3G Technology

As the latest trend in mobile phones, 3G technology ushers in a whole new perspective on what mobile phones can do for you. Gone are the days when mobiles were used only to call or send SMS messages. With the introduction of 3G technology, many carriers now offer various 3G mobile phones that offer plenty of interesting and useful features.

Concept Behind 3G Technology

As the latest form of mobile phone technology, 3G technology brings in wireless broadband services into 3G-compatible units. In order to provide faster Internet access to its users, 3G technology is comprised of several access technologies. The most common types of access technologies include Time-division Synchronous Code-division Multiple Access (TD-SCDMA), 2G Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA2000), and Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA).

To provide standards for the 3G technology, 3GPP or Third Generation Partnership Project was established. Network providers that plan to cater to 3G mobile phones will then have to change their systems. Network providers can update their existing 2G systems to use 3G technology by incorporating GPRS services. GPRS or General Packet Radio Service can be the first step when upgrading into 3G technology. Network operators and providers who are already using GPRS can switch directly into 3G technology by going for a UMTS system.

For a UMTS network to support 3G technology, these new elements should be included aside from the basics:

  • MGW or Media Gateway
  • RNC or Radio Network Controller
  • Node B or Base Station

What 3G Technology Can Offer

3G technology actually has the ability to converge existing standards like TDMA, CDMA, and GSM. As a result, 3G mobiles can offer various possibilities when it comes to data transfer and access through the Internet. 3G technology allows you to enjoy seamless video conferencing and mainstreaming. Plus, if you download an MP3 song using a phone with 3G technology, the download rate is faster compared to 2G phones. Plus, 3G mobiles can introduce more flexible business practices. Since 3G technology offers high-speed Internet connection and a broad bandwidth, 3G mobile phones are multi-media friendly -- you can use them to send large amounts of video or voice data and incorporate fax services.