What Is a GPRS System?

Cellular communication systems require a fast data, or digital information, rate transfer in a network in order to provide quality service for users. One kind of service offered by certain cellular networks is the GPRS, or general packet radio service, system.

Definition

• A GPRS system is a type of mobile data service, or collection of features and applications available to mobile phone subscribers. GPRS systems offer constant Internet access, multimedia messaging, various Internet applications for devices such as smartphones, and data rates ranging from 56 to 114 kilobits (kb) per second. A kilobit is 1,000 bits, or basic units of digital information.

2G and 3G Networks

• GPRS systems are available on 2G (second generation) and 3G (third generation) networks. The 2G wireless phone technology uses digital radio signals as opposed to analog, or 1G, networks. The 3G technology enables higher data rates than 2G networks, as well as simultaneous talk and data services.

Costs

• Costs for GPRS usage typically are based on data volume, and can be determined on a pay-as-you-go or bundled plan. An example of a bundled plan is a fixed charge for up to five GB (gigabytes) of data volume per month. A gigabyte is the equivalent of one billion bytes, or bits.