General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) is a wireless data bearer. It is an Internet Protocol (IP) technology, which overlays the GSM network, therefore wherever there is GSM signal there is GPRS signal. TSTT's GPRS network has the ability to support a vast array of mobile data applications, which will offer great value to our mobile users. Current GPRS speed is approximately 30kbps Ð 40 kbps.
GPRS is primarily a way to access data more securely, and efficiently than ever before, and it has many advantages.
- Remote access opportunities
GPRS gives the ability to access applications and databases remotely and wirelessly.
- Connectivity 'on the go'
While on the go, mobile users can connect wirelessly to the Internet, check email, or use other applications; all using their GPRS enabled handsets or mobile device.
- Always Connected
With GPRS no time is wasted while on the move, because no dialing up and logging on to check your email is required from your mobile. Instead, GPRS gives you the ability to log on at the beginning of the working day and automatically receive email and application data online. The network is only used when data is being transmitted, even though you stay connected all the time.
- Wider range of consumer and corporate applications
GPRS enabled applications include Consumer and Business Information Applications
- Faster connection times and speeds
GPRS terminals are capable of operating significantly faster than conventional GSM handsets, which operate on Circuit Switch Data (CSD).
- Robust
GPRS is a more robust system which can better cope with an intermittent loss of radio signals.
- Data and Voice Calls ('Resume & Switch')
GPRS provides a resume & switch technology. This means that while conducting a data transaction such as surfing the net or sending an email, if a voice call comes through the data transaction will be suspended, allowing the user to take the call and then resume upon terminating the call.
- Efficient
The GPRS network is far more efficient than circuit switched networks. It is only used when data is actually being transmitted so mobile data costs are reduced and more users can be connected simultaneously.
- Cost Savings
Mobile users can be charged based on the volume of data sent or received (uploaded or downloaded). This is because GPRS calls are not charged according to their duration (i.e. time), thus there is no extra cost for always being connected and there is no cost incurred while emails are being read or composed.
The GPRS service can be used in three ways:
- Using the GPRS capable handset as a modem
- Connecting directly to the internet via GPRS with devices that have HTML Browsers
- With a PC ÐCard for wireless Internet connection
At launch, TSTT will be offering the following Consumer Information Applications:
Messaging Services
- Internet e-mail
- Instant Messaging
Mobile Internet
- 'Surfing the Net'
- Uploading (sending) Information
- Downloading (receiving) Information
First GPRS must be activated on your SIM Card
Then you must have a GPRS enabled mobile handset or device (manufacture dependant)
There will be no charge for GPRS activation.
GPRS Devices can be used as modem drivers, for example using the mobile phone as a modem to connect to the Internet via Infrared or via a data cable. Such devices include:
- Nokia 6310
- Nokia 8310
- Nokia 6200
- Nokia 5100
- Nokia 7210
- Sony Ericsson T68i
- Samsung S300
- Samsung V205
- Motorola C332 and C333
- Motorola V66i
Setting up GPRS as a Modem Driver
- You must have a Modem Driver Software for your model phone
This software is available from the manufacturer's website and can be installed (downloaded) onto the relevant PC
Any additional software that comes with the handset must be installed on the PC
- There are 3 basic methods for connecting your mobile phone to the PC
- Using the Infrared Port (PC must have Windows 98. 2nd Edition or higher)
- Using USB or Serial Cable
- Using Bluetooth
Note:
- No username or password is required for GPRS set up
- You do not have to have an Internet account to access the Internet if GPRS is being used.
GPRS devices with HTML browsers can use GPRS to connect directly to the Internet and Email Clients. Such mobile devices include:
- Nokia 7650
- Nokia 3650
- Sony Ericsson P800
Notes:
- The above handsets can be used as modem drivers
- Opera is a software that allows better and full Web experience on mobile devices using a technology called Small-Screen rendering (SSR). Go to www.opera.com to download Opera for your device.
- Download Opera (for the relevant device) onto your laptop or directly onto your mobile device using a data cable
- If downloaded onto your PC Ð line up the infrared on the mobile with the infrared on the PC
- The PC would automatically detect the device and the installation process will begin.
- Once completed, check the menu of the Nokia 3650 and 'Opera' should be a new item on the list.
- Select Opera and begin your wireless Internet experience.
PC Cards
A PC Card is an Input/Output (I/O) device that fits into a personal computer. It is used primarily as a wireless telecommunications modem and can be inserted into some mobile devices along with a SIM Card (activated with GPRS) to access the Internet and Email Clients. Such devices include:
- PC Tablet
- Laptop Computers
- Notebook Computers
Examples of PC Cards include:
- Nokia D211 (Dual-Band)
- Sierra Wireless Card - Air Card 750 (Tri-Band)
- Sony Ericsson GC75 (Tri-Band)
Setting Up
- PC cards are accompanied by a software (CD) which should be downloaded onto the computer/laptop
- The PC card is then inserted into the PC slot of the laptop with the SIM card inside
- GPRS is then Activated and Connected and ready for use
Back to the GPRS Setup Guide
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