X OVERVIEW

This topic introduces you to many aspects of wireless data communications,

focusing on wireless data technologies and wireless data systems.

The term wireless technologies is a lower-level term that we can use to define
sets of protocols, standards and specifications for particular wireless data
systems. Wireless systems, on the other hand, is a higher-level term; we use it to
describe complete wireless communications systems that may comprise a
number of wireless technologies.

T
T
o
o
p
p
i
i
c
c

5
5

OBJECTIVE
After completing this topic, you should be able to:
1. Discuss the evolution of wireless communications systems.
2. Illustrate wireless data applications.
3. Identify factors affecting the development of wireless data
communications systems.
4. Describe, identify and evaluate applications of wireless data
communication technologies including SMS, WAP, Bluetooth,
HSCSD, GPRS, EDGE and LMDS.
5. Identify and explain the operation principles of wireless data
communications systems including WLL, Wireless LAN, Wireless
ATM and broadband satellite multimedia systems.
6. Identify and discuss issues related to the interfacing of wireless
with fixed networks.
X
Wireless Data
Communications
TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS W
107
There are three sections in this topic. The first is a short summary of the evolution
of wireless communications systems. In this section, the three generations (i.e.,
first, second and third) of wireless communications systems are discussed.
Descriptions, standards and applications of the three generations of systems are
presented.
In the second section, the most important wireless data technologies that are
currently available will be discussed. These include:
SMS (Short Message Service)
WAP (Wireless Application Protocol
Bluetooth
HSCSD (High Speed Circuit Switched Data)
GPRS (General Packet Radio Services)
EDGE (Enhanced Data rate for Global Evolution)
LMDS (Local Multipoint Distribution Service).

The final section focuses on the latest and the most important wireless data
communication systems, including:
WLL (Wireless Local Loop)
Wireless LANs
Wireless ATM
Broadband satellite systems.

A short subsection on interfacing wireless systems with fixed networks is also
included in the topics final section.

To complete this topic, you will be asked to read 11 readings and perform several
online and offline activities. You should note that these readings are essential for
the course and you must not skip them.
X INTRODUCTION
The growth of the wireless communications industry has been particularly
promising in recent years.

Besides the tremendous growth in the number of subscribers, significant changes
have been occurring in the types of information actually carried by wireless
cellular networks. In past years, more than 90% of wireless traffic was voice-
based. With the introduction of a series of new technologies, e.g., WAP (Wireless
X TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS 108
Application Protocol), GPRS (General Packet Radio Systems), and EDGE
(Enhanced Data rate for Global Evolution), however, the amount of wireless data
traffic (and even multimedia traffic) is expected to increase rapidly in the near
future. Many predictions have indicated that the volume of data traffic will
actually exceed voice traffic in a few years.

Those predictions are likely to be reasonable because wireless data systems
promise useful services and great convenience to subscribers. As the prices of
wireless data systems drop to reasonable levels, people may end up using their
mobile phones (or other wireless devices) for video conferencing, entertainment
(movies or music), Internet browsing, credit authorization and so on. Youll
consider the potential benefits of wireless data communications later in this topic.
The evolution of wireless communication systems

Wireless communication systems are commonly classified into:
first-generation (1G)
second-generation (2G)
third-generation (3G).

The relationship between second and third generation systems is shown in
Figure 5.1. Note that the 2.5th generation is a very difficult category to define;
essentially, you can assume that it includes all systems that exceed 2G definitions
in some way, but do not yet reach the standards set for 3G systems.

TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS W
109

Figure 5.1 Generations of wireless communication systems
FIRST-GENERATION (1G) SYSTEMS
All 1G wireless communication systems are considered to be analogue systems.
Examples of 1G systems are:
AMPS (Advanced Mobile Phone System)
TACS (Total Access Communications System)
E-TACS (Extended Total Access Communications Systems), etc.

You should note that the term analogue only refers to the transmission of user
information (i.e., voice) over voice channels. This is because digital transmission
has already been adopted in the control channels of some 1G systems.

Digital transmission is better than analogue transmission in a number of aspects:
Signal security. Encryption can be easily added to digital signals. Without
knowing the encryption algorithm, it is extremely difficult (or almost
impossible) to detect and decode the information.
X TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS 110
Signal quality. Since coding techniques (e.g., error detection and correction)
can easily be applied to digital signals, the quality of digital signals is better
than that of analogue signals.
Possibility of signal multiplexing. When information is transmitted digitally,
it is easy to multiplex difficult types of formations (e.g., digitized voice and
data).
Spectrum efficiency. Since TDMA or CDMA techniques can easily be applied
to digital systems, the spectrum efficiency of digital cellular systems is higher
than that of analogue systems.

Because of the advantages digital transmission holds over analogue transmission,
all 2G wireless communication systems use digital transmission.
Second-generation (2G) systems
As mentioned in the previous section, since information (no matter if it is voice
or data) to be transmitted in all 2G systems is in digital format, 2G systems have
higher signal security and better signal quality. As a result, 1G systems have
generally been phased out and replaced by 2G, 2G and 3G systems.

Major examples of 2G systems include:
GSM 900 and GSM 1800 (Global System for Mobile Comminations in 900
MHz and 1800 MHz bands, respectively). Local operators are PCCW
(previously known as C&W HKT), SmarTone, Hutchison, Peoples, Sunday
and New World Telephone.
DAMPS (Digital Advanced Mobile Phone System, also called IS-54 or IS-136).
PCCW is the only local operator of this system.
CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access, also called IS-95). Hutchison is the
only local operator of this system.
PDC (Personal Digital Cellular system): PDC (mainly used in Japan) that uses
both full- and half-rate speech codec (5.6 kbps) and allows high-speed
transmission at 9.6 kbps to ensure efficient spectrum utilization.
Third generation (3G) systems
At the ITU level, the 3G is known as International Mobile Telecommunications
2000, or simply IMT-2000. IMT-2000 was previously known as Future Public
Land Mobile Telecommunications Systems (FPLMTS). In Europe, 3G wireless
personal communications systems are known as Universal Mobile
TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS W
111
Telecommunications systems (UMTS). With the introduction of 3G systems
(UMTS/IMT-2000), 2G capabilities (voice and low-/medium-rate data) are
extended, and multimedia capabilities such as the support for high bit rates and
introduction of packet data and Internet access can be added to 2G platforms.
In this topic, we will not go into any further detail on 3G systems because issues
related to 3G systems will be discussed in the next section.

Before going on to the next section, complete the following self-test.


WIRELESS DATA TECHNOLOGIES
In the first ten to 15 years of the cellular revolution (i.e., from the early 1980s to
the early 1990s), voice was the major wireless service. But the proliferation and
development of cellular voice systems has paved the way for the possibility of
wide-area and local-area wireless data applications. The demand for such
applications is currently experiencing a significant increase and therefore new
standards and technologies for wireless data are one of the key developments in
the wireless industry.

Many of todays fixed or wired applications (e.g., phone banking, Internet
access, mobile commerce, etc.) can also be provided by wireless systems. Lets
consider a local example: most GSM operators are now providing mobile phone
banking services to their customers, making it possible for us to use our mobile
phones to manage our bank accounts (e.g., to transfer funds, access credit card
services, pay bills, etc.).

The significance of the move from wired to wireless systems is discussed
briefly in the Introduction section of the following article. The article also
describes three wireless data technologies, MOBITEX, GPRS, and CPCD. You
may, in fact, skip the descriptions of the three technologies (on pages 5 to 17)
because MOBITEX and CPCD were designed for early cellular systems (which
are not commonly used in 2G or 2.5G systems), and GPRS will be discussed in a
more detailed manner later in this topic.
1. When compared to FDMA used in 1G systems, explain the main
advantages of using TDMA and CDMA in 2G systems.
2. Identify two major differences among the three generations of
wireless communication systems, and identify and assess the
implications of these differences.
SELF-TEST 5.1
X TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS 112

Wireless data applications
Circuit-switching and packet-switching can make a great difference in terms of
transmission costs, throughput and service quality. Obviously there are some
applications that are mostly suitable for the circuit-switching model (e.g., real-
time video transmission). However, packet-switching is much more efficient and
consequently less costly for bursty applications that transmit only a small
amount of data at every transmission. Typical applications suitable for wireless
packet data transmission are shown in Table 5.1.

Table 5.1: Wireless packet data applications.
Application area Specific applications
Mobile office Remote office access or database access
File transfer
Administrative control
Two-way communications
Internet browsing via the World Wide Web
Financial and retail Transactions such as electronic cash or fund communications
transfers which, generally, do not have very high
communication requirements
Card authorization at points of sale in retail outlets
Remote control and
monitoring
Traffic and transport informatics
Traffic light monitoring and traffic movement measurements
Route guidance systems
Variable message signs on the roadside to
inform drivers of forthcoming events or problems on the road
ahead
Train control systems
Vehicle fleet management
Gas, water, and electricity metering systems
Remote monitoring and controlling of vending machines
General telemetry systems
Alarm signalling
[Source: IEEE Communications Surveys, Third Quarter 1999, vol. 2, no. 2, page 4.]
Read pages 25 of the attached document, A survey of mobile data
networks, which is from IEEE Communications Surveys, Third Quarter
1999, vol. 2, no 2, pages 218, and can be downloaded from
<[Link] pdf>.
READING 5.1
TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS W
113
Its no doubt obvious to you that wireless data communications provide useful
services and great convenience. There are, however, technological and
economical factors that must be addressed before global wireless standards or
technologies can be deployed.

Before we move on to the next section, lets think about what some of those key
factors might be.


Factors affecting the development of wireless data
communication systems
At this point, with the background to wireless systems covered, its time to start
thinking about and assessing some of the factors that have influenced, and are
likely to continue to influence, the adoption rates of wireless data communication
systems. Well start by considering some of the technological factors that can
exert such influence.

These technological factors can include:
Standardization of air interface protocols. Different countries (or even regions
within the same country, e.g., Hong Kong and China) may be using
proprietary or incompatible air interface protocols, which leads to high
development costs, low-volume production and the impossibility of
providing roaming services.
Features in end-user devices. With advancements in technology, relatively
bulky, user-unfriendly terminals with poor features must be replaced by
lightweight hand-held devices.
Building on your considerations from the previous activity, try to
clearly identify several of the main problems we had with 1G systems,
and think about how 2G systems went at least some way towards
solving these problems.

You should also suggest some factors that in turn still affect users
overall satisfaction and perceived effectiveness of 2G systems.

Discuss your findings with other students/tutors in your tutorial class
and/or on our Web BBS.
ACTIVITY 5.1
X TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS 114
Battery technology. Battery life is one of the most important factors affecting
the success of wireless data systems because long-lasting batteries obviously
reduce the frequency of re-charging and increase convenience for users.
Protocol and software design. In many cases, software designed for wireline
systems has been adopted by wireless systems. These protocols, however, are
not optimized for wireless networks.
Possible health hazards. A number of studies and debates have appeared
regarding possible health hazards related to using wireless (RF) devices.
Obviously, a report definitely showing a health hazard related to using a
wireless device would seriously affect its usage.

In addition to technological factors, a number of economic factors can also
influence the rate of adoption. For example:
Infrastructure. Without established customer demand, building a wireless
infrastructure is a risky and expensive task. However, without wide
coverage, customer demand will inevitably remain low. Therefore, there is
always a trade-off between infrastructure investment and network
performance when considering wireless technologies.
Pricing. Even wireline data systems give rise to debates related to the pricing
of data services (e.g., PNETS). For wireless data systems, the scarcity of
bandwidth makes the pricing even more complex (e.g., the decision whether
to charge for a service based on connection time or on the amount of
information transmitted/received).

In spite of the above obstacles, the rapid growth of wireless voice subscribers, the
growth of the Internet, and the increasing use of portable computing devices (e.g.
pocket PCs and PDAs) suggest that wireless data access will rise rapidly over the
next few years. Although current (2G) technologies offer data rates equivalent to
those provided by wireline modems a decade or more ago, the gap is closing.
New standards and technologies have already been approved for providing data
rates up to 115 kbps and 2 Mbps for 2G and 3G systems, respectively.
The following sections discuss the most important/emerging standards and
technologies for 2G and 2G systems. The standards and technologies to be
discussed are:
SMS (Short Message Service)
WAP (Wireless Application Protocol)
Bluetooth
HSCSD (High Speed Circuit-Switched Data)
GPRS (General Packet Radio Services)
TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS W
115
EDGE (Enhanced Data rate for Global Evolution)
LMDS (Local Multipoint Distribution Service).

Well examine each of these more closely in turn.
SMS (SHORT MESSAGE SERVICE)
SMS is a wireless data service that enables users to exchange alphanumeric
messages between mobile subscribers and external systems (e.g., electronic mail
and paging). SMS was introduced in 1991 in Europe, where the first GSM
network started operating. In North America, SMS was initially made available
on digital wireless networks built by research laboratories. After PCS networks
based on GSM (at 1900 MHz band), IS-95B, and IS-136 were completed in 1998,
SMS was fully deployed in North America.
SMS characteristics
SMS is characterized by packet delivery and low-bandwidth message transfers,
as well as by the following:
In contrast to alphanumeric paging, the SMS elements are designed to
provide guaranteed delivery of text messages to their destinations.
An active handset is able to receive or transmit a short message at any time,
independently. That is, it doesnt matter whether or not a voice or data call is
in progress.
SMS networks guarantee delivery of short messages. Temporary failures are
identified and short messages are stored in the network until their
destinations become available.
Types of SMS
There are two types of SMS, namely:
Cell broadcast. In cell broadcast SMS, a message is transmitted to all the
active handsets present in a cell that have the capability of receiving short
messages and have subscribed to this particular form of information.
Point-to-point. Point-to-point SMS provides a mechanism for transmitting
short messages to and from wireless handsets. Short messages are
transmitted through a store-and-forward system via a short message service
centre (SMSC).

X TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS 116
SMS applications

Possible applications of SMS include:
electronic mail and fax integration
guarantee paging services
mobile phone banking
information services, such as stock quotes, Mark Six results, weather
forecasts, etc.

Now that you have been introduced to the basics of SMS, a technical tutorial is
presented in the following article, which overviews GSM SMS from the
viewpoint of implementing new telematic services. This article starts with a brief
overview of the building blocks of GSM networks. After the overview of GSM
architecture, widely used protocols for message submission are then introduced.
Finally, the article summarizes current and future issues for further development
and research in the light of the potential features for submission protocols and
telematic services.





Having discussed the most basic GSM wireless data services provided, we will
go on to discuss a very hot data service, wireless application protocol (WAP), in
the next section.
Read the attached article The global system for mobile
communications short message service, which is adopted from
IEEE Personal Communications, June 2000, pages 1523.

After reading the above article, complete the following self-test.
READING 5.2
1. Identify three possible applications for cell broadcast SMS.
2. Identify and explain the three interface protocols(via
asynchronous interface) for the transfer of SMS short messages
between a mobile station (MS) and terminal equipment (TE).
3. What possible technical developments would enhance SMS?
SELF-TEST 5.2
TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS W
117
WAP (Wireless Application Protocol)
The Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) is a technology designed to provide
users of mobile terminals (such as mobile phones) with easy ways to access and
interact with information and services instantly (e.g., access to the Internet).

The WAP protocol has been optimized for use on narrow band radio channels
used by 2G digital wireless systems, and for the limited display capabilities and
functionality of the display systems used by todays mobile terminals. WAP
integrates telephony services with micro-browsing and helps enable easy-to-use
interactive Internet access from mobile handsets.

Typical WAP-enabled applications include:
over-the-air e-commerce transactions (mobile commerce or simply m-
commerce)
interactive banking
information provisioning
messaging, etc.

The development of WAP is being driven by the WAP Forum
<[Link] initially founded by Motorola, Nokia, Ericsson
and [Link] (previously Unwired Planet) in 1997. The WAP Forum is an
industry association comprising over 500 members drawn from the worlds
leading telecommunications and software companies. The primary goal of the
association is to bring together the wireless industry companies involved to try to
ensure product interoperability and the overall growth of the wireless market.

According to the WAP Forum, members of the WAP Forum represent over 95 of
the global handset market, carriers with more than 200 million subscribers,
infrastructure providers, software developers and other organizations providing
solutions to the wireless industry. The latest membership listing can be found at
<[Link]

According to the WAP Forum, WAP is designed to work with most wireless
networks, such as GSM, CDMA, GSM, PDC, PHS, TDMA, FLEX, TETRA, and
DECT. WAP can be built on any operating system including PalmOS, Windows
CE, JavaOS etc. It provides service interoperability even between different device
families. In Hong Kong for example, WAP services are available for all GSM and
CDMA operators.

X TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS 118
The following white paper is an excellent technical overview of WAP. In this
paper, various aspects of WAP are covered, including WAP architecture, the
WAP application environment, WAP protocols, motivations for using WAP, and
WAP benefits and services.



In addition to the above article, the following activity takes you through an
interesting animation demonstrating how your WAP-enabled mobile phone:
connects to the Internet;
finds the required URL; and
retrieves the information you need.

WAP provides a universal standard for bringing Internet content and advanced
value-added services to mobile phones and other wireless devices. In addition,
WAP supports all major standards like GSM, TDMA (IS-136), CDMA (IS-95), etc.,
and it will also play an important role in the future when GPRS and EDGE
become available (both GPRS and EDGE will be discussed shortly in this topic).

Now complete the following self-test.


Read the attached document, WAP The White Paper which is
adopted from <[Link] pdf>.
READING 5.3
1. Explain why services created using HTML are not suitable for
WAP.
2. To make the systems more extensible, flexible, and scalable,
the WAP-stack is basically divided into five layers. What are
these five layers?
3. Based on the operation environment, suggest some difficulties
in developing WAP services.
SELF-TEST 5.3
TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS W
119
Bluetooth
Bluetooth is a universal radio interface in the 2.45 GHz frequency band that
enables portable electronic devices (e.g., mobile phones, PDA, hand-held
computers, etc.) to connect and communicate wirelessly via short-range (usually
less than ten metre) ad hoc (i.e. informal) networks.

Now you should read the following article on the Bluetooth radio systems. The
following paper describes the radio system behind the Bluetooth concept and
challenges for designing an ad hoc radio system for worldwide usage. The paper
also describes the critical system characteristics and motivates the design choices
that have been made.



As you learned, each Bluetooth unit can simultaneously communicate with up to
seven other units per piconet. In addition, each unit can simultaneous belong to
several piconets.

Bluetooth technology eliminates the need for wires, cables, and connectors for
and between cordless or mobile phones, modems, headsets, PDAs, computers,
printers, projectors, LANs, etc., and paves the way for new and completely
different devices and applications.
You should now complete the following activity and self-test.



Read the attached document, The Bluetooth radio system, which is
adopted from IEEE Personal Magazine, February 2000, pages 2836.
READING 5.4
The above article mentioned that Bluetooth would eventually be used
to connect everything to everything. Do you agree with this
statement? Think about the implications of a sweeping statement like
that. What effects do you think such statements have on industry
specialists? How about on potential technology users?
ACTIVITY 5.2
X TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS 120


If you are looking for more in-depth information on Bluetooth, you can visit the
official Bluetooth website at <[Link] Dont spend more
than 30 minutes on this site unless you are particularly interested in Bluetooth.
HSCSD (High Speed Circuit Switched Data)

High Speed Circuit Switched Data (HSCSD) is a high speed implementation of a
GSM data technique that enables users to access the Internet and other data
communication services via a GSM network by allocating up to eight time-slots
to a single user. This is comparable to the transmission rates of usual modems via
fixed telephone networks today (i.e., 56 kbps).

Current data communication services over GSM generally allow the transferring
of files or data and sending faxes at 9.6 kbps. With HSCSD the user will find
wireless connection to the Internet much faster at 38.4 kbps, i.e. up to four times
faster than todays standard rate.

The use of HSCSD opens up possibilities for many new kinds of market driven
wireless services. HSCSD is suitable for time-sensitive, real-time services, for
instance the transfer of large files with specified QoS.



The commercial implementation of HSCSD is one of the immediate steps
towards the eventual provision of 3G wireless multimedia services which will
handle services of up to 384 kbps in wide area applications, and up to 2 Mbps for
1. Identify four environment characteristics of ad hoc radio
systems (e.g., Bluetooth).
2. State the key radio parameters for the Bluetooth system.
SELF-TEST 5.4
An interesting article on the pros and cons of HSCSD can be
downloaded from <[Link]
/tci/[Link]>. After you have read the article, consider the
following question: Do you think the wireless operators in Malaysia
will implement HSCSD in their networks?
ACTIVITY 5.3
TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS W
121
indoor applications, starting in around 2001. Details of 3G systems will be
discussed in the next section.
GPRS (General Packet Radio Service)
General packet radio service (GPRS) is a standard for the European
Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) based on packet data transfers in
GSM systems. GPRS has also been accepted by the Telecommunications Industry
Association (TIA) as the packet data technology for IS-136 systems.

By introducing GPRS to a GSM network, users can enjoy efficient wireless access
(instantaneous transfer rates of up to 115 kbps) to external IP-based networks
(e.g., the Internet and corporate Intranets). GPRS also allows several users to
share the same air-interface resources and enables operators to base charges on
the amount of transferred data instead of on connection time. In its initial release,
GPRS is using the same modulation as GSM (i.e., GMSK). The subsequent
evolution of packet-based services in GSM has introduced EDGE technology.
Read the following introductory article on GPRS. The article discusses the system
architecture and its basic functionality. It also explains the services offered, the
details of session and mobility management, routing, the GPRS air interface
including channel coding, and the GPRS protocol architecture. The article also
provides a helpful example illustrating how GPRS and IP networks can be
integrated.



GSM networks are evolving in the year 2000 with packet-switched GPRS. This
service was developed for optimized support of Internet traffic, reflecting the
growing market demand for data services and wireless Internet access. GPRS
technology allows users to stay on line for long periods and is designed for
applications with bursty traffic characteristics.
Read the attached document, GSM Phase 2+ General Packet Radio
Services GPRS: architecture, protocols, and air interface, which is
adopted from IEEE Communications Surveys, Third Quarter 1999,
vol. 2 no. 3: <[Link]
READING 5.5
X TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS 122
EDGE (Enhanced Data rate for Global Evolution)
You learned in the previous section that HSCSD introduces multi-slot operation,
and that the combination of HSCSD and GPRS adds a new mechanism, through
the air interface, whereby users can remain connected to a network but only use
radio capacity when actually transmitting or receiving data.

The EDGE air interface is meant to facilitate much higher bit rates than current
cellular systems. This higher bit rate is achieved by introducing a new
modulation scheme (i.e., 8-PSK) that provides high spectral efficiency and is only
moderately difficult to implement.

The following article gives the rationale behind the development of the EDGE
concept, presents EDGE technology, and addresses performance by means of
system simulations.




After reading the above article, complete the following self-test.


Read the attached document, EDGE: Enhanced Data Rates for GSM
and TDMA/136 Evolution, which is adopted from IEEE Personal
Magazine, June 1999, pages 5666.
READING 5.6
1. Compare the maximum data rates for HSCSD, GPRS, and
EDGE, and then explain the implications of the differences
between these rates.
2. Identify the key technical differences between:
(a) HSCSD and GPRS
(b) GPRS and EDGE
SELF-TEST 5.5
TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS W
123
LMDS (Local Multipoint Distribution Service)
As you have learned earlier, LMDS is a broadband wireless technology used to
deliver voice, data, Internet, and video services in the 25-GHz band (or higher in
some countries). LMDS systems use a cellular-like network architecture, though
services provided are fixed, not mobile.

Youve already learned about LMDSs architectural options, wireless links and
access options, and the integration with the wireline environment in earlier topic,
so we wont go into these issues in any more detail. The following article, on the
other hand, provides another kind of information about LMDS. The article
focuses on LMDS operational principles, potential and areas of application.



After reading the above article, complete the following self-test and activity.

Now that youve learned about a number of wireless data standards and
technologies, several broader wireless data systems are introduced in the next
section.
WIRELESS DATA SYSTEMS
This section introduces you to the most important current wireless data systems,
which include:
WLL (Wireless Local Loop)
Wireless LAN
Wireless ATM
Broadband satellite systems.

Well again consider each one in turn.
Read the attached document, LMDS systems and their application,
which is adopted from IEEE Communications Magazine, June 2000,
pages 150154.

READING 5.7
X TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS 124
WLL (Wireless local loop)
Wireless local loop (WLL) is sometimes also called radio in the loop (RITL) or
fixed-radio access (FRA). It is a system that connects subscribers to a PSTN
(Public Switched Telephone Network) using radio signals as a substitute for
copper for all or part of the connection between the subscriber and the switch.

WLL can be implemented by:
cordless access systems;
proprietary fixed radio access; and
fixed cellular systems.

It should be noted that many developing countries, such as India, Brazil and
Indonesia, look to WLL technology as an effective and efficient way to deploy
telephone services to millions of subscribers. In developed countries, WLL
enables new operators to bypass existing wireline networks to deliver POTS and
data access.

The following article introduces the concept of WLL and provides a comparative
analysis of the performance and capacity of DECT, PACS, and PHS for WLL
applications. Results are presented of both qualitative (comparison of the
parameters of each standard and their relevance in WLL applications) and
quantitative (simulations under diversified sets of conditions) analysis.



In reading the above article, you should have noted that all three standards
(DECT, PACS and PHS) provide satisfactory performance for WLL applications.
Since PCAS employs larger cells, it performs better than the other two standards
for low-traffic environments. In suburban areas where both coverage and
capacity are important, DECT provides better performance. In urban areas
featuring high traffic density and high capacity requirements, all three standards
provide good performance.

Read the attached document, A comparative evaluation of DECT,
PACS, and PHS standards for wireless local loop applications,
which is adopted from IEEE Personal Magazine, June 2000, pages
3541.
READING 5.8
TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS W
125

Wireless LANs
Wireless LANs provide an alternative to traditional (wired) LANs based on
twisted pair, coaxial cable, and optical fibre. Wireless LANs can be much more
flexible: for example, moving wireless nodes is easy, the amount of labour
required to add or remove cables is greatly reduced, etc.

You should note that wireless LANs can also be used in combination with wired
LANs. In such cases, all stations that require relatively high mobility (e.g., user
terminals) can be connected wirelessly, while stations that are for the most part
permanent (e.g., file servers or printers) can be connected through cables.

You are next asked to read a concise online technical article on wireless LAN
technologies provided by Ericsson. When you read this article, pay particular
attention to the access methods and applications of wireless LANs.


Wireless ATM
The original intent of ATM was to form a backbone network for high-speed data
transmission regardless of traffic type. The aim with most wireless ATM systems
is to design an integrated services wireless network that provides cordless
extensions of fibre-optic based ATM network capabilities in a relatively
transparent, seamless and efficient manner.

When compared to fixed local loops, explain why WLL is more
attractive in developing countries.
SELF-TEST 5.7
Read the attached article, Ericsson wireless LAN systems, which can
be downloaded from

<[Link]
READING 5.9
X TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS 126
The following paper considers some of the reasons for introducing wireless ATM
systems, and evaluates the situation today. Guidelines for future wireless ATM
architecture are also defined, and activities in the world of wireless ATM are
explored.



After you have read Readings 5.9 and 5.10, you should be ready to complete the
following self-test.


Broadband satellite multimedia systems
The interest in broadband satellite multimedia systems has grown rapidly in
recent years. With advances in transmission technology, low-cost satellite earth
terminals are now available on the market. The remote access capabilities of
satellite networks are seen as having the potential to provide broadband services
to geographically diverse user groups.

In addition to WLL, Wireless LAN and wireless ATM, the need exists for global
information networks offering flexible multimedia information service to users
on demand. The need to support bandwidth-intensive multimedia services (e.g.,
interactive video, fast Internet access, tele-medicine, tele-education and large file
transfers) places new and challenging demands on satellite systems and
networks.

The following article surveys potential future broadband multimedia satellite
systems including Astrolink, Cyberstar, Spaceway, SkyBridge, Teledesic, and
iSky. This articles approach has 3G systems in mind, i.e. it focuses on
multimedia information services over IP and IP/ATM. Both the architecture and
trends of broadband satellite systems are examined.
Read the attached document, Wireless ATM: an overview, which is
adopted from <[Link] wand/DOCUMENTS/
papers/[Link]>.
READING 5.10
Compare mobility against information rate for 3G systems and
wireless ATM systems.
SELF-TEST 5.7
TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS W
127


Complete the following self-test to ensure youve got the key points from the
article.





Read the attached document, A Survey of Future Broadband
Multimedia Satellite Systems, Issues and Trends, which is adopted
from IEEE Communications Magazine, June 2000, pages 128133.
READING 5.11
1. Compare the coverage and round-trip delays for GEO, MEO
and LEO systems.
2. What are the advantages of baseband on-board processing
(OBP)?
SELF-TEST 5.8
We have discussed the most important wireless data technologies
and systems in this topic. Can you identify those
technologies/systems that are already available in Malaysia?

At the beginning of this topic, we mentioned the growth of the
wireless data market would be promising in the near future. After
studying these technologies and systems in this topic, do you agree
with this overall prediction?
ACTIVITY 5.10
X TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS 128


This topic has discussed the technical characteristics of the most significant
wireless data technologies and systems. Topics covered in this topic include SMS,
WAP, HSCSD, GPRS, EDGE, Bluetooth, LMDS, WLL, Wireless LAN, Wireless
ATM, and broadband satellite systems.

The discussion aimed to provide a technological insight into these wireless data
technologies, which are currently facing an important evolution in many
technical and business-related areas. However, wireless networks experience
severe physical layer constraints and currently supply only low-speed wireless
data transmissions, typically in the order of 9.6 kbps in 2G systems. In this
context, significant evolution and innovation is to be expected in the future with
the introduction of wireless packet data services in 3G systems.

The recent deployment of GPRS is the first step towards this evolution. GPRS
will be able to provide cost-effective wide-area packet data services with
transmission rates up to 115 kbps. Further GSM evolution is expected with the
implementation of EDGE. EDGE will allow GSM operators to use existing GSM
radio bands to offer wireless multimedia IP-based services and applications at
speeds of up to 384 kbps or even higher. In effect, EDGE will enable the
advantages of GPRS to be fully explored, with faster connection set-up and
higher bandwidth than traditional GSM. The combination of GPRS and EDGE
will also result in much improved utilization of the radio network.

The introduction of new high-speed data capabilities, including GPRS, EDGE,
and the evolution to 3G, will provide the potential for a whole range of mobile
multimedia services, such as Web surfing, access to corporate LANs and
Intranets, and financial transactions from a mobile terminal.

In the next topic, 3G wireless communication systems will be discussed in detail.


[5.1] <[Link]
[5.2] <[Link]
[5.3] <[Link]
[5.4] <[Link]
[5.5] <[Link]
TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS W
129
[5.6] <[Link]
[5.7] <[Link]
[5.8] <[Link]
[5.9] <[Link]
[5.10] <[Link]
[5.11] <[Link]
[5.12] <[Link]
[5.13] <[Link]
SOLUTIONS TO SELF-TEST QUESTIONS
Self-test 5.1
1. The main advantages of using TDMA and CDMA are higher capacity and
better security.
2. The two major differences of the three generations are the transmission
type and their maximum data rate, i.e.,
1G: Analogue transmission
2G, 2G and 3G: Digital transmission
2G: up to 9.6 kbps
2G: up to 115 kbps
3G: up to 2 Mbps

Digital transmission provides much better security and voice quality. High data
rates enable applications like high speed Internet access, multimedia services,
video services, etc.
Self-test 5.2
1. Possible applications of cell-broadcast SMS are:
traffic conditions
weather forecasts
stock market quotes
phone banking.
X TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS 130
2. The three interface protocols are:
Block mode: The block mode is a binary protocol that encapsulates the
SMS PDU used for short message transfers between an MS and the
SMSC. This protocol includes error detection and is suitable for use
where the line between the application and the phone is subject to
errors.
Text mode: Text mode is a character-based protocol based on the AT
command set modified for GSM. This mode is suitable for unintelligent
terminals or terminal emulators, and for application software built on
command structures.
PDU mode: PDU mode is very similar to text mode, except that it leaves
the responsibility to build the short message TPDU to the application.
3. Possible SMS enhancements include:
support for message concatenation to allow up to 255 messages to be
submitted as part of the same transaction
support for distribution list creation and modification within the SMSC
to greatly increase short message throughput
using SMS as an alternative layer to TCP/IP, thus adding mobility to
low-bandwidth applications.
Self-test 5.3
1. Services created using HTML would not fit very well on small handheld
devices since they are intended for use on desktop computers with high
computing power and big screens. In addition, low bandwidth wireless
bearers would not be suitable for delivering the rather extensive
information than HTML pages often consist of.
2. The five layers are:
Application Layer Wireless Application Environment (WAE)
Session Layer Wireless Session Protocol (WSP)
Transaction Layer Wireless Transaction Protocol (WTP)
Security Layer Wireless Transport Layer Security (WTLS)
Transport Layer Wireless Datagram Protocol (EDP).
3. The difficulties in developing WAP services include:
low bandwidth
TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS W
131
high latency
less connection stability/unpredictable bearer availability
small display on users terminal
limited input facilities in users terminal
limited memory and processing power in users terminal
limited battery power in users terminal.
Self-test 5.4
1. The four environment characteristics are:
restrictions set by spectrum regulations
power consumption
lack of coordination
interference immunity.

2. The key radio parameters are:
modulation: G-FSK
peak data rate: 1 Mbps
RF bandwidth: 220 kHz (-3 dB), 1 MHz (-20 dB)
RF band: 2.4 GHz, ISM band
carrier spacing: 1 MHz
peak Tx power: <= 20 dBm
Self-test 5.5
1. Maximum data rate for:
HSCSD: 38.4 kbps
GPRS: 115 kbps
EDGE: 384 kbps
For high data rate applications, e.g., real-time video, HSCSD (i.e., 38.4
kbps) is definitely not suitable, while EDGE is marginally suitable for
these applications.
X TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS 132
For medium data rate applications, e.g., graphics or still images, both
GPRS and EDGE are well suited.
For low data rate applications, e.g., text, all three technologies are well
suited.
2. (a) Circuit-switch (with multi-slots) and packet-switching are used in
HSCSD and GPRS, respectively.
(b) GMSK and 8-PSK are used in GPRS and EDGE, respectively.
Self-test 5.6
WLL is more attractive because of:
quick installation
small initial investment
fast return on investment
cheap and easy maintenance
quick and easy substitution of faulty equipment
the possibility of removing and installing the system in another place
gradual growth and expansion according to local demand
insensitivity to the exact location of the subscriber, etc.
Self-test 5.7
3G systems provide a maximum information rate of 2 Mbps when the terminal is
at a standstill. The data rate will be dramatically reduced to about 384 kbps in
outdoor environments.

On the other hand, wireless ATM systems are designed for stationary indoor
environments with a much higher information rate (> 20 Mbps).
Self-test 5.8
1. Coverage:
GEO largest
MEO medium
LEO smallest
TOPIC 5 WIRELESS DATA COMMUNICATIONS W
133
Round-trip delay:
GEO highest
MEO medium
LEO shortest
2. Baseband OBP enhances link performance and efficiency; therefore,
capacity can be increased and cost can be reduced.