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As the name implies, packet data means that a message is broken up into small packets, transmitted via the fastest route, then re-assembled at the destination; the internet functions using packet data.
GPRS has led to the integration of packet data capability into the core of the mobile network. Base
stations have been upgraded to be able to deal with packet switching. If all 8 time slots were
assigned to GPRS, a theoretical maximum throughput of 171.2kbps is possible.In practice the networks cannot afford to commit all 8 timeslots to the transmission of data, so GPRS data speeds are typically around 20kbps to download information and 7kbps to upload information from the mobile end.
The distinct advantage of this packet data technology is that (like broadband) it is an "always-on" service. This means that rather than wait to establish a full connection to the service, it is only necessary to poll the service to download any messages, which makes the service far more immediate and user-friendly.
GPRS data services covering more than 99% of the UK population are offered by all four GSM networks in the UK. GPRS technology is fundamental to not only MultiMedia Messaging services but also the third generation networks.
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