Page 176 - DMGT505_MANAGEMENT_INFORMATION_SYSTEM

Unit 9: The Wireless Revolution

On radio tower B, below the point-to-point connection to tower A, is a set of radios and antennas Notes
that establish a point-to-multipoint connection. Tower B serves as a single point on a link, but it
emits a broad sweep of radiation that covers an entire area around it, including all of the
buildings marked C. A point-to-multipoint connection will use one or more broad coverage
antennas at the hub side (at tower B) and very focused antennas at the multiple subscriber points
(buildings marked C). A point-to-multipoint connection, then, is a bit like a theatrical light with
a broad beam emitting from the hub.
Finally, the picture envisions a radio connection between the subscriber equipment mounted on
the side of the building (point C) and the individual personal computer inside the building
(point D). Here, an access point emits radiation throughout the interiors of the building, allowing
all personal computers outfitted with a simple wireless network interface card to connect to the
access point – and ultimately, back up the chain to the Internet. Continuing the lighting-fixture
metaphor, an access point is a bit like a standard incandescent light bulb, but without any sort of
lampshade or focus. It lights up the entire room but cannot travel the distances of a spotlight or
theatrical light.

With this simple illustration in mind, it is possible to apply some of today’s common wireless
terms. The access point inside the building is providing what is called a Wireless Local Area
Network (WLAN) connection. The point-to-multipoint connection from tower B to the buildings
marked C is often referred to as a Wireless Metropolitan Area Network (WMAN) connection,
which necessarily covers more area than a WLAN. And the point-to-point connection from
towers B to A can be called a wireless backhaul. As one moves from WLANs to WMANs and then
to backhaul systems, the use of more intensely focused microwave radiation allows transmission
over greater distances. It can also diminish the chances of interference and reduce the necessary
power emitted. Further down the network, toward the less-focused end, WLANs and point-to-
multipoint WMAN deployments allow multiple subscribers to share the same hub. They also
support greater flexibility and mobility and can be easier to install.

Notes Discuss the main purpose of wireless revolution.

Self Assessment

Fill in the blanks:
1. The ................................ point inside the building is providing what is called a Wireless
Local Area Network (WLAN) connection.
2. WLANs and point-to-multipoint WMAN deployments allow multiple subscribers to share
the same ................................

9.2 Business Value

Information system can have several different values for business firms, a consistently strong
information technology infrastructure can over the long-term, play an important strategic role
in the life of the firm. Considered less grandly, information systems can simply facilitate a
firm’s survival.
It is important also to realize that systems can have value but that the firm may not capture all
or even some of the value. Although system projects can result in firm benefits such as profitability
and productivity some or all of the benefits can go directly to the consumer in the form of lower
prices or more reliable services and products. Society can reward firms that enhance consumer
surplus by allowing them to survive or by rewarding them with increase in business revenues.

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