Problems With VoIP

By: The Editor

In the beginning, when the Internet Protocol was first designed, no one was thinking about the possibilities of sending audio and video. Real time communication was not an issue.

Perhaps the greatest single problem is that the Internet Protocol (the IP part of VoIP - Voice over Internet Protocol) wasn't designed to ensure that the packets are delivered in the correct order. When information is transmitted using IP, the data is broken up into information packets, each of which is sent separately. The correct sequence of packets is part of the information in each packet, but nothing specifically exists to make sure that the packets are delivered, and, therefore, received in the proper order. (continued...)

Now this isn't usually a significant issue for web pages, email, etc. Why? Because these aren't real-time applications. Audio and video however, especially live audio and live video are definitely real-time applications. For a real time conversation to work, the packets have to arrive - pretty much in order and also within certain time limits.

The first, and one of the major challenges then, is to restructure incoming packets into the correct order and to somehow cope with lost and/or trashed packets. Face it, the internet does not provide a quality of service guarantee. If enough packets are lost, an audio or video stream rapidly turns into a useless mess. While packets can be resent - the standard way lost/trashed packets are dealt with - real time communication means that you just can't wait around forever. After a certain time, it's simply too late to maintain a coherent stream.

What we've seen over the last few years is a gradual and now nearly explosive growth in the use of VoIP, and streaming audio and video. The reason is decline of dial-up and the growth of ISDN, DSL, ADSL, cable and other high speed, high bandwidth access modes. Bandwidth is the answer to most of the problems posed by IP. End-to-end high speed links can ensure high quality sound. The sole remaining problem is latency.

For most this is not an issue when they have high speed internet access, however, it can become a problem with satellite links or any other system where unusually long distances and many hops are involved.

On private networks, there is rarely a problem using VoIP and many companies with internal networks (such as telcos and power companies) use VoIP to communicate within their organizational network structure.

However, when the available end-to-end bandwidth is less than 256 Kbps, a good VoIP system will require mechanisms to overcome fragmentation of the data stream.

Security is an issue everywhere on the internet and what this means is that VoIP also needs to deal with firewalls and NATs (Network Address Translation). While some systems can do NAT and firewall traversal on their own, others require the use of SBCs (Session Border Controllers) to manage the traversal.

One major, though non-technical, challenge to VoIP, comes from traditional telephone service providers who are being by-passed by consumers who love the extremely low (or zero) long-distance charges they can get by using VoIP. Exactly how this works out over the long run will be fascinating to watch. In the meantime, VoIP services are continually being improved and extended. Enjoy them.


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Google Mobile Search

Google starts testing a mobile-phone service that searches websites that have been designed to deliver content customized for the small screens of cellular phones.

Google Inc. on Thursday started testing a mobile-phone service that searches websites that have been designed to deliver content customized for the small screens of cellular phones. (continued...)

Google Mobile Web Search targets sites that use XHTML as the technology for delivering content to handsets. XHTML, or extensible HTML, is a web-page markup language that has been developed by the World Wide Web Consortium, an international standards body.

The technology combines HTML with the more powerful extensible markup language, or XML, to enable a web server to deliver content tailored to the accessing device.

To use the Google service, people go to the company's homepage via the web browser on their phones, type in their search query and select "Mobile Web (Beta)" as their search option. The National Basketball Association is an example of an organization that offers XHTML-based content for handsets, Google said.

More web content has been tailored for cellular phones in Asia, particular in Japan and South Korea, than in the PC-centric United States and in Europe, Deep Nishar, director of products for Google, said. As a result, web content in the latter countries is generally more difficult to view on a handset.

The growing popularity in the U.S. and Europe of advanced cellular phones, called smart phones, are making it easier to access the web, because the devices include browsers that have better support for HTML, the most commonly used markup language for web pages.

"In general, we believe mobile devices are a very important interface for our user base to access content," Nishar said.

Along with the latest service, Google's other mobile features include the ability to search for images and the general web and for products and services offered locally. Google also offers a text-based messaging service.

Source: InformationWeek

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Fast Facts -- Music Storage

HOW MANY MINUTES OF MUSIC CAN BE STORED ON A DIGITAL MEDIA CARD?

The minutes of music that your card can hold depends on the rate at which your songs were recorded. The standard bit rate for MP3 recordings is 128 Kbps. The bit rate (Kbps) is determined by the encoder software used to create your audio file. The higher the bit rate, the better the audio quality.


APPROXIMATE MINUTES OF MUSIC PER CARD

MB = megabytes GB = gigabytes

* Kilobits per second (average amount of data required per second of music).


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Batman Begins On Verizon Mobile

Starting today, June 15, 2005, Verizon mobile users will be able to enter a text messaging contest and download movies, games, ringers, wallpaper and more themed around the new Batman Begins movie.

I'm a Batman fan since my childhood days and this version of the movie seems to have a grittier and more gothic feel to it. (continued...)

Christian Bale stars as Batman and it should be interesting to see how he measures up to Batmen of the past.

It also has a some great supporting actors in it such as Liam Neeson and Morgan Freeman so I'm guessing it will be a summer hit. The action previews look pretty cool anyway.

Verizon users should check out the link below for more information.

Batman Begins on Verizon Mobile




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Pocket PC Tips and Tricks -- Bluetooth ActiveSync

BLUETOOTH ACTIVESYNC CONFIGURATION: THE PC SIDE OF THINGS

(Works with Pocket PC OS 2002, Windows Mobile 2003 Pocket PC, Windows Mobile 2003 Pocket PC Phone Edition)

Most of the configuration for ActiveSync over Bluetooth is performed on the PC side, and there's no configuration of a serial port on ActiveSync itself on the Pocket PC side.

It's important to correctly configure the connection to be used on your PC. Depending on what Bluetooth software is in use on your computer, you will have different ways of finding the information needed. The most important thing is to make sure that you have an incoming serial port defined and use this when configuring ActiveSync. (continued...)

If you're using a Widcomm-based Bluetooth software on your PC, you'll see a Bluetooth icon in the System Tray. Right-click on this icon and select "Advanced Configuration." Change to the "Local Services" tab and find the Bluetooth Serial Port. Take note of the COM port associated with this port.

If you're using the Microsoft Bluetooth software supplied with Windows XP Service Pack 2, open the Control Panel and double-click the Bluetooth icon. Change to the "COM Ports" tab, and check that you have at least one port defined as "Incoming." If not, then click the [Add] button and create one. Once you have a port defined, take note of its number.

Now right-click on the ActiveSync icon in the System Tray, and select Connection Settings. Make sure you check the box "Allow serial cable or infrared connection to this COM port" and select the COM port corresponding to the Bluetooth Serial Port in the service configuration you have found just before. Click the OK button when finished.



This is all that is needed to configure ActiveSync over Bluetooth on your PC. You now have to read the other tips on how to perform the ActiveSync, from your Pocket PC.


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How To Buy A Quality Laptop Case

By: Cody Kahl

So you finally have that new laptop you have been drooling over for the past 3 months, only there is one problem –- You don’t have a case for it. You’ve probably already laid down over a grand for the notebook and you’re telling yourself that you don’t want to spend another $70 for a case. Trust me, this isn’t the time to be cheap.

In this article I will go over the importance of getting a quality notebook bag, as well as what sort of features are found on quality laptop cases. (continued...)

If you consider your laptop to be important or essential, then getting a good, solid case is a must. You may be wondering why… Here are just a few reasons:


- Expensive notebook should be protected properly
- Quality cases have way better outer and inner protection for your laptop
- More comfortable
- Better shoulder protection

If you still need some prodding in the direction of that super duty case maybe the next points will help. Let’s go over what distinguishes the good from the bad in notebook bags.

COMFORT
Quality bags have much better shoulder support than cheapies. Your notebook is going to be at least 6 pounds, probably more. Do you really want to break your shoulder just carrying the thing around? You have a lot more choice with quality aftermarket cases as well when it comes to carrying style. In the end you are going to be a lot more comfortable with something that wears well on you.

PROTECTION
Make sure you don’t drop that notebook case that came with your computer. You may find your laptop in pieces. Quality laptop cases have great inner and outer protection. Things like reinforced corners on the outside, and air pockets on the inside… It all adds up to piece of mind. If you want, you can even find cases with single or double combo locks.

STORAGE
If you want to put extra files or folders into your notebook case you are going to need the space. Quite often, cheaper cases will have just enough room for a notebook and maybe a small folder if you are lucky. When buying an aftermarket case you have a lot more choice in size, and can find something that will hold everything you need it to.

Are you ready to spend a little more money and get that quality case now? Good, but before you do, let’s go over a couple more things that are very important.

First, you need to think about what you will be carrying most of the time -- Chances are it isn’t just your laptop. What you will be carrying will be a big part of what case you decide on. The more stuff you need to bring along in the bag, the bigger the bag needs to be.

Next, find out the dimensions of your notebook. You need to know this when buying a case. Not all laptops fit in every case, so you need to look for a case that will fit the size of your notebook. Whether you are buying a case locally or online, the main compartment size of the case should be easy enough to find.

Lastly, as you will soon find, there is more than one style of laptop case available. There are the standard cases, ones that look like actual luggage bags, and even backpack style cases. The last one has the added benefit that thieves won’t think there is a notebook sitting inside.

Going over exactly what you need in a laptop case, and then purchasing a quality one won’t just save your shoulders in time, but possibly your investment too.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Cody Kahl is creator and writer of Toshiba Laptops Guide – A site
dedicated to providing only the best toshiba laptop computers information.

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How to Choose VoIP Service Without Losing Your Shirt

By: Jason Stewart

VoIP.

Just mentioning the word to yourself either brings up images of walking in a new city where the grass is greener, or it brings up fear of the unknown. Some will tread carefully around the subject, waiting to hear others opinions about a specific service and some may charge fearlessly into a service that they know little about. Which way is the right way to choose a VoIP service? I say neither.

Is there a safe way to choose a VoIP service? You bet there is, but it does take some work and careful research to make sure that you don't get stuck with something you cannot use or worse yet, be forced into a scenario in which your telephone communications is impaired. (continued...)


There are 3 general steps to choosing Broadband Phone service. They are:

1.Qualify Yourself
2.Qualify a specific Provider, and
3.Research the provider.

1. QUALIFY YOURSELF
Ask yourself “why do I want voip?” Is it because you want to save money? are you attracted to voip by all of the features that it offers? Maybe you're sick of your local telephone company. Whatever the reason, make sure that the benefits are better than what you're already getting now. For instance, you might want to save money on long distance with a voip provider but don't want to give up your old phone number. In this case you would have to ask yourself whether it would be acceptable to lose your old phone number to save a few extra dollars. These days, most providers (but not all) will allow you to keep your old phone number. Do you have a secondary means of communication such as a cell phone?

When your internet connection goes down, so does your voip line. That means that if a large storm knocks out power to your house, then your internet connection will also most likely be down. Another thing to consider when qualifying yourself for voip service is that 911 service is not as robust as a land line service would be. You may have to give the dispatcher your name and address. The good news is that the larger providers are working with the dispatchers to provide 911 service that is just as robust as 911 on a land line.

Last but not least you must make sure that your your internet connection is suitable for voip. Sorry 56k'ers but dialup just isn't gonna cut it for voip. If you do have a broadband connection, head on down to http://www.testyourvoip.com and do a quick test.

2. QUALIFY A SPECIFIC PROVIDER
Your voip provider means everything when it comes to reliability and sound quality. You should choose a provider that has the features that you need (call waiting, 3 way calling, extra lines, distinctive ring, etc.). One thing to definitely look into is the 911 service that's offered and don't be afraid to ask lots of questions to the customer service department of the prospective provider. Number portability (if you need to keep your old number) is something else to be looked into. The rates should be competitive and don't forget to look at international rates if you do any international calling. The most important thing to look for in a voip provider is a money back guarantee. If there is no money back guarantee, then pass on that provider; just about all voip companies have a guarantee.

3. RESEARCH THE PROVIDER
Just because everything looks OK from a customer service angle, the service is cheap , and does what you need it to does not necessarily make it a good service. What does make a service good is if they have happy customers. The best way to do this would be to search the better business bureau for complaints against the company, search google with something like reviews, complaints, opinions, etc. A great place to get real world opinions on voip service is at the forums at http://broadbandreports.com.

Choosing the right voip service can be a bit of work, but it will pay off big time in the end. You'll have service instead of headaches, clear calls instead of garbled gobbledygook.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jason Stewart is a programmer, Unix Administrator, PBX Administrator and webmaster of http://www.voip-university.com.


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Recycling Mobile Phones

By: S. Housley

Technological advancements providing users with improved reception through integrated antenna systems, reduced size and weight of cell phones, along with numerous feature sets, and storage improvements have caused the bulk of cellular phone users and enthusiasts to upgrade to new and improved handsets. The low cost of cell phones and the added technological improvements mean that the majority of cellular phone users are on their 2nd or 3rd generation hand set.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS

What many don't realize is that in many cases, the materials used to construct cell phones are toxic. Toxic elements found in many of today's cell phones can include arsenic, in semi-conductors and lead in the solder material. While the materials in a single phone are minimal consider the number of discarded cell phones in the relatively short time the technology has been available. The placement of these devices in landfills will cause long lasting damage and harm to the environment.

Recycling aged wireless equipment is a sensible alternative. Valuable materials can be recovered from used wireless devices in a number of different ways. In some cases, certain components may be separated by manual or simple mechanical means. The components can often be reused or melted down for alternative uses. (continued...)

CELL PHONE DISPOSAL

What Options Exist?
The cell phone industry, understanding concerns related to the disposal of cell phones and PDAs have created alternatives to both refurbish and recycle the materials in older style cellular phones.

Wireless Recycling - http://www.wirelessrecycling.com

ReCellular Inc. is the largest recycler and reseller of used wireless phones and accessories in the wireless industry. A pioneer in charitable recycling arrangements, ReCellular has well-established partnerships with Easter Seals, the March of Dimes, and National Organization on Disability, Goodwill Industries, and The Body Shop. In addition, over 2,000 grassroots organizations from Boy Scout troops to religious organizations around the country work to collect wireless phones to support their philanthropic efforts. Charities can raise funds by increasing community awareness and acting as a wireless collection center.

Wireless Foundation - http://www.wirelessfoundation.org/DonateaPhone/index.cfm

Wireless Foundation refurbishes and provides cell phones to victims of domestic violence so that they can be used in the event of an emergency. The Call To Protect campaign also collects wireless phones to benefit victims of domestic violence. Proceeds from the sale of phones help fund agencies that fight domestic violence and are used to support educational efforts of the Wireless Foundation. Other phones are refurbished and become lifelines for domestic violence victims when faced with an emergency situation.

Recycle Wireless Phones - http://www.recyclewirelessphones.com

Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association (CTIA*) and its member companies are committed to the goal of sustainable development and the environmentally sound management of their wireless products at end-of-life. Through its Wireless . . . The New Recyclable program, CTIA is educating the public on the options available for properly recycling used wireless devices. The program seeks to promote the collection of used wireless devices and ensure that collected wireless products will be managed properly. The site provides a directory of collection options.

AT&T Wireless - http://www.attwireless.com/our_company/cares/recycle_program.jhtml

Through the AT&T Wireless Reuse & Recycle program, consumers are invited to bring unwanted wireless phones, accessories and batteries (regardless of the manufacturer or carrier) to an AT&T Wireless retail store for recycling. AT&T Wireless is the first wireless carrier to partner with Keep America Beautiful, a nationally recognized nonprofit organization that focuses on waste impact minimization, litter prevention, beautification, community improvement and improvement of public places. Proceeds from the recycling of wireless phones, batteries and accessories are donated to Keep America Beautiful.

Call2Recycle - http://www.call2recycle.org/

RBRC’s Call2Recycle™ program collects used cellular phones to benefit the environment and charitable organizations. With the help of consumers and 30,000 participating retail locations, RBRC's do their part in helping to keep cell phones out of the landfills.

HopeLine - http://www.verizonwireless.com/hopeline

The HopeLine phone recycling program is an exclusive program that uses wireless services and equipment to assist victims in emergency domestic violence situations. HopeLine collects wireless phones that are no longer being used. The used phones are either refurbished and recycled or sold. With the funds raised from the sale of the refurbished phones, Verizon Wireless purchases wireless phones and donates airtime to victims of domestic violence through human services and law enforcement agencies.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sharon Housley manages marketing for NotePage, Inc. http://www.notepage.net a company specializing in alphanumeric paging, SMS and wireless messaging software solutions.


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