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GSM Telemetry
The word Telemetry, literally meaning "remote measurement" is used
to describe technology that allows automated measurement and
transmission of data by wire, radio, or other means, typically from
inaccessible or dangerous locations, such as a satellite in orbit to
control stations on ground, where the information is recorded and
evaluated. When telemetry was still in its nascent stage,
information was relayed over wires. Today it uses radio
transmissions and GSM (Global System for Mobile communication)
technology for data transmission. Major applications of Telemetry
GSM include monitoring electric-power stations, gathering
meteorological data, remote meter reading, logistics management,
tracking endangered land and aquatic species, and monitoring manned
and unmanned space flights.
The list of potential applications of Telemetry GSM is practically
endless. For instance, the Telemetry GSM modules are used in rail
switching. In this application, the modules automatically report the
position of the rail switching point to the traffic control center.
The advantages of using General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) enabled
GSM components lies in the fact that they do not have the same setup
requirements and do not congest the network with fixed connections.
This is because each module operates in a standby mode and goes
active to send small amounts of data either at regular intervals or
as and when required. These modules are also relatively inexpensive,
easy to install and very reliable.
The importance of telemetry to basic biological, environmental and
medical research cannot be overstressed. Since the early 1970s, the
use of telemetry to provide real time physiological monitoring in
coronary care units has become widely recognized. Nowadays,
Telemetry GSM is used for monitoring of the electrophysiological
state of patients who are at risk of abnormal heart activity. These
patients are outfitted with a customized device without any other
control except an On/Off button. This device comprises a wireless
receiver for the long-distance telemetry and a GSM module. The
messages are relayed as encrypted short messages via the standard
SMS (short messaging system) protocol to the central database, where
it is decrypted and subsequently allocated to the healthcare
professional in charge of the patient.
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