Unwired Interaction | Collection 1
Wireless communication is a revolutionary method of transmitting data or information without the need for physical wires or cables. Instead, it uses radio waves or other electromagnetic waves to connect devices. This technology supports the find my device connection of multiple devices without the need for numerous ports.
Everyday devices like WiFi routers and Bluetooth gadgets operate in the MHz and GHz frequency ranges. These frequencies allow for rapid data transfer and easy scalability, as they eliminate the need for physical wiring.
In wireless communication, one device acts as the Transmitter, sending RF signals through an antenna, while another device serves as the Receiver, capturing the transmitted signals. Both devices must use the same frequency (or channel) for effective communication.
Wireless networks, governed by the IEEE 802.11 standard, offer mobility, convenience, and easy scalability. The IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) is the organisation responsible for developing and managing standards for both wired and wireless networks.
However, there are challenges in wireless communication. When many wireless devices communicate simultaneously, their radio frequencies may interfere with each other, degrading performance. To mitigate this, wireless devices operate in half-duplex mode (cannot send and receive data at the same time) and follow the IEEE 802.11 standard procedure to check if the channel is free and available before transmitting.
Security concerns must also be actively managed to prevent unauthorized access in wireless communication. The IEEE 802.11 standard includes provisions for encryption and authentication to ensure secure data transmission.
Antennas in our daily lives send out electromagnetic waves in all directions. These waves propagate as travelling waves, with the electric and magnetic fields moving at right angles to one another. The frequency of a wave refers to the number of cycles it completes in one second, calculated as: Frequency (Hz) = Number of cycles per second.
Rapid scaling is possible in environments such as offices, cafes, and public spaces. This makes wireless communication ideal for modern, dynamic environments where devices need to be easily connected and moved.
In contrast, a wired network is a bounded medium where data travels along a predefined path such as cables or wires. While wired networks offer high-speed data transfer and lower latency, they are less flexible and scalable compared to wireless networks.
In conclusion, wireless communication is a vital technology that enables seamless connectivity between devices without the need for physical cables. Its benefits, such as mobility, convenience, and easy scalability, make it an essential part of our modern, interconnected world. However, challenges such as interference and security concerns must be addressed to ensure reliable and secure communication.
