If you’ve heard the term telecommunications – or telecoms, as it’s widely known – then you might be wondering exactly what it means and what it’s all about. As business telecoms specialists, the experts at GRH Comms have put together this handy guide, to help you get a better understanding of what telecommunications are.
What are telecommunications?
In short, telecommunications is the exchange of information by electronic means over a significant distance, for example via a wired or mobile phone. And in modern society, in a world bursting with evolving communication tools, gadgets, and devices, telecommunications impacts us all. In fact, if you think about it, telecommunications actually allows for the majority of communications to be able to take place today. Telecommunications has undoubtedly enhanced the way we communicate – it has enabled us to communicate with one another, even when we’re on opposite sides of the world. And if you think about your life, you’ll see that we all use communication devices to regularly engage with others – whether that’s browsing the internet, making a phone call, or sending an email – anything that involves transmitting data across long distances, well, telecommunications is what makes this possible.Why are telecommunications important?
We’ve already mentioned how essential telecommunications are to our everyday personal lives, but what about in business? Telecommunications has become a vital tool for businesses across the globe, allowing seamless day-to-day operations between suppliers, employees, and clients. Especially in a world that sees more and more people working remotely, telecommunications allows staff and businesses to work both flexibly and efficiently – regardless of where they are in the world.How does telecommunications work?
As mentioned, telecommunications refers to the exchange of information by electrical means over a significant distance. But how does telecommunications actually work? A basic telecommunications setup usually consists of:- A transmitter converts the information into a signal that is suitable for transmission.
- Transmission medium that carries the signal between the transmitter and receiver.
- A receiver that converts the signal into usable information.
What types of telecommunications are there?
Companies in the telecommunications sector tend to offer a number of services including:- Wired – This requires a direct connection to a network of wires, that then transmits the data. This might include landline telephones, DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) internet, and cable television.
- Wireless – In contrast, a wireless service doesn’t require a direct physical connection. Instead, the signals are transmitted over radio towers. Companies that provide this type of service generally include internet providers, phone service providers and radio broadcasters.
- Satellite – As the name suggests, satellite telecommunications involves the transmission of data via satellites. You’ll usually find these affect private organisations, with highly confidential information being sent.
