GSM Connectivity – JSS3 Computer Hardware & GSM Repair Lesson Note (Second Term)

Wireless connectivity is the way phones and other devices send data to each other or to the internet through the air, using invisible radio waves instead of cables.

The three common types on a phone are Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and Mobile Hotspot.

Behavioural objectives

1. Define wireless connectivity, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and Mobile Hotspot.
2. State the uses and key features of Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and Mobile Hotspot.
3. List the steps for pairing two phones by Bluetooth and for sharing data with a hotspot.
4. Compare the three connections by distance, main use and battery use.
5. State safety rules for using a hotspot.

Why are there different types of wireless connection?

Devices use different wireless methods because each one suits a different need, just as we walk for short trips and use a car for long ones.

1. Distance: how far the data needs to travel.
2. Speed: how fast the data needs to move.
3. Power: how much battery the connection uses.

What is Bluetooth?

Bluetooth is a wireless technology that connects two devices over a very short distance, usually about 10 metres (the size of a large classroom).

• Name: it is named after a Viking-age king.

What is Bluetooth used for?

• Sharing files: sending one photo or a small document to someone sitting next to you.
• Headphones and pods: connecting your phone to wireless earphones.
• Speakers: playing music from your phone on a Bluetooth speaker.
• Accessories: connecting a wireless mouse or keyboard to a computer.

What are the key features of Bluetooth?

• Low power: it drains the battery more slowly than Wi-Fi.
• Security: devices usually must “pair” (agree to connect) before they share data.
• Slow speed: it is fine for songs and photos but too slow for big movies.

How do you pair two phones by Bluetooth?

1. Switch on Bluetooth on both phones.
2. Make one phone visible to nearby devices.
3. Search for devices on the other phone.
4. Tap the name of the first phone in the list.
5. Confirm the pairing code or PIN on both phones.
6. Send the file once the phones show “Connected”.

What is Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi is a wireless technology that connects many devices to a router and a high-speed internet source using radio waves.

• Name: it is often said to mean “Wireless Fidelity”.
• Difference from Bluetooth: Bluetooth links two devices, while Wi-Fi serves many devices at once.

How does Wi-Fi work?

1. A router is connected to a fast internet cable.
2. The router sends the internet signal through the air around it.
3. The area covered by the signal is called a hotspot.
4. Any phone with the correct password can join and use the signal.

How do you connect a phone to Wi-Fi?

1. Switch on Wi-Fi in the phone settings.
2. Choose the network name from the list.
3. Type the password.
4. Wait for the phone to show “Connected”.

Why is Wi-Fi often better than mobile data?

• Cheaper: one Wi-Fi subscription can usually serve a whole family or office.
• Faster: it is better for streaming high-quality video on YouTube or Netflix.
• Longer range: it reaches further than Bluetooth, usually about 30 to 50 metres.

What is a Mobile Hotspot?

A Mobile Hotspot is a phone feature that turns the phone into a mini-router by sharing its mobile data as a Wi-Fi signal.

• Source of data: it uses your 3G, 4G or 5G mobile data.
• Everyday example: a friend says, “Please, share your data for me”, and you switch on your hotspot.

How do you set up a Personal Hotspot?

1. Switch on mobile data on your phone.
2. Open the hotspot option in Settings (the menu name differs between phones).
3. Set a hotspot name and a strong password.
4. Switch the hotspot on.
5. Let your friend choose your hotspot name on their phone and enter the password.
6. Switch the hotspot off when they finish.

What should you remember when using a hotspot?

• Battery drain: it uses the most battery, so the phone gets warm and the charge finishes quickly.
• Data usage: if a friend downloads a big movie, your data is used up.
• Security: always set a password, or strangers nearby may connect and use your data free.

What is the difference between Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and Mobile Hotspot?

Bluetooth suits short-range sharing, Wi-Fi suits fast internet for many users, and a hotspot shares your own mobile data.

Evaluation

1. Why is Bluetooth better than Wi-Fi for connecting a wireless mouse?
2. What is the name of the device that sends out Wi-Fi in an office?
3. Mention two disadvantages of leaving your Personal Hotspot on all day.
4. What does “pairing” mean in Bluetooth?
5. State two reasons why Wi-Fi is often better than mobile data.

Assignment

Draw a table with three columns: Situation, Best connection, Reason. Fill in these situations: playing music on a speaker, watching a film at home with a router, and sharing data with a friend who has no data.