3G and 4G Mobile Technologies

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3G technology is considered the “third generation” in mobile technology and has provided services to cell phone users for over 10 years. 3G ushered in the smartphone era enabling users to check e-mail, text, call and take advantage of streaming data on their devices. “The transfer rate for 3G networks is between 128 and 144 kbps (kilobits per second) for devices that are moving fast and 384 kbps for slow ones (like for pedestrians). For fixed wireless LANs, the speed goes beyond 2 Mbps.” 1
The services and applications include CDMA 2000, UMTS, EDGE, EV-DO and HSDPA which represent the different network standards and the corresponding upgrade and increase in data rates accordingly. The 3G network architecture is based on a wide area cell structure and uses a mixture of circuit and packet switching. “Circuit switching is a very old technology that has been used in telephone systems for a very long time.” 2
Packet switching is the predominant technology used in 4G and only uses resources as they are needed and does not require keep them during the whole connection like in circuit switching.
Some may assume that all cell users are on 4G but in reality there are many areas that lack 4G coverage. Also, at this time, 3G technology still provides the basic service needed for voice transmissions. In the near future, voice will be used over the LTE network as well. 3G services can still provide reliability for many consumers. If an individual does not need to stream a lot of video/music or make many video chats or calls, most of their basic cell phone needs can be met with 3G. Some smaller reseller companies offer large discounts to cell customers that use 3G only.
4G technology introduced 4th generation network capability to the mobile ...

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