Description
This book introduces readers to the perplexing, complicated, but fascinating world of wireless and mobile technologies! In recent years, we’ve all been caught up in the hype and frustration surrounding mobile technology. Unfortunately, the frustration with third-generation mobile phone systems came at the same time as the dotcoms crashed, which was once praised as the Internet on the phone.
The reader should keep in mind that all technologies require time to mature. Despite this, we are seeing massive growth rates in mobile communication systems, increased societal mobility awareness, and the global deregulation of previously monopolized markets. Traditional communication paradigms deal with fixed networks; however, mobility raises new questions, techniques, and solutions. Due to a lack of appropriate fixed communication infrastructure in many countries, mobile communication is the only option. As a result, more people are now using mobile phones than traditional fixed phones (over one billion!).
As a result of the aforementioned trends, there is a growing demand for well-educated communication engineers familiar with the latest developments and possibilities in mobile communication. What we see today is just the start. Many new and exciting systems are being developed in research labs right now. More mobile devices will be available in the future, as will the merging of traditional voice and data transmission technologies and the extension of current Internet applications (such as the World Wide Web) to mobile and wireless devices. Radios, personal digital assistants (PDAs), laptops, and mobile phones will converge, and many different functions will be available on one device – all based on Internet technologies.
This book provides an overview of mobile communications focusing on digital data transfer. A basic understanding of communication and a working knowledge of the Internet or networking, in general, is required of the reader. Furthermore, the book highlights common characteristics of various technical solutions. It demonstrates the integration of well-known fixed-network services and applications into networks supporting end-system mobility and wireless access. If the reader wants to learn more about a particular topic in-depth, there are numerous references to research publications and related websites.
This book will be useful for teachers teaching a course that follows a general data communication or computer networking course. If used in conjunction with other books covering fixed networks or aspects of high-speed networks, the book can also be used to replace parts of more general courses.
