Wireless Glossary (L)

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LCD (Liquid crystal display) a type of display used on most cell phones, capable of displayingmonochrome characters and some pictures. The LCD has low energy requirements and uses dark segments against a lighter background for easy viewing in all lighting conditions. Color LCD displays use two basic techniques for producing color: Passive matrix is the less expensive of the two technologies. The other technology, called thin film transistor (TFT) or active-matrix, produces color images that are as sharp as traditional CRT displays, but the technology is expensive.

LED (Light emitting diode) a semiconductor device that illuminates when electricity passes through it. Often used as an indicator light, or to spell out words and numbers. LEDs come in many colors, and some LEDs contain multiple elements and are therefore capable of multiple colors. Provides good visibility in direct sunlight and in darkness.

Licensing Fee a previously mandatory (2 decades ago) government charge collected on behalf of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission. The fee is no longer mandatory but is still being collected by many cell phones companies.

Lithium Ion (LiIon) a type of rechargeable battery for cell phones which is generally lighter weight than earlier battery types, has a relatively longer cycle life, and generally does not suffer from “memory” effect.

Lithium Polymer a battery technology similar to lithium ion but allows the battery to be molded to any shape allowing greater flexibility for mobile phone designers.

Location Services services that deliver information about the geographic location of mobile telecommunications devices.

Lock a feature that prevents unauthorized use of a phone. When activated the phone will automatically lock each time it is turned off. When turned back on, the phone will prompt the user to enter a unlock code before it will allow a call to be placed. Calls, such as emergency or other specially-programmed numbers, may be placed without entering a lock code.

Long-distance a charge incurred when calling to a telephone number outside your local calling area.

Long-distance Saver a feature offered by some carriers designed to help reduce your long-distance charges.

Low Battery Warning a visual and/or audible indication that the battery is approaching discharge.

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