Optus has begun a trial of a 4G based home wireless broadband product. It takes advantage of the company’s key technological differentiator – 4G TDD.

Optus is leveraging its new TDD (time division duplex) 4G network to provide a new wireless broadband products for home and small business customers.

It has not released the product as yet, but has given a clear indication that it intends to do so with the announcement of a major trial in the homes of its employees.

Optus says its Home Wireless Broadband product is designed to provide an “easy, hassle free and flexible option for customers who may not want, or who are unable to receive, a fixed broadband service.”

There is no need for an existing phone line, installation technician or complicated set-up procedure, says Optus. “Customers will simply need an Optus Home Wireless Broadband device to start receiving quality broadband.” It will use the Optus 4G Plus network, initially only in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Brisbane. If successful, it will be released across all Optus 4G Plus areas.

The trial will involve up to 200 Optus staff, who need to volunteer and register with the company. Martin Mercer of Optus said the trial will be used to test and learn how wireless broadband technology can “deliver a more consistent day-to-day experience and expand the home broadband options available to its customers.”

Telstra has a much larger 4G network than Optus, but does not offer a similar product – its 4G broadband is limited to mobile dongles, and it does not offer TDD.

source: http://www.itwire.com/your-it-news/home-it/62343-optus-to-trial-wireless-broadband-on-4g