GSM: Global System for Mobile Communications Explained

GSM stands for “Global System for Mobile Communications.” It’s a digital cellular technology widely used for mobile communication and is one of the most prevalent standards for second-generation (2G) mobile networks.

GSM was developed as a standard to replace the older analog cellular systems. It has since become the foundation for more advanced mobile network technologies.

Here are the key features and components of a GSM network system:

• Frequency Bands: GSM operates in several bands, including 900 MHz and 1800 MHz in Europe, Asia, and Africa, as well as 850 MHz and 1900 MHz in North America.
• Digital Technology: GSM uses digital technology to transmit voice and data, providing better call quality, improved security, and more efficient use of spectrum.
• Global Standard: GSM follows a global standard, which makes devices and networks operate seamlessly in most countries worldwide.
• Data Services: GSM supports data services such as GPRS and EDGE to allow for mobile internet access and data communication.
• Bandwidth: GSM supports a total bandwidth of 25 MHz in the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands. Within this, channels are spaced 200 KHz apart, with each carrier channel having a bandwidth of approximately 200 KHz.
• Data Rates: In GSM, voice calls support 13 kbps per channel, GPRS supports data rates ranging from 20 Kbps to 40 kbps, and EDGE supports data rates up to 384 kbps.

10 Uses of GSM

Here are common applications or uses of GSM network technology:

• Enables users to make and receive phone calls, both locally and internationally.
• Introduced SMS, allowing users to send and receive text messages.
• Allows users to roam seamlessly between different GSM networks and countries, ensuring connectivity while traveling.
• Introduced SIM cards, which store subscriber information and authentication keys, allowing users to switch phones easily.
• Supports data services (through GPRS/EDGE), enabling mobile internet access, email, and web browsing.
• Enables location-based services such as GPS and cell tower triangulation.
• Used for M2M (Machine to Machine) communication.
• Supports mobile banking and payment services.
• Allows users to access emergency services such as police, fire, and medical assistance.
• GSM networks have been adapted to support IoT (Internet of Things) devices.
• GSM enabled phones can be used for social media platforms.

Advantages of GSM Networks

Here are several advantages of GSM networks:

1. GSM technology has been around for a while, so GSM mobile phones and modems are widely available across the world.
2. It provides very cost-effective products and solutions.
3. GSM-based networks (base stations) are deployed across the world, meaning the same mobile phone works globally. This leverages cost benefits and provides seamless wireless connectivity. International roaming is not a concern.
4. Advanced versions of GSM with a higher number of antennas provide high-speed download and upload of data.
5. SAIC and DAIC techniques provide very high transmission quality. SAIC stands for Single Antenna Interference Cancellation technique, while DAIC stands for Dual Antenna Interference Cancellation.
6. GSM networks are easy to maintain due to the availability of a large number of network engineers at an affordable cost. This helps telecom operators increase revenue.
7. Phones work based on SIM cards, making it easy for users to switch between different phone types. It also allows for storing user data and preferences.
8. GSM signals generally don’t deteriorate inside offices and homes, and offer good voice call quality due to digital encoding and error correction techniques.
9. It is easy to integrate the GSM technology stack with other wireless technology-based devices, such as CDMA, LTE, etc.
10. GSM incorporates encryption and authentication measures, making it more secure than analog systems.
11. GSM introduced SMS, which became a popular and cost-effective way to communicate.
12. GSM specifications enable devices and networks from different vendors to work together without technical concerns.
13. GSM technology is energy-efficient, which is important for mobile devices with limited battery capacity.

Disadvantages of GSM Networks

Here are some disadvantages of GSM networks:

1. Many GSM technologies are patented by Qualcomm, and licenses need to be obtained from them.
2. Repeaters are often required to be installed to increase coverage.
3. GSM provides limited data rate capability; for higher data rates, advanced GSM devices are needed.
4. GSM uses the FTDMA access scheme and has limited bandwidth. Multiple users share the same bandwidth, leading to interference when many users are using the GSM service. Robust frequency correction algorithms are used in mobile phones and base stations to mitigate this.
5. GSM uses pulse-based burst transmission technology, which can interfere with certain electronics. This is why airplanes, petrol stations, and hospitals often prevent the use of GSM-based mobile phones or other gadgets.
6. Despite encryption, GSM networks are vulnerable to hacking and eavesdropping.
7. While widespread, GSM coverage may not be available in extremely remote or undeveloped areas, and also areas served by other cellular technologies such as 4G LTE and 5G NR (New Radio).
8. The performance of GSM networks depends on the quality and capacity of the backhaul infrastructure, which may be inadequate in some regions.
9. Older GSM devices may not be compatible with newer networks and require users to upgrade their devices.

Conclusion

GSM networks offer advantages such as global compatibility, wide coverage, good voice call quality, secure communication, and support for text messaging and data services.

However, there are some disadvantages, such as slower data speeds compared to newer technologies and network congestion in densely populated areas. Despite these drawbacks, GSM technology paved the way for the development of more advanced mobile communication standards and remains in use in many parts of the world for basic voice and text communication.