Wireless Glossary (D)

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D-AMPS see TDMA.

Data information that a wireless device can process (numbers, letters and symbols).

Data Card allows a fax and data compatible phone to connect to a laptop or a handheld computer. You can then use this combination to access the Internet or send/receive faxes.

Data Compatible a wireless feature that enables devices to transmit data either from the handset or via a data card.

Data/Fax Capability the ability for a cell phone to send and receive fax and data files, access the Internet, and send e-mail when connected to mobile office equipment.

Data Interface/Link an accessory that allows the connection of wireless devices to computers, fax machines, etc. for data transmission.

Data Services enables users to access data, transmit data and communicate with computers and networks. (e-mail, Internet, fax, etc..)

Data Transmission the transmission of data between computers or over a telecommunications network.

Date and Time Stamp a feature that records the exact time and date a message was left.

DCIM (Digital Camera Images) a directory found at the root of all digital cameras. May contain multiple subdirectories with names such as “123ABCDE”, and no two directories may have the same three digit code.

DCS (Digital Cellular System) a GSM network operating at 1800MHZ. Used by Orange and One 2 One in the UK.

Dead Spot an area within a wireless network where service is not available.

Dedicated Message Key a feature which allows quick access to digital voice and text messages.

Desktop Charger a cradle-type device which allows you to charge your phone in an upright position and also lets you charge an additional battery at the same time.

Detailed Billing a bill which lists details of usage, including the airtime used, telephone numbers called, and any additional charges.

Digital a method of encoding a transmission that involves translating information (in the case of digital phones the information would be a voice conversation) into a series of 0’s and 1’s. Digital communications technology offers cleaner calls without the static and distortion that is common with analog phones. The majority of new handsets sold today are digital rather than analog technology.

Digital Phone a type of wireless phone which transmits and receives digital signals.

Digital Signal Processing see DSP.

Digital TTY/TDD enables those who are deaf or hard of hearing to use a special TTY device with digital service. Normally, TTY devices are only compatible with analog service.

Dimensions the size of a device

Direct Connect a term used by Telus Mobility’s Mike service to describe their two-way radio feature which allows a group of users to communicate directly without dialing a phone number.

Distinctive Ringing a feature that enables a phone to ring in a special way when calls from a designated list of phone numbers are received (network and subscription dependent feature -not available in all areas).

DragonBall a series of microprocessors (the brains of a computer) developed by Motorola specifically designed for PDAs, smartphones and Internet appliances.

DSP (Digital Signal Processing) refers to manipulating analog information, such as sound or photographs that has been converted into a digital form to improve accuracy and reliability of digital communications.

DTMF (Dual Tone Multi-Frequency) are tones that your phone transmits to communicate with tone activated phone systems like voice mail or bank by-phone.

Dual-Band a wireless phone which is able to operate on both 800MHz and 1900MHz digital networks to send and receive calls; basically, the phone can operate in either digital cellular or PCS frequencies.

Dual-Battery Compatible allows you to use a main and auxiliary battery on your phone for extended talk times.

Dual-Mode a wireless phone which is able to operate on both analog and digital networks to send and receive calls.

Dual-NAM a feature which enables a wireless phone to operate on two separate phone numbers.

Dual-Tone Multi Frequency see DTMF.

See any errors? Have a suggestion for a wireless term? Please let us know.