Mobile computing

Mobile computing

Mobile computing is human–computer interaction by which a computer is expected to be transported during normal usage. Mobile computing involves mobile communication, mobile hardware, and mobile software. Communication issues include ad-hoc and infrastructure networks as well as communication properties, protocols, data formats and concrete technologies. Hardware includes mobile devices or device components. Mobile software deals with the characteristics and requirements of mobile applications.

Contents

    * 1 Definitions

    * 2 Devices

    * 3 Limitations

Definitions

Mobile computing is "taking a computer and all necessary files and software out into the field."[1]

"Mobile computing: being able to use a computing device even when being mobile and therefore changing location. Portability is one aspect of mobile computing."[2]

"Mobile computing is the ability to use computing capability without a pre-defined location and/or connection to a network to publish and/or subscribe to information ." Uwe Vieille, ACM.org

Mobile Computing is a variety of wireless devices that has the mobility to allow people to connect to the internet, providing wireless transmission to access data and information from where ever location they may be.

Mobile Computing is a modified and new way of interacting with the computer device and to facilitate the other computing capabilities being present at different mobile locations.

[edit] Devices

Many types of mobile computers have been introduced since the 1990s including the:

    * Personal digital assistant/enterprise digital assistant

    * Smartphone

    * Tablet computer

    * Ultra-Mobile PC

    * Wearable computer

Limitations

    * Insufficient bandwidth: Mobile Internet access is generally slower than direct cable connections, using technologies such as GPRS and EDGE, and more recently HSDPA and HSUPA 3G networks. These networks are usually available within range of commercial cell phone towers. Higher speed wireless LANs are inexpensive but have very limited range.

    * Security standards: When working mobile, one is dependent on public networks, requiring careful use of VPN. Security is a major concern while concerning the mobile computing standards on the fleet. One can easily attack the VPN through a huge number of networks interconnected through the line.

    * Power consumption: When a power outlet or portable generator is not available, mobile computers must rely entirely on battery power. Combined with the compact size of many mobile devices, this often means unusually expensive batteries must be used to obtain the necessary battery life.

    * Transmission interferences: Weather, terrain, and the range from the nearest signal point can all interfere with signal reception. Reception in tunnels, some buildings, and rural areas is often poor.

    * Potential health hazards: People who use mobile devices while driving are often distracted from driving and are thus assumed more likely to be involved in traffic accidents.[3] (While this may seem obvious, there is considerable discussion about whether banning mobile device use while driving reduces accidents or not.[4][5]) Cell phones may interfere with sensitive medical devices. Questions concerning mobile phone radiation and health have been raised.

    * Human interface with device: Screens and keyboards tend to be small, which may make them hard to use. Alternate input methods such as speech or handwriting recognition require training.