Signals

Microwave Signals

Microwave signals are another form of wireless communication. Microwave signals operate at a higher frequency than Radio Frequencies. This method is mainly used for cell phone and long distance telephone communication. Microwave signals transmit best at higher altitudes but are affected by weather conditions such as fog and rain. Many of the towers that are used for transmission are expensive and require a high level of expertise to ensure the signal lines are accurately aligned. Microwave signals can be used by most companies who have a direct line of sight to a microwave signal tower.

Satellite Signals

Satellite transmissions are brought to earth via a satellite that orbits the earth and the same pace as the earth moves. An earth based transmitter known as an uplink acts as the broadcaster for the satellite signal. Because Satellite Signals are communicated high above the earth, no line of sight interruptions occur, which makes this type of wireless communication the most ideal for all users on earth. The only drawback is because the satellite covers such a large area, there is a few second delay between transmission and receiving the data. Satellite Signals can be used by companies and home users that travel often because the line of sight is not inhibited because the transmission comes from high above the earth.

Infrared Systems

Infrared Systems are the last wireless communication to discuss. Infrared systems use light to transmit data just as remote controls for televisions. Many disadvantages exist with this method of wireless communication. One being the amount of data that can be transmitted at one time: 1 Mbps for omnidirectional and 16 Mbps for directional communications. The light cannot go through opaque objects and the light bounces; therefore difficulty exists in keeping communication in a confined area. Minimal business would use this sort of communication if their office was in a confined space using little resources.