Mobile Communication and Mobile Computing

Mobile communication refers to the exchange of information, voice, and data between mobile
devices over a wireless network infrastructure.

It enables users to communicate and access information on the go without being tethered to a fixed
location.

Mobile communication encompasses various technologies, protocols, and services that facilitate
wireless connectivity and interaction between mobile devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and
wearable gadgets.

Key components include cellular networks, wireless communication standards (e.g., GSM, CDMA,
LTE, 5G), telecommunication service providers, and mobile applications.

Mobile computing, on the other hand, refers to the use of mobile devices to access and process
information while on the move.

It involves the integration of computing capabilities into portable devices, enabling users to perform
tasks traditionally carried out on desktop or laptop computers.

Mobile computing leverages the power of mobile devices, coupled with wireless connectivity, to
enable access to data, applications, and services from anywhere at any time.

It encompasses a wide range of activities, including web browsing, email communication, social
networking, GPS navigation, multimedia playback, and productivity applications.

Types of wireless data communication

Wireless data communication can be categorized into three main types: ad hoc networks, sensor
networks, and cellular networks. Each operates within different frequency ranges and serves distinct
purposes:

1. Ad hoc networks: Ad hoc networks are decentralized networks where devices communicate
directly with each other without the need for a centralized infrastructure. They are often
used in situations where infrastructure-based networks are unavailable, such as in disaster
recovery scenarios or military operations. Ad hoc networks typically operate in the
unlicensed ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) bands, including:

• 2.4 GHz band (e.g., IEEE 802.11 Wi-Fi)

• 5 GHz band (e.g., IEEE 802.11a/n/ac Wi-Fi)

• 60 GHz band (e.g., IEEE 802.11ad WiGig)

2. Sensor networks: Sensor networks consist of small, low-power devices equipped with
sensors for monitoring and collecting data from the environment. These networks are
commonly used in various applications such as environmental monitoring, healthcare, and
industrial automation. Sensor networks often operate in the following frequency bands:

• Sub-GHz bands (e.g., 433 MHz, 868 MHz, 915 MHz)

• 2.4 GHz band (e.g., Zigbee, Bluetooth Low Energy)

3. Cellular networks: Cellular networks provide wide-area coverage for mobile communication
using a network of base stations connected to a core network. They are designed to handle
high volumes of voice and data traffic for mobile users. Cellular networks operate in licensed
frequency bands allocated by regulatory authorities. These bands include:

• Sub-1 GHz bands (e.g., 700 MHz, 800 MHz, 900 MHz)

• 1.8 GHz band

• 2.1 GHz band

• 2.3 GHz band

• 2.5 GHz band

• 3.5 GHz band

• 5 GHz band (used for small cells and Wi-Fi offloading in some cases)