GSM and CDMA Full Form
What is the full form of GSM and CDMA?
CDMA stand for “Code Division Multiple Access”, and GSM stands for “Global System for Mobiles”. These are the 2 radio networks used by wireless carriers. CDMA and GSM are multiple-access technologies, allowing multiple calls or data connections on a single radio channel. GSM transforms calls into digital data, gives them a shared channel and a time slot and puts the pieces of each call back together for the listener on the other end. CDMA, on the other hand, encodes each call’s data with a unique key. Then all the calls are transmitted at once, with receivers “dividing” the combined signal back into individual calls.
Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM)
GSM is a digital cellular technology which provides mobile data and voice services across devices. Global System for Mobile Communication is one of the second-generation telecommunication standards (2G). GSM is a wireless network for transmitting data across mobile devices. However, GSM is not a mobile phone but a means of communication across digital cellular devices.
GSM is simply used for wireless data transmission. It was established in 1982 and replaced the 1st generation of telecommunication NMT (1G). It is not only used for voice calls but also for sending text messages and computing data. Any user can connect his GSM-enabled phone to his laptop to receive and send emails and faxes, browse the internet, check security, etc.
GSM's benefits include a secure network, extensive coverage, and compatibility with a broad range of accessories and handsets. On the other hand, one of the most significant disadvantages is that many users share the same bandwidth, which may result in bandwidth limitations and interference.
Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA)
Code Division Multiple Access refers to many protocols used in second-and third-generation (3G and 2G) wireless communication, typically used for mobile communication. The main purpose of CDMA technology is to transmit digital information in the form of ones and zeros over the air.
Multiple access, as the name indicates, allows multiple signals to utilise one transmission channel, boosting the effective use of the bandwidth available. It also enables the users to send data at any time through the entire frequency spectrum and does not restrict the frequency range of the user.
Now, unlike GSM, CDMA phones are tied to a carrier and do not require SIM cards; instead of a SIM card, a phone number is used to connect a CDMA phone to the network. There is no restriction on the number of individuals accessing the CDMA network.
Differences between GSM and CDMA technologies
| GSM | CDMA |
1. It offers international roaming. | 1. It offers only nationwide roaming. |
2. GSM phones use SIM cards | 2. CDMA phones do not require SIM cards |
3. GSM is compatible with a wide variety of phones. | 3. CDMA is compatible with limited types of phones. |
4. Security of the user is not vulnerable. | 4. The phone and security of the user are vulnerable. |
5. GSM supports both voice calls and data usage simultaneously. | 5. CDMA networks don't support data transmission and voice calls simultaneously. |
Advantages and disadvantages of CDMA
Advantages of CDMA are-
Efficient utilisation of frequency spectrum.
Large signal bandwidth helps to reduce multipath fading.
It is secured from hackers.
Good signal quality.
There is no limit to the number of users
Disadvantages of CDMA are-
CDMA is more complicated.
The service of international roaming could be better.
With the increase in the number of users, the overall quality of services decreases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
(Global System for Mobile communication)GSM is a digital mobile network widely used by mobile phone users in Europe and many other parts of the world.
The GSM network is usually divided into three major systems: the switching system (SS), the base station system (BSS), and the operation and support system (OSS).
Verizon plans to shut down its old 3G CDMA network by 2022, which means 3G devices won't be able to receive or make calls. Customers still using Verizon's 3G devices will receive basic flip phones similar to their old ones.
A CDMA phone is locked to a carrier and won't use a SIM card. Instead of a SIM card, a CDMA phone is linked to the network via a phone number.
Both GSM and CDMA are 2G standards. The standard for 4G is LTE or (Long Term Evolution of 3g). However, a 4G sim works on a GSM phone. We can receive calls and messages as usual, but the internet speed will depend on the handset's capability.