This course introduces participants to the current and possible future wireless markets and their applications. We review the basics of a wireless system before introducing the Wireless Application Protocol (WAP) and its importance in todays networks. We examine the existing mobile services such as cellular digital packet data (CDPD), the public data-only networks, data over code division multiple access (CDMA) and general packet radio service (GPRS). Of course, since we all want faster and faster data speeds, we look at the future services like enhanced data rates for GSM evolution (EDGE), high data rate (HDR), and wideband code division multiple access (W-CDMA). Participants consider issues of link point attachment, interoperability, forward error control, and the need for additional spectrum. The course concludes with a discussion of which players will be instrumental in resolving these concerns and addressing others as they arise.
