Evolution-Data Optimized (EV-DO)

Due to the bandwidth transmission limitations found in CDMA networks and other 2G services such as General Packet Radio Service and Advanced GPRS, Qualcomm developed EV-DO in 1999 to implement faster wireless data networks. The basic concept behind EV-DO is similar to cellular phone communication. First, EV-DO will transmit wireless signals to a nearby tower or base station. The tower will then transmit the wireless signals to other neighbouring base stations. EV-DO devices within the area will be able to receive the signal transmission from the tower. EV-DO devices can also act as hotspots. Modems and cards can be used to provide Internet connectivity to a laptop or computer. EV-DO is only optimized for data and is not well suited for voice communication, including Voice over Internet Protocol. It is mostly deployed along with a carrier’s voice service. Its main competing technology is wireless coded vision multiple access, which has gained better support than EV-DO in Europe and Asia.