Wireless Communications

CHAPTER ONE

Liyachew Edeti

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What is wireless communications?
 Wireless communications is the transmission of voice and data
without cable or wires.
 In place of a physical connection, data travels through
electromagnetic signals broadcast from sending facilities to
intermediate and end-user devices.
 The first wireless transmitters went on the air in the early 20th
century using radiotelegraphy, which is radio communication
using Morse code or other coded signals.

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Cont…
 Later, as modulation made it possible to transmit voice and
music wirelessly, the medium became known as radio.
Wireless transmitters use electromagnetic waves to carry voice,
data, video or signals over a communication path.
 Modulation: the process of converting data into radio
waves by adding information to an electronic or optical
carrier signal

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Electromagnetic Radiation Spectrum

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Cont…

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Cont…

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Radio Waves
 Low-frequency radio waves have the longest
wavelengths and the lowest energy on the
spectrum, and their size varies from the length
of a football field to bigger than planet earth.

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Microwaves
 Though similar to radio waves in frequency and
size, microwaves differ because of the technology
needed to access them and the technology they
can provide. Various kinds of microwaves are
characterized by their wavelength size.
 For example, C-band or medium-sized microwaves
pass through clouds, snow, rain, dust, smoke, or
haze and (allow for) satellite communication, while
L-band microwaves are used to operate global
positioning systems (GPS).
 Microwaves are also what allow TV and cell phone
signals to function, and of course, microwave
ovens.

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Infrared Waves
 Infrared waves are also known as infrared light or radiation and can be
detectable to humans through heat.
 The infrared section of the electromagnetic spectrum contains three
subsectors: near-infrared, mid-infrared, and far-infrared.
 Far infrared is also called thermal infrared, as it is best suited for
observing thermal or heat energy. Infrared electromagnetic energy is
used to locate and view objects in space, monitor and track Earth’s
temperature patterns, view objects or heat energy via thermal imaging,
and change the channel on a TV with a remote control.
 Visible Light,
 Ultraviolet (UV) Waves,
 X-Rays,
 Gamma Rays.

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Cont…
 The groundwork for modern wireless networking was laid in
the early 1970s with the launch of ALOHAnet (Additive
Links On-line Hawaii Area) in Hawaii.
 The network, technically a wide area network (WAN), relied
on ultra-high frequency signals to broadcast data among the
islands.
 The technology underpinning ALOHAnet helped fuel the
creation of Ethernet in 1973 and played an important role in
the development of 802.11, the first wireless standard.
 Ethernet is the traditional technology for connecting devices in a
wired local area network (LAN) or wide area network.

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The history of wireless technology

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The evolution of wireless features
 Wireless features have evolved from simple data transfers -- at
rates of only 54 Mbps -- to operations that require gigabits of
data to complete.
 In the past 15 years -- particularly after the ratification of the
802.11ac and 4G standards -- that the technology evolved
enough to permit the development of applications and services
comprehensive enough for widespread enterprise and
consumer adoption.
 At the same time, mobile devices have become more powerful
and versatile, giving users the opportunity to complete
complex tasks. Advances in performance, capacity and
coverage will only continue.

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1st Generation of Mobile Networks (1G)
 The first generation of mobile networks (1G) provided basic
analogue voice calling services.
 1G was introduced in the early 1980’s across different parts of
the world.
 Network Speed: 2.4 Kbit/s
 Protocols used by 1G include AMPS (Advanced Mobile Phone
System) and NMT (Nordic Mobile Telephone).
 1G for Network Operators
 During the 1G era, Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) were
the primary players in the telco landscape.

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2nd Generation of Mobile Networks (2G)
 The second generation of mobile networks (2G) launched in
the 1990’s across different parts of the world.
 This was the first generation that utilized digital technologies
for improved voice calling quality, SMS and limited mobile
internet.
 Network Speed: 14.4 to 217.6 Kbit/s
 These digital standards include GSM (Global System for
Mobile Communications), GPRS (General Packet Radio
Service).
 Additional enhancements were made with the release of EDGE
(Enhanced Data for Global Evolution).
 EDGE launched just before 3G and improved network speeds
to 384 Kbit/s – that’s why it’s commonly referred to as 2.75G.
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2G for Network Operators
 The second generation enabled the separation of network
infrastructure ownership from the service provider role.
 This allowed companies without their own physical networks
to enter the market as MVNOs (Mobile Virtual Network
Operators).
 Second generation mobile networks (2G) are suitable for basic
voice calling and SMS.
 They can reach rural and remote areas.
 2G operating frequency bands: 900 MHz to 1800 MHz.

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3rd Generation of Mobile Networks (3G)
 The third generation of mobile networks (3G) launched at
the start of 2000s, and it revolutionized telecommunications
with data services.
 By using UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications
Systems) and similar standards, it managed to migrate existing
2G (GSM) networks to 3G.
 Network Speed: 384 Kbit/s to 336 Mbit/s
 HSPA (High-Speed Packet Access) and HSPA+ (Evolved
High-Speed Packet Access) networks have successfully built
upon UMTS to deliver speeds up to 34 Mbps.
 The rise of 3G and the release of the first smartphones marked
the start of worldwide connectivity.

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3G for Network Operators
 With the rollout of 3G networks, the focus shifted to providing
faster mobile internet.
 The third generation saw a clearer difference between MNOs
vs. MVNOs as they navigated the increased demand for data
services.
 MNOs expanded their infrastructure, and MVNOs began to
tailor service packages to niche markets.
 Third generation mobile networks (3G) provide improved data
speeds suitable for internet browsing and multimedia.
 Good coverage in urban and suburban areas but limited in
remote or mountainous regions.
 3G operating frequency bands: 850 MHz, 900 MHz, 1900
MHz, and 2100 MHz.
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4th Generation of Mobile Networks (4G)
 The fourth generation of mobile networks (4G) represents
data-only telecom networks launched in the 2010’s.
 Enabled by LTE (Long Term Evolution) and built upon using
LTE-A (LTE Advanced), these networks use packet-switching
techniques to provide VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) calls
and text messages – also known as VoLTE (Voice over LTE).
 Network Speed: 100 Mbit/s to 1 Gbit/s
 High internet speeds in the fourth generation enhanced
streaming services, entertainment, and global connectivity.

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4G for Network Operators
 Data from telecommunications industry shows that mobile
traffic has grown significantly over the years.
 The growth is usually attributed to the increasing number of
mobile devices and the growing popularity of data-driven
online services that were introduced in the fourth generation.
 4G offers high-speed internet suitable for streaming, online
gaming, and other data-intensive tasks.
 Coverage in urban, suburban and some rural regions.
Occasional connectivity gaps in highly crowded or indoor
locations.
 4G operating frequency bands: 700 MHz, 850 MHz, 1800
MHz, 2100 MHz, and 2600 MHz.

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5th Generation of Mobile Networks (5G)
 The fifth generation of mobile networks (5G) are advanced
data-only telecommunications networks launched in the
2020’s.
 They offer gigabit internet speeds and latencies as low as one
millisecond.
 Network Speed: 2 Gbit/s to 20 Gbit/s
 5G networks are powered by NR (New Radio) technology,
which is based on the same technologies as LTE, but it’s much
more flexible and can operate on low and high frequency
bands.
 For example, high-frequency bands have limited coverage but
extremely low latency – sometimes even less than a
millisecond.
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Cont…
 Set to shape the future of global communications, 5G is
making huge impacts in VR technology, self-driving cars, IoT,
and manufacturing.
 With new markets launching, there is a huge focus on 5G
monetization and the industry’s shift towards sustainability.

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5G for Network Operators
 The 5G era is a huge step forward in global connectivity.
 Initial deployments focused on metropolitan areas; however,
5G coverage might extend to rural and remote areas in the
future.
 Fifth generation mobile networks (5G) provide advanced
connectivity with higher speeds and lower latency compared to 4G.
 Deployments in urban areas, offering ultra-fast internet.
 5G operating frequency bands: 600 MHz, 700 MHz, 3.5 GHz, 24
GHz and 28 GHz.

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What is a Next Generation Mobile Network?
 The next generation of mobile networks (6G or 5G+) is a bit
of a gray area as it’s only in its early research stages.

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What is a wireless network?
 A wireless network is a grouping, or network, of multiple
devices where data is sent and received over radio frequencies.
 Wireless networks generally include some form of radio
transmission for broadcasting and receiving wireless signals
across a specified range of electromagnetic radiation spectrum,
commonly referred to simply as spectrum.
 The transmission of data across a wireless network is typically
done with antennas, which are often small, embedded pieces of
hardware within a given device.
 Different wireless networks use various frequency ranges of
spectrum. Within the spectrum, different channels help reduce
the risk of congestion within a given spectrum frequency.

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Examples of wireless devices and equipment
 The Wireless Application Protocol (WAP), among other
important standards, governs how these devices access the
internet and other resources.
 Cellular phones provide connectivity for portable and mobile
applications, both personal and business.
 Cordless telephones are limited-range devices within a home that
include a base tethered to a wall with cordless handsets.
 Global positioning systems enable car and truck drivers, boat and
ship captains, and aircraft pilots to ascertain their location anywhere
on Earth.
 Cordless computer peripherals include devices such as wireless mice,
keyboards and printers, which can be linked via wireless protocols
including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

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Cont…
 Wireless routers enable users to connect to the internet at
home or in the office by using Wi-Fi. Wireless routers
typically include a wired connection that enables
connectivity to the internet, with antennas that provide
wireless connectivity for users.
 Laptops and tablets are Wi-Fi-enabled mobile computing
devices that provide wireless connectivity.
 Infrared (IR) wireless uses devices that convey data via IR
radiation; it is used in certain limited-range communications
and control systems.

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Cont…

A wireless WAN environment takes advantage of modernized 5G

cellular networks

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Types of wireless networks
 Wireless LAN: uses radio technology instead of wires to
connect nodes along the network. Wi-Fi is the transmission
method used to communicate over a WLAN via wireless
access points (APs) that enable connectivity with endpoint
devices, using standards set by the IEEE.
 Wireless wide area network: is sometimes referred to as
mobile broadband. WWANs use cellular technologies to
create a wireless network that spans a large geographic
distance and supports a variety of services.
 Wireless metropolitan area network. A WMAN provides
access outside office and home networks. It is larger than a
WLAN but smaller than a WWAN.

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Cont…
 Fixed wireless networking is a way to deliver last-mile
internet connectivity to households and businesses over
airwaves rather than through wired fiber or cable television
connections. Fixed wireless is particularly suitable for rural
areas where wired connectivity isn't widely available, or in
areas where satellite internet services are the only available
option.
 Wireless personal area network. A WPAN is generally
enabled with short-range wireless technology, such as
Bluetooth, to connect with keyboards, mice, headphones and
other devices.

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Cont…
 Citizens Broadband Radio Service. CBRS is based on radio
spectrum. CBRS signals can cover many miles and aren't
limited to line-of-sight limitations -- which is different than
Wi-Fi networks -- thus enabling organizations to use CBRS
to construct private LTE networks and underpin WAN
deployments. CBRS networks are particularly well suited for
environments where reliability is critical, such as industrial
and healthcare deployments.

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Cont…
 Wireless mesh network. A WMN is created by connecting the
wireless nodes installed at each user's location. This design is
decentralized and is more straightforward because each node
only has to transmit as far as the next node. WMNs can be
standalone or they can be connected to the internet. They are
reliable and scalable, but they can be more difficult to monitor
because there isn't a central server.
 Wireless ad hoc network. A WANET is a wireless network that
can be created spontaneously without requiring the use of a
router or wireless AP. Instead, WANETs rely on peer-to-peer
technology, and each device that is part of the network -- such
as a wireless PC or smartphone -- is responsible for network
operations.
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Challenges of wireless technology

 Ensure APs and other components are installed correctly and

that users get access to the services and applications they need.
Wireless site surveys are a must to ensure adequate coverage
and signal strength, as well as to determine that any
interference across the network is minimized as much as
possible.
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What is a Cellular Network?
 Cellular networks are the invisible threads that keep us tied
together, enabling us to digitally communicate, share
information, and access services with unprecedented ease.
Making phone calls, streaming videos, or sending an SMS text
message relies on a cellular network.

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What Does a Cellular Network do?
 A cellular network is a communication system used by mobile
phones and other devices to connect to the internet and make
voice calls. Consisting of a large number of cell sites, each
containing an antenna and other equipment, spread over a wide
area.
 These cell sites are interconnected and managed by a central
control system, delivering seamless communication as you move
from one location to another.
 Cellular networks are essential for modern communication and
data transfer. They allow us to stay connected within them,
providing the backbone for numerous applications, from social
media and online banking to emergency services and navigation
systems.

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Types of cellular networks
 Several types of cellular networks are used for wireless
communications. For much of the 1990s and 2000s, cellular
networks were supported by two standards: global system for
mobile communications (GSM) and code-division multiple
access (CDMA).
 GSM and CDMA each had its own access methodologies that
applied to 2G and 3G cellular specifications. With the advent
of 4G/LTE and especially 5G, the distinctions between the two
technologies have diminished and carriers are in the process of
retiring their older GSM and CDMA networks.

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Different types of cellular networks
 2G. This first major wave of cellular technology adoption was
introduced in 1991, with speeds limited to 50 Kbps.
 3G. Third-generation networks began to appear in 2001. 3G
offered increased bandwidth and signal quality over 2G and
provided a peak speed of 7.2 Mbps.
 4G/LTE. Fourth-generation wireless and LTE began to appear
in 2009 as successors to 3G. As opposed to the 2G and 3G
standards, the International Telecommunication Union
specified a strict minimum data rate for 4G. To be considered
4G/LTE, the cellular networks have to transmit and receive at
100 Mbps.

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Cont…
 5G. Fifth-generation wireless was first introduced as a
technical standard in 2016, and carriers began to deploy it in
2019. 5G provides more bandwidth than its predecessors, data
speeds that can range as high as 20 Gbps and ultra-low latency
-- five milliseconds or less. These networks can either be
public or private 5G, and the standard has fueled a variety of
new business cases, among them autonomous automobiles and
sophisticated industrial control systems.

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Functionality of Cellular Networks
 Voice Services: One of the primary functions of a cellular
network is to provide voice communication. When you make a
call, your voice is converted into digital signals, transmitted
over the network, and then converted back into sound at the
receiving end. This process involves several steps, including
call setup, data encoding, transmission, and decoding, all
happening in fractions of a second.
 Wireless Metropolitan Area Network (WMAN): For
example: WiMAX which is sually deployed in cities or large
campuses covering a larger area than WLANs, often using
multiple interconnected WLANs.

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Cont…
 Data Services: In addition to voice calls, cellular networks
also support data services, enabling you to browse the internet,
send emails, and use various apps. Data services rely on
higher-frequency bands and advanced protocols like LTE and
5G to deliver fast and reliable connections. The network
allocates bandwidth dynamically based on demand, ensuring
efficient use of resources.
 Mobility Management One of the unique features of cellular
networks is their ability to support mobility. Whether you're
walking, driving, or flying, the network continuously tracks
your location and adjusts the signal strength and routing to
maintain a stable connection. This is achieved through a
combination of cell towers, base stations, and handover
mechanisms.
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Advantages
 Wide Coverage: Cellular networks provide extensive
coverage, allowing you to stay connected almost anywhere,
from urban centres to remote rural areas. Mobility:
 Mobility: Unlike fixed-line networks, cellular networks
support seamless mobility, enabling you to make calls and
access data on the go.
 Scalability: Cellular networks can easily accommodate a
growing number of users and devices, making them ideal for
expanding populations and emerging technologies.
Disadvantages

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Disadvantages
 Cost: Building and maintaining cellular infrastructure can be
expensive, leading to higher costs for consumers and service
providers. Mobility:
 Interference: Cellular networks are susceptible to interference
from various sources, including physical obstacles, weather
conditions, and other electronic devices.
 Security: Despite advancements in encryption and
authentication, cellular networks remain vulnerable to security
threats like hacking, eavesdropping, and data breaches.

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Key Differences Cellular vs Wireless Networks
 Technology: While both cellular and wireless networks use
radio waves for communication, cellular networks rely on a
grid of cell towers and base stations, whereas wireless
networks typically use a single access point or router.
 Coverage: Cellular networks offer broader coverage, spanning
large geographic areas, while wireless networks are limited to
specific locations like homes, offices, or public hotspots.
 Mobility: Cellular networks excel in providing seamless
mobility, allowing users to move freely without losing
connectivity. Wireless networks, on the other hand, require
users to stay within the range of the access point.

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Commonalities
 Radio Waves: Both cellular and wireless networks use radio
waves to transmit data, making them similar in terms of
underlying technology.:
 Data Services: Both types of networks support data services,
enabling internet access, email, and app usage.
 Security: Security is a critical concern for both cellular and
wireless networks, requiring robust measures to protect against
threats.

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What is the difference between Wi-Fi and wireless
networking?
 Wi-Fi is a specific subset of wireless communications defined
by a set of technical specifications outlined by the IEEE under
the designation 802.11.
 The wireless industry has seen multiple Wi-Fi standards,
among them 802.11a/b/c/g/n/ac/ax, each providing different
performance characteristics.

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 Applications of wireless Cellular Networks
 Wireless technology has changed how we talk to each other
and use things daily. It lets us send and get information from
almost everywhere in the world. Here are some applications of
wireless communication.
 Mobile communications: We use things like cell phones and
satellites to talk and send messages over long distances.
 Internet of Things (IoT): This is when we connect different
gadgets over the internet, like innovative home products and
industrial machines.
 Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs): These tiny sensors can gather
information like temperature and pressure and send it to a central
system. We use them for things like traffic management and
environmental monitoring.

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 Cont…
 Satellite communication: We use satellites to send and get
information, like weather forecasting and TV broadcasting.
 Wireless local area networks: This is when we connect
devices to the internet without wires, like in our homes or
public places like airports.
 Wireless power transfer (WPT): We send electrical power
without cords, which we use in medical equipment and
electric cars.

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 Thank you

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