Common Perception: Wireless technologies are often associated with networks that enable device connectivity at home or business.
IEEE Standardization: Managed by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
802.11 Committee: Responsible for wireless network standards, commonly referred to by their 802.11 identifiers.
Wi-Fi Standards
Naming Conventions:
802.11ac -> Wi-Fi 5
802.11ax -> Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E (extended)
802.11be -> Wi-Fi 7
Purpose: Simplifies differentiation between versions.
Frequency Ranges and Channels
Common Frequency Ranges:
2.4 GHz
5 GHz
6 GHz
Channel Groupings: Frequencies are grouped into channels for easier reference (e.g., channel 6 corresponds to 2.437 GHz in 2.4 GHz range).
Bandwidths: Typically 20, 40, 80, or 160 MHz.
Comparison of Frequency Bands
2.4 GHz: Limited frequencies; prone to interference in crowded areas. Offers three non-overlapping 20 MHz channels.
5 GHz: More frequencies available; supports larger bandwidths (up to 160 MHz).
6 GHz: Offers even greater spectrum and bandwidth flexibility.
Other Wireless Technologies
Bluetooth
Usage: Common in wireless headsets and speakers.
Frequency: Operates on 2.4 GHz, within the unlicensed ISM band.
Range: Typically around 10 meters.
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification)
Applications: Used in access badges, product tags, and pet microchips.
Tag Designs: Can be as small as a grain of rice; may have or lack batteries.
Passive Tags: Powered by nearby scanner radio frequency.
Active Tags: Battery-powered for longer-range scanning.
NFC (Near Field Communication)
Functionality: Builds on RFID technology to enable two-way communication.
Common Uses: Mobile payment, device pairing using Bluetooth or wireless network configuration, door access using phones or smartwatches with NFC capabilities.
Conclusion
Wireless technologies encompass a variety of standards and applications, from networking to device connectivity, each with specific use cases and technical specifications. Understanding these can help in choosing the right technology for the desired application.