Jubie Matlou reviews new telecommunication technology
Wireless Telephony Technologies
l Second-generation technology: Global System for Mobile Telephony (GSM) current technology for mobile telephony. Based on digital technology with voice and limited text/fax provisions.
l Third-generation technology: Basically upgrades a cellphone into a personal computer, compatible with satellite signals that enable a consumer to make or receive calls anywhere in the world without making a roaming arrangement when visiting another country.
l Wireless Application Protocol: Protocol to download data from the Internet to cellphone.
l Bluetooth: Wireless communication using electro-magnetics for short distances, such as instructing a PC to print copy without the use of a cable, rather using electro-magnetic waves to do so.
Third-generation technology requires new frequency allocation in the range of two gigahertz. Transition to third-generation technology would require new cellphone handsets.
Wired Technology
l Voice over IP (Voice using Internet Protocol): Also a packet technology where circuits break down a piece of voice or data and send it to the receiver where it is rearranged into a comprehensible sequence. The advantage is that it prevents a traffic jam of e-mail and telephone signals in that there is no dedicated line to provide for each individual traffic of voice or data.
l Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN): The latest state of technology fibre optic that replaced co-axial and copper wire. Uses light waves, hence its capability to transmit data at the speed of light. Designed for multimedia applications that cut across broadcasting, telecommunication and computing technology.
l Asynchrounous Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL): Computer modem capable of multimedia application as required, such as purchasing groceries from home.