Home > Networking Definitions - Multichannel Multipoint Distribution Service
SearchNetworking.com Definitions (Powered by WhatIs.com)
EMAIL THIS
LOOK UP TECH TERMS Powered by: WhatIs.com
Search listings for thousands of IT terms:
Browse tech terms alphabetically:
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z #

Multichannel Multipoint Distribution Service


Show me everything on WLAN Standards

DEFINITION - Multichannel Multipoint Distribution Service (MMDS) is a broadcasting and communications service that operates in the ultra-high-frequency (UHF) portion of the radio spectrum between 2.1 and 2.7 GHz. MMDS is also known as wireless cable. It was conceived as a substitute for conventional cable television (TV). However, it also has applications in telephone/fax and data communications.

In MMDS, a medium-power transmitter is located with an omindirectional broadcast antenna at or near the highest topographical point in the intended coverage area. The workable radius can reach up to 70 miles in flat terrain (significantly less in hilly or mountainous areas). Each subscriber is equipped with a small antenna, along with a converter that can be placed next to, or on top of, a conventional TV set. There is a monthly fee, similar to that for satellite TV service.

The MMDS frequency band has room for several dozen analog or digital video channels, along with narrowband channels that can be used by subscribers to transmit signals to the network. The narrowband channels were originally intended for use in an educational setting (so-called wireless classrooms). The educational application has enjoyed some success, but conventional TV viewers prefer satellite TV services, which have more channels.

Because of recent deregulation that allows cable TV companies to provide telephone and Internet services, along with the development of digital technologies that make efficient use of available bandwidth, MMDS has considerable future potential. An MMDS network can provide high-speed Internet access, telephone/fax, and TV together, without the constraints of cable connections.

Learn more about WLAN Standards
802.11 protocols: Learn about the newest wireless protocol, 802.11n, as well as how to evaluate which protocol is best for your environment. You also get a run-down of 802.11a, 802.11b and 802.11g.
802.11 protocols: Learn about the newest wireless protocol, 802.11n, as well as how to evaluate which protocol is best for your environment. You also get a run-down of 802.11a, 802.11b and 802.11g.
Wireless LAN vulnerabilities: Learn about common wireless LAN vulnerabilities and how a few best practices can change wireless LAN issues from a problem into a helpful tool for any enterprise.
Wireless LANs -- 'CCNA Official Exam Certification Library, Third Edition,' Chapter 11: Learn about wireless LAN (WLAN) technology in preparation for the CCNA exam in this excerpt from the CCNA Official Exam Certification Library, Third Edition.
Introduction to wireless networks -- from 'The book of wireless': Learn about the standards and specifications that control wireless networks and explains how data moves through the network from one computer to another.
Wireless protocols learning guide: Wireless protocols, technologies and deployment issues such as access points, security and troubleshooting are found in this basic intro to wireless protocols and technologies.

LAST UPDATED: 18 Apr 2007

Do you have something to add to this definition? Let us know.
Send your comments to techterms@whatis.com

More resources from around the web:
- DigitalChoiceTV is an example of a company that offers MMDS with high-speed Internet access.
- Evertek Enterprises calls their service "wireless cable."





FILE EXTENSION AND FILE FORMAT LIST
File Extension and File Format List:
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z #


RELATED CONTENT
Cisco aims for jitter-free video over wireless LAN with latest release
Cisco announced the launch of VideoStream, a software feature set for its wireless controllers, designed to push unicast conversion of video over WLAN...
Wireless LAN in 2010: cheaper, more robust and reliable
Burton Group Senior Analyst Paul DeBeasi shares his 2010 wireless LAN predictions.
University runs video over wireless LAN, converts multicast to unicast
Liberty University delivers IPTV to students by running video over its Aruba 802.11n wireless LAN.

RELATED GLOSSARY TERMS
Terms from Whatis.com − the technology online dictionary
802.11a  (SearchNetworking.com)
CDPD  (SearchNetworking.com)




Networking & Multichannel Multipoint Distribution Service Solutions
About Us  |  Contact Us  |  For Advertisers  |  For Business Partners  |  Site Index  |  RSS
SEARCH 
TechTarget provides technology professionals with the information they need to perform their jobs - from developing strategy, to making cost-effective purchase decisions and managing their organizations' technology projects - with its network of technology-specific websites, events and online magazines.

TechTarget Corporate Web Site  |  Media Kits  |  Site Map




All Rights Reserved, Copyright 2000 - 2010, TechTarget | Read our Privacy Policy
  TechTarget - The IT Media ROI Experts