What is SMS ?

What is SMS?
SMS, also known as short messaging service, is the rage in
Europe and parts of Asia. Gradually SMS is gaining momentum
in the US as a low cost messaging solution. SMS is defined
as text messages, up to 160 characters in length, sent to
mobile phones. In recent months SMS has become synonymous
with any text message sent to a cell phone.

Benefits to SMS
SMS is a convenient, cost effective alternative to voice
messaging. SMS popularity has grown as a result of:
1.) Cost - SMS is less expensive then the airtime used for
voice calls or web access.
2.) Non-intrusive - messages are received in a discrete
fashion and do not interrupt an individual if they are in
the middle of a meeting
3.) Integration Capabilities - many software programs can be
set up to send text alerts to mobile phones when urgent
conditions exist.

Short Messaging Explained
Short messages can originate from other phones, personal
computers or the Internet. Consumers and businesses alike
use SMS for remote communication, allowing for staff to be
mobile and stay in touch with those who matter.

Who Offers SMS?
Today nearly all the cellular carriers provide some level of
SMS or text messaging capabilities. Cost and features vary,
with carriers offering a variety of packages to suit
individual or business needs. Typically there are three
options that carriers provide:
1.) Free of Charge - text messaging is included as part of a
select plan.
2.) Per Message Fee - users are charged per message.
3.) Monthly Fee - a set monthly fee includes a specified
number of text messages.

How Do You Send SMS Messages?
Messages can be sent a variety of ways, depending on the
service provider that you use.

SMS Software
The most popular way to send text messages is using
software. When using software there is no cost associated
with the sending of messages. Depending on the carrier that
you are sending to messages can be sent any number of ways.
Different carriers use different standards or protocols, the
common protocols supported by most software is: via modem
(TAP, UCP), the Internet ((SNPP, WCTP) and via email (SMTP).
Software is flexible and often allows for group or scheduled
messaging. Another benefit to software is the ability to
automate processes, sending SMS alerts when specific
conditions exist often without the need for human
interaction.

SMS Software - free trials available for download and
evaluation http://www.notepage.net

Public SMS Gateway
Public gateways are often referred to as SMSC or SMS
centers. The centers typically run a robust software
application (like advanced versions of those mentioned
above) and subscribe to a large database that allows for the
messages to be routed to the appropriate carriers using the
appropriate settings. When using an SMSC the sender incurs a
per message charge. Cost will vary depending on the SMSC
used to send the message but its not uncommon for it to cost
.05 per message.

Phone to Phone
Many of the new mobile phones and those on the GSM network
allow for messages to be sent from phone to phone. The
keypads are rudimentary and not conducive for long messages
but are effective when time is an issue and a concise
message is needed.

Win for everyone
SMS messaging has been helpful to consumers and carriers, as
the cost of sending and delivering SMS messages is
relatively low. SMS messages have proven to be a lucrative
revenue stream for struggling telecom providers.

The Future of SMS
SMS will continue to grow as part of the telecom industry.
As software processes become more complex users will exploit
text messaging capabilities in order to allow for additional
mobility in the workplace.

About the Author -
NotePage, Inc. develops SMS, alphanumeric paging and
wireless messaging software solutions.
http://www.notepage.net