Why WiMAX protocol conformance testing matters

Dropped calls, "network busy" messages and intermittent service are all potential symptoms of poor device interoperation. These types of behavior are generally caused either because the testing for certification is not rigorous enough or, in its absence, because of insufficient interoperability testing before products are released to market.

Although both handsets and base stations are developed according to defined specifications, ambiguity often leaves them open to interpretation. To iron out any creases and to ensure that any differences do not cause problems visible to the end user, such testing is vital.

Users invariably think that such problems are caused by faults with the network, making it more difficult for operators to keep customers loyal and increasing churn. Even when such problems are detected in the certification lab and caught before they reach the end user, fault investigation, resolution and re-certification is not only hugely expensive but can adversely impact time-to-market.

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