited and periodic ranging methods are examined. Finally, various procedures are discussed, these include: security, power control, sleep mode and fast feedback.

7. WiMAX Mobility
This section focuses on ASN mobility, such as Hard Handover, Fast Base Station Switching Handovers and Macro Diversity Handovers. In so doing the System Information required to support handover is discussed, along with the parameters and triggers. Finally, procedures to facilitate handovers are examined, along with the network planning and service issues.