Glossary F - J

GPRS

GPRS stands for General Packet Radio Service. The fast ‘always on’ service allows you to connect to the Internet anywhere using a wireless modem connecting at speeds of 40kbps ( a dial up modem speed). It keeps you permanently connected to the Internet and charges only when you’re sending or receiving data. see BECTA’s Technical paper: Mobile Internet Connectivity

GPS

Global Positioning System. A satellite-based location technology that can determine position. Used for in-car navigation and can be added to handheld devices.see BECTA’s Technical paper: Mobile Internet Connectivity

GSM

Global Standard for Mobile Communications. Digital cellular system used throughout Europe, this French-invented system allows allows eight simultaneous calls on the same radio frequency.

Handheld

A portable device for storing and managing personal information. The available features depend on the type of handheld you choose.

Infrared beaming

The process of using the IrDA standard to transmit data wirelessly from one device to another. Beaming is a way to exchange files and applications between handhelds.

 

Quicklinks

Glossary

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• F - J

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Other sections

In Practice

Examples and ideas showing practical ways to use the different devices in the classroom and out and about

Choose the Right Device

What to look for when buying the devices, reviews and suggestions

FAQs for Organisations

Issues and questions that organisations experience

Technical Tips

Troubleshooting, software and hardware solutions

Making it Accessible

Ways to use the technology accessibly

The Future

The changing world of handheld devices