Mini glossary – Unit 9: Networks
Network: a system that connects devices so they can communicate.
Example: A mobile phone uses a network to send calls and data.
Cellular network: a mobile network divided into areas called cells.
Example: Cellular networks allow mobile phones to connect in different locations.
Multiple access: the ability of several users to use the network at the same time.
Example: Multiple access allows many calls in the same cell.
TDMA: a technology where users share the same frequency by using very short time slots.
Example: In TDMA, each call transmits during its own time slot.
GSM: an older mobile network technology mainly used for voice calls and SMS.
Example: GSM is based on TDMA technology.
Time slot: a very short period of time when a call or signal can be transmitted.
Example: TDMA divides transmission into time slots.
CDMA: a technology where several calls use many frequencies at the same time, but each call has a unique code.
Example: CDMA uses sequence codes to keep calls separate.
Sequence code: a unique code that identifies a call or signal.
Example: In CDMA, each call has a different sequence code.
Spread spectrum: a method of sending a signal across many frequencies.
Example: CDMA uses spread spectrum technology.
Interfere with: to disturb or disrupt the normal operation of something.
Example: Signals must not interfere with each other.
Encryption: the process of protecting information by converting it into code.
Example: GSM uses encryption to keep calls separate and secure.
LTE / 4G: a modern mobile network technology designed mainly for fast data transmission.
Example: LTE allows faster internet access on mobile phones.
5G: a newer mobile network technology with higher speed, lower latency and better capacity.
Example: 5G supports many connected devices at the same time.