Upon completion of this chapter, you will be able to answer the following questions:
• What are the different types of networks used by cell phones and mobile devices?
• How do you configure mobile devices for wireless connectivity?
This chapter uses the following key terms. You can find the definitions in the Glossary.
Global Positioning System (GPS)
Near Field Communication (NFC)
Kishari has just ended her 10-hour shift at the hospital. As she is walking to her car, her mobile phone rings. It is her son, Shridhar, calling to remind her to pick up the dinner he ordered. While they are verifying their plans, Kishari gets into her car and starts the engine. Her conversation then transfers from her mobile phone to her speakers in her car. She confirms that she will pick up the food and that she will see him in an hour. Before she drives away, she does an internet search for the restaurant and clicks the directions link. She listens to the directions coming through her speakers. “Your destination is on the left.” She purchases the food and drives home. While Kishari and Shridhar enjoy their dinner, Kishari tells Shridhar how she is starting to think about all of this technology at home and at work. She knows how to use it but she does not understand how it works. She gives him the example of mobile phone. Today she answered calls, texted, did an internet search, and used it for driving directions. How does it do all of this? How does the phone connect to all of these things? Shridhar is familiar with the different types of networks used by mobile devices. Shridhar explains the 4G/5G mobile network, GPS, Bluetooth, NFC, and Wi-Fi.
If you do not have a friend or family member like Shridhar to explain this to you, do not worry! In this module, you will learn about the various ways mobile devices communicate. Ready to learn more?
Wireless networks provides mobility and access to network resources where a wired connection may not be available. Wireless networks are also used in communications such as with mobile phones.
Other Wireless Networks (3.1.3)
In addition to the GSM and 4G/5G transmitters and receivers, smartphones make connections in a variety of ways.
Global Positioning System (GPS)
The GPS uses satellites to transmit signals that cover the globe. The smartphone can receive these signals and calculate the phone’s location to an accuracy of within 10 meters.
Wi-Fi transmitters and receivers located within the smartphone enable the phone to connect to local networks and the internet. In order to receive and send data on a Wi-Fi network, the phone needs to be within the range of the signal from a wireless network access point. Wi-Fi networks are usually privately owned but often provide guest or public access hotspots. A hotspot is an area where Wi-Fi signals are available. Wi-Fi network connections on the phone are similar to the network connections on a laptop computer.
Bluetooth is a low-power, shorter range wireless technology that is intended to replace wired connectivity for accessories such as speakers, headphones, and microphones. Bluetooth can also be used to connect a smartwatch to a smartphone. Because Bluetooth technology can be used to transmit both data and voice, it can be used to create small local networks. Bluetooth is wireless technology that allows devices to communicate over short distances. Multiple devices can be connected at the same time with Bluetooth.
Near Field Communication (NFC) is a wireless communication technology that enables data to be exchanged by devices that are in very close proximity to each other, usually less than a few centimeters. For example, NFC can be used to connect a smartphone and a payment system. NFC uses electromagnetic fields to transmit data.
Refer to the online course to complete this activity.