WiMAX Brings the Internet to the Monasteries of Mount Athos

Greece's OTE has announced that its pilot WiMAX network in Mount Athos is now operational. In total, six WiMAX base stations have already been installed. The network range reaches 50 km, covering the majority of the Monasteries and Scetea of Mount Athos. OTE's WiMAX base stations transmit at radio frequency spectrum of 3.5 GHz that is provided to OTE by EETT (National Regulatory Authority).

The systems are aligned to IEEE 802.16-2004 standard specifications, the standard which allows for "wireless broadband access". The equipment used is certified by WiMAX Forum, the exclusive institution for WiMAX "wireless broadband access" systems certification.

During the initial phase, the first users already connected are located at various monasteries, the small remote island of Ammouliani, the capital of Athos, Karyes, and the area of Ierissos.

Due to the lack of local electricity supplies, the constant operation of the WiMAX network is guaranteed through the use of solar and wind energy. WiMAX base stations are operating with photovoltaic systems in combination with small wind generators, providing the necessary electric energy without harming the environment.

In addition to Mount Athos, OTE has already installed and is evaluating two other pilot WiMAX systems at selected Athens basin areas, including the broader area of the Athens International Airport "El. Venizelos". In OTE's plans are further installations of such systems in other parts of the country.

Posted to the site on 20th August 2008