WCMC Chapter 1 - Introduction
WCMC Chapter 1 - Introduction
Mobile Computing
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION
In 1970, the University of Hawaii developed the first
wireless network, called ALOHA net, to wirelessly
communicate data between the Hawaiian Islands.
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
began to discuss standardizing WLAN technologies in 1991.
In 1997, the IEEE ratified the original 802.11 standard that
is the foundation of the WLAN technologies.
The name that many people recognize for the technology is
Wi-Fi.
Wi-Fi is a marketing term, recognized worldwide by
millions of people as referring to 802.11 wireless
networking.
COMPARISONS OF WIRED AND WIRELESS NETWORKS
Installation
Wired Networks:
Difficult to moderate (Because More no. of components
are used during installation
require cables to be connected to each and every computer
in the network
Wireless Networks:
Easy installation (neat and clean, no untidy cables are
used in this)
COMPARISONS OF WIRED AND WIRELESS NETWORKS
Time to installation
Wired Networks:
More (due to connection of each and every computer in
the network)
Wireless Networks:
Less (no untidy cable connections involves in this)
cost
Wired Networks:
Less (such Ethernet, cables, switches are not expensive)
Wireless Networks:
More (wireless adapters and access points are quite
expensive )
COMPARISONS OF WIRED AND WIRELESS NETWORKS
User connectivity
Wired Networks:
Connectivity is possible only to or from those physical
locations where the network cabling extends
Wireless Networks:
Connectivity is possible anywhere with out physical
cable attachment
COMPARISONS OF WIRED AND WIRELESS NETWORKS
Mobility
Wired Networks:
Limited (because it operates only on a connected
computers linked with the network)
Wireless Networks:
Outstanding (enable wireless user to connect to network
and communicate with other users anytime, anywhere)
COMPARISONS OF WIRED AND WIRELESS NETWORKS
Reliability
Wired Networks:
High (Ethernet cables, switches are reliable because
manufactures have improving technology over several
decades)
Wireless Networks:
Reasonably high( because if the major section like
router break down the whole network will be affected)
COMPARISONS OF WIRED AND WIRELESS NETWORKS
Wireless Networks:
Low: Up to 54 mbps( depends upon standards 802.11g)
Cables
Wired Networks:
Ethernet, copper and optical fibers
Wireless Networks:
Works on radio waves and microwaves
COMPARISONS OF WIRED AND WIRELESS NETWORKS
Wireless Networks:
No need of hubs and switches
Security
Wired Networks:
Good (by using some software like free wall
software etc.)
Wireless Networks:
Weak (because wireless communication signals
travel through the air and can easily be intercepted
COMPARISONS OF WIRED AND WIRELESS NETWORKS
Types
Wired Networks:
Local Area Network(LAN)
Metropolitan Area network(MAN)
Wide Area Network
Wireless Networks:
1. By Network Formation and Architecture:
• Infra structure based network
• Infra structure less (ad hoc) network
COMPARISONS OF WIRED AND WIRELESS NETWORKS
3. Access Technology
GSM Network
TDMA Networks
CDMA Networks
COMPARISONS OF WIRED AND WIRELESS NETWORKS
Standards
Wired Networks:
802.3
Wireless Networks:
802.11a
802.11b
802.11g
COMPARISONS OF WIRED AND WIRELESS NETWORKS
Interference
Wireless Networks:
Higher (the potential for radio interference due to weather,
other wireless devices, or obstructions like walls)
Wireless Applications (Services)
Wireless Technologies and Devices
Infrared (IR) is relatively low energy and cannot
penetrate through walls or other obstacles.
However, it is commonly used to connect and move
data between devices such as Personal Digital
Assistants (PDAs) and PCs.
IR only allows a one-to-one type of connection.
It is generally used for short-range, line-of-sight,
communications.
IR is also used for remote control devices, wireless
mice, and wireless keyboards.
Radio Frequency (RF)
RF waves can penetrate through walls and
other obstacles, allowing a much greater
range than IR.
Certain areas of the RF bands have been
set aside for use by unlicensed devices
such as wireless LANs, cordless phones
and computer peripherals.
This includes the 900 MHz, 2.4 GHz and
the 5 GHz frequency ranges.
Communications Satellites
A communication satellite is an artificial satellite
used specifically as a communication
transmitter/receiver in orbit.
It behaves like a radio relay station above the earth
to receive, amplify, and redirect analog and digital
signals carried on a specific radio frequency.
Data is passed through a satellite using a transponder
which is a signal path.
Most satellites have between 24 to 72 transponders,
with a single transponder capable of transmitting and
receiving 155 million bits of information per second.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Wireless
Communication
Advantages:
◦ mobility
◦ a wireless communication network is a solution in areas
where cables are impossible to install (e.g. hazardous
areas, long distances etc.)
◦ easier to maintain
Communication has enhanced to convey the information
quickly to the consumers.
Working professionals can work and access Internet
anywhere and anytime without carrying cables or wires
wherever they go.
Wireless networks are cheaper to install and maintain
Advantages and Disadvantages of Wireless Communication
Disadvantages:
Definition of mobility:
◦ user mobility: users communicate anytime, anywhere,
with anyone
◦ device portability: devices can be connected anytime,
anywhere to the network
Definition of wireless:
Vehicles
Mobile workers
◦ access to customer files and company documents stored in a central
location
◦ collaborative work environments
◦ access to email and voice messages
Replacement of fixed networks
◦ remote sensors, e.g., weather, environment, road conditions
◦ flexible work spaces
◦ LANs in legacy buildings
Entertainment, education, ...
◦ outdoor Internet access
◦ intelligent travel guide with up-to-date
location dependent information
◦ ad-hoc networks for
multi user games
Applications Wireless and Mobile Communications