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Wireless Communications FAQ
By Chris De Herrera,
Copyright 1998-2002
Version 1.17 Revised 4/7/2002
Introduction
Wireless communications provides easy access to information wherever you are. It is designed to work where landlines don't go. This article focuses on Ardis, BellSouth Wireless Data (formerly RAM Mobile Data), CDPD (Cellular Digital Packet Data), Cellular (AMPS, GSM, CDMA, GPRS, 1xRTT), and Ricochet Microcellular Data Network. One of the most important issues with wireless communications is where is it available. I recommend that you review each provider before deciding which service to select.
Also for internet connectivity, you will need another service provider. Examples of providers include Go America, Omnisky, Ricochet, etc. They normally partner with specific service providers to offer a complete package of hardware and services. Some providers such as Go America offer both PDA and desktop support with the same peripheral to connect to the internet.
At this time Windows CE does not include in rom initialization settings for Cellular communications. You will need to contact your modem vendor for assistance in configuring the extra settings for the modem. I recommend that you have 2 dialup connections - one for landlines and another for cellular.
Comparison:
| Service Provider | Coverage Map | Roaming | Speed | Connection type | Equipment | Internet Service Provider |
| Ardis | USA | Yes | 9,600 to 19,200 baud | Analog | Motorola Personal Messenger Wireless Modem Card 100D | air.mail@ardis - EMail, IKON's MobileCHOICE - EMail |
| BellSouth Wireless Data (Mobitex) | USA | Yes | 8,000 bits/s | Time Division Multiplex | Megahertz Allpoints Wireless Modem | Go America |
| CDPD - Cellular Digital Packet Data (also known as Wireless IP) | ATT - USA, Bell Atlantic - USA | Yes, additional charge | 19,200 baud | Digital with RC4 Encryption | See CDPD Connectivity for a list of hardware | Go America |
| Cellular - AMPS (Analog) | Contact your local provider. | Yes, additional charge | 9,600 baud | Analog | PC Card Modem with cellular cable | Landline ISP |
| Cellular - GSM - Global System for Mobile Communications | Available in USA and Europe (however they are different frequencies) | Yes, additional charge | 9,600 baud | Digital | PC Card Modem, or
IrDA port on cell phone.
See Cellular Connectivity for a list of hardware |
Landline ISP |
| Cellular - CDMA- Code Division Multiple Access | Available in USA - Verizon Wireless (Formerly Airtouch and Bell Atlantic) , Sprint | Yes, additional charge | 14,400 baud | Digital | See Cellular Connectivity for a list of hardware Sierra Wireless Aircard 510 | Landline ISP |
| Cellular - GPRS (Data for GSM networks) | Available in Europe, Canada and the US. Voicestream | Yes, additional charge | 69,000 - 115,000 based on the number of channels that the device supports (23,000 per channel) | Digital | Cellular Carrier Offers Internet Access | |
| Cellular - 1xRTT (Data for CDMA networks) | Available from Verizon | Yes, additional charge | 144,000 baud | Digital | Sierra Wireless Aircard 555 | Cellular Carrier Offers Internet Access |
| Ricochet Microcellular Data Network | USA | Yes | 28,800 to 128,000 baud | Digital with 42 bit Encryption | Ricochet Wireless Modems, Sierra AirCard 400, Novatel Wireless Merlin for Ricochet | Ricochet |
You can transfer contacts to your SMS phone via HandPhone. It also allows you to send and receive SMS messages as well!
Campus Wireless LANs
There are 2 standards for campus wireless LANs - OpenAir and 802.11. They both operate at 2.4 to 2.485 ghz. 802.11 operates at 1mb or 2mb(optional). Right now 802.11b product are interoperable and tested by WiFi. OpenAir products operate at 1.6 mb are tested interoperable and test by the WLIF. Both OpenAir and 802.11 products do not require an FCC license. Some of the vendors offer encryption of data as well. For OpenAir users none of the vendors offer encryption however frequency hopping would be very difficult to decode. For more information on Windows CE or Pocket PC Compatibility read 802.11 Wireless LAN Configuration, Proxim RangeLan2 and Proxim Symphony.
Related Links:
Arne's Windows CE Website - Information on GSM and IrDA connectivity.
Microsoft's Mobile Phone to Windows CE Connectivity Page - Europe
PC Week Online - The Wireless Connection
wireless knowledge, a Microsoft and Qualcomm Company - Focuses on providing software and connectivity to allow users to seamlessly access their Exchange 5.5 E-mail, Calendar and Contacts via TCP/IP displayed with HTML, vCARD, iCAL, and XML using existing and future wireless carriers. Products and services are expected in 1999.
Proxim FAQ - Campus/Building Wireless
802.11 Wireless LAN Configuration - Campus/Building Wireless
Cellular Compatibility - Find out if your cell phone can be connected to Windows CE or Pocket PC.