What is one disadvantage of EDGE in comparison to HSCSD and GPRS?

Solution (By Examveda Team)

EDGE (Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution):
EDGE is a 2.5G technology that improves upon the original GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) standard by enabling higher data rates and more efficient packet-oriented data transmission. It enhances the data capabilities of GSM networks, providing better performance for mobile internet and multimedia services compared to basic GSM.

HSCSD (High-Speed Circuit-Switched Data):
HSCSD is a 2G technology that enhances GSM by using multiple time slots for each data transmission. This enables faster data rates than standard GSM, though it still relies on circuit-switched technology for data transfer.

GPRS (General Packet Radio Service):
GPRS is another 2G technology that improves data transmission by using packet switching instead of circuit switching, making it more efficient for bursty data services, like browsing the web and sending emails.

Explanation of the Correct Answer:
Option A: Low data rates
This is the correct answer. While EDGE does improve upon GSM with better data rates, its speeds are still lower compared to HSCSD and GPRS, especially under optimal conditions. HSCSD uses multiple time slots to increase data transfer rates, achieving faster speeds than EDGE. GPRS, although slower in some cases, is generally more efficient in bursty data scenarios, which can sometimes give it an edge over EDGE in real-world usage. Despite its improvements, EDGE still cannot compete with the higher data rates achievable by more advanced technologies.

Option B: Small coverage range
This option is incorrect. The coverage range for EDGE is generally similar to that of GPRS and HSCSD, as they all operate within the same GSM infrastructure. The coverage is primarily determined by the base station's signal strength and the terrain, not by the data transmission technology.

Option C: Low speed
This option is partially correct but misleading. EDGE is slower than 3G and 4G technologies, but it is not necessarily slower than HSCSD or GPRS. The data speed of EDGE depends on specific conditions and the implementation of the technology, making it comparable to or sometimes faster than HSCSD or GPRS, particularly in non-ideal network environments.

Option D: No advancement
This option is incorrect. EDGE is considered an advancement over the original GSM standard because it improves data transmission capabilities, enabling faster internet and multimedia services. It represents a significant step forward, even though it is a transitional technology before the adoption of 3G and beyond.

Correct Answer: Option A: Low data rates
While EDGE offers improvements over GSM, its data rates are still lower than those provided by HSCSD and GPRS in certain conditions. HSCSD achieves faster speeds by using multiple time slots, and GPRS is more efficient for bursty data transfers, making EDGE less advantageous in terms of data rate in comparison.