Paper Presentation On Mobile Computing 1
Paper Presentation On Mobile Computing 1
Thirumangalam.
Definition of Mobile Computing:
The use of DISTRIBUTED SYSTEM technology to enable users who are not fixed
in a single physical position to communicate with computers which form part of a network;
more often than not these computers act as some form of SERVER. This is one of the major
development areas in distributed computing, with many manufacturers attempting to embed
the same functions found in a normal computer into hand-held devices such as mobile
phones.
Mobile computing aims to provide a network infrastructure and corresponding terminal
capability to perform all desktop-like computing functions seamlessly at any place or time,
even while the terminal is moving. This means that anytime and anywhere, a user would be
able to browse the web, check e-mail, play digital music, and perform all other computing
activities without having to be behind a desktop at home or work. At its best, mobile
computing would allow a user to have access to a consistent working environment.
Mobile computing devices are becoming smaller, lighter, and more powerful than
their predecessors. They also come in various types and connectivity options. Two prominent
classes of mobile computing devices today are those that use the PalmOS and the PocketPC
operating systems. These devices are capable of simple word processing, spreadsheet
applications, web browsing, calendar notations, and address management. There are also low-
end handheld computers with monochromatic displays, low resolution, limited memory, and
somewhat bulky sizes. Higher-end devices are extremely thin, have a high-resolution, and
can include color displays.
Recently, the free Linux operating system has been modified to run on handheld
computers of different types. Some manufacturers are also adopting Linux for their handheld
computers. As this operating system carries no licensing fee, it could further reduce the cost
of handheld computers. In developing countries like India, voice activated Linux-based
simputers have been developed for mass usage in rural areas where the computing
infrastructure is limited. Device integration, such as the integration of cell phones and
handheld computers, is also occurring. Location aware mobile computing—in which a person
is able to obtain information on local restaurants, theaters, coffee-shops, maps, driving
directions, traffic, weather, news, tourist attractions, and the like on a handheld computer—is
also becoming prominent.
Network:
Wireless connectivity for handheld computers also comes in several varieties. Most
handheld computers come with built-in infrared ports that can be used to exchange
information with a network or another computer at short range. Many of them can connect to
wireless local area networks (LANs) based on the IEEE 802.11 standard. Some cellular
telephone service providers are also making cell phone modules available for attachment to
the expansion slots of handhelds computers. Bluetooth, a new wireless standard for personal
area networking , is also available for some handheld computers. Wireless technologies,
includes 802.11b, otherwise known as Wi-Fi, Infrared Data Association (IrDA), Ultra-
Wideband Radio (UWB), and Home RF are being applied to similar technologies that
Bluetooth use with mixed results. 802.11 is the most well known technology, excluding
Bluetooth, and uses the same radio frequency, meaning that they are not compatible as they
cause interference with each other. 802.11 is being implemented into universities in the US,
Japan and China, as well as food and beverage shops where they are being used to identify
students and customers. Even airports have taken up the 802.11 technology, with airports all
over America, and three of America’s most prominent airlines promoting the use of it.
Devices such as PDAs, smart phones and wireless laptops, along with the necessary
peripherals should be easily upgraded to ensure businesses can remain current and effective.
Further adoption of mobile computing should see the initial cost of investment for businesses
fall, as the products become readily available and widely used.
Conclusion:
Mobile computers offer many new options, however there are difficulties to consider.
Generally, wireless laptops cost 50% to 100% more than their desktop counterparts. Laptops
are also harder to upgrade most proprietary hardware components that limit future options.
The cost of setup for mobile computing varies depending on the number of employees, and
the hardware required. The initial investment in this technology remains risky, as the market
is rapidly changing and improving.