Making Sense of Mobile Acronyms, Part 2

Every field seems to have its own special language that helps insiders understand each other but tends to lock out everyone else. Just think of physicians or attorneys talking among themselves and you’ll get the picture. Mobile technology has its own set of acronyms unique terms that can sometimes seem confusing.

In Part 1 of this article, we discussed some of the generational evolution of mobile devices and the networks that they use. Now let’s look a little deeper into the data transfer systems that provide us with mobile internet and other data services. For brief definitions of these terms, please take a look at our article “Important Mobile Acronyms to Know.”

 Data Systems

 Along with the GSM and CDMA standards that we talked about in Part 1, corresponding data systems have developed. GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) is used to transfer data on GSM phones. In terms of the cellular generations, the combination of GSM and GPRS is 2.5G. EDGE (Enhanced Data Rates for GSM) is a step up offering data transfer speeds at a rate about equivalent to that which could be expected with a computer using a 56K modem. It can be considered 2.75G technology. Broadband data transfer rates are attained in North America with devices designated 3G.

 The data transfer protocol associated with CDMA is called EVDO (Evolution Data Optimized). It is broadband technology that generally operates faster than GPRS/EDGE. It is considered to be 3G technology. EVDO Rev A (Revision A) is the next step and is becoming more widely available. It provides broadband rates that are higher than GSM 3G and is often referred to as 3.5G.

 Outside of North America, broadband data transfer is achieved by HSDPA (High-Speed Data Packet Access). It is roughly equivalent to 3G and EVDO Rev A in terms of performance. It is expected that HSDPA data transfer rates could reach as much as 14.4Mbps in the relatively near future. Many phones that have 3G or EVDO capability also offer HSDPA compatibility.

 Some Related Terms

 Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) is a term for a specific family of wireless local area networks. Many airports and businesses feature Wi-Fi connectivity called “hotspots.” Devices equipped with Wi-Fi capability have the ability to tap into hotspots. This capability allows for data transfer speeds that are usually higher than those available through the cell network and, on many phones, gives the option of having voice service and data transfer capability simultaneously. Wireless routers have made it easy to turn a residence into a Wi-Fi hotspot.

 Bluetooth refers to a short-range wireless technology that allows compatible devices to connect to one another without wires. In general, the range of Bluetooth is about 33 feet (10 meters). The most common use of Bluetooth technology is the wireless headset which allows for hands-free conversations when paired with a cell phone. Of increasing popularity are Bluetooth stereo wireless headphones for listening to stereo music that is store on a mobile device. To be compatible with Bluetooth stereo, a device must have A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) capability.

 GPS (Global Positioning System) receivers allow some mobile devices to determine their location by receiving signals from earth-orbiting satellites. Accuracy typically is to within 10 to 100 meters, i.e. 33 to 330 feet. Stand-alone GPS devices tend to be more precise than those that are part of a mobile phone. Using GPS information in conjunction with a service from the wireless carrier or an independent company, devices can provide turn-by-turn directions to get from one location to another.

 There are literally thousands of other acronyms associated with mobile devices and nobody could be expected to keep track of them all. Still, with basic understanding of this brief list, you’ll be a well informed consumer in making your next mobile device purchase. You’ll probably even be able to shock some of your friends.