Mobile Communications

This module provides a brief introduction to the basic concepts and technologies associated with mobile communications.

Wireless telecommunications can be divided into two broad categories: mobile communications and fixed wireless communications. Each category has its own unique market in terms of customer needs and technology requirements. The mobile communications market requires mobility or non-tethered communications.

The goal of mobility is anytime, anywhere communications. Mobile communications technology must be able to allow roaming - the ability to provide service to a mobile phone users while outside their home system. On the other hand, fixed wireless is simply an alternative to wired communications. The fixed wireless user does not need mobility. Instead, the fixed wireless user needs cost effective telecommunications from fixed locations. Wireless is an alternative means of providing service. It is sometimes the only means. When the customer is in a remote location, satellite is the only alternative.

The given figure shows the basic parts of a mobile communication.

The below given is a flow chart of mobile communication.

Cellular/PCS networks can use different type of mobile networking protocols that allow for roaming – the use of a mobile phone while away from the home area – and advanced services.

Global System for Mobility (GSM) networks deployed in Europe and throughout the world utilizes a protocol called the GSM Mobile Application Part (MAP), standardized by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI). Other TDMA based networks and CDMA networks utilize a protocol called ANSI-41, a protocol standardized by the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) and the American Standards Institute (ANSI).

Mobile networking entails communication between Home Location Registers (HLR) and Visiting Location Registers (VLR) - databases used to store information about subscribers. Communication between these databases allows roaming.