Mar 22, 2003 06:07 AM
5274 Views
(Updated Mar 22, 2003 06:07 AM)
From an Indian perspective, there is a thin line of difference between these two technologies. Here CDMA is in its infant stage. Although it far exceeds the quality and features of a GSM network, when it comes down to basic calling and messaging feature, there's little difference. The sound quality is a bit better on CDMA probably because of high speed network. Also on CDMA, the call drop ratio and busy network conditions are extremely low. However the technology does not support Roaming. Also one of the limitations of a CDMA-WLL (limited mobility) phone is that the user cannot go beyond a radius of 25 km. It allows a person to make a call only when he is within the range.
The major difference comes when you talk about Data Transfer (to send and receive e-mail, surf the Net, watch video clippings, send multimedia messages, and download games and ringtones)
CDMA has higher data transfer rate which is helpful if you want to surf internet using the handset. CDMA data connectivity is like a cable internet, where you are always connected. All you need to do is open up some websites and surf, check emails etc. And you are charged only for what you download and not for the time you are connected.
WAP technology (which is present in GSM handsets) on the contrary charges you for the time you are connected. It is similar to the dialup modem. You dial up the service, get connected, surf, get disconnected. And all this for a hefty charge, enough to burn a hole in your pocket which is not worth the connection speed you get.
With the introduction of GPRS the difference in data transfer rates between both the technologies has been greyed out. GPRS provides high data transfer speed and like CDMA is an always-on network. However GPRS is supported by only a few handsets. So if you want to stick to GSM, make sure you buy a GPRS capable handset and be future ready.
As my final verdict, since the CDMA environment is being tried and tested, dont just jump into it to become a guinea pig. Rather stick to GSM operators and wait for CDMA to evolve in India.
