Showing papers on "Mobile telephony published in 2003"

Channels, Propagation and Antennas for Mobile Communications

Abstract: This exceptional book introduces the reader to the principles, theory and applications of physical layer wireless/mobile communications. applicators and millimetric antennas. The book emphasises the basic principles needed to establish an understanding of this technology, whilst treating the tools required - such as the mathematics and statistics - in the manner of a practical handbook, thus avoiding detailed derivations.

Multicarrier techniques for 4G mobile communications

Abstract: From the Publisher: As research for future fourth generation (4G) mobile communication systems is underway worldwide in major companies and academic institutions, forward-thinking professionals are striving to gain a thorough understanding of the cutting-edge technologies and design techniques that will make these systems work. This book helps readers do just that by: providing a comprehensive introduction to multicarrier techniques for 4G mobile communications with a special focus on the analytical aspects; explaining radio channel characteristics and phenomena and discussing the advantages and disadvantages of the OFDM scheme; featuring new multicarrier-related techniques, MC-CDMA, research on several 4G systems, and a look at several problems to be overcome with these systems; examining the concept and detail of the ODFM scheme and how to carry out theoretical analysis on the performance of transmission systems in radio channels; showing how ODFM has been successfully adopted as a modulation scheme in communications systems and broadcasting systems such as ADSL, wireless LANs, and DVB-T.

Konark - a service discovery and delivery protocol for ad-hoc networks

Abstract: The proliferation of mobile devices and the pervasiveness of wireless technology have provided a major impetus to replicate the network-based service discovery technologies in wireless and mobile networks. However, existing service discovery protocols and delivery mechanisms fall short of accommodating the complexities of the ad-hoc environment. They also place emphasis on device capabilities as services rather than device independent software services, making them unsuitable for m-commerce oriented scenarios. Konark is a service discovery and delivery protocol designed specifically for ad-hoc, peer-to-peer networks, and targeted towards device independent services in particular. It has two major aspects - service discovery and service delivery. For discovery, Konark uses a completely distributed, peer-to-peer mechanism that provides each device the ability to advertise and discover services in the network. The approach towards service description is XML based. It includes a description template that allows services to be described in a human and software understandable forms. A micro-HTTP server present on each device handles service delivery, which is based on SOAP. Konark provides a framework for connecting isolated services offered by proximal pervasive devices over a wireless medium.

Implementation of a WAP-based telemedicine system for patient monitoring

Abstract: Many parties have already demonstrated telemedicine applications that use cellular phones and the Internet. A current trend in telecommunication is the convergence of wireless communication and computer network technologies, and the emergence of wireless application protocol (WAP) devices is an example. Since WAP will also be a common feature found in future mobile communication devices, it is worthwhile to investigate its use in telemedicine. This paper describes the implementation and experiences with a WAP-based telemedicine system for patient-monitoring that has been developed in our laboratory. It utilizes WAP devices as mobile access terminals for general inquiry and patient-monitoring services. Authorized users can browse the patients' general data, monitored blood pressure (BP), and electrocardiogram (ECG) on WAP devices in store-and-forward mode. The applications, written in wireless markup language (WML), WMLScript, and Perl, resided in a content server. A MySQL relational database system was set up to store the BP readings, ECG data, patient records, clinic and hospital information, and doctors' appointments with patients. A wireless ECG subsystem was built for recording ambulatory ECG in an indoor environment and for storing ECG data into the database. For testing, a WAP phone compliant with WAP 1.1 was used at GSM 1800 MHz by circuit-switched data (CSD) to connect to the content server through a WAP gateway, which was provided by a mobile phone service provider in Hong Kong. Data were successfully retrieved from the database and displayed on the WAP phone. The system shows how WAP can be feasible in remote patient-monitoring and patient data retrieval.

Planning UMTS base station location: optimization models with power control and algorithms

Abstract: Classical coverage models, adopted for second-generation cellular systems, are not suited for planning Universal Mobile Telecommunication System (UMTS) base station (BS) location because they are only based on signal predictions and do not consider the traffic distribution, the signal quality requirements, and the power control (PC) mechanism. We propose discrete optimization models and algorithms aimed at supporting the decisions in the process of planning where to locate new BSs. These models consider the signal-to-interference ratio as quality measure and capture at different levels of detail the signal quality requirements and the specific PC mechanism of the wideband CDMA air interface. Given that these UMTS BS location models are nonpolynomial (NP)-hard, we propose two randomized greedy procedures and a tabu search algorithm for the uplink (mobile to BS) direction which is the most stringent one from the traffic point of view in the presence of balanced connections such as voice calls. The different models, which take into account installation costs, signal quality and traffic coverage, and the corresponding algorithms, are compared on families of small to large-size instances generated by using classical propagation models.

Using ZMET to explore barriers to the adoption of 3G mobile banking services

Abstract: Telecommunications companies world‐wide are developing 3G mobile phones and applications. In the UK, mobile banking is considered to be one of the most value‐added and important mobile services available. However, the adoption rate of using 3G mobile phones for financial services is yet to be determined. The current research examined both innovative attributes and customers’ perceived risk in order to understand customers’ behaviour and motivation toward this innovation. It has advanced the theoretical frameworks of innovation and customers’ risk perception as new attributes and risk dimensions were identified. The findings provide banking executives with a better understanding of what are the perceived advantages and disadvantages of 3G mobile banking services, helping them to plan marketing strategies and promotion approaches for 3G mobile banking services in the future.

Methods and apparatus for selecting a wireless network based on quality of service (QoS) criteria associated with an application

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for selecting a wireless communication network based on quality of service criteria associated with an application are disclosed. In one illustrative example, one of several different software applications of a mobile communication device is executed. The software application may be, for example, an e-mail application, an Internet data application, a voice-over-IP application, a video player application, an audio player application, or a video game application. Each software application is associated with different quality of service (QoS) criteria for data communications through a wireless network. The quality of service criteria may include, for example, a bandwidth criterion, a delay criterion, a delay variation criterion, and a data loss criterion. A scanning operation is performed to identify a plurality of a wireless networks available in a coverage area of the mobile device. One of the identified wireless networks is selected for communication based on a match between its available quality of service and the quality of service criterion associated with the executed software application. Advantageously, the most suitable network may be chosen and utilized for each software application.

Location determination of a mobile device using IEEE 802.11b access point signals

Abstract: Wireless LANs are becoming increasingly popular today, particularly those based on IEEE 802.11b standard. We study the problem of determining the location of a mobile device, which is communicating through a WLAN. We exploit the fact that the strength of the signals that a device will receive from different access points will vary with location. We build a database of signal strength information for various locations, and use this information to determine which location a given test data comes from. The problem is complicated because RF signals are affected by the noise, interference, multi-path effect, and random movement in the environment. We find that in spite of this randomness, the signal information is sufficient to detect the position of mobile device with certain error margin.

Automatically changing a mobile device configuration based on environmental condition

Abstract: The described techniques automatically change the notification mode used by a mobile communications device to alert a user of an incoming communication to the mobile communications device. The notification mode is changed in response to a detected environmental condition. The mobile communications device monitors one or more environmental conditions, such as motion, light, sound, and heat, and compares the detected level of each environmental condition to a predetermined threshold. In response to the comparison result, the mobile communications device automatically adjusts the notification mode used to alert a user to an incoming communication. In some implementations, the notification mode change may be triggered only after the environmental condition persists for a predetermined interval of time. In some implementations, the types of automatic notification mode changes used may be based on a preference of a user and may be set through the use of an Internet protocol interface.

System and apparatus for performing broadcast and localcast communications

Abstract: Described is a communication system including mobile communication devices. In the described system, the mobile devices may be wrist-worn watches such as are in common use today, except that the watches are specially configured to receive data in a “broadcast” mode and transmit and/or receive data in a “localcast” mode. The localcast mode includes the ability to transmit and receive data in a peer-to-peer fashion, allowing mobile devices to communicate directly with each other. The ability to combine two of these communication modes in a small, integrated and hence inexpensive and low-power package provides many advantages over existing personal communication device solutions.

A distributed self spreading algorithm for mobile wireless sensor networks

Abstract: Sensor deployment is an important problem in mobile wireless sensor networks. This paper presents a distributed self deployment algorithm for mobile sensors. Performance metrics to evaluate algorithm performance are coverage, uniformity, time and distance traveled till the algorithm converges. Our algorithm is compared with a simulated annealing based algorithm for deployment and is shown to exhibit excellent performance.

Mobile communication device equipped with a magnetic stripe reader

Abstract: A wireless mobile device is adapted to access a wireless network and includes a subscriber identification module (SIM) card slot (552) and a magnetic stripe reader module (500) electrically connected to the SIM card slot and thereby to the wireless mobile device (550). The magnetic stripe reader module (500) is adapted to receive and read information stored in a magnetic stripe and transmit this information to an entity through the wireless mobile device (550) and the wireless network. The wireless mobile device (550) of this invention is used to conduct financial transactions using a payment card comprising a magnetic stripe. The financial transactions include face-to-face or remote purchases and payment with the payment card through a financial institution.

Automatic browsing of large pictures on mobile devices

Abstract: Pictures have become increasingly common and popular in mobile communications. However, due to the limitation of mobile devices, there is a need to develop new technologies to facilitate the browsing of large pictures on the small screen. In this paper, we propose a novel approach which is able to automate the scrolling and navigation of a large picture with a minimal amount of user interaction on mobile devices. An image attention model is employed to illustrate the information structure within an image. An optimal image browsing path is then calculated based on the image attention model to simulate the human browsing behaviors. Experimental evaluations of the proposed mechanism indicate that our approach is an effective way for viewing large images on small displays.

Beyond 3G: vision, requirements, and enabling technologies

Abstract: This article introduces the vision and requirements for future development of mobile communications systems, and discusses several key enabling technologies such as modulation and multiple access schemes, multiple antenna techniques, and an IP-based network, considered important to realize this vision in real-world systems.

The cocial construction of mobile telephony: an application of the social influence model to perceptions and uses of mobile phones within personal communication networks

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to test the argument that perceptions and uses of mobile phones are socially constructed in close personal networks. The study hypothesized that, through collective sense making, perceptions and uses of mobile phones would be more similar within 45 personal communication networks than for the entire sample of 194 individuals. Findings from a self-report survey reveal that several factors were significantly more similar within the networks than for individuals throughout the sample, including perceptions of the handset as a means of display, use for safety and security, attitudes about use in public, microcoordination, hypercoordination, and comfort with technology. Interviews were conducted to explore how perceptions and uses were shaped through relationships and interactions situated in social context. The interview data illuminate how social interaction contributed to perceptions and uses in four key areas: mobile phone adoption, attitudes about products and services, perce...

Apparatus and method of wireless instant messaging

Abstract: A system and method of transmitting instant messages to a mobile communication device via a wireless data communication network is provided. Presence information for a plurality of instant message sources is detected at an instant messaging server that couples the instant message sources to the wireless data communication network. In addition, presence information of the mobile communication device is detected at the instant messaging server. The presence information of the mobile communication device is then compared with the presence information of the instant message sources and at least one of the instant message sources is then enabled to transmit an instant message to the mobile communication device. The presence information may be supplemented to include extended state information of the mobile communication device, which is matched against a plurality of service offerings by the instant messaging server to determine which service may transmit an instant message to the mobile communication device.

Handling charging information in interworking structure of mobile communication and wireless local area networks

Abstract: When interworking two or more networks, such as a wireless local access network (WLAN) and a mobile communication network, user billing and service charging should be accurately collected and processed. To do so, certain types of service usage and charging information for certain users can be deleted depending upon the type of service provided to the user. Also, service usage and charging information can be periodically collected depending upon the type of service being provided. Furthermore, WLAN wireless access service usage and charging information, as well as mobile communication network service charging information can be collected upon correlation therebetween.

Power and timing control methods and apparatus

Abstract: The use of multiple states of mobile communication device operation to allow a single base station to support a relatively large number of mobile nodes is described. The various states require different amounts of communications resources, e.g., bandwidth. Four supported states of operation are an on-state, a hold-state, a sleep-state, and an access-state. Each mobile node in the on-state is allocated communication resources to perform transmission power control signaling, transmission timing control signaling and to transmit data as part of a data uplink communications operation. Each mobile node in the hold-state is allocated communication resources to perform transmission timing control signaling and is provided a dedicated uplink for requesting a state transition and a shared resource for transmitting acknowledgements. In the sleep state a mobile node is allocated minimal resources and does not conduct power control signaling or timing control signaling. Data may be received in the on and hold states.

Methods and apparatus for operating mobile nodes in multiple states

Abstract: The use of multiple states of mobile communication device (14) operation to allow a single base station (12) to support a relatively large number of mobile nodes (14, 16) is described. The various states require different amounts of communications resources, e.g., bandwidth. Four supported states of operation are a on-state (404), a hold-state (410), a sleep-state (408), and an access-state (402). Each mobile node in the on-state (404) is allocated communication resources to perform transmission power control signaling, transmission timing control signaling and to transmit data as part of a data uplink communications operation. Each mobile node in the hold-state (410) is allocated communication resources to perform transmission timing control signaling and is provided a dedicated uplink for requesting a state transition and a shared resource for transmitting acknowledgements. In the sleep state (408) a mobile node is allocated minimal resources and does not conduct power control signaling or timing control signaling.

Battery consumption optimization for mobile users

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed to provide power management for a mobile communication device having a location determination function. The frequency of the location determination function may be adjusted based on whether the mobile communication device is moving and may be further adjusted based on battery voltage or expected battery life.

Method and apparatus providing prepaid billing for network services using explicit service authorization in an access server

Abstract: A method is disclosed for authorizing a prepaid network service in a data network. A network end station issues a request for a prepaid network service. At a network node, such as a router serving as a gateway for selecting services, a determination is made about whether a user associated with the end station is authorized to access the prepaid network service. Network traffic from the end station is forwarded to a service provider only when the user is authorized to use the prepaid network service. Specific embodiments provide message flows among a mobile station, gateway support node, router, and authentication server that support providing prepaid services in a packet-switched network for mobile communication. In certain embodiments, a connection is held open for an end station while a prepaid quota value is refreshed at a portal, thereby reducing overhead and precluding the need to repeat user logon steps. Further, unused quota amounts can be returned to the authentication server for use in association with multiple concurrent connections of the same device.

System and method for buying goods and billing agency using short message service

Abstract: The present invention relates to system and method for buying goods and billing agency using short message service. If a purchaser transmits goods information to a mobile communication service system using short message service of mobile phone, the mobile communication service system generates certification code corresponding to the goods information and transmits it to a shopping mall server and the mobile phone. Then, the shopping mall server and the mobile phone exchange messages and run mutual authentication. Thereby, system construction expense for selling goods and service is decreased, purchasing procedure is simple, and the safety purchase of a purchaser can be done by mutual authentication using the certification code.

System and method to initiate a mobile data communication utilizing a trigger system

Abstract: A system and method to enable a user to initiate a communication with an organization using a mobile communication device by means of a trigger system. A system and method to enable an organization to acquire a user mobile device address by means of a trigger system. A system and method to enable an organization to respond to a user by means of a trigger system and a message application server. A system and method to enable organizations to deliver mobile messages, coupons, offers and promotions to users mobile device by means of a combination of a trigger system, a message application server and an offer application.

Wireless advertising's challenges and opportunities

Abstract: Rapidly developing wireless net-working technology and the growing mobile-device user base have fueled interest in activities that deliver advertisements to mobile devices over a wireless network. Studies by wireless media research companies indicate that delivering permission-based alerts to wireless phones captures consumers' attention, drives response actions, and builds brand awareness. Wireless devices are accessible, personal, and location aware. These characteristics allow for highly targeted, flexible, and dynamic wireless advertisements. Yet the target audience is vast, and users must be able to search for information, issue inquiries, and make purchases at any mobile location.

Mobile telephone gateway apparatus, communication system, and gateway operating system

Abstract: A mobile telephone gateway and call routing device (MPG) (121) disclosed by the present invention is physically coupled with mobile phone (100) which is operative in accordance with first protocol, for adding communication capabilities through at least second communication network, possibly using a second protocol. A mobile communication system (150) is disclosed, comprising MPG (121) placed in-between mobile phone (100) and its battery (118) and Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) card (117). MPG (121) connects to the SIM interface of mobile phone (100), using which it controls call management. It connects to the data/signaling interface of mobile phone (100), using which it communicates with it, while communicating with the second network using another communication means. It connects to the Terminal Adapter/Terminal Equipment (TA/TE) interface of mobile phone (100), thereby enabling communication with wireless data terminals. In the preferred embodiment, the present invention adds Bluetooth (T.M.) cordless telephony and private wireless networking capabilities to a standard mobile phone.

Methods and apparatus for limiting communication capabilities in mobile communication devices

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for limiting communication capabilities in mobile communication devices are disclosed. In one illustrative example, an operating variable of a mobile communication device is detected to be within one of a first range of values, a second range of values, and a third range of values. The mobile device operates in a full communication state if the operating variable is detected to be within the first range of values, a first limited communication state if the operating variable is detected to be within the second range of values, or a second limited communication state if the operating variable is detected to be within the third range of values. When receiving a communication request for establishment of a voice call or for communication of a user data message, the mobile device permits or prohibits the communication depending on the communication state, and preferably depending on whether the communication request is for a non-emergency or emergency communication. In one preferred embodiment, the operating variable is a temperature of the mobile device.

Enhancing wirelass lan capacity using transmission power control

Abstract: A method for mobile communication by access points (22, 23, 25, 27) in a wireless local area network (WLAN) includes transmitting a first downlink signal on a common frequency channel from a first access point to a first mobile station (24), at a first downlink power level, which is adjusted responsively to a first uplink power level transmitted from the first mobile station to the first access point. If the first downlink signal received at a second access point is below a predetermined interference threshold, the second access point may transmit a second downlink signal on the common frequency channel to a second mobile station (29), simultaneously with transmission of the first downlink signal from the first access point to the first mobile station. The capacity of the WLAN may thus be substantially increased.

Probability distributions for the number of radio transceivers which can communicate with one another

Abstract: This paper considers points which can communicate with one another and which are uniformly and randomly distributed on the plane, assuming an inverse power law for attenuation and log-normal shadowing. First, a probability distribution is obtained for the distance between a pair of such points. Communication is assumed to be possible if the attenuation of a signal transmitted from one point, say a mobile phone, does not exceed some specified value by the time it reaches the other, say a base station. The probability distribution of the number of base stations which can hear such a signal from a given mobile is found. An example shows how the probability that a mobile is in a handover region between two or more base stations can be evaluated. The analysis is extended to the case where the power law changes at a specified distance from the mobile, and also to consider the effect of an area within the plane containing a greater density of mobiles and/or base stations (a hot spot). A final result gives the conditional distribution for the number of base stations within some specified area of the plane, given the number within some larger area containing that specified area. The results also apply to the number of mobiles within range of a base station and, in an ad hoc network, to the number of nodes within range of a given node.