Cellular Standards Flashcards
Why are mobile phones called ‘cell phones’?
Because they use a cellular network, which divides geographical areas into ‘cells’ with antennas for connectivity.
What were the two major 2G cellular standards?
GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) and CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access).
What was a key advantage of GSM networks?
GSM used SIM cards, allowing users to switch phones while keeping their number and settings.
How did GSM allow multiple users to share the same frequency?
It used Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), giving each user a time slice to transmit data.
How did CDMA differ from GSM in handling multiple calls?
CDMA assigned a unique code to each call, allowing multiple users to transmit on the same frequency without interference.
Which U.S. carriers primarily used GSM and CDMA?
- GSM: AT&T, T-Mobile
- CDMA: Verizon, Sprint
What was the major improvement in 3G networks introduced in 1998?
Faster data speeds (several Mbps), enabling GPS, mobile TV, streaming video, and video-on-demand.
What is LTE, and why was it important?
Long Term Evolution (LTE) is a 4G technology that merged GSM and CDMA into a single global standard with faster data speeds.
What is LTE-A (LTE Advanced)?
An upgraded version of LTE, doubling speeds to 300 Mbps.
What are the potential speeds of 5G networks?
Eventually up to 10 Gbps, but currently between 100–900 Mbps in many areas.
How does 5G benefit the Internet of Things (IoT)?
Faster speeds and lower latency allow more devices to connect and share data efficiently.
What is a PRL update?
A Preferred Roaming List update helps a phone identify available cell towers and can be updated over-the-air (OTA).
What does enabling a Wi-Fi hotspot on your phone do?
It allows other Wi-Fi devices to use your cellular data connection for internet access.
What are potential limitations of using your phone as a Wi-Fi hotspot?
- Extra charges from your provider
- Data limits or reduced speeds
