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TDMA
Time Division Multiple Access is one of several technologies used in digital wireless transmissions that increases the efficiency of the network by allowing a greater number of simultaneous transmissions. Networks using TDMA assign 6 timeslots for each frequency channel. Devices using the wireless network send bursts of information that are reassembled at the receiving end.

Talk Time
The length of time a wireless device may be engaged in transmission (phone conversations, sending or receiving data) before it runs out of battery power. Talk time, expressed in hours and minutes, is much shorter than standby time because transmission requires more power. Therefore, standby time is effected by the amount of time the phone is used for talking. Wireless devices depend on batteries for power; batteries slowly discharge their power and must be recharged and eventually replaced. See also Standby Time.

Third Generation
The 3rd Generation (3G) mobile devices and services will transform wireless communications into on-line, real-time transfer of information, regardless of time and place. You will be able to send electronic postcards with images, and you can even have a live videoconference using your 3G mobile communication device.

Transportable Phones
A wireless phone that may be removed from an automobile and used by itself with an attached battery pack because it does not rely on the automobile battery for power. Also referred to as a "bag" or "briefcase" phone, referring to the power supply that must accompany the phone and to differentiate it from one-piece, lightweight wireless phones currently available. See also Mobile Phone.

Tri-Mode
TriMode phone operates on two frequency bands, such as 800MHz and 1900MHz, as well as operating in both digital and analog networks. See also DualBand, DualMode.

Vocoder
Refers to a voice encoder which is a device that codes and decodes the human voice (sound waves) into digital transmission. Higher vocoder speeds offer enhanced sound quality.

WAP
Wireless Application Protocol is a protocol developed to allow intelligent transmission of optimized Internet content to wireless phones.

Wireless
Without wires. Communication without any physical connections between the sender and the receiver. Using the radio frequency spectrum (airways) and hardware, software and technologies to transmit information.

Wireless Local Loop
Wireless service systems that compete with or substitute for local wireline phone service.


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