A Deep Dive into Wireless Communication and Mobile Transactions

Unlock the secrets of wireless network protocols and take a deep dive into the world of mobile payments and NFC technology in this engaging episode of Acknowledging Tap. Imagine yourself armed with knowledge about the frequency bands, modulation schemes, data rates, and security features of the widely used Wi-Fi and short-range Bluetooth. As we peel back the layers of these complex technologies, you'll gain an in-depth understanding of how Wi-Fi and Bluetooth operate to meet our ever-growing need for faster and more efficient wireless communication. You'll also get to learn about the continuing evolution of these technologies, making you a better-informed tech enthusiast or a more competitive candidate for the A+ and Network+ exams.

But that's not all. Ever wondered how Zigbee, a low-power wireless communication protocol, works? Curious about mobile payments and NFC technology? We've got you covered! In the second half of this episode, we explore everything from contact payments and data transfer to access control and information retrieval. We also shed light on the security features of these technologies, their compatibility, and how they are standardized through international standards. As we journey through these topics, you'll learn about the Zigbee Alliance's efforts to promote the development and adoption of Zigbee technologies. And as Thanksgiving approaches, we pause to express our gratitude and share our contact information for those eager to connect. Gear up for an enlightening episode that's power-packed with essential knowledge.

Transcript

Speaker 1: 0:26

And welcome to the Acknowledging Tap. I'm Professor Jay Rod. In this episode we're going to compare and contrast protocols for wireless network. Since it's found in A+, let's get to it. Welcome back everyone to Acknowledging Tap. My name is Professor Jay Rod, that's J-R-O-D, and this podcast is about the Comptier exam. So we go over different topics on the Comptier exam the A+, network plus and security plus. Sometimes we go into Cloud+, but those are mostly the three that we focus on and in this podcast we do questions. We pick a topic and we'll talk about it and, yeah, sometimes we do a little bit of preaching and encouragement. All right, again, my name is Professor Jay Rod, j-r-o-d. Like the base will play A-Rod, except it's with a J. So on today's topic, we're going to talk about wireless network. We're going to compare and contrast the protocols for wireless networking. So let's start it off.

Speaker 1: 1:52

Wireless networking protocols are essential for communication between devices without the need for physical cables. Several wireless network protocols exist, each design for a specific purpose and applications. On this podcast I'll compare and contrast some of the prominent wireless network protocols. Meaning off number one Wi-Fi, ieee 802.11, right, wi-fi is based on the IEEE 802.11 family of standards and is widely used wireless networking technologies that allows devices to connect and communicate over local area networks without the need for physical cables. Here are some key features and characteristics of Wi-Fi.

Speaker 1: 2:36

First, let's talk about the purpose. Wi-fi is designed for local area networking, providing wireless connectivity to devices such as computers, smartphones, tablets, printers and other network devices. It is commonly used for internet access and home business, public places and educational institutions. Its frequency bands Wi-Fi operates in both the 2.40 gigahertz and the 2.4 and the 5 gigahertz frequency band. Some newer Wi-Fi standards, such as the Wi-Fi 6, which is 802.11aX or AX, also introduce support for the 6 gigahertz band to reduce congestion and improve performance.

Speaker 1: 3:19

Next, we'll talk about modulation and data rates. Wi-fi uses various modulation schemes to transmit data, including QAM, qam, quadrix, amplitude, ma-ah Modulation. Dual rates vary on the Wi-Fi standards. For example, wi-fi 4, 802.11n supports data rates up to 600 megabits per second. Wi-fi 5, 802.11ac can reach several gigabits and Wi-Fi 6, 802.11x supports even higher Range. The range of Wi-Fi depends on factors such as frequency, band, transmit power and environmental conditions. Typically, wi-fi has a range of a few dozen meters indoors and it can extend to several hundred meters outdoors if there's nothing blocking it. Story I like to tell my students is that I was on the 13th floor of a building and right across the street there was a deli that had an open Wi-Fi and I can log in into that Wi-Fi and watch Netflix.

Speaker 1: 4:24

Security Wi-Fi networks implement security protocols such as WEP, wpa and WPA2 and 3 to protect against unauthorized access and data interception. Encryption methods like WPA3 provide stronger security features compared to earlier standards, and you don't want to use WEP or WPA, right? You don't want to use that anymore. Multiple standards the Wi-Fi line certifies devices for compliance with specific IEEE 802.11 standards. Common Wi-Fi standards include BG well, this is all 802.11, right? Bg, n, ac and X. Backwork compatible Wi-Fi standards often are backwork compatible, allowing devices of different Wi-Fi generations to connect to the same network. However, the network performance may be limited by the capacities of the least advanced device.

Speaker 1: 5:24

Interference and congestion Wi-Fi networks can experience interference from other electronic devices operating in the same frequency band. Congestion can occur in areas with many Wi-Fi networks, leading to reduced performance. Newer standards, like Wi-Fi 6, introduce features to mitigate congestion. Wi-fi is versatile and widely adopted technologies that continue to evolve, with each standard addressing the growing need for faster speeds, increased capabilities and improved efficiency in the wireless communication.

Speaker 1: 5:58

Next, let's talk about Bluetooth, which is. Bluetooth is based on the IEEE 802.15.1 standard. It's a wireless communication technology designed for short-term communications between devices. Here are the key features and characteristics of Bluetooth.

Speaker 1: 6:19

Purpose Bluetooth is primarily used for short-range wireless communication between devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, headphones, speakers and internet of things devices. It is commonly employed for tasks like file sharing, audio streaming and connecting peripherals like your keyboard, your mouse, right Audio streaming like when you're in your car, right, and you want to share your music with your radio of your phone, right. That's a PAN network. Remember that. So that's what Bluetooth is used for. Frequency band Bluetooth operates in the 2.4 gigahertz of industrial, scientific and medical band. The 2.4 gigahertz band is also used for other devices like Wi-Fi, which can lead to interference in densely populated areas. Range Bluetooth has a relatively short range, typically up to 10 meters, what they call Bluetooth classic, or 100 meters for Bluetooth low energy. The short range is suitable for PAN networks, personal area networks, and limits the risk of interference with other devices outside of the immediate vicinity.

Speaker 1: 7:35

Modulation and data rates. Bluetooth uses frequency hopping spread spectrum for modulation. Data rates vary between Bluetooth classic and Bluetooth low energy. Bluetooth classic supports data rates up to 3 megabytes per second. While Bluetooth low energy is designed for lower data rates to conserve power Power consumption, bluetooth low energy is specifically designed to be energy efficient, making it suitable for battery power devices and internet of things applications. Bluetooth classic may have higher power consumption, and we know that because the Bluetooth is one of those things that will suck your phone battery dry, eliminating its use in devices with strict power constraints.

Speaker 1: 8:26

Profiles Bluetooth device uses profile to identify specific functionalities. Common profiles include headset profile, hands-free profile, advanced audio distribution profile and generic attribute profile for Bluetooth low energy. Pairing and security Bluetooth devices often require pairing before establishing a connection. Pairing involves exchanging security credentials to ensure secure communications. Bluetooth supports various security features, including encryption and authentication.

Speaker 1: 9:02

Bluetooth technology has evolved through different versions, with each version introducing improvements in the term of data rates, range and power efficiency. Common versions include Bluetooth 1, 2, 3, and 4, 4, 1, 4, 2, and 5. Mesh networking Bluetooth Mesh is a network topology introduced in Bluetooth 5.0, allowing the device to form a mesh network by extended coverage and improve reliability. Bluetooth is versatile technology suitable for a wide range of applications with short-term wireless communications required, particularly in personal and Internet of Things devices. The introduction of Bluetooth low energy has expanded its application to various low-power scenarios. Let's see what happens in the future with Bluetooth Sounds like we're going to be able to do a lot with it.

Speaker 1: 9:56

Next up, we have ZigWave. This is probably new for some of you guys. Zigwave is a wireless communication protocol designed for home automation and control system. It is often used to connect and control smart devices within a home, creating a network of interconnected devices. You have the key features and characters of ZigWave. Purpose Z-Wave is specifically designed for whole automation of applications, allowing very smart devices such as lights, thermostat, door lock sensors and more to communicate and be controlled within a home environment.

Speaker 1: 10:34

Its frequency bands Z-Wave operates in a sub one gigahertz frequency band, specifically in the 868.42 megahertz band in Europe and the 908.42 megahertz band in the United States. This frequency band provides better penetration through walls and obstacles compared to higher frequency bands. Range a Z-Wave has a moderate range, typically reaching up to 30 meters indoors. The range can be extended by creating a mesh network where devices act as repeaters relying messages to extend coverage, validation and data rates. Z-wave uses Galston frequency shift keying for modulation. The data rates of Z-Wave are relatively low, typically ranging from 9.6 kilobits to 100 kilobits, suitable for the control and monitoring of smart home devices. Mesh network similar to ZIG-B, zig-wave supports mesh networking, allowing devices to form a network where messages can be relayed through multiple nodes. This enhance coverage and reliability within home.

Speaker 1: 11:44

Into operability Z-Wave aligns a consortium of companies supporting Z-Wave technologies. Ensure into operability between different manufacturer devices. Zig-wave certified devices can seemingly work together within the same network. Security ZIG-Wave includes security features to protect communication between devices. It uses AES-120A encryption for secure data transmission. Low power consumptions ZIG-Wave devices are designed to be energy efficient, making them suitable for battery powered devices like sensors. Low power consumption contributes to longer battery life. Application profiles ZIG-Wave defines various application profiles that specify how devices should be communicated for specific applications, ensuring consistency of across different ZIG-Wave devices. Example includes lighting control, climate control and security. Hub-based architecture ZIG-Wave typically includes a central hub or controller that manages and coordinates communications between device. The hub is responsible for user interface, automation, logic and integration with other smart home systems. In summary, zig-wave is a wireless communication protocol specifically tailored for home automation, offering features like mesh network, low power consumptions and interoperability among certified devices. It's focused on the smart home market and has led to widespread adoption in the home automation industry.

Speaker 1: 13:23

Next we have cellular networks. Cellular networks include 4G, lte and 5G, our wireless communication system designed for a wide area network to provide mobile device and mobile services. Here are the key features and characteristics of cellular network For the 4G. 4g LTE is designed to deliver high-speed mobile broadband service, offering faster data rates, lower latency and improve spectral efficiency compared to earlier generations. Operates in a range of frequency bands, including low 700 megahertz, mid 1800 to 2100 megahertz and high 2500 megahertz bands. Multiple frequency bands allow for increased capacity and coverage. Data rates provide high data rates, with theoretical peak speeds reaching several hundred megabytes per second for downloads and uploads. Support multimedia applications, video streaming, online gaming and other data intensive services. Offer lower latency compared to previous generation, enabling responsive communication for real-time applications such as online gaming and video conferencing. Multiple antenna technologies 4G LTE utilize multiple antenna technologies, including MIMO, multiple input, multiple output and beamforming, to enhance data through throughput and network efficiency. Our backward compatible 4G are backward compatible with 3G and 2G technologies, allowing older device to connect to the network.

Speaker 1: 15:06

Now let's go to 5G. 5g aims to provide only faster mobile broadband, but also support a wide range of use cases, including massive internet of things, critical communication and ultra reliable low latency applications. Frequency bands operate in a broader spectrum, including the low level sub 1 gigahertz, mid band 1 through 6 gigahertz and high band millimeter wave or MM wave, 24 gigahertz and above frequency. The use of MM Wave enables extreme high data rates, but with stronger ranges and susceptible to obstacles. Data rates offer significantly higher data rates than 4G LTE, with peak speeds potentially reaching several gigabits per second. Enables faster downloads, improved video streaming quality and support for emerging applications like augmented reality and virtual reality.

Speaker 1: 16:05

Latency 5G aims to achieve ultra low latency, reducing delay in data transmission. This is critical for applications requiring real-time responsiveness, such as autonomous vehicles and remote surgery. Network slicing introduces network slicing allowing the creation of virtualized networks tailored to specific use of cases with varying requirements for bandwidth, latency and reliability. Massive MIMO and beamforming expands on the multiple antenna technologies of 4G LTE, implementing massive MIMO utilizing a large number of antennas and advanced beamforming for improved coverage and efficiency. Edge computing 5G network facilities edge computing, bringing computer resources closer to the network edge to reduce latency and support applications that require real-time data processing. In summary, both 4G LTE and 5G are saluted network technologies, with 5G representing the next evolution, offering faster speed, lower latency and support for diverse applications beyond traditional mobile broadband services. The deployment of 5G is ongoing and expected to play a crucial role in the advancement of various industries and technologies.

Speaker 1: 17:28

Next, we have NFC, nea Field Communication. It's a short-range wireless communication technology that enables data exchange between devices in a close proximity. We have the key features and characteristics of NFC Purpose NFC is designed for short-range communication, typically within a range of few centimeters to a maximum of about 10 centimeters. It is commonly used for contactless data exchange, mobile payment pairing, bluetooth devices and accessing information with a simple tap. Frequency bands operate at the 13.56 MHz, which is high frequency range. The use of this frequency helps balance the tradeoff between range and power consumption. Communication modes NFC supports two main modes of communication Active mode, which involves two power devices communicating with each other, and passive mode. One power device, which is the initiator, communicates with the passive device, which is the target, which does not require its own power source. Data rates NFC supports relatively low data rates, typically ranging from 160 kilobits to 424 kilobits. While this speed is lower than some wireless communication technologies, it is more than enough for the intended application Operating range. The typical operating range of NFC is very short, making it suitable for applications where close proximity is essential for communications. The short range enhances security and prevents unintentional data exchange. So use case what do we use this for?

Speaker 1: 19:13

Mobile payments NFC is widely used for context payments, allowing users to make transactions by tapping their smartphones or contact-licked cards on payment terminals. Data transfer NFC facilitates quick and easy data exchange between devices, such as pairing Bluetooth devices or transferring small files. Access control NFC is used for access control system, allowing users to get entry to buildings or facilities with a tap of the NFC-enabled card or device. Information retrieval NFC tags, which are passive devices containing information, can be embedded in objects or posters. Users can tap the NFC-enabled device to retrieve information or launch specific actions. Security NFC includes security features to protect communications. This may include encryption and authentication to ensure that the data exchange is secure and not susceptible to unauthorized access. Compatibility many modern smartphones, tablets and other devices come equipped with NFC capabilities. This widespread adoption contributes to ubiquity and NFC-enabled applications. Standardization NFC is based on the international standard, including the ISO IEC 1443 and ISO IEC 18092, ensuring interoperability between different NFC devices and systems. In summary, nfc is versatile and widely adopted technologies that excel in providing secure and convenient short-range communication for various applications, particularly those requiring quick and simple interactions, with a physical touch of close proximity.

Speaker 1: 21:00

Alright, the last one is Zigbee. Zigbee is based on the IEEE 802.15.4 standard and is a wireless communication protocol designed for low power, low data rate and short range communications. Here are the key features and characteristics of Zigbee. Purpose Zigbee is designed for short range communication and low power, low data rate applications, making it well suited for you guessed it the Internet of Things devices, home and automation, industrial control and sensor networks. Frequency band Zigbee operates in the 2.4 GHz ISM band, the same frequency band as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. It also has regional variations. That allows operation in the 915 MHz and the 868 MHz bands. Range Zigbee typically has a short to medium range, covering distance from a few meters to around 100 meters, depending on the power settings and the environmental conditions. This range can be extended by forming a mesh network, where devices act as routers, and extend the coverage. Modulation and data rates Zigbee use direct SQL spectrum for modulation. Data rates are relatively low, typically ranging from 20 to 250 kBps, suitable for intermittent and low bandwidth communications.

Speaker 1: 22:31

Power consumptions Zigbee is designed to be energy efficient, making it suitable for battery powered devices. Devices can operate in low power mode and wake up pre-artically to communicate Topology. Zigbee supports mesh networking where devices can act as routers, forming a self-healing network. This allows for more extended range and improve reliability by routing messages through multiple devices. Application profiles Zigbee defines various application profiles that specify how Zigbee devices should be communicate for specific applications. Xamp includes home automation, smart energy and healthcare.

Speaker 1: 23:15

Security. Zigbee includes security features such as encryption and authentication to ensure secure communication. It uses Zigbee Alliance key establishment framework for security Interference. Zigbee uses a 2.4 GHz band means that it may experience interference from other devices operating in the same frequency range. However, the mesh topology helps mitigate the impact of the interference. The Zigbee Alliance is a consortium of companies that promote the development and adoption of Zigbee technologies. It oversees the development of Zigbee standards and certification programs. In summary, zigbee is a wireless communication protocol tailored for low powered, short range applications, particularly in the Internet of Things scenarios. Their devices need to communicate intermittently by conserving energy. The mesh network capabilities and defined application profiles contribute to Zigbee's versatility in various industries.

Speaker 1: 24:30

Now, with that said, this stuff will help you with both A plus and actually network plus, because network plus has a lot of this stuff also. So if you're studying for both exams, this will help you. This particular podcast will help you and, as always, ladies and gentlemen, if you're having trouble with your A plus exam, if you're having trouble passing, if you're having trouble, you know, studying or concentrating, you could always reach out to me, professor J rod J R O D at gmailcom. I know I paid someone to be my social media manager and she kept putting J rod J A Y R O D. For the last couple of podcasts I've been making sure that I spell it right and then I'm actually getting more emails from, from you guys, which is great. I love communicating with my fans.

Speaker 1: 25:33

But again, I'm kind of I want to do a day of question answers for A plus or network plus or security plus, whatever you want. We can do it, you know, via zoom or via something you know I don't know. Think about doing a tiktok. You let me know, we can do it on tiktok live, right? If you want um, I don't know you, you let me know. Email me at professor J rod at gmailcom that's J R O D at gmailcom. See if you'd be interested in listening, right? If I do likea, you know, we'll do six questions on, you know, on live, on on tiktok live. But I don't know, I don't have that many users. So, um, we'll see. We'll see. Let's uh, let me know, give me some ideas, guys, and let's expand this. All right, that's gonna put a ball on today's episode.

Speaker 1: 26:32

Thank you so much for listening, and it's, this is close to thanksgiving. I want to wish each and every one of you a happy thanksgiving. I'll see you next time. This is the production of little cha cha. Productions are by sarah, music by jokin. If you want to reach me, you can email me at professor j rod, that's professor J R O D, at gmailcom. You can also follow me on instagram at professor J rod.