What is GSM?
GSM (Global System for Mobile communications)
is an open, digital cellular technology used for transmitting
mobile voice and data services. GSM differs from first
generation wireless systems in that it uses digital
technology and time division multiple access transmission
methods. GSM is a circuit-switched system that divides
each 200kHz channel into eight 25kHz time-slots. GSM
operates in the 900MHz and 1.8GHz bands in Europe and
the 1.9GHz and 850MHz bands in the US. The 850MHz band
is also used for GSM and 3GSM in Australia, Canada
and many South American countries. GSM supports data
transfer speeds of up to 9.6 kbit/s, allowing the transmission
of basic data services such as SMS (Short Message Service).
Another major benefit is its international roaming
capability, allowing users to access the same services
when travelling abroad as at home. This gives consumers
seamless and same number connectivity in more than
210 countries. GSM satellite roaming has also extended
service access to areas where terrestrial coverage
is not available.
Number of Connections, GSM
| Market |
Q4 2006 |
Q2 2007 |
Q4 2007 |
Q2 2008 |
| World |
2,190,084,047 |
2,432,990,168 |
2,709,900,985 |
2,925,454,308 |
| Africa |
195,832,145 |
232,061,178 |
273,079,330 |
306,485,511 |
| Americas |
218,384,266 |
255,639,490 |
302,471,377 |
338,342,270 |
| Asia
Pacific |
825,958,067 |
949,496,716 |
1,082,653,571 |
1,219,674,193 |
| Europe:
Eastern |
339,735,325 |
361,706,937 |
395,030,491 |
401,945,699 |
| Europe:
Western |
390,738,824 |
390,666,845 |
389,712,986 |
370,819,907 |
| Middle
East |
128,538,868 |
148,180,842 |
170,277,699 |
190,634,697 |
| USA/Canada |
90,896,552 |
95,238,160 |
96,720,693 |
97,552,031 |
Figures supplied by Wireless Intelligence www.wirelessintelligence.com |
