Wireless Glossary of Terms

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GPRS (General Packet Radio Service): A packet technology approach that enables high-speed wireless Internet and other GSM-based data communications. It makes very efficient use of available radio spectrum for transmission of data. 
 
GPS (Global Positioning System): A worldwide satellite navigational system, made up of 24 satellites orbiting the earth and their receivers on the earth’s surface. The GPS satellites continuously transmit digital radio signals, with information used in location tracking, navigation and other location or mapping technologies.
 
GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications): A technological approach also based on dividing wireless calls into time slots.  GSM is most common in Europe, Australia and much of Asia and Africa. Generally, GSM phones from the United States are not compatible with international GSM networks because the U.S. and many other nations use different frequencies for mobile communications.  However, some phones are equipped with a multi-band capability to operate on such other frequencies.
 
Handoff: The process when a wireless network automatically switches a mobile call to an adjacent cell site.
 
HSCSD (High Speed Circuit Switched Data): In using HSCSD a permanent connection is established between the called and calling parties for the exchange of data. As it is circuit switched, HSCSD is more suited to applications such as videoconferencing and multimedia than 'bursty' type applications such as email, which are more suited to packet switched data.
 
iDEN (Integrated Digital Enhanced Network): A specialized mobile technology that combines two-way radio, telephone, text messaging and data transmission into one digital network.  iDEN is designed to give users quick access to information on a single device.  Introduced by Motorola and used by AirTel Montana, Nextel Communications, Nextel Partners, and Southern LINC Wireless, among others.
 
Interconnection: Connecting one wireless network to another, such as linking a wireless carrier's network with a local telephone company’s network.
 
Interoperability: The ability of a network to coordinate and communicate with other networks, such as two systems based on different protocols or technologies.


  • Have You Seen the
    WOW October ‘08 Webcast Yet?

Wireless is constantly and dramatically changing the way we live, work and play. CTIA’s Wonder of Wireless Webcast this month showcases:

  • An interview with CTIA President & CEO Steve Largent sharing his thoughts on the 25th Anniversary of Wireless, 
  • A segment on how wireless technology is helping industry go green,
  • A segment on how wireless is saving lives, as well as much, much more.

Check out the Wonder of Wireless now!