Telecommunications Research and Development Key Terms

Brush up on telecommunications research and development key terms

By Michele Vrouvas

Business professionals today would unanimously agree that telecommunications research and development has significantly improved business infrastructure over the last few decades. Advances in this field have made wireless Bluetooth devices more user-friendly and eliminated the need for meeting attendees to be present in the same room in order to hold conferences. Here’s an overview of key terms and facts explaining the forces driving telecommunications research and development.

Common-systems view

Because telecommunications comprises many subtopics, some professionals have taken the common-systems view approach to researching in this field. This means that they regard the smaller subtopics as complementing rather than excluding each other.
Try: Rutgers' Winlab explains it best. The university's researchers approach telecommunications as a combination of systems, including prototyping, analytical modeling and design work.

Cooperative terminal transmission

Cooperative terminal transmission is a relatively new field that telecommunications researchers are looking into. This technology operates by encouraging nodes from wireless devices to serve as a network of many nodes that, when combined, work like antennas.
Try: Read a discussion of cooperative terminal transmission research at the Center for Wireless Communications and Signal Processing Research where the developing technology will enhance the performance of wireless devices.

Digital compression technology

One of the most popular offspring of telecommunications research in the United States has been the development of digital compression technology, which is thought to produce better sound quality and picture.
Try: Consider the discussion at the National Association of Broadcasters to learn how digital compression technology is going to change television and radio for American consumers and what kind of media are likely to feel the greatest impact.

Video-teleconferencing

When you can simultaneously hear and view the people you are speaking to, you are using video-teleconferencing equipment, frequently described as the most "cutting edge" devices in telecommunications research.
Try: Web Conference explains how video-teleconferencing can provide time- and cost-saving benefits to almost any business. You'll find out how this form of telecommunications allows you to conduct business with a much broader audience. You'll also get tips on how to set up video-teleconferencing meetings.

Wireless networks

Remote access, VPN security and Bluetooth are all examples of wireless networks, systems that support mobile computers and cell phones.
Try: Go to Tech FAQ to learn about the many layers that these networks operate on, as well as the most common types of wireless networks that are receiving special focus from telecommunications researchers.

Audio/web conference

An audio/web conference represents a combination of the most well-known kind of business telecommunication - the use of local and long-distance telephone service between multiple parties - and computer-based meetings.
Try: The American Planning Association explains the hardware and software requirements, in addition to suggesting a possible format for an audio/web conference.