Portable Communication Devices

AS ICT

A portable communication device is a pocket sized device that is carried around by an individual

They typically have a display screen with touch input or a miniature keyboard. In the case of the personal digital assistant (PDA) the input and output are combined into a touch-screen interface.

Smartphones and PDAs are popular amongst those who require the assistance and convenience of a conventional computer, in environments where carrying one would not be practical.

A mobile phone or mobile (is a long-range, electronic device used for mobile telecommunications (mobile telephony, text messaging or data transmission) over a cellular network

Most current mobile phones connect to a cellular network consisting of switching points and base stations (cell sites) owned by a mobile network operator (the exception is satellite phones, which are mobile but not cellular).

In addition to the standard voice function, current mobile phones may support many additional services, and accessories, such as SMS for text messaging, email, packet switching for access to the Internet, gaming, Bluetooth, infrared, camera with video recorder and MMS for sending and receiving photos and video, MP3 player, radio and GPS.

Carry out a number of different functions using the same device

They can be used to send and receive photos

Locked into a mobile phone contractLimited battery lifeCost to make calls/ use services

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is a U.S. space-based global navigation satellite system. It provides reliable positioning, navigation, and timing services to worldwide users on a continuous basis in all weather, day and night, anywhere on or near the Earth.

GPS is made up of three parts: between 24 and 32 satellites orbiting the Earth, four control and monitoring stations on Earth, and the GPS receivers owned by users. GPS satellites broadcast signals from space that are used by GPS receivers to provide three-dimensional location (latitude, longitude, and altitude) plus the time.

Greater accuracy for plotting exact location and distance travelled in relation to the surround terrain

Accuracy in measuring distance

Transmission of data can be slow/ delay in updating information

Expensive devices

Actual control devices that encode and retrieve the data being recorded from a Global Positioning System

Mainly used for navigation purposes, in calculating position of driver and the required route chosen

Quicker to navigate and find location with than using road maps

Suggest alternative routes dependent on traffic conditions

Display can be confusing and hard to read

Unsuitable roads can be suggested

A personal digital assistant (PDA) is a handheld computer, also known as a palmtop computer. Newer PDAs commonly have color screens and audio capabilities, enabling them to be used as mobile phones (smart phones), web browsers, or portable media players.

Many PDAs can access the Internet, intranets or extranets via Wi-Fi, or Wireless Wide Area Networks (WWANs). Many PDAs employ touch screen technology.

They can be used remotely from place of work

Some have the same capabilities as PC’s – full operating systems and software

Difficult to enter textCan be expensive to purchase