Cellphone Networks

Introduction

There are lot of protocols/networks on which the cell phones operate. Some are rare and have passed their life, some are mostly used nowadays, some are ready to use in the coming era and some are still under development phase. This article will discuss almost each that needs to be discussed. Basicaly we categorise the networks into generations i.e 1G, 2G, 3G and 4G. I wont go into the deep of technical and networking details, this would only be just an overview.

1G

Analog systems were the first generation systems that were made available to the public. Their handsets were bulky and the voice quality was variable. So, the technology was further developed to resolve these issues and new needs. At this point there was no word with the data communication alongwith voice.

2G and Variants

The basic and starting technology that recognised 2G was GSM (Global system of mobiles). In GSM different operators operate at different frequencies. It started from Europe and spread most of the areas of world.
A variant called GPRS (General Packet Radio Services) evolved from GSM and also given the name 2.5G, GSM-IP, or "always online" because it connected users directly to the internet. GPRS got a lot of network support and cellphone base. This was also because many operators upgraded from GSM to GPRS and its basicaly an upgraded technology
Another variant which is a topic under discussion these days is EDGE (Enhanced Data rate for GSM Evolution), it focusses on more high data rates. Its something before 3G and sometimes said that the operators which wont get 3G licences will upgrade to EDGE.

3G

3G cellular networks aimed at high data connectivity. Some people get confused with 2.5G and 3G. Variation of GSM is 2.5G i.e. GPRS and EDGE while 3G is based on CDMA, a popular form is called UMTS (Universal Mobile Telephone Standard). UMTS uses combination of TDMA and W-CDMA, operates on 2GHz and data rates are <2Mbps. 3G systems are still not that much implemented and it can be said that they are still under test phase.

4G

At this time where 3G systems are about to be implemented, researchers are also looking at some other technologies and techniques that may constitute a 4G system. Still there is very technical data regarding 4G and its still under discussion/investigation.

Other Innovations

Another research is taking place on Mesh network technology. In this context each handset, cellphone or terminal will become a repeater and routes and maintains foreign traffic.