Issue TOC Print full article Print this page Download as PDF E-Mail this URL Flame the author     In this article Introduction IP Packet Architecture Throughput Versus Latency But Is It Secure? Executive Summary GPRS: Problem-Free Connections Verizon Wireless' 1XRTT: Safe At Almost Any Speed

Next-generation cellular data services are enabling a wide variety of wireless networking apps, from databases to e-mail access. View images on a cell phone's screen; make phone calls on a PDA--it's all possible in the new world of packet-switched, wireless IP transport.

The major wireless carriers have employed two key technologies. AT&T Wireless, Cingular Wireless and T-Mobile use GPRS, while Verizon Wireless and Sprint PCS have chosen CDMA2000 1XRTT. Both perform similar functions, about equally well, though the details are different for each. Users can expect to get about 30 Kbps to 40 Kbps throughput with GPRS, and roughly 50 Kbps to 75 Kbps with 1XRTT--both slow compared to wireline connections. Latency will also be an issue--500 to 600 milliseconds for 1XRTT, and about 800 ms for GPRS--though these figures primarily will affect applications that require many short transactions, such as database access.

Pricing changes frequently, but at press time, we found rates that ranged from Cingular Wireless' $14.99 to transfer up to 3 MB of data to $99.99 per month for Verizon Wireless' unlimited data plan.

We also ran tests on a 1XRTT network in Syracuse, N.Y., and a GPRS network in Portland, Ore. Both did their jobs respectably, with comparable throughputs and decent connection capabilities. Regardless of which wireless network you select, you'll get adequate service--much slower than wired, but much more convenient as well, since you can take your cell phone, PDA or notebook computer just about anywhere.