Note: Many topics at this site are reduced versions of the text in "The Encyclopedia of Networking and Telecommunications." Search results will not be as extensive as a search of the book's CD-ROM.

MMDS is a microwave technology that was originally designated for one-way transmission of wireless cable TV signals to rural areas. It has been called "wireless cable." The market for MMDS was seriously affected by the emergence of DBS (Direct Broadcast Satellite). In 1998, the FCC allowed two-way transmissions in the MMDS spectrum, which opened up the service for use as a network access technology, particularly for Internet access. MMDS service is ideal for home users because the data rate and the cost of using the system are well matched to a home user's requirements.