fixed-mobile convergence

Fixed-mobile convergence (FMC) is the trend towards seamless connectivity between fixed and wireless telecommunications networks. The term also describes any physical network that allows cellular telephone sets to function smoothly with the fixed network infrastructure.

The ultimate goal of FMC is to optimize transmission of all data, voice and video communications to and among end users, no matter what their locations or devices. In the more immediate future, FMC means that a single device can connect through and be switched between wired and wireless networks.

FMC is sometimes seen as a way to reverse the trend towards fixed-mobile substitution (FMS), the increasing tendency for consumers and businesses to substitute cellular telephones for hard-wired or cordless landline sets.

Read more about fixed-mobile convergence: - Azfar Aslam of Lucent Technologies discusses the benefits of FMC. - FixedMobileConvergence.net provides links to news and updates relevant to mobile communications and FMC technology. - The Fixed-Mobile Convergence Alliance (FMCA) is an organization whose goal is to accelerate FMC worldwide.

Do you have something to add to this definition? Let us know. Send your comments to techterms@whatis.com

Digg This!     StumbleUpon     Del.icio.us

RELATED CONTENT Rugged mobile devices must be more than durable in harsh environments The durability of ruggedized mobile devices is only the first consideration for mobile managers with workers who take devices into hazardous... As SaaS takes off, mobile browsers start to matter more As mobile browsers play catch-up, SaaS comes to the wireless world. iPhone Help: Troubleshooting the top five enterprise problems When enterprise users need help with their iPhones, IT is charged with troubleshooting their shiny toys. Here's how.

RELATED GLOSSARY TERMS Terms from Whatis.com − the technology online dictionary 802.11n  (SearchMobileComputing.com) 802.11n is an upcoming specification for wireless LAN (WLAN) communications. An addition to the 802.11 family of standards, 802.11n is intended to... American Radio Relay League  (SearchMobileComputing.com)