Wireless Communication and Mobile Computing Notes

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INTRODUCTION
Introduction to wireless communication and mobile computing
Communication Systems can be Wired or Wireless and the medium used for communication
can be Guided or Unguided. In Wired Communication, the medium is a physical path like Co-
axial Cables, Twisted Pair Cables and Optical Fiber Links etc., which guides the signal to
propagate from one point to other. Such type of medium is called Guided Medium. On the other
hand, Wireless Communication does not require any physical medium but propagates the signal
through space. Since, space only allows for signal transmission without any guidance, the
medium used in Wireless Communication is called Unguided Medium. Even though there are no
cables used in wireless communication, the transmission and reception of signals is accomplished
with Antennas.
Antennas are electrical devices that transform the electrical signals to radio signals in the form of
Electromagnetic (EM) Waves and vice versa. These Electromagnetic Waves propagates
through space. Hence, both transmitter and receiver consist of an antenna, which are often
small, embedded pieces of hardware within a given device.
Wireless communication uses radio frequencies (RF) or infrared (IR) waves to transmit data
between devices on a LAN. For wireless LANs, a key component is the wireless hub, or access
point, used for signal distribution
To receive the signals from the access point, a PC or laptop must install a wireless adapter card
(wireless NIC). Wireless signals are electromagnetic waves that can travel through the vacuum of
outer space and through a medium such as air.

Wireless System Definitions

• Mobile Station
– A station in the cellular radio service intended for use while in motion at
unspecified locations. They can be either handheld personal units (portables) or
installed on vehicles (mobiles)
• Base station
– A fixed station in a mobile radio system used for radio communication with the
mobile stations. Base stations are located at the center or edge of a coverage region.
They consists of radio channels and transmitter and receiver antennas mounted on
top of a tower.
• Mobile Switching Center
– Switching center which coordinates the routing of calls in a large service area. In
a cellular radio system, the MSC connections the cellular base stations and the
mobiles to the PSTN (telephone network). It is also called Mobile Telephone
Switching Office (MTSO) l
• Subscriber
– A user who pays subscription charges for using a mobile communication system
• Transceiver
– A device capable of simultaneously transmitting and receiving radio signals

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• Control Channel
– Radio channel used for transmission of call setup, call request, call initiation and
other beacon and control purposes.
• Forward Channel
– Radio channel used for transmission of information from the base station to the
mobile l
• Reverse Channel
– Radio channel used for transmission of information from mobile to base station
• Simplex Systems
– Communication systems which provide only one-way communication
• Half Duplex Systems
– Communication Systems which allow two-way communication by using the same
radio channel for both transmission and reception. At any given time, the user can
either transmit or receive information.
• Full Duplex Systems
– Communication systems which allow simultaneous two-way communication.
Transmission and reception is typically on two different channels (FDD).
• Handoff
– The process of transferring a mobile station from one channel or base station to an
other.
• Roamer
– A mobile station which operates in a service area (market) other than that from
which service has been subscribed.
• Page
– A brief message which is broadcast over the entire service area, usually in
simulcast fashion by many base stations at the same time.

Types of wireless networks

There are multiple types of wireless networks that serve different needs, including:
 Municipal wireless network (MWN). An MWN is a wireless network that a local
government authority operates. It provides access to users across a given geography.
 Wireless local area network (WLAN). A WLAN is enabled via Wi-Fi technology in a
local area network. It uses a wireless access point that enables connectivity with endpoint
devices. WLANs also use multiple specifications of Wi-Fi standards, including Wi-Fi 6 -
also known as 802.11ax --, which is the latest generation and standard for wireless
internet.
 Wireless metropolitan area network (WMAN). A WMAN provides access outside
the office and home networks. It is larger than a wireless local area network, but smaller
than a wireless wide area network.
 Wireless personal area network (WPAN). A WPAN is generally enabled with short-range
wireless technology, such as Bluetooth, to connect with devices such as keyboards, mice
and headphones.
 Wireless wide area network (WWAN). A WWAN is also sometimes referred to as
mobile broadband. WWAN uses cellular technology including 2G, 3G, 4G, LTE and
5G -- to enable wireless communications.

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Advantages of wireless network

1. Accessibility: Wireless networks do not require any wires or cables, and hence the users can
communicate even when they are moving. It allows users to roam around without getting
disconnected. As a result, there is a productivity improvement.
2. Easy installation: Installing a wireless network is faster and easier compared to a wired
network. It also reduces the usage of cables that are difficult to set up and imposes the risk of safety
since the user can trip on the wires and fall. If users want to change the network, they have to
update the wireless network to meet the new configurations.
3.Wider reach: Wireless networks have a wider reach than wired networks. They can be easily
extended to places where wires and cables are not accessible.
4.Flexibility: Setting up a wireless network helps the user to do work from home easily. Due to
this network, users can work more productively and have accessibility to customer data.
5.Efficiency: Wireless networks allow improved and better communication of data. With a
wireless network, the transfer of information between users is much faster.
6.Cost-effective: Wireless networks are cost-effective since they are cheaper and easier to
install. Even though their initial investment is high, with time, the overall expenses become
lower.

Disadvantages of Wireless Network

1. Security: Security is a big issue while using wireless networks. If a wireless network is not
installed correctly or maintained correctly, it may cause severe security threats.
Connecting physical components such as wires is not required by a wireless network. They only
need a wireless adapter which automatically increases the risk of hacking since hackers can
have easy accessibility of the network. If there is password protection for the network, then
situations may take a turn for the worse.
2. Limited bandwidth: Wireless networks cannot support VTC or Video Teleconferencing
since they have minimal bandwidth. The bandwidth can also get stolen by neighbors if the network
is not password protected.
3. Speed: The speed of the wireless network is slower than the speed of wired networks.
Transferring or sharing files is much slower in a wireless network. The speed also depends on the
location of the user concerning the network. The farther the user is from the network, the
worse the connection becomes. This is a huge problem for large spaces or buildings.
4. Cost: Wireless networks are usually inexpensive, but the cost of installation is very high. Setting
up a wireless network is very costly, and sometimes there are extra costs along with it. A wireless
network may require the setting up of specific equipment, which can be costly.
5. Prone to interference: Due to external factors like dust storms or fog, there are high
chances of interference and jamming in wireless networks. Wireless networks are highly

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prone to interference; therefore, fog, radiation, radio signals, or any similar interference
may cause a malfunction in a wireless network. Again, when there are too many users in the same
area, the air band using which the signals are transmitted can get overloaded.
6.Coverage: The coverage area of a wireless network is minimal. A typical wireless router allows
users within the range of 150 to 300 feet to use the network.
7. Requires basic computer knowledge: Setting up a wireless network requires minimum
knowledge of computers. People who are inexperienced in the computer field may face
trouble installing a wireless network. There is a high risk of security, and hackers can easily hack
those networks.

Mobile Computing
Mobile Computing is a technology that allows transmission of data, voice and video via a
computer or any other wireless enabled device without having to be connected to a fixed
physical link. Mobile computing technology provides a vast coverage diameter for
communication. It is one of the fastest and most reliable sectors of the computing technology
field. The concept of Mobile Computing can be divided into three parts:
o Mobile communication
o Mobile hardware
o Mobile software
Mobile communication: specifies a framework that is responsible for the working of
mobile computing technology. Mobile communication is an infrastructure ensures seamless and
reliable communication among wireless devices. This framework ensures the consistency and
reliability of communication between wireless devices. The mobile communication framework
consists of communication devices such as protocols, services, bandwidth, and portals necessary
to facilitate and support the stated services. These devices are responsible for delivering a
smooth communication process.
Mobile communication can be divided in the following four types:
Fixed and wired, fixed and wireless, mobile and wired, mobile and wireless.
In a fixed and wired configuration, the devices are fixed at a position, and they are connected
through a physical link to communicate with other devices. Desktop Computer is one of
the example of fixed and wired mobile communication. In fixed and wireless configuration,
the devices are fixed at a position, and they are connected through a wireless link to make
communication with other devices. Examples of fixed and wireless mobile communication are
communication tower, Wi-Fi router and others. In Mobile and Wired configuration, some
devices are wired, and some are mobile. They altogether make communication with other
devices. Example: Laptops. In mobile and wireless configuration, the devices can communicate
with each other irrespective of their position. They can also connect to any network without the
use of any wired device. Wi-Fi Dongle is an example of mobile and wireless mobile
communication.
Mobile hardware: consists of mobile devices or device components that can be used to receive
or access the service of mobility. These devices are inbuilt with a receptor medium that can send

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and receive signals. These devices are capable of operating in full duplex. It means they can send
and receive signals at the same time. They do not have to wait until one device has
finished communicating for the other device to initiate communications. Examples of mobile
hardware can be smartphones, laptops, portable PCs, tablet PCs, Personal Digital Assistants, etc.

Mobile Software: Mobile software is a program that runs on mobile hardware. This is designed
to deal capably with the characteristics and requirements of mobile applications. This is
the operating system for the appliance of mobile devices. In other words, you can say it the heart
of the mobile systems. This essential component operates the mobile device.

Types of Wireless Services/Communications

In the present days, the wireless communication system has become an essential part of various
types of wireless communication devices, that permits the user to communicate even from remote
operated areas. There are different types of wireless communication devices like mobiles. Cordless
telephones, Zigbee wireless technology, GPS, Wi-Fi, satellite television, and wireless computer
parts. Current wireless phones include 3 and 4G networks, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi technologies.

Types of Wireless Communication

History

 The first telegraph was invented (1600 – 1833)

 The invention of the radio from the telegraph (1867-1896)
 The birth of radio (1897 – 1898)
 Transoceanic Communication (1901 –1909)
 Voice over Radio and the First Television Transmissions (1914 – 1940)
 Commercial Television and the Birth of Mobile Telephony (1946 – 1976)
 Cellular Mobile Telephony and Steps toward Wireless Internet (1979 – 1994)
 The Wireless Data Era (1997 – 2009)
 PCS (1995-2008)

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Did you know that there are more than 5000 satellites orbiting the earth right now? We have
become used to instant communications and entertainment wherever we may live on the planet.
However, it takes complex technology to maintain remote wireless communication and control of
these satellites.
In truth, wireless communication technology has an unseen impact on all of our lives each day. If
you have a business, you may wonder how you can make the best use of the various types of
wireless communication. What else can it do for you?

1. Satellite Communication
Satellite communication is a crucial form of wireless communication. By means of satellites,
people all over the earth can communicate with each other.

It may not be possible to send a signal to another country because, well, the curvature of the earth
is in the way. This is one reason why satellites are orbiting the earth because they can send a signal
amongst themselves and eventually to the distant country. All of this at an incredibly fast speed.

NASA and other space agencies make regular use of this type of technology. Of course, sending a
satellite into the atmosphere is not cheap. Therefore the technology involved must be subjected
to significant testing before launch.

2. Infrared Communication
Infrared communication is present in most homes in the form of a television remote control.
However, how does it work?

IR transmits information by means of invisible light. This means that on the electromagnetic
spectrum it lies between microwaves and visible light.

Infrared communication requires a transmitter and a photoreceiver to receive the light beam. Since
any disruption to the light will result in the photoreceiver not receiving it, IR will only function
when there is a line of sight visibility. That means that if you stand between the transmitter and
receiver it will probably not work.

3. Broadcast Radio
The most famous form of wireless transmission on our list, broadcast radio, was probably the first
kind of wireless communication.

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Radio transmitters send out data in the form of radio waves to receiving antennae. Radio waves
are forms of electromagnetic signals. Signals are relatively narrow, and waves can be sent across
various frequencies. This is why car radio’s are able to receive signals from many different radio
stations.

There are many types of users of radio communication. Radio stations that send out informative
and entertaining programs. Maritime radio channels allow ships to communicate with each other
and the shore. Ham radio enthusiasts are able to communicate and use radio communication for
personal use.

4. Microwave Communication
Microwave technology is an effective type of communication that is used globally.

This technology can be broken down into 2 types

Satellite Microwave Communication

This is the most effective method of transmitting microwaves globally. Like Infrared technologies,
Microwave technologies require a clear line of sight. This means that if you want to send a signal
over a long distance, sending it up to a satellite first is a good idea.

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The only problem is that in very dense cloudy weather the signal to the satellite can be blocked by
atmospherics.

Terrestrial Microwave Communication

Microwave technologies can be a very secure form of communication. If a signal needs to be
transmitted over a short distance, it can be enough to erect two antennae with a clear line of sight.
The signal can then be transmitted between the two receivers. This negates the need to connect to
an outside network.

5. Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi internet is a low powered wireless electronic network. These are available in almost every
shopping mall and cafe in the world. Essentially a physical wired network is connected to a router.
This creates a highly localized and low power wireless network.
From this, it is possible to connect a range of devices to the local network. However, public
wireless internet access is known to be a target for thieves and hackers. Therefore, it is essential
that both users who connect to these networks and the providers use password protection defense
methods.

6. Mobile Communication Systems

The burgeoning mobile phone industry uses similar technology to Wi-Fi but on a much grander
and safer scale. Mobile phone companies provide coverage to customers nationwide or even
international scale.

They do this by means of a complex blend of local networks and transmitters together with satellite
support.

7. Bluetooth Technology
Bluetooth was a relatively new technology but is becoming more and more prevalent. It is
essentially a simple method to send information across a short distance. However, this information
can include either messages or even files.

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Bluetooth technology was originally designed to be a replacement for physical cables. However,
it does have its downsides. It has a maximum reach of 30 feet. This can be reduced further, but not
entirely blocked by walls and other solid items.

8. Global Positioning System (GPS)

In satellite communication, GPS or global positioning system is a subcategory. This kind of system
is used to help by providing different wireless services such as speed, location, navigation,
positioning using satellites, and GPS receivers. Please refer to this link to know more about the
Global Positioning System.

Mobile Computing Vs Wireless Networking

The terms "mobile" and "wireless" are often used interchangeably but in reality, they are
two very different concepts applied to modern computing and technology. Mobile is a word that
is commonly used to describe portable devices. A mobile device is one that is made to be taken
anywhere. Therefore, it needs an internal battery for power, and must be connected to a modern
mobile network that can help it to send and receive data without attaching to a hardware
infrastructure.
Cellular networks refer to mobile networks and provide high-capacity coverage over a wide area.
Cellular connection is facilitated by cellular towers. Mobile devices use cellular signals coming
from cell towers to connect to the internet as well as communicate with other cell phones. This
type of technology allows the user to make phone calls and maintain internet access from almost
anywhere, if there’s a cellular tower nearby. In addition, in order to have access to the network, a
mobile device needs to be connected through a cellular provider.
Cellular networks depend on network range availability. In theory, mobile devices can reach a cell
tower up to 45 miles away. In practice, this range is shorter because of various obstacles, such
as buildings, trees, and terrain. The more cell towers a specific area has, the faster and more reliable
the network will be. The speed at which the cellular network operates depends on the
connection – 3G, 4G, 5G, and LTE. Of course, better network connections result in faster data
and download.

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Cellular networks can also be used to broadcast a Wi-Fi signal. A cellular modem or a portable
Wi-Fi hotspot can connect to the network through a cellular provider. After connecting, it
converts cellular data into a Wi-Fi signal, and as a result, Wi-Fi devices can connect to
this signal and have internet access.
The main difference between cellular and wireless can be expressed as follows.

Cases Cellular Network Wireless Network

Internet Access Mobile devices use cellular signals Wireless networks use Radiofrequency
coming from the nearest cell waves to provide internet access to
towers to access the internet. mobile devices.

Data Plan and Limit use a proprietary frequency and a Wireless networks do not require a data
dedicated cellular operator. A data plan, and mobile devices rely solely
plan is attached to a mobile device, on Wireless to connect to the internet.
and these plans usually have a There’s no limit on how much data can
monthly (or other) data be used per month
consumption limit.

Range depend on network range Wireless has a limited range, and

availability. devices can use Wireless only while
they are within the wireless router’s
range.

Router Connection does not connect to a router requires a connection to a

wireless router in order to provide
internet access.

Speed Offer a more stable and reliable The speed of wireless network
connection. depends on the number of devices
connected to a network.

Security and Privacy Cellular data is encrypted by Wireless networks require enabling
default. encryption

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