Class 11 Computer Science - Unit 6: Wireless Communication Notes

1. Introduction to Wireless Communication

Wireless communication refers to the transmission of data over long distances without the use of

wires or cables. It relies on electromagnetic waves such as radio waves, microwaves, and infrared

signals to carry information. Wireless communication enables mobile devices, such as smartphones,

tablets, and laptops, to communicate with one another over the air, providing services like voice

communication, text messaging, and internet browsing.

1.1 Wireless Network

A wireless network is a network where data is transmitted without the need for cables or wires.

Mobile devices communicate through wireless networks such as **Wi-Fi**, **Bluetooth**, and

**cellular networks**.

1.2 Advantages and Disadvantages of Wireless Network

**Advantages:**

- Mobility: Users can access the network from anywhere within coverage range.

- Easy Setup: No need for physical wiring, making it easier to set up and expand networks.

**Disadvantages:**

- Security Risks: Wireless networks are more prone to security threats like hacking and unauthorized

access.

- Interference: Wireless signals can be affected by weather conditions or other devices.

1.3 Important Wireless Communication Terminologies

- **Radio Transceiver**: A device that can transmit and receive radio signals.

- **Wireless Access Point**: A device that allows wireless devices to connect to a network.

- **Line of Sight Communication**: Communication where the transmitter and receiver must be

directly visible to each other.

1.4 Short-Distance and Long-Distance Wireless Communication

**Short-Distance Communication:** Refers to technologies like **Bluetooth** and **Infrared** that

transmit data over short distances (up to 100 meters).

**Long-Distance Communication:** Refers to technologies like **Wi-Fi**, **Cellular networks**, and

**Satellite Communication**, which provide coverage over much larger areas.

1.5 Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is a wireless networking technology that uses radio waves to provide high-speed internet and

network connections. It is widely used in homes, offices, and public places to allow devices to

connect to the internet without physical cables.

1.6 WiMax

WiMax (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) is a wireless communication technology

that provides high-speed internet access over long distances (up to 50 km). It is used in both

metropolitan and rural areas to provide broadband connectivity.

1.7 Bluetooth

Bluetooth is a short-range wireless technology that allows devices to communicate over short

distances (up to 100 meters). It is commonly used for connecting devices like headphones,

speakers, and keyboards to smartphones or computers.

Infrared (IR) communication uses light waves to transmit data between devices. It is commonly used

for short-range communication, such as remote controls for TVs, air conditioners, and other

appliances.

1.9 Cellular Communication

Cellular communication refers to the use of mobile phones and other devices that connect to a

cellular network to transmit and receive data. The network is divided into cells, each served by a

base station.

1.10 Global Positioning System (GPS)

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a satellite-based navigation system that provides location

information anywhere on Earth. It uses a network of satellites to calculate the exact location of a

device.

1.11 GEO, MEO, and LEO

- **GEO (Geostationary Orbit)**: Satellites in GEO are positioned at a height of 35,786 km above

Earth and stay fixed relative to the Earth.

- **MEO (Medium Earth Orbit)**: Satellites in MEO are at an altitude of 2,000 to 35,786 km above

Earth.

- **LEO (Low Earth Orbit)**: Satellites in LEO are located at altitudes between 160 and 2,000 km

above Earth.

1.12 Mobile Device Communication

Mobile devices communicate with each other using wireless technologies such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth,
and cellular networks. These devices connect to a network of base stations and switches to

exchange voice, data, and multimedia content.

1.13 Features and Limitations of Mobile Communication System

**Features:**

- Wireless Communication, Mobility, Global Connectivity, High-Speed Data Transfer, Multimedia

Support, Security, and Integration with other services.

**Limitations:**

- Limited Coverage Area, Battery Drain, Interference, Limited Bandwidth, High Costs, Privacy and

Security Risks.

1.14 Architecture for Communication over Mobile Devices

The mobile communication architecture involves components like **mobile devices**, **base

stations (BTS)**, **mobile switching centers (MSC)**, **core network**, **gateways**, and

**application servers**.

1.15 Web Protocol Stack and Wireless Application Protocol (WAP)

The **Web Protocol Stack** defines the layers (Application, Transport, Network, Data Link, and

Physical) for web communication. **WAP** is a protocol for accessing internet services on mobile

devices with optimized content delivery.