Topic of this bachelor’s degree thesis was to study wireless communication, mobile technologies concepts and stages of development. I got this topic from training manager - Ari Rantala. This topic seemed challenging and interesting.

Beginning of thesis is description of mobile data transfer, the development of genera-tions, antenna technology and modulation. This is followed by a brief explanation of data transfer speeds are based. After that there is a part where 3G-, 4G- and 5G technol-ogies and specifications, as well as general information of 3G- and 4G technologies history and data transfer speed. At the end there is brief comparison of differences be-tween 3G- and 4G technologies.

The main factors affecting to data transfer is modulation and number of antennas. Using multiple-antennas improves end-to-end network throughput. Modulation can increase substantially the transmission bits.

Best known technologies of 3G- and 4G technologies are GPRS, UMTS, HSPA, HSPA+, WiMAX and LTE technologies. Less known technologies and specifications are FOMA, GAN/UMA.

Between third- and fourth generation there is not great difference, but comparing differ-ence between third generation first specification and fourth generation first there is greater gap. Maybe coming fifth generation will make clear line between fourth - and fifth generation.

Wireless data networks will replace the cable connections networks, because data trans-fer speed and delays are no longer restricting use of wireless technology. Also wireless networks have much smaller maintenance costs.