Experiment No 2

Aim: Prepare a case study to implement basic functions of Code Division Multiple
Access (CDMA).

Theory:

Introduction:
CDMA stands for Code Division Multiple Access. It's a digital cellular technology used in
telecommunications to divide a signal into different codes, allowing multiple users to share the
same frequency band simultaneously. In CDMA systems, each user's signal is spread over the entire
bandwidth using a unique spreading code. This spreading code acts like a signature that
distinguishes each user's signal from others, allowing multiple users to communicate
simultaneously without interfering with each other.
CDMA has been widely used in 2G and 3G cellular networks, although its usage has diminished
with the advent of newer technologies like LTE (Long Term Evolution) and 5G. However, CDMA
technology paved the way for many modern wireless communication techniques and remains an
important part of the history of mobile communications.
In CDMA, all signals occupy the same frequency bandwidth and are transmitted simultaneously in
time, but the different signals are distinguished from one another at the receiver by the specific
spreading codes or frequency hopping pattern.

Characteristics of CDMA:

1. Spread Spectrum Technique: CDMA uses spread spectrum technology to spread the
transmitted signal over a wider bandwidth than the minimum necessary to transmit the
information. Each user's signal is spread using a unique code, known as a spreading code or
a pseudo-random noise code. These codes are orthogonal to each other, meaning they are
statistically uncorrelated and do not interfere with each other.
2. Spectral Efficiency: CDMA offers high spectral efficiency by allowing multiple users to
share the same frequency spectrum simultaneously without causing significant interference.
3. Robustness to Interference: CDMA systems exhibit robustness to various forms of
interference, including multipath fading, noise, and other users' transmissions, thanks to the
inherent properties of spread spectrum modulation.
4. Scalability: CDMA networks are highly scalable, capable of accommodating a large
number of users without requiring substantial modifications to the infrastructure.
5. Multiplexing Technique: CDMA is a multiplexing technique used in telecommunications
to allow multiple users to access the same frequency band simultaneously. Unlike other
methods like Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA) and Time Division Multiple
Access (TDMA), where users are assigned separate frequencies or time slots, CDMA users
share the entire bandwidth of the channel.
Categories of CDMA:
Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) can be categorized into two main categories based on the
synchronization of user transmissions:
1. Synchronous CDMA (SCDMA):
​ In Synchronous CDMA systems, all users within the network are synchronized with
a common timing reference.
​ Precise timing alignment ensures that transmissions from different users are aligned,
facilitating efficient signal reception and processing.
​ SCDMA networks often require a centralized timing source to synchronize all user
transmissions.
​ This category of CDMA is well-suited for applications where precise timing
coordination is essential, such as in satellite communication systems and certain
wireless local area networks (WLANs).
2. Asynchronous CDMA (ACDMA):
​ Asynchronous CDMA networks do not require strict synchronization among user
transmissions.
​ Users can transmit and receive data independently, without the need for a centralized
timing reference.
​ ACDMA networks offer more flexibility in deployment and operation, especially in
dynamic and heterogeneous environments.
​ This category of CDMA is commonly used in cellular communication systems,
where users are distributed across a wide geographic area and may experience
varying signal propagation delays.

Advantages of CDMA:
1. Increased Capacity: CDMA offers higher capacity utilization compared to other multiple
access technologies, enabling more efficient use of available spectrum resources.
2. Enhanced Privacy and Security: The unique spreading codes assigned to each user
enhance privacy and security, making CDMA systems less susceptible to eavesdropping and
unauthorized access.
3. Improved Call Quality: CDMA's robust error correction and interference mitigation
mechanisms contribute to enhanced call quality and reliability, especially in challenging
signal environments.
4. Efficient Spectrum Utilization: CDMA efficiently utilizes spectrum by enabling multiple
users to share the same frequency band simultaneously, allowing operators to accommodate
more users without extra frequency allocations.
5. Support for Multimedia Services: CDMA networks offer diverse multimedia services like
voice, data, and video transmission. With high data rates and reliability, users access
advanced services like mobile internet, video streaming, and multimedia messaging.
Disadvantages of CDMA:
Disadvantages of CDMA include:
1.Complexity: CDMA systems involve complex signal processing techniques, which can increase
deployment and maintenance costs.
2. Limited Compatibility: CDMA technology may not be universally compatible with legacy
systems and devices, hindering seamless integration and migration in certain scenarios.
3. Less Global Adoption: CDMA technology has seen less global adoption compared to GSM,
especially in regions like Europe and Asia. This can limit roaming capabilities and device
availability in certain areas.
4. Spectrum Interference: While CDMA systems are designed to mitigate interference, they may
still experience issues in densely populated areas or regions with high RF interference.
5. Lower Battery Life: CDMA devices typically consume more power compared to GSM devices,
leading to shorter battery life in mobile devices.

CDMA vs. GSM

Feature CDMA GSM

Technology Code Division Multiple Access Global System for Mobile
Subscriber Unique spreading codes assigned to
SIM cards used for identification
Identity users
Predominant in North America, some Widespread adoption globally, especially
Global Adoption
parts of Asia in Europe, Asia
Compatibility Less global compatibility Broad global interoperability
Network Typically used in CDMA2000, Used in GSM, GPRS, EDGE, and UMTS
Architecture WCDMA, and LTE networks networks
Roaming Limited international roaming
Extensive international roaming support
Support capabilities
Generally offers higher data speeds, Lower data speeds compared to CDMA,
Data Speeds especially in CDMA2000 and EV-DO but improved with EDGE and UMTS
networks technologies

WCDMA vs. CDMA2000

Feature WCDMA (Wideband CDMA) CDMA2000

Technology Wideband Code Division Multiple Access Code Division Multiple Access
Basis for UMTS (Universal Mobile
Evolution Evolution of CDMA technology
Telecommunications System)
Typically offers higher data rates, up to 14.4 Offers data rates up to 2.4 Mbps with
Data Rates
Mbps with HSPA+ EV-DO Rev. A
 Feature WCDMA (Wideband CDMA) CDMA2000
Commonly deployed in Europe, Asia, and Prevalent in North America and
Deployment
some parts of North America some regions
Interoperable with GSM networks for
Compatibility Primarily used in CDMA networks
seamless handover (UMTS)
Uses paired spectrum (uplink and downlink Utilizes unpaired spectrum for uplink
Spectrum
channels) and downlink channels
Supports voice and data simultaneously Supports voice and data separately
Voice Support
(WCDMA with HD Voice) (VoIP for data)

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) technology remains a cornerstone in
modern wireless communication networks, offering numerous advantages such as increased
capacity, enhanced security, and robustness to interference. Understanding its basic functions and
comparisons with other technologies is essential for stakeholders in the telecommunications
industry to make informed decisions regarding network deployments and optimizations.