Ch1-Wireless (Generations and Types)
Ch1-Wireless (Generations and Types)
Ch1-Wireless (Generations and Types)
A wireless network is a grouping, or network, of multiple devices where data is sent and received
over radio frequencies.
Wireless networks differ from wired networks, which require each end of a data connection to be
physically connected by a cable in order for communication to take place. Wireless networks
make it possible for organizations to eliminate the dedicated wired cabling required to connect
endpoint computing devices -- such as tablets, laptops and smartphones -- to embedded and
peripheral devices. Wireless backhaul is often part of large service provider networks.
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.
Mobile wireless communication system has gone through several evolution stages in the past few
decades after the introduction of the first generation mobile network in early 1980s. Due to huge
demand for more connections worldwide, mobile communication standards advanced rapidly to
support more users. Let’s take a look on the evolution stages of wireless technologies for mobile
communication.
Marconi, an Italian inventor, transmitted Morse code signals using radio waves wirelessly to a
distance of 3.2 KMs in 1895. It was the first wireless transmission in the history of science. Since
then, engineers and scientists were working on an efficient way to communicate using RF waves.
Telephone became popular during the mid of 19th century. Due to wired connection and
restricted mobility, engineers started developing a device which doesn’t requires wired
connection and transmit voice using radio waves.
Martin Cooper, an engineer at Motorola during 1970s working on a handheld device capable of
two way communication wirelessly, invented the first generation mobile phone. It was initially
developed to use in a car, the first prototype was tested in 1974.
The first generation of mobile network was deployed in Japan by Nippon Telephone and
Telegraph Company (NTT) in Tokyo during 1979. In the beginning of 1980s, it gained popularity
in the US, Finland, UK and Europe. This system used analogue signals and it had many
disadvantages due to technology limitations.
Disadvantages of 1G system
Second generation of mobile communication system introduced a new digital technology for
wireless transmission also known as Global System for Mobile communication (GSM). GSM
technology became the base standard for further development in wireless standards later. This
standard was capable of supporting up to 14.4 to 64kbps (maximum) data rate which is sufficient
for SMS and email services.
Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) system developed by Qualcomm also introduced and
implemented in the mid-1990s. CDMA has more features than GSM (Global System for Mobile
communication) in terms of spectral efficiency, number of users and data rate.
Disadvantages of 2G system
In order to support higher data rate, General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) was introduced and
successfully deployed. GPRS was capable of data rate up to 171kbps (maximum).
EDGE – Enhanced Data GSM Evolution also developed to improve data rate for GSM networks.
EDGE was capable to support up to 473.6kbps (maximum).
Another popular technology CDMA2000 was also introduced to support higher data rate for
CDMA networks. This technology has the ability to provide up to 384 kbps data rate (maximum).
Third generation mobile communication started with the introduction of UMTS – Universal
Mobile Terrestrial / Telecommunication Systems. UMTS has the data rate of 384kbps and it
support video calling for the first time on mobile devices.
After the introduction of 3G mobile communication system, smart phones became popular across
the globe. Specific applications were developed for smartphones which handles multimedia chat,
email, video calling, games, social media and healthcare.
In order to enhance data rate in existing 3G networks, another two technology improvements are
introduced to network. HSDPA – High Speed Downlink Packet access and HSUPA – High Speed
Uplink Packet Access, developed and deployed to the 3G networks. 3.5G network can support up
to 2mbps data rate.
3.75 system is an improved version of 3G network with HSPA+ High Speed Packet Access plus.
Later this system will evolve into more powerful 3.9G system known as LTE (Long Term
Evolution).
Disadvantages of 3G systems
4G systems are enhanced version of 3G networks developed by IEEE, offers higher data rate and
capable to handle more advanced multimedia services. LTE and LTE advanced wireless
technology used in 4th generation systems. Furthermore, it has compatibility with previous
version thus easier deployment and upgrade of LTE and LTE advanced networks are possible.
Simultaneous transmission of voice and data is possible with LTE system which significantly
improve data rate. All services including voice services can be transmitted over IP packets.
Complex modulation schemes and carrier aggregation is used to multiply uplink / downlink
capacity.
Wireless transmission technologies like WiMax are introduced in 4G system to enhance data rate
and network performance.
WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) is one of the hottest broadband
wireless technologies around today. WiMAX systems are expected to deliver broadband access
services to residential and enterprise customers in an economical way.
WiMAX would operate similar to WiFi, but at higher speeds over greater distances and for a
greater number of users. WiMAX has the ability to provide service even in areas that are difficult
for wired infrastructure to reach and the ability to overcome the physical limitations of traditional
wired infrastructure.
WiMAX was formed in April 2001, in anticipation of the publication of the original 10-66 GHz
IEEE 802.16 specifications. WiMAX is to 802.16 as the WiFi Alliance is to 802.11.
Disadvantages of 4G system
In earlier deployments, 5G network will function in non-standalone mode and standalone mode.
In non-standalone mode both LTE spectrum and 5G-NR spectrum will be used together. Control
signaling will be connected to LTE core network in non-standalone mode.
There will be a dedicated 5G core network higher bandwidth 5G – NR spectrum for standalone
mode. Sub 6-GHz spectrum of FR1 ranges are used in the initial deployments of 5G networks.
In order to achieve higher data rate, 5G technology will use millimeter waves and unlicensed
spectrum for data transmission. Complex modulation technique has been developed to support
massive data rate for Internet of Things.( The Internet of Things (IoT) describes the network of
physical objects—“things”—that are embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies for
the purpose of connecting and exchanging data with other devices and systems over the internet.
These devices range from ordinary household objects to sophisticated industrial tools. With more
than 7 billion connected IoT devices today, experts are expecting this number to grow to 10
billion by 2020 and 22 billion by 2025.)
Cloud based network architecture will extend the functionalities and analytical capabilities for
industries, autonomous driving, healthcare and security applications.
Comparison of 1G to 5G technology
Final thoughts
Wireless technology has been continuously evolving to meet increasing demands and higher
specification requirements. Since the deployment of first generation mobile networks,
telecommunication industry facing lot of new challenges in terms of technology, efficient
utilization of spectrum and most importantly security to end users. Future wireless technologies
will provide ultra-fast, feature rich and highly secure mobile networks.
At present, the usage of mobiles has been increased for different requirements like the internet,
talking, multimedia, gaming, photos, video capturing, etc. All these services are available on
mobile. Using wireless communication services, we can transfer data, voice, images, videos, and
many more.
The different services provided by the wireless communication system is a cellular telephone,
Radio¸ paging, TV, video conferencing, etc use different communication services, there are
different wireless communications systems are developed based on the application. Some of them
are discussed below. A wireless Communication system is classified into Simplex, Half Duplex
& Full Duplex.
The simple wireless communication system is one-way communication. In this type, the
communication can be done in one direction only. The best example is the radio broadcast
system.
The full Duplex communication system is also two-way communication & it is simultaneous. The
best example of this communication system is the mobile phone. In wireless communication, the
devices which are used for communication may change from one service to others because these
are available in different shape, size & data throughput. The region enclosed through this type of
communication system is an essential factor. Here, some of the most essential wireless
communication systems are discussed like IR wireless communication, satellite communication,
broadcast radio, Microwave radio, Bluetooth, Zigbee, etc.
1. Satellite Communication
2. Infrared Communication
For successful infrared communication, a photo LED transmitter and a photodiode receptor are
required. The LED transmitter transmits the IR signal in the form of nonvisible light that is
captured and saved by the photoreceptor. So the information between the source and the target is
transferred in this way. The source and destination can be mobile phones, TVs, security systems,
laptops, etc support wireless communication.
Point to Point: It requires a line of sight between the transmitter and a receiver. In other
words the transmitter and the receiver should be pointed to each other and there shouldn’t be
any obstacles between them. Example is the remote control communication.
Diffuse Point: It doesn’t require any line of sight and the link between the transmitter and the
receiver is maintained by reflecting or bouncing of the transmitted signal by surfaces like
ceilings, roof, etc. Example is the wireless LAN communication system
Advantages of IR communication:
Security: Infrared communication has high directionality and can identify the source as
different sources emit radiation of different frequencies and thus the risk of information being
diffused is eliminated.
Safety: Infrared radiation is not harmful to human beings. Hence infrared communication can
be used at any place.
High Speed data Communication: The data rate of Infrared communication is about 1Gbps
and can be used for sending information like video signal.
3. Broadcast Radio
The first wireless communication technology is open radio communication to seek out
widespread use, and it still serves a purpose nowadays. Handy multichannel radios permit a user
to speak over short distances, whereas citizen’s band and maritime radios offer communication
services for sailors. Ham radio enthusiasts share data and function emergency communication
aids throughout disasters with their powerful broadcasting gear, and can even communicate
digital information over the radio frequency spectrum.
Figure 3: Broadcast Radio
Mostly an audio broadcasting service, radio broadcasts sound through the air as radio waves. The
radio uses a transmitter that is used to transmit the data in the form of radio waves to a receiving
antenna (Different Types of Antennas). To broadcast common programming, stations are
associated with the radio N/W’s. The broadcast happens either in simulcast or syndication or
both. Radio broadcasting may be done via cable FM, the net, and satellites. A broadcast sends
information over long distances at up to two megabits/Sec (AM/FM Radio).
Radio waves are electromagnetic signals that are transmitted by an antenna. These waves have
completely different frequency segments, and you will be ready to obtain an audio signal by
changing into a frequency segment.
Figure 4: Radio Communication
For example, you can take a radio station. When the RJ says you are listening to 92.7 BIG FM,
what he really means is that signals are being broadcasted at a frequency of 92.7megahertz, which
successively means the transmitter at the station is periodic at a frequency of 92.700,000
cycles/second.
When you would like to listen to 92.7 BIG FM, all you have to do is tune the radio to just accept
that specific frequency and you will receive perfect audio reception.
4. Microwave Communication
In the terrestrial method, in which two microwave towers with a clear line of sight between them
are used, ensuring no obstacles to disrupt the line of sight. So it is used often for the purpose of
privacy. The frequency range of the terrestrial system is typically 4GHz-6GHz and with a
transmission speed is usually 1Mbps to 10Mbps. The main disadvantage of microwave signals is,
they can be affected by bad weather, especially rain.
Properties of Microwaves
These waves move in a straight line to reflect throughout the conducting faces.
These are simply attenuated in fewer distances.
These are not replicated through the Ionosphere.
Microwaves emit electromagnetic energy with fewer wavelengths.
Microwave currents supply throughout a thin cable layer.
The microwaves reflect through metal surfaces.
They flow through plastic or glass
The transmission of the microwave can be affected through effects of signal like
refraction, deflection, interference & diffraction.
Most common applications are within the range of 1 to 40 GHz. Microwaves are suitable for
wireless transmission (wireless LAN protocol Ex- Bluetooth) signals having higher bandwidth.
Microwaves are commonly used in radar systems where radar uses microwave radiation to detect
the range, distance, and other characteristics of sensing devices and mobile broadband
applications.
Wi-Fi is a low power wireless communication that is used by various electronic devices like
smartphones, laptops, etc. In this setup, a router works as a communication hub wirelessly. These
networks allow users to connect only within close proximity to a router. WiFi is very common in
networking applications which affords portability wirelessly. These networks need to be
protected with passwords for the purpose of security, otherwise, it will access by others
Wi-Fi is a high-speed internet connection and network connection without the use of any cables
or wires. The wireless network is operating three essential elements that are radio signals,
antenna, and router. The radio waves are keys that make Wi-Fi networking possible. The
computers and cell phones are ready with Wi-Fi cards. Wi-Fi compatibility has been using a new
creation to constituent within the ground connected with community network
Figure 7: WIFI Technology
The actual broadcast is connected in sequence in fact it is completed by way of stereo system surf
as well as the worth of wires with the monitor to classification prone. Wi-Fi allows the person in
order to get access to the web any place in the actually provided area. You can now generate a
system within Resorts, library, schools, colleges, campus, personal institutes, as well as espresso
stores as well as on the open public spot to help to make your company much more lucrative as
well as interact with their own customer whenever.
Wi-Fi compatibility can make surf with stare to the company using their inspiring cable television
much a smaller amount force down. The radio signals are transmitted from antennas and routers
that signals are picked up by Wi-Fi receivers, such as computers and cell phones that are ready
with Wi-Fi cards. Whenever the computer receives the signals within the range of 100-150 feet
for the router it connects the device immediately.
The range of the Wi-Fi is depended upon the environment, indoor or outdoor ranges. The Wi-Fi
cards will read the signals and create an internet connection between the user and the network.
The speed of the device using Wi-Fi connection increases as the computer gets closer to the main
source and the speed is decreased the computer gets further away.
WI-FI Connections
Many new laptops, mobile phones have inbuilt Wi-Fi cards you don’t have to do anything which
is one of the best things. If it is a free-based type of network connection the user will be prompted
with a login id and password. The free base network connections also well in some areas. The
Wi-Fi network connection is creating hot spots in the cities. The hot spots are a connection point
of the Wi-Fi network. It is a small box that is hardwired into the internet. There are many Wi-Fi
hot spots available in public places like restaurants, airports, and hotels offices, universities, etc.
Security
Security is an important element in Wi-Fi technology. Security is our personal decision but
having a wireless connection we should pay attention to protect our private details. We can
connect easily to unsecured wireless routers. The problem is anyone is connected to your wireless
router using the data like download games, download apps and planning terrorist activities,
shirring illegal music and movie files, etc. So it is necessary to provide security to the wireless
technologies based devices.
How to Make the Security
All routers have a web page that you can connect to configuring the Wi-Fi security. And turn on
WEP (Wired Equivalence Privacy) and enter a password and remember this password. Next time
when you will connect your laptop Wi-Fi router will ask you to enter the connection password
and you enter that password.
A wireless router is one kind of hardware device which is commonly used in homes. It is the
heart of the wireless network. This device is mainly used by the providers of internet service to
connect their internet cable. Sometimes, it is also called a WLAN device (wireless local area
network). A wireless network is also named a WiFi network.
The main function of this router is to unite the network functions of a router and a wireless access
point. Similar to a network based on wire, the hub is a middle location where all the computers
are connected to it for providing network access to computers. At present, the wireless hubs
which are available will work like routers but these are gateways.
The most common method for users to unite to the Internet wirelessly is possible with a desktop
Wi-Fi router. These routers are small in size and look like boxes including an antenna. This
device broadcasts the signal at the workplace or home. When the user is far away from the base
WiFi router then the signal will be weak. So several wireless routers like range extenders are
arranged in the workplace. The range extender of Wi-Fi is located in an array to boost otherwise
expand the coverage of the Internet.
In every smartphone, a mobile hotspot is a normal feature. Once the hotspot in the mobile phone
is turned ON then the mobile operator can share the network connection wirelessly through other
devices to allow the Internet. A handy wifi hotspot is a mobile hotspot that is attained throughout
a carrier of the cell phone. It is a portable device that uses cellular towers to broadcast signals.
The different devices like laptops, iPods can be connected wirelessly toward the device which
connects toward the Internet wherever you travel. Like a smartphone, the monthly cost of the
moveable hotspot depends on the usage of the data plan you choose. This kind of hotspot is more
consistent to allow the Internet by searching for stationary public WiFi hotspots.
7. Bluetooth Technology
The main function of Bluetooth technology is that permits you to connect various electronic
devices wirelessly to a system for the transferring of data. Cell phones are connected to hands-
free earphones, mouse, and wireless keyboard. By using the Bluetooth device the information
from one device to another device. This technology has various functions and it is used
commonly in the wireless communication market.
Bluetooth Wireless Communication Technology
Bluetooth technology is a high-speed low powered wireless technology link that is designed to
connect phones or other portable equipment together. It is a specification (IEEE 802.15.1) for the
use of low-power radio communications to link phones, computers, and other network devices
over short distances without wires. Wireless signals transmitted with Bluetooth cover short
distances, typically up to 30 feet (10 meters).
It is achieved by embedded low-cost transceivers into the devices. It supports the frequency band
of 2.45GHz and can support upto 721KBps along with three voice channels. This frequency band
has been set aside by international agreement for the use of industrial, scientific, and medical
devices (ISM).rd-compatible with 1.0 devices.
It can connect up to “eight devices” simultaneously and each device offers a unique 48-bit
address from the IEEE 802 standard with the connections being made a point to point or
multipoint.
Connections
Generally, the devices which are connected through Bluetooth are very secure from hacking. As
they work with different frequencies & the devices which jump between these frequencies were
100s of times for every second which is called the “frequency-hopping spread spectrum”.
This device is frequently used for connecting mobile devices otherwise fixed devices. But it is
also working to link a printer otherwise mouse toward a computer. As Bluetooth & Wi-Fi are
frequently complementary, so they work at the same time & provides the same connectivity, so
you cannot find out which hardware is connected. Most tablets, computers, smartphones simply
permit connecting with one device that is Bluetooth enabled at a time.
Bluetooth Network consists of a Personal Area Network or a piconet which contains a minimum
of 2 to a maximum of 8 Bluetooth peer devices- Usually a single master and up to 7 slaves. A
master is a device that initiates communication with other devices. The master device governs the
communications link and traffic between itself and the slave devices associated with it. A slave
device is a device that responds to the master device. Slave devices are required to synchronize
they’re transmit/receive timing with that of the masters.
In addition, transmissions by slave devices are governed by the master device (i.e., the master
device dictates when a slave device may transmit). Specifically, a slave may only begin its
transmissions in a time slot immediately following the time slot in which it was addressed by the
master, or in a time slot explicitly reserved for use by the slave device.
The frequency hopping sequence is defined by the Bluetooth device address (BD_ADDR) of the
master device. The master device first sends a radio signal asking for a response from the
particular slave devices within the range of addresses. The slaves respond and synchronize their
hop frequency as well as a clock with that of the master device.
Types of Bluetooth
This technology eliminates the necessity of wires and cables. At present, this technology has seen
a fast growth of Bluetooth-enabled devices.
Headsets
The most commonly known device is the Bluetooth headset. Generally, a headset allows a person
to make as well as receive calls through a mobile phone without using your hands otherwise
wires. These headsets are prepared with voice recognition, thus one can dial & talk without
utilizing a mobile handset.
Stereo Headset
The function of a stereo headset is similar to a normal headset without using wires. The
connection of a stereo headset can be done to any Bluetooth-enabled device like the music player.
So, it permits the user to hear the music in a short range of your music player device. This headset
also supports mobile phones.
An in-car Bluetooth system connects the mobile phone to the sound system in your vehicle. So,
you can make & receive phone calls through the speaker system without using a mobile device.
Printer
A printer with Bluetooth enabled can get files like pictures and text documents from any device
that is equipped with a blue tooth like a PDA or laptop & print the data without using wires. This
device must be connected to the printer for the purpose of printing to work properly.
Webcam
A webcam enabled by Bluetooth mainly works as a usual webcam without the requirement of
wires. The wireless capabilities add mobility to the device, unlike traditional webcams, which
remain docked onto or near the computer.
GPS Device
Keyboard
A Bluetooth-enabled keyboard mainly works like a normal keyboard, without using wires to
connect the device to a PC. This keyboard also functions through particular smartphone devices.
Is Bluetooth Secure?
This technology is considered as much secure wireless technology once we used safety measures.
Bluetooth-enabled devices also move radio frequencies frequently when connected paired to
prevent an easy attack. These devices offer different settings to allow the user for controlling the
limit of Bluetooth connections. The security level of a device for a “trusting” this device limits
the connections to simply that exact device.
By using the settings of service-level, you can also limit the types of activities allowed by your
device to connect in while on a Bluetooth connection. In any wireless technology, there is always
some safety risk involved. Hackers have planned different malicious attacks that utilize Bluetooth
networking.
For instance, bluesnarfing refers to a hacker gaining official access to data over a device through
Bluetooth; “blue bugging” is once an attacker receives from your mobile & all the functions.
Advantages
The navigation system based on satellite like Global Positioning System (GPS) is made up of a
24 satellite network located into orbit through the U.S. DoD (Department of Defense). This
system is mainly designed for military applications; however, the government made the system
accessible in the year 1980 for civilian use. This system performs in any kind of environment
around the world for 365 days at any time. The GPS includes 24 satellites that rotate around the
sphere one time for every 12 hours to offer worldwide time, position & velocity information. The
main function of GPS is to identify the locations on the globe precisely by determining the
distance from the satellites. This system lets you create otherwise record exact locations on the
globe & assist you to navigate from those locations. Basically, this system was mainly designed
for military applications but in the year 1980, it was made accessible for civilian use.
How does GPS System Work?
The space segment is the number of satellites in the constellation. It comprises 29 satellites
circling the earth every 12 hours at 12,000 miles in altitude. The function of the space segment is
utilized to route/navigation signals and to store and retransmit the route/navigation message sent
by the control segment. These transmissions are controlled by highly stable atomic clocks on the
satellites. The GPS Space Segment is formed by a satellite constellation with enough satellites to
ensure that the users will have, at least, 4 simultaneous satellites in view from any point at the
Earth’s surface at any time.
B. Control Segment
The control segment comprises a master control station and five monitor stations outfitted with
atomic clocks that are spread around the globe. The five monitor stations monitor the GPS
satellite signals and then send that qualified information to the master control station where
abnormalities are revised and sent back to the GPS satellites through ground antennas. The
control segment also referred to as a monitor station.
C. User Segment
The user segment comprises the GPS receiver, which receives the signals from the GPS satellites
and determines how far away it is from each satellite. Mainly this segment is used for the U.S
military, missile guidance systems, civilian applications for GPS in almost every field. Most of
the civilians use this from survey to transportation to natural resources and from there to
agriculture purpose and mapping too.
Physical Obstructions
The measurements of arrival time can be skewed through large masses such as buildings,
mountains, trees, etc.
Atmospheric Effects
GPS devices mainly affected by solar storms, heavy storm cover, Ionospheric delays (The
ionosphere is where Earth's atmosphere meets space), etc.
Ephemeris
In a satellite, the orbital model could be inaccurate otherwise outdated, even though this is
becoming increasingly rare.
Numerical Miscalculations
This might be a feature once the hardware of the device is not planned to conditions.
Artificial Interference
Artificial interference mainly comprises spoofs or GPS jamming devices. In open places, the
accuracy of the device is high with no contiguous big buildings that can obstruct signals. So, this
effect is called an urban canyon. Once a device is enclosed through large buildings, first the
satellite signal can be blocked, after that bounced off a tall building, wherever it is lastly read
through the device to result in faults of the satellite distance.
To determine position locations; for example, you need to radio a helicopter pilot the
coordinates of your position location so the pilot can pick you up.
To navigate from one location to another; for example, you need to travel from a lookout to
the fire perimeter.
To create digitized maps; for example, you are assigned to plot the fire perimeter and hot
spots.
To determine the distance between two different points.
Other GPS Systems
There are different GPS systems available around the world like GNSS (Global Navigation
Satellite System. The GNSS system is classified into four types like GPS by the US, GLONASS
by Russia, Galileo by EU, BeiDou by China. In addition, there are two regional systems like
QZSS by Japan & IRNSS/NavIC by India.
Generally, there are four kinds of GPS trackers available where some trackers are used for
tracking vehicles and others are used for monitoring people.
Personal Trackers
These trackers are mainly used to monitor people/pets. Generally, these trackers use a personal
device namely a pocket chip otherwise bracelet to work. After that, the devices will be turned
ON. Once they turned ON, operators can remotely place & track the device.
The GPS tracking devices used for dogs are called GPS-equipped collars. These devices play a
key role to track pets like dogs. So these collars give peace of mind as owners can continually
track & place their dogs.
Asset Trackers
Asset trackers such as tiny radio chips to big satellite tags are used for non-vehicular items like
personal trackers. This kind of tracking is used in supermarkets in order to stop a burglary. So a
new solution for this is asset tracking.
Once using these trackers, cart theft in supermarkets can be decreased. In addition, some trackers
will increase by recognizing items within the cart, matching them to the loyalty card of the buyer
& sharing that through the advertising team!
This kind of tracking can be done through either satellite/cellular networks which are almost
certainly one of the most common kinds of GPS tracking. This kind of tracking is frequently used
as compared to satellite tracking.
This kind of system utilizes a device to capture data from the vehicle & after that reports the data
by using cell towers. As compared to satellite tracking, this kind of vehicle tracking is less costly
& reports quicker. Generally, delivery companies utilize GPS tracking to make simpler the
workflow of customer service like calling their vehicle & ask for their place to inform their
customers.
As compared to satellite-based vehicle tracking, cell-based tracking systems will not work
properly as the towers of cells are occupied. Satellite tracking provides the best solution to this
trouble because these networks can obtain updates from the most remote areas.
An Alaskan trucking corporation mainly covers distant areas. The main GPS tracking challenge is
to get updates even once cell towers are not accessible. These trackers provide stable updates
which were utilized by vehicle drivers to call for help once their cell phones didn’t function.
Advantages
GPS satellite-based navigation system is an important tool for military, civil and commercial,
users
Vehicle tracking systems GPS-based navigation systems can provide us with turn by turn
directions
Very high speed
Disadvantages
GPS satellite signals are too weak when compared to phone signals, so it doesn’t work as well
indoors, underwater, under trees, etc.
The highest accuracy requires line-of-sight from the receiver to the satellite, this is why GPS
doesn’t work very well in an urban environment.
Uses of GPS System
GPS systems are very flexible & we can found this system in every industry sector. At present,
GPS plays a key role to map forests; assist farmers in harvesting their fields & pilots uses
airplanes to navigate the earth otherwise in the atmosphere. These systems are essential parts of
military applications & for crisis crews to situate people in need of assistance. These technologies
are frequently working in several regions that we do not usually consider.
Generally, GPS systems fall into five main categories which include the following.
A paging system allows one-way communication to a huge audience. Apart from the broadcast
source, this kind of paging system allows the speaker to give clear, amplified commands
throughout a capacity. When the employee of paging communicates through a telephone then the
message will be broadcasted throughout the speakers of the system. After that, messages can also
be recorded.
There are many benefits by using this type of communication system like the following.
Radar is an electromagnetic sensor or detection system used to track, locate, detect & and identify
objects of different types at significant distances. The operation of this detection system can be
done by sending electromagnetic energy in the direction of objects, usually called targets, which
observes the echoes. Here the targets may be ships, astronomical bodies, aircraft, spacecraft,
automotive vehicles, insects, etc.
We can observe different objects around the world. Similarly, radar-like radio detection and
ranging is used to assist the pilots while flying through fog because the pilot cannot notice that
where they are traveling. The radar used in the airplanes is similar to a torchlight that works with
radio waves in place of light. The airplane transmits a blinking radar signal and listens out for any
indications of that signal from nearby objects. Once the indications are noticed, then the airplane
identifies something is near & it uses the time taken for the indications to reach for discovering
how distant away it is. This article discusses an overview of Radar and its working.
RADAR stands for Radio Detection and Ranging System. It is basically an electromagnetic
system used to detect the location and distance of an object from the point where the RADAR is
placed. It works by radiating energy into space and monitoring the echo or reflected signal from
the objects. It operates in the UHF and microwave range.
A radar is an electromagnetic sensor, used to notice, track, locate, and identify different objects
which are at certain distances. The working of radar is, it transmits electromagnetic energy in the
direction of targets to observe the echoes and returns from them. Here the targets are nothing but
ships, aircraft, astronomical bodies, automotive vehicles, spacecraft, rain, birds, insects, etc.
Instead of noticing the target’s location and velocity, it also obtains their shape and size
sometimes.
The main objective of radar as compared with infrared and optical sensing devices is to discover
faraway targets under difficult climate conditions & determines their distance, range, through
precision. Radar has its own transmitter which is known as a source of illumination for placing
targets. Generally, it works in the microwave area of the electromagnetic spectrum that is
calculated in hertz when frequencies extend from 400 MHz to 40 GHz. The essential components
which are used in the radar
Radar undergoes quick development during the years 1930-the 40s to reach the requirements of
the military. It is still broadly used through the armed forces, wherever several technological
advances have created. Simultaneously, radar is also utilized in civilian applications particularly
in controlling air traffic, observation of weather, navigation of ship, environment, sensing from
remote areas, observation of planetary, measurement of speed in industrial applications, space
surveillance, law enforcement, etc.
Working Principle
The radar working principle is very simple because it transmits electromagnetic power as well as
examines the energy returned back to the target. If the returned signals are received again at the
position of their source, then an obstacle is in the transmission way. This is the working principle
of radar.
Fundamentals of Radar
The RADAR system generally consists of a transmitter that produces an electromagnetic signal
which is radiated into space by an antenna. When this signal strikes an object, it gets reflected or
reradiated in many directions. This reflected or echo signal is received by the radar antenna which
delivers it to the receiver, where it is processed to determine the geographical statistics of the
object.
The range is determined by calculating the time taken by the signal to travel from the RADAR to
the target and back. The target’s location is measured in angle, from the direction of the
maximum amplitude echo signal, the antenna points to. To measure the range and location of
moving objects, the Doppler Effect is used (The Doppler effect or Doppler shift is the change in
frequency of a wave in relation to an observer who is moving relative to the wave source.).
Once the radar is placed on a ship or plane, then it requires a similar essential set of components
to produce radio signals, transmit them into space and receive them by something, and finally
display the information to understand it. A magnetron is one kind of device, used to generate
radio signals which are used through radio. These signals are similar to light signals because they
travel at the same speed but their signals are much longer with fewer frequencies.
The light signals wavelength is 500 nanometers, whereas the radio signals used by radar normally
range from centimeters to meters. In an electromagnetic spectrum, both the signals like radio and
light are made with variable designs of magnetic and electrical energy throughout the air. The
magnetron in radar generates microwaves the same as a microwave oven. The main disparity is
that the magnetron within radar has to transmit the signals several miles, rather than just small
distances, so it is more powerful as well as much larger.
Whenever the radio signals have been transmitted, then an antenna functions as a transmitter to
transmit them into the air. Generally, the antenna shape is bent so it mainly focuses the signals
into an exact and narrow signal; however radar antennas also normally revolve so they can notice
actions over a huge area.
The radio signals travel outside from the antenna with 300,000 km per second speed until they
strike something and some of them return back to the antenna. In a radar system, there is an
essential device namely a duplexer. This device is used to make the antenna change from side to
side in between a transmitter & a receiver.
Types of Radar
This type of radar system includes a Tx-transmitter & an Rx- receiver that is divided through a
distance that is equivalent to the distance of the estimated object. The transmitter & the receiver
are situated at a similar position is called a monastic radar whereas the very long-range surface to
air & air to air military hardware uses the bistatic radar.
B. Doppler Radar
It is a special type of radar that uses the Doppler Effect to generate data velocity regarding a
target at a particular distance. This can be obtained by transmitting electromagnetic signals in the
direction of an object so that it analyzes how the action of the object has affected the returned
signal’s frequency.
This change will give very precise measurements for the radial component of an object’s velocity
within relation toward the radar. The applications of these radars involve different industries like
meteorology, aviation, healthcare, etc.
C. Monopulse Radar
This kind of radar system compares the obtained signal using a particular radar pulse next to it by
contrasting the signal as observed in numerous directions otherwise polarizations. The most
frequent type of monopulse radar is the conical scanning radar. This kind of radar evaluates the
return from two ways to measure the position of the object directly. It is significant to note that
the radars which are developed in the year 1960 are monopulse radars.
D. Passive Radar
This kind of radar is mainly designed to notice as well as follow the targets through processing
indications from illumination within the surroundings. These sources comprise communication
signals as well as commercial broadcasts. The categorization of this radar can be done in the same
category of bistatic radar.
E. Instrumentation Radar
These radars are designed for testing aircraft, missiles, rockets, etc. They give different
information including space, position, and time both in the analysis of post-processing & real-
time.
F. Weather Radars
These are used to detect the direction and weather by using radio signals through circular or
horizontal polarization. The frequency choice of weather radar mainly depends on a compromise
of performance among attenuation as well as precipitation refection as an outcome of atmospheric
water steam. Some types of radars are mainly designed to employ Doppler shifts to calculate the
wind speed as well as dual-polarization to recognize the types of rainfall.
G. Mapping Radar
These radars are mainly used to examine a large geographical area for the applications of remote
sensing & geography. As a result of synthetic aperture radar, these are restricted to quite
stationary targets. There are some particular radar systems used to detect humans after walls that
are more different as compared with the ones found within construction materials.
H. Navigational Radars
Generally, these are the same to search radars but, they available with small wavelengths that are
capable of replicating from the ground & from stones. These are commonly used on commercial
ships as well as long-distance airplanes. There are different navigational radars like marine radars
which are placed commonly on ships to avoid a collision as well as navigational purposes.
I. Pulsed RADAR
Pulsed RADAR sends high power and high-frequency pulses towards the target object. It then
waits for the echo signal from the object before another pulse is sent. The range and resolution of
the RADAR depend on the pulse repetition frequency. It uses the Doppler shift method.
Applications of RADAR
In air defense, it is used for target detection, target recognition, and weapon control (directing
the weapon to the tracked targets).
In a missile system to guide the weapon.
Identifying enemy locations on the map.
Air Traffic Control
To control air traffic near airports. The Air Surveillance RADAR is used to detect and display
the aircraft’s position in the airport terminals.
To guide the aircraft to land in bad weather using Precision Approach RADAR.
To scan the airport surface for aircraft and ground vehicle positions
Remote Sensing
It can be used for observing whether or observing planetary positions and monitoring sea ice to
ensure a smooth route for ships.
It can also be used by traffic police to determine the speed of the vehicle, controlling the
movement of vehicles by giving warnings about the presence of other vehicles or any other
obstacles behind them.
Space
Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) is one kind of wireless communication that uses
electrostatic coupling otherwise electromagnetic in the RF portion of the electromagnetic
spectrum to exclusively identify a person, object & animal. It is used in manufacturing,
healthcare, shipping, home use, retail sales, inventory management, etc.
RFID & barcode technology are used in related methods to track inventory, however, three
significant differences will make everyone a better choice in certain circumstances. In real-time,
the data which is stored within the RFID tag can be updated. Indifference, the data in the bar code
is read-only & cannot be altered. RFID tags need a power source whereas the bar codes simply
need the technology to read the bar code to include a power source.
12. Zigbee
Zigbee is for low-data rate, low-power applications and is an open standard. This, theoretically,
enables the mixing of implementations from different manufacturers, but in practice, Zigbee
products have been extended and customized by vendors and, thus, plagued by interoperability
issues. In contrast to Wi-Fi networks used to connect endpoints to high-speed networks, Zigbee
supports much lower data rates and uses a mesh networking protocol to avoid hub devices and
create a self-healing architecture.
Zigbee specifications
Zigbee is based on the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Standards
Association's 802.15 specification. Zigbee is built for control and sensor networks on the IEEE
802.15.4 wireless standard for wireless personal area networks (WPANs). The Zigbee WPANs
operate on 2.4 Ghz, 900 MHz and 868 MHz frequencies.
The Zigbee specifications, which are maintained and updated by the Zigbee Alliance, boost the
IEEE 802.15.4 standard by adding network and security layers in addition to an application
framework.
The standards created by the alliance can be used to create multivendor interoperable offerings.
Manufacturers that are developing custom applications that don't need to operate with the
applications of other manufacturers can create their own specific variations and extensions.
As of this writing, there are three Zigbee specifications: Zigbee PRO, Zigbee RF4CE and Zigbee
IP.
Zigbee PRO aims to provide the foundation for IoT with features to support low-cost,
highly reliable networks for device-to-device communication. Zigbee PRO also offers
Green Power, a new feature that supports energy harvesting or self-powered devices that
don't require batteries or AC power supply.
Zigbee RF4CE is designed for simple, two-way device-to-device control applications that
don't need the full-featured mesh networking functionalities offered by the Zigbee
specification.
Zigbee IP optimizes the standard for IPv6-based full wireless mesh networks, offering
internet connections to control low-power, low-cost devices.
Mesh networking
A key piece of the Zigbee protocol is its ability to support mesh networking. Zigbee uses a mesh
network architecture for communication.
A mesh network is a local area network (LAN), wireless LAN (WLAN) or virtual LAN (VLAN)
that employs one of two decentralized connection arrangements: full mesh topology or partial
mesh topology.
As compared with wired systems, wireless communication systems have several benefits.
The advantages of wireless communication include the following.
Price
The price of fixing cables, wires & other communications can be reduced within wireless
communication. Therefore the total cost of the system can be reduced as evaluated with wired
communication. Fixing a wired network within a building, digging up the soil to place the cables
to run those wires across the roads is a very hard, expensive, and time taking task.
In old constructions, making holes to fix the cables is not a good idea because it demolishes the
integrity as well as the significance of the building. In addition, in older constructions with no
committed shape for communication, Wi-Fi otherwise WLAN is the single option.
Mobility
As previously mentioned, mobility is the major benefit of this communication system. It gives the
liberty to go around when it is still connected to the system.
Simple Installation
The system & fitting of equipment in wireless communication network & communications is
extremely simple because we shouldn’t be anxious regarding the irritate of cables. In addition, the
time necessary to connect a wireless system very less as compared with a full cable-based
network.
Consistency
Tragedy Recovery
When fire accidents, disasters, or floods occur, then the loss of communication in the system can
be negligible.
Any data or information can be transmitted faster and with a high speed
Maintenance and installation is less cost for these networks.
The internet can be accessed from anywhere wirelessly
It is very helpful for workers, doctors working in remote areas as they can be in touch with
medical centers.
Disadvantages of wireless system
In a wireless communication system, the signals can be transmitted by using open space like the
medium. So, there is a chance of interfacing the radio signals from one network to other networks
like Bluetooth and WLAN. These technologies utilize the 2.4GHz frequency to communicate
when they are active as well as; there is a chance of intrusion.
Safety
Security is the main concern in the wireless communication system because when the signals are
broadcasted within open space, then there is a chance of interrupting the signals & copy sensitive
data.
Health Concerns
Exposure to any kind of radiation continuously can cause health issues. Although, the RF energy
range can cause injure are not exactly recognized, it is informed to keep away from RF radiation
to the most.
An unauthorized person can easily capture the wireless signals which spread through the air.
It is very important to secure the wireless network so that the information cannot be misused
by unauthorized users
Applications of Wireless Communication
Applications of wireless communication involve security systems, television remote control, Wi-
Fi, Cell phones, wireless power transfer, computer interface devices, and various wireless
communication-based projects.
Vehicles
Many wireless communication systems and mobility aware applications are used for following
purpose:
o Transmission of music, news, road conditions, weather reports, and other broadcast
information are received via digital audio broadcasting (DAB) with 1.5Mbit/s.
o For personal communication, a universal mobile telecommunications system (UMTS)
phone might be available offering voice and data connectivity with 384kbit/s.
o For remote areas, satellite communication can be used, while the current position of the
car is determined via the GPS (Global Positioning System).
o A local ad-hoc network for the fast exchange of information (information such as distance
between two vehicles, traffic information, road conditions) in emergency situations or to
help each other keep a safe distance. Local ad-hoc network with vehicles close by to
prevent guidance system, accidents, redundancy.
o Vehicle data from buses, trucks, trains and high speed train can be transmitted in advance
for maintenance.
o In ad-hoc network, car can comprise personal digital assistants (PDA), laptops, or mobile
phones connected with each other using the Bluetooth technology.
Emergency
Travelling Salesman
In Office
Transportation Industries
o In transportation industries, GPS technology is used to find efficient routes and tracking
vehicles.
o Wireless network can also be used to replace wired network. Due to economic reasons it
is often impossible to wire remote sensors for weather forecasts, earthquake detection, or
to provide environmental information, wireless connections via satellite, can help in this
situation.
o Tradeshows need a highly dynamic infrastructure, since cabling takes a long time and
frequently proves to be too inflexible.
o Many computers fairs use WLANs as a replacement for cabling.
o Other cases for wireless networks are computers, sensors, or information displays in
historical buildings, where excess cabling may destroy valuable walls or floors.
It is important for an application to know something about the location because the user might
need location information for further activities. Several services that might depend on the actual
location can be described below:
o Follow-on Services:
o Location aware services: To know about what services (e.g. fax, printer, server, phone,
printer etc.) exist in the local environment.
o Privacy: We can set the privacy like who should get knowledge about the location.
o Information Services: We can know about the special offers in the supermarket. Nearest
hotel, rooms, cabs etc.
Even though many mobile and wireless devices are available, there will be many more devices in
the future. There is no precise classification of such devices, by sizes, shape, weight, or
computing power. The following list of given examples of mobile and wireless devices graded by
increasing performance (CPU, memory, display, input devices, etc.)
Embedded Controller: Many applications already contain a simple or sometimes more complex
controller. Keyboards, mouse, headsets, washing machines, coffee machines, hair dryers and TV
sets are just some examples.
Pager: As a very simple receiver, a pager can only display short text messages, has a tiny
display, and cannot send any messages.
Personal Digital Assistant: PDAs typically accompany a user and offer simple versions of office
software (calendar, notepad, mail). The typically input device is a pen, with built-in character
recognition translating handwriting into characters. Web browsers and many other packages are
available for these devices.
Pocket computer: The next steps towards full computers are pocket computers offering tiny
keyboards, color displays, and simple versions of programs found on desktop computers (text
processing, spreadsheets etc.)
Notebook/laptop: Laptops offer more or less the same performance as standard desktop
computers; they use the same software - the only technical difference being size, weight, and the
ability to run on a battery. If operated mainly via a sensitive display (touch sensitive or
electromagnetic), the device are also known as notepads or tablet PCs.