Lesson 5 - Wireless Transmission

   Introduction

Radio waves are increasingly being used to carry voice and data signals through open space. Wireless transmission has traditionally been used where it is impossible or costly to install fixed cable, such as historical buildings or rough terrain. However, radio-based mobile communication, both voice and data, is growing explosively as consumers demand the flexibility and convenience of cell phones and wireless data networks.

The term "wireless" usually does not mean that a signal is carried using radio technology all the way. Most wireless transmission uses the cable-based telephone system as much as possible, only shifting to radio transmission when necessary.

   Objectives

At the end of this lesson you will be able to:

1.	Describe how radio waves carry data
2.	Explain why the radio frequency (RF) spectrum is a finite resource
3.	Describe the advantages and drawbacks of satellite communication

Key Point
Wireless networks use the RF spectrum below the range of visible light.

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