What is wireless technology?

Humans are more interconnected than ever before due to the proliferation of mobile devices enabled by wireless technology. The terms ‘wireless communication’ was introduced in the 19th century and currently refers to the transmission of data or information from one place to another wirelessly. Wireless communication involves a variety of wireless communication devices and technologies which provide cableless communication over vast distances. Wireless communication technology has developed into one of the most important mediums for the transmission of information and has become an integral part of our daily activities. Wireless technology provides an exchange of data through the air without any conductor requiring a cable or wire by using electromagnetic waves like radio frequencies (RF), infrared radiation (IR) or simply Infrared and satellite, among others. Through RF and radio signals, the information is transmitted across devices over some meters to hundreds of kilometres through well-defined channels.

Different types of signals are used in communication between devices for the wireless transmission of data. The following are the different electromagnetic signals used in wireless communication depending on their wavelength and frequency.

• Radio Frequency Transmission

Radio frequency signals are easily generated, range between 3kHz to 300GHz, penetrate through objects and travel long distances. Disadvantages are that they are frequency dependent and have a relatively low bandwidth for data transmission.

• Infrared Transmission

Infrared radiations are electromagnetic radiations with longer wavelengths than visible light. These are usually used for short-range communications. These signals do not pass through solid objects. Examples include remote controls for televisions and mobile data sharing in a closed network. 

• Microwave Transmission

Microwaves are a form of electromagnetic transmission used in wireless communication systems used for long distance communications and are relatively less expensive. Microwaves do not pass through buildings, are affected by inclement weather and are frequency dependent.

•     Lightwave Transmission

Light is an electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength ranging between infrared radiation and ultraviolet radiation. They are unguided optical signals such as laser and are unidirectional. The signals cannot penetrate through rain and fog, and the laser beams are easily diverted by air.

Types of wireless communication technologies

Wireless communication technology is categorised into different types depending on the distance of communication, the range of data and type of devices used. Different types of wireless communication technologies include:

• Radio and television broadcasting
• Radar communication
• Satellite communication
• Cellular communication
• Global positioning system (GPS)
• Wi-Fi
• Bluetooth
• Radio frequency identification

Uses of wireless technologies in home networking

A wireless network is a computer network that uses wireless data connections between network nodes which are either a redistribution point or a communication endpoint. Using a wireless network in homes and business installations is a way to avoid the cost of introducing cables into a building, or as a connection between various equipment locations.

Fibre to the home (FTTH) enables a home network through Wi-Fi, which allows, for example, file sharing, and other devices more conveniently connected than with a wired network. Additional functions bolstered by wireless home networks include online gaming through local area networks (LANs) and online (Internet-connected) modes so friends and family can play together.

Telephone and Home Entertainment

Voice over IP (VoIP) services enable making and receiving phone calls using an Internet connection, and a mobile phone or landline. Home entertainment products such as digital video recorders (DVRs) and video gaming consoles integrated into home networks facilitate online Internet gaming, video sharing, and other advanced features. Wi-Fi also lets you use streaming media from services such as Netflix, to a variety of movies and other pre-recorded programming.

Uses of wireless technologies in business

Wireless technologies have become a crucial component for businesses of all kinds. The value of wireless technology in business can be measured in terms of productivity, efficiency, job satisfaction and customer service through the faster transfer of data within businesses, and between partners and customers.

Because wireless technology enables the user to communicate while on the move, employees always have access to office networks. Wireless technology also allows greater flexibility since employees can be networked without sitting at dedicated computers, and can continue to be productive while away from the office. For example, many airport departure lounges, train stations, hotels, cafes and restaurants have installed ‘hot-spot’ wireless networking services to allow mobile users to connect their equipment while travelling.

Wireless technology allows access to real-time data or data delivered immediately after collection. This is especially helpful in industrial applications that need data faster than ever before for applications, like quality control or employee safety.

Wireless technology is evolving daily — becoming more secure and more reliable. Its development is at a point where you can increase the function of your business with wireless technology while still remaining completely secure. There is no doubt that wireless technology promises a world of magic to homes and improved efficiency to business enabled by FTTH.

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