1.5 Mobile Device Connections

Question 1

Micro-USB and mini-USB

Answer 1

• EU standardized on Micro-USB
• Common now worldwide
• Older devices may use Mini-USB
• Slightly larger

Question 2

USB-C

Answer 2

24-pin double-sided USB connector
• Used for both hosts and devices
• Acts as a USB 3.1 / USB 2.0 connection
• Only the interface is different
• Includes an analog audio option
• Headset support through a 3.5 mm jack

Question 3

Lightning

Answer 3

Apple proprietary
• 8-pin digital signals
• iPhone, iPad, iPod devices
• Some advantages over Micro-USB
• Higher power output for phones and tablets
• Can be inserted either way
• Simpler design, more durable

Question 4

Tethering

Answer 4

Physically connect a device to your mobile phone
• Use the Internet/data connection
• Enable Internet access from almost anywhere
• May require service or configuration by wireless carrier

Question 5

Proprietary mobile interfaces

Answer 5

Early mobile technology was all about cables
• One cable for power
• A completely different cable for data
• Every manufacturer was different - Intentionally
• The EU changed things
• Common external power supply for all data-enabled
mobile phones sold in the European Union

Question 6

NFC (Near Field Communication)

Answer 6

• Send small amounts of data wirelessly over a limited area
• Built into your phone
• Payment systems, transportation, in-person information
exchange
• Access token, identity “card”
• Short range with encryption support

Question 7

Bluetooth

Answer 7

• High speed communication over short distances
• PAN (Personal Area Network)
• Connects our mobile devices
• Smartphones
• Tethering
• Headsets and headphones
• Health monitors
• Automobile and phone integration
• Smartwatches
• External speakers

Question 8

Hotspot

Answer 8

• Turn your phone into a WiFi hotspot
• Your own personal wireless router
• Extend the cellular data network to
all of your devices
• Dependent on phone type and provider
• May require additional charges and data costs

Question 9

IR (Infrared)

Answer 9

• Included on many smartphones, tablets, and
smartwatches
• Not really used for file transfers and printing
• Control your entertainment center
• Almost exclusively IR

Question 10

Headsets

Answer 10

• Hands-free audio - Earphones and microphone
• Wired
• Connects to TRRS connector (Tip-Ring-Ring-Sleeve)
• Wireless - Bluetooth headsets

Question 11

Speakers

Answer 11

• Mobile audio - Battery powered
• Wireless connection - Bluetooth link
• Stereo sound - Small package

Question 12

Game Pads

Answer 12

• Gaming console feel - Mobile phone or tablet

* Connect with Bluetooth - Wireless connectivity

Question 13

Extra battery packs / battery chargers

Answer 13

• Power is key - And in short supply
• Swappable battery pack
• Carry an extra or two
• External USB chargers
• Phones and tablets
• And any other USB devices

Question 14

Protective covers

Answer 14

• Screen protector
• Avoid scratches
• May be difficult to install
• Device protector
• Wrap the entire device
• Waterproofing options are available
• Can create problems for docking stations

Question 15

Credit card readers

Answer 15

• Phone or tablet becomes a point of sale terminal
• Connections to audio/mic TRRS jack
• Great for small and mobile businesses
• Uses the Internet link for approvals
• Immediate feedback
• Additional features
• Email receipts
• Sign with your finger

Question 16

Memory / microSD

Answer 16

• Increase storage capacity of smartphone or tablet
• Common on Android devices
• Not available on iOS devices
• MicroSD cards
• Small form factor, with increasing capacities