I have a question regarding 4G WiMax equipment. Is there a visible difference between WiMax antennae and 3G antennae on cell towers? I drive by several towers going to and from work and was wondering if I would be able to observe a 4G build-out by Sprint?
There is a difference, but you'd have to be up close to see it. Sorry I don't have a photo (there were some listed in either a NYT or NY Daily News back in Feb but not from Sprint/Clearwire Wimax).
What you should be able to notice though is that Wimax tower locations tend to be at least 2 times higher than traditional cells. Wimax has a stronger radiation footprint so it's usually placed well out of range of people.
Tall building tops are good locations in major cities - probably more so than getting approvals for standalone or add-ons to existing cell towers.
I don't think the installations would be so obviously different that you'd be able to drive by and pick one out though unless the equipment/vehicles advertised Wimax.