The cell phone is a vastly successful product made possible through a combination of advancements in telephone, radio, and computer technology. It has not only penetrated markets in developed countries but has also made inroads into some of the poorest developing nations, such as those in Africa and in Afghanistan and rural India, giving those on the far end of the low-income scale affordable access to phone and text messaging for the first time. Klemens worked in various aspects of the wireless communications field for more than 15 years and was involved in the development and testing of digital cell phones. The historical aspects are quite interesting as he recalls the early implementation of mobile phones, which debuted as early as 1946 and continued to be an expensive novelty until the 1980s. The average reader may get bogged down in some of the technical explanations of how the cell-phone system works, but the information could prove quite useful for research. Klemens also succinctly covers the business side of wireless telecommunications, potential health risks, driving safety, and smart phones. --David Siegfried
Review
“well written and illustrated...recommended”―Choice; “historical aspects are quite interesting...information could prove quite useful for research”―Booklist; “recommended”―SciTech Book News.
From the Inside Flap
Presenting the history of the cellular phone from its beginnings in the 1940s to the present, this book explains the fundamental concepts involved in wireless communication along with the ramifications of cellular technology on the economy, U.S. and international law, human health, and society. The first two chapters deal with bandwidth and radio. Subsequent chapters look at precursors to the contemporary cellphone, including the surprisingly popular car phone of the 1970s, the analog cellphones of the 1980s and early 1990s, and the basic digital phones which preceded the feature-laden, multipurpose devices of today.
About the Author
Guy Klemens holds a doctorate in electrical engineering and has worked in various aspects of the wireless communication field for more than 15 years. His experience includes the design and testing of antennas for satellite links, the measurement and reduction of energy lost to the user's head by cellular phones, and the design of high-frequency components (most microscopic in size.)
