What is SMS ?
What is SMS? SMS, also known as short messaging service, is the
rage in Europe and parts of Asia. Gradually SMS is gaining
momentum in the US as a low cost messaging solution. SMS is
defined as text messages, up to 160 characters in length, sent
to mobile phones. In recent months SMS has become synonymous
with any text message sent to a cell phone.
Benefits to SMS SMS is a convenient, cost effective alternative
to voice messaging. SMS popularity has grown as a result of: 1.)
Cost - SMS is less expensive then the airtime used for voice
calls or web access. 2.) Non-intrusive - messages are received
in a discrete fashion and do not interrupt an individual if they
are in the middle of a meeting 3.) Integration Capabilities -
many software programs can be set up to send text alerts to
mobile phones when urgent conditions exist.
Short Messaging Explained Short messages can originate from
other phones, personal computers or the Internet. Consumers and
businesses alike use SMS for remote communication, allowing for
staff to be mobile and stay in touch with those who matter.
Who Offers SMS? Today nearly all the cellular carriers provide
some level of SMS or text messaging capabilities. Cost and
features vary, with carriers offering a variety of packages to
suit individual or business needs. Typically there are three
options that carriers provide: 1.) Free of Charge - text
messaging is included as part of a select plan. 2.) Per Message
Fee - users are charged per message. 3.) Monthly Fee - a set
monthly fee includes a specified number of text messages.
How Do You Send SMS Messages? Messages can be sent a variety of
ways, depending on the service provider that you use.
SMS Software The most popular way to send text messages is using
software. When using software there is no cost associated with
the sending of messages. Depending on the carrier that you are
sending to messages can be sent any number of ways. Different
carriers use different standards or protocols, the common
protocols supported by most software is: via modem (TAP, UCP),
the Internet ((SNPP, WCTP) and via email (SMTP). Software is
flexible and often allows for group or scheduled messaging.
Another benefit to software is the ability to automate
processes, sending SMS alerts when specific conditions exist
often without the need for human interaction.
SMS Software - free trials available for download and evaluation
http://www.notepage.net
Public SMS Gateway Public gateways are often referred to as SMSC
or SMS centers. The centers typically run a robust software
application (like advanced versions of those mentioned above)
and subscribe to a large database that allows for the messages
to be routed to the appropriate carriers using the appropriate
settings. When using an SMSC the sender incurs a per message
charge. Cost will vary depending on the SMSC used to send the
message but its not uncommon for it to cost .05 per message.
Phone to Phone Many of the new mobile phones and those on the
GSM network allow for messages to be sent from phone to phone.
The keypads are rudimentary and not conducive for long messages
but are effective when time is an issue and a concise message is
needed.
Win for everyone SMS messaging has been helpful to consumers and
carriers, as the cost of sending and delivering SMS messages is
relatively low. SMS messages have proven to be a lucrative
revenue stream for struggling telecom providers.
The Future of SMS SMS will continue to grow as part of the
telecom industry. As software processes become more complex
users will exploit text messaging capabilities in order to allow
for additional mobility in the workplace.
About the Author - NotePage, Inc. develops SMS, alphanumeric
paging and wireless messaging software solutions.
http://www.notepage.net