Widely used Unguided Transmissions Media

INTRODUCTION

In data communication terminology, a transmission medium is a physical path

between the transmitter and the receiver i.e. it is the channel through which data is sent from
one place to another. It can be wired or wireless, on this basis transmission media is divided
into two parts. They are Guided media and Unguided media. We are basically focusing on
unguided media.
Unguided media, also known as wireless or unbounded media, is a type of
communication media that uses electromagnetic waves to transmit data without using a
physical conductor. Unguided media uses wireless communication methods to spread signals
through the air or free space. Transmission Media plays a pivotal role in telecommunications
providing the way for data to travel between devices, whether it will be through cables,
optical fibers, or wireless signals, the choice of transmission medium impacts the speed,
reliability, and range of data communication. Hence, understanding the various types of
transmission media and their characteristics is essential for designing efficient and resilient
communication networks. Unguided media are commonly used in industries for various
applications due to their flexibility, mobility, and ease of deployment.

 Some of the widely used Unguided medias are :

1. Radio wave transmission
2. Microwave transmission
3. Infrared transmission
4. Satellite communication

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 Widely used Unguided Transmissions Media

RADIO WAVE

Radio wave transmission in unguided media transmission refers to the process of sending
data wirelessly through the air using radio frequencies. This method of transmission is
commonly used for various applications including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular networks, and
radio broadcasting. Here's an overview of radio wave transmission in unguided media
considering cost, speed, efficiency, and reliability :

1. Cost :
 Radio wave transmission in unguided media can be cost-effective compared to laying
down physical cables or fiber optic lines, especially for long-distance communication.
 Initial setup costs for establishing radio transmission infrastructure, such as towers,
antennas, and equipment, can be significant but often offset by the savings in not having
to install and maintain physical cables.
 Ongoing operational costs typically include electricity for powering transmitters and
maintenance of equipment.

2. Speed :
 Radio wave transmission speeds can vary depending on the technology and frequency
band used.
 Higher frequency bands generally offer higher data transfer rates. For instance,
microwave frequencies used in Wi-Fi networks can provide faster data rates
compared to lower frequency bands used in long-range communication.
 Speed can also be affected by environmental factors such as interference, distance,
and obstacles between the transmitter and receiver.

3. Efficiency :
 Radio wave transmission can be highly efficient for providing wireless connectivity,
especially in scenarios where laying cables is impractical or cost-prohibitive.
 Multiple techniques such as modulation, error correction coding, and frequency reuse
are employed to maximize spectral efficiency.
 However, efficiency can be impacted by factors like signal attenuation, interference
from other devices or sources, and signal fading due to atmospheric conditions.

4. Reliability :
 The reliability of radio wave transmission depends on various factors including signal
strength, interference, and environmental conditions.
 In urban areas with high population density, interference from other electronic devices
and structures can affect signal quality and reliability.
 Radio waves can also be subject to attenuation and signal loss over long distances or
through obstacles like buildings or terrain features.

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 Widely used Unguided Transmissions Media

In summary, radio wave transmission in unguided media offers a flexible and cost-
effective solution for wireless communication, but its performance in terms of speed,
efficiency, and reliability can vary based on factors like frequency band, environmental
conditions, and deployment scenario. Advances in technology continue to improve the
capabilities and reliability of radio wave transmission, making it an indispensable part of
modern telecommunications infrastructure.

 Applications :
Span broadcasting, telecommunications, radar, and remote control
systems, used in radio and television broadcasting, mobile phones, Wi-Fi, radar detection, and
remote-controlled devices.

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 Widely used Unguided Transmissions Media

MICROWAVE

Microwave transmission refers to the method of transmitting information or data using

electromagnetic waves with frequencies typically ranging from 1 gigahertz (GHz) to 300
gigahertz (GHz). Microwave transmission in unguided media, often used in wireless
communication systems, offers various advantages and considerations depending on factors
like cost, speed, efficiency, and reliability :

1. Cost :
 Initial Setup: Microwave transmission systems typically require substantial initial
investment in equipment such as microwave antennas, transmitters, receivers, and
supporting infrastructure like towers or masts.
 Operating Expenses: Once set up, operating costs can be relatively low compared to
guided media (e.g., optical fibers) as they don't require maintenance of physical cables.
 Spectrum Licensing: Cost associated with acquiring the necessary frequency spectrum
licenses can be significant, especially in densely populated or spectrum-congested
areas.

2. Speed :
 Microwave transmission can offer high data transfer speeds, making it suitable for
applications requiring rapid data transmission, such as broadband internet, cellular
networks, and point-to-point communication links.
 However, the achievable speed may be limited by factors such as available spectrum
bandwidth and atmospheric conditions that can affect signal propagation.

3. Efficiency :
 Microwave transmission is generally efficient in terms of spectral utilization, allowing
multiple channels to operate simultaneously within the allocated frequency band.
 Efficient modulation techniques like Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (QAM) and
Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) can be employed to maximize
data throughput over microwave links.

4. Reliability :
 Microwave transmission can offer high reliability, particularly in point-to-point
communication setups where there are clear line-of-sight paths between transmitting
and receiving antennas.
 However, reliability can be affected by environmental factors such as rain, fog, and
atmospheric interference, which may attenuate or scatter microwave signals, leading to
signal degradation or loss.
 Redundancy measures such as diverse routing and equipment redundancy can enhance
reliability but may increase costs.

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 Widely used Unguided Transmissions Media

Factors such as terrain topology, distance between transmission points, regulatory

constraints, and availability of backup power also influence the suitability and performance of
microwave transmission systems in unguided media. Overall, while microwave transmission
offers advantages in terms of speed, efficiency, and reliability, its cost-effectiveness depends
on various factors including initial setup costs, operating expenses, and spectrum licensing fees.

 Applications :
Telecommunications, satellite communication, radar systems, and
wireless networking.

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 Widely used Unguided Transmissions Media

INFRARED

Infrared transmission refers to the propagation of electromagnetic waves in the infrared

region of the electromagnetic spectrum. This spectrum lies between the visible light and
microwave regions, with wavelengths ranging from approximately 700 nanometers (nm) to 1
millimeter (mm), they are in Frequencies in the range from 300 GHz to 400 THz. Infrared
transmission in unguided media transmission refers to the communication method where data
is transmitted using infrared light waves through the air, without the need for physical cables.
This technology finds application in various scenarios such as remote controls, wireless
keyboards, and short-range data transfer between devices like smartphones and laptops. Here's
an overview of its characteristics based on cost, speed, efficiency, and reliability :

1. Cost :
 Infrared transmission technology is generally considered cost-effective, especially for
short-range communication needs. The components required for infrared transmission,
such as infrared LEDs or laser diodes, are relatively inexpensive compared to some
other wireless technologies like radio frequency (RF) communication. Additionally,
since it doesn't require cables or extensive infrastructure, deployment costs are lower.

2. Speed :
 Infrared transmission can offer moderate to high data transmission speeds, depending
on the specific implementation and technology used. For instance, IrDA (Infrared Data
Association) standards can provide data rates ranging from 2 Mbps to 16 Mbps, suitable
for applications like file transfers, printing, and synchronization between devices.
However, the speed may degrade with increasing distance and in the presence of
obstacles that block the line of sight between the transmitter and receiver.

3. Efficiency :
 In terms of efficiency, infrared transmission is generally efficient for short-range
communications within line-of-sight conditions. It operates in the infrared spectrum,
typically around 850 nm or 950 nm wavelength, which limits its range but allows for
secure communication as the signal doesn't penetrate walls or other obstacles easily.
However, this reliance on line of sight can also be a limitation in environments where
obstacles are present, as it requires clear visibility between the transmitter and receiver.

4. Reliability :
 The reliability of infrared transmission depends on factors such as interference, ambient
light conditions, and line of sight. Since infrared signals are susceptible to interference
from other light sources emitting in the same spectrum, such as sunlight or artificial
lighting, reliability can be affected in outdoor or brightly lit indoor environments.
However, in controlled environments with low ambient light and proper line of sight,
infrared transmission can be highly reliable with minimal interference.

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 Widely used Unguided Transmissions Media

In summary, while infrared transmission in unguided media offers cost-effective and

efficient short-range communication solutions with moderate to high data rates, its reliability
can be affected by factors such as interference and line of sight limitations. Nonetheless, for
applications where these limitations can be managed, such as indoor environments or point-to-
point communication over short distances, infrared technology remains a viable and widely
used option.

 Applications :
Remote Controls, Data Transfer Between Devices, Proximity Sensors,
Wireless Headphones and Speakers, Security Systems, Medical Devices, Automotive
Systems, Smartphones (IR Blasters), Gaming Consoles, and Consumer Electronics.

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 Widely used Unguided Transmissions Media

SATELLITE COMMUNICATION

Satellite communication is a technology that uses satellites stationed in orbit around the
Earth to facilitate communication between various points on the planet's surface or between a
satellite and a ground station. This technology enables long-distance communication without
the need for extensive ground-based infrastructure like cables or terrestrial towers. Satellite
communication is a vital technology leveraging satellites orbiting Earth to facilitate global
connectivity. These satellites occupy various orbits, including geostationary Earth orbit (GEO),
low Earth orbit (LEO), and medium Earth orbit (MEO).

1. Cost :
 Initial setup costs for satellite communication can be relatively high due to the need for
satellite ground stations, antennas, and satellite transponders.
 However, in remote areas or regions where laying cables is impractical or cost-
prohibitive, satellite communication can be more cost-effective in the long run
compared to the expenses associated with establishing traditional infrastructure.

2. Speed :
 Satellite communication offers high-speed data transmission capabilities, often
comparable to terrestrial communication systems.
 Geostationary satellites typically offer higher latency compared to low Earth orbit
(LEO) or medium Earth orbit (MEO) satellites due to their higher altitude.
 Advances in satellite technology, such as high-throughput satellites (HTS), have
significantly increased data transmission speeds.

3. Efficiency :
 Satellite communication can efficiently cover vast geographical areas, including remote
and underserved regions, making it a valuable tool for global communication networks.
 However, the efficiency of satellite communication can be impacted by factors such as
atmospheric conditions, signal interference, and satellite bandwidth limitations.

4. Reliability :
 Satellite communication systems are known for their reliability in providing continuous
connectivity, especially in areas prone to natural disasters or where terrestrial
infrastructure may be unreliable.
 Redundancy measures, such as multiple satellite ground stations and backup satellites,
can enhance reliability and ensure continuity of service.
 However, satellite communication systems may be susceptible to outages caused by
solar storms, satellite malfunctions, or intentional interference.

Overall, while satellite communication in unguided media transmission offers valuable

advantages in terms of coverage and accessibility, considerations such as cost, speed,

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 Widely used Unguided Transmissions Media

efficiency, and reliability play crucial roles in determining its suitability for specific
applications and environments. Advancements in satellite technology continue to address these
considerations, making satellite communication an increasingly viable option for various
communication needs worldwide.

 Applications :
Telecommunications, Broadcasting, Internet Access, Navigation,
Weather Monitoring, Earth Observation, Remote Sensing, Military and Defense,
Emergency Communication, Agriculture, Maritime and Aviation, Scientific Research.

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 Widely used Unguided Transmissions Media

Advantages of Unguided
Transmission Media

Unguided media transmission, also known as wireless transmission, offers several advantages
that are as follows :

1. Mobility : Devices can communicate without being physically connected, enabling

mobility for users and devices. This is particularly advantageous in scenarios like
mobile communication, where users can move freely without worrying about physical
connections.

2. Flexibility : Unguided media transmission allows for flexible deployment of

communication networks. There's no need to lay down physical cables or infrastructure,
which can be costly and time-consuming. This flexibility is especially beneficial in
situations where rapid deployment is required, such as in emergency communication
systems or temporary event setups.

3. Scalability : Wireless communication systems can easily scale to accommodate

additional users or devices without the need for extensive infrastructure upgrades. This
scalability is particularly important in dynamic environments where the number of
users or devices can fluctuate significantly.

4. Cost-Effectiveness : While the initial setup costs for wireless communication systems
may be higher than wired alternatives, the overall cost of ownership can be lower due
to reduced maintenance expenses and the elimination of cable installation costs.

5. Accessibility : Wireless communication enables connectivity in remote or difficult-to-

reach areas where laying down physical cables may not be feasible or cost-effective.
This accessibility can be crucial for providing communication services in rural areas or
during natural disasters.

6. Ease of Installation : Setting up wireless communication systems is generally quicker

and easier compared to installing wired networks. There's no need to lay down cables
or perform complex routing, which simplifies the installation process and reduces
deployment time.

7. Global Connectivity : Wireless communication enables global connectivity, allowing

users to communicate across vast distances without the limitations of physical
infrastructure. This global reach is essential for applications like satellite
communication and global positioning systems (GPS).

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 Widely used Unguided Transmissions Media

Disadvantages of Unguided
Transmission Media

While unguided media transmission offers several advantages, it also comes with some
disadvantages :

1. Interference : Wireless signals can be susceptible to interference from other electronic

devices, environmental factors (such as weather conditions), and physical obstacles.
This interference can degrade signal quality and reduce the reliability of wireless
communication.

2. Limited Range : Wireless signals have a limited range compared to wired transmission,
especially for high-frequency signals. This limitation can result in dead zones or areas
with poor signal strength, particularly in large buildings or remote locations.

3. Security Concerns : Wireless communication is more vulnerable to unauthorized

access and interception compared to wired transmission. Without proper encryption and
security measures, wireless networks can be compromised, leading to data breaches or
unauthorized usage.

4. Bandwidth Limitations : Wireless communication systems often have limited

bandwidth compared to wired alternatives. This can result in slower data transfer rates
and reduced network performance, especially in densely populated areas where
multiple devices are competing for limited bandwidth.

5. Power Consumption : Wireless devices require power to transmit and receive signals,
which can drain battery life quickly, especially for portable devices like smartphones
and laptops. This dependency on power can be a significant drawback in scenarios
where continuous operation is required without easy access to power sources.

6. Cost : While wireless communication eliminates the need for physical cables, the initial
setup costs for wireless infrastructure, including routers, access points, and antennas,
can be higher than those for wired networks. Additionally, ongoing maintenance and
upgrade costs can also contribute to the overall cost of wireless communication
systems.

7. Propagation Delay : Wireless signals may experience propagation delay, particularly

over long distances or in environments with obstacles. This delay can affect real-time
communication applications, such as voice calls or online gaming, leading to latency
issues and degraded user experience.

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 Widely used Unguided Transmissions Media

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, unguided media stands as a foundational element within industrial

communication networks, offering a multifaceted array of benefits crucial for modern
industries. The versatility of unguided media, encompassing wireless technologies such as Wi-
Fi, Bluetooth, and Zigbee, among others, provides industries with the flexibility needed to
adapt to dynamic operational environments. This adaptability proves especially invaluable in
sectors requiring mobility and flexibility, such as manufacturing, logistics, and warehousing.
Moreover, the cost-effectiveness of unguided media solutions contributes significantly
to the economic viability of industrial operations. By eliminating the need for extensive cabling
infrastructure and associated maintenance costs, unguided media solutions not only reduce
initial deployment expenses but also offer scalability options that can accommodate evolving
communication needs over time. This scalability is particularly pertinent in industries
experiencing growth or restructuring, where the ability to easily expand communication
capabilities without significant capital investment is a distinct advantage.
As industries continue to evolve and embrace digital transformation, the reliance on
unguided media for efficient and reliable communication is expected to persist. The ongoing
development of emerging technologies, such as 5G wireless networks and Li-Fi (Light
Fidelity), promises even greater bandwidth, reliability, and security for unguided media
communication, further enhancing its utility in industrial contexts. In essence, the future of
industrial communication lies in the continued innovation and adoption of unguided media
technologies. By embracing advancements in wireless communication while ensuring robust
security measures, industries can harness the full potential of unguided media to drive
innovation, enhance productivity, and maintain competitiveness in an ever-evolving
landscape.

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 REFERENCES

1. https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/unguided-media/

2. https://www.javatpoint.com/unguided-transmission-media

3. https://www.codingninjas.com/studio/library/unguided-media

4. https://byjus.com/gate/difference-between-guided-and-unguided-media/

5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transmission_medium

6. https://www.tutorialspoint.com/what-are-guided-and-unguided-transmission-

media