While WiMax chip sets are being shipped from an Intel plant in Panang, Malaysia for a price of $45 to those who buy in bulk, the cost of a WiMax modem would still exceed $500.
This is bad news for consumers who may be chomping at the bit to buy one. Intel has recognized that affordability will be a factor in the launch of the first products scheduled for this fall and is actively working with Asian manufacturers to ramp up production.
Scott Richardson, general manager of Intel's broadband wireless solutions division said that the goal was to bring the price of WiMax modems down to under $200.
WiMax, which is short for Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, enables high-speed wireless broadband signals with a range of up to 20 miles.
