Definition
In the field of technology, “handover” refers to the process of transferring an ongoing call or data session from one cell of a network to another or from one channel to another without interruption. This is a crucial aspect of mobile communication technology, allowing users to maintain their calls or data sessions even when they move between coverage areas. Handover ensures seamless service, optimizing signal strength and reducing the risk of dropped connections.
Phonetic
The phonetic spelling of “Handover” is /ˈhændËŒoÊŠvÉ™r/
Key Takeaways
Sure, here’s that information in HTML numbered list format:“`html
- Handover refers to the process of transferring primary responsibility and care of a patient from one professional or team of professionals to another without compromising the continuous care and safety of the patient.
- Effective handovers are essential in maintaining a high standard of patient care and safety. This implies clear communication, detailed patient information, and understanding between healthcare professionals.
- A poorly conducted handover can lead to wrong treatment, delay in diagnosis and can even jeopardize patient’s life. Thus, it’s imperative to have a structured and efficient handover process to reduce errors.
“`
Importance
Handover is a critical term in technology, particularly in the field of telecommunications and networking, as it refers to the process of transferring an ongoing call or data session from one channel, cell or network to another without any interruption. Often happening seamlessly, its importance lies in maintaining communication quality and continuity, therefore enhancing user experience. For instance, in mobile communications, handovers ensure that as a device moves through different base station coverage areas, the active phone call or data transmission isn’t disrupted but rather smoothly handed over from one base station to another. It’s a key technology that plays a pivotal role in realizing the effective mobility management in wireless networks.
Explanation
The technology term “handover” plays a very crucial role in telecommunication circles, particularly in mobile communication networks. The primary purpose of a handover is to maintain the continuity of an ongoing call or data session when the user is moving from one coverage area of a particular base station to another. This is paramount to sustain seamless communication, without loss of conversation or data, and to enhance the users’ experience even as they move around.Handover technology is commonly used in wireless networks, including cellular networks and Wi-Fi. For instance, when you’re on a mobile call and move from one area to another, a handover ensures that your call doesn’t drop but switches smoothly between cell towers. In Wi-Fi networks, handover processes enable a device to switch from one access point to another without losing the internet connection, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity. Therefore, handover, also called handoff, is pivotal in maintaining quality service in mobile technology, enhancing network capacity, and ensuring optimal utilization of resources.
Examples
1. Cellular Networks: In cellular communication, a handover refers to the process of transferring an ongoing call or data session from one channel connected to the core network to another. For instance, when you are on a call on your mobile phone and you move from one cellular network coverage area to another, your call doesn’t drop thanks to the handover technology which transfers the call smoothly from the previous cell tower to the new one without interruption.2. Wi-Fi Networks: In Wi-Fi technology, handover is the process where a device like a smartphone switches from one Wi-Fi access point to another without disconnecting the internet connection. For example, if you are moving around in a large office building or shopping mall connected to the Wi-Fi, your device will switch between different Wi-Fi access points depending on which one has the strongest signal.3. Healthcare: In hospitals, a handover refers to the transfer of necessary information (patient data, ongoing treatment plans, etc.) about a patient from one team or professional to another (like from a day shift staff to a night shift staff). This handover process is critical to continuous and effective patient care. With technological advancement, this handover process is now often carried out through electronic health record systems or other specialized software to minimize errors and ensure completeness of information transfer.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)
**Q: What is Handover in technology?**A: Handover refers to the process of transferring an active call or data session from one cell in a mobile network to another or from one channel in a wireless network to another. **Q: Why is Handover important in wireless communication?**A: Handover is important as it allows users to move from one area to another without dropping their call or losing their data connectivity. This continuous connectivity enhances user experience in a wireless communication system.**Q: What are the types of Handover in mobile networks?**A: The types of Handover include Hard Handover (call is transferred all at once), Soft Handover (call is connected to the new cell before disconnecting from the original cell), and Softer Handover (involves transfers between sectors of a single cell).**Q: How does Handover work in cellular networks?**A: In cellular networks, Handover works by monitoring the signal strength from neighboring cells. When the system detects that the signal from a neighboring cell is stronger than the cell that the device is currently connected to, it initiates a handover to the stronger cell.**Q: What can happen if a Handover fails?**A: In the event of a handover failure, the call might be dropped or disconnected. It can also lead to a deterioration in the quality of service of the ongoing data session.**Q: How can the efficiency of Handover be improved in wireless networks?**A: The efficiency of Handover can be improved by better network planning, including careful cell site selection and efficient frequency allocation. Advanced algorithms for handover decision and optimization can also positively impact the efficiency of Handover.**Q: How does a Handover impact network performance?**A: If Handover is used effectively, it can greatly enhance network performance by ensuring the quality of ongoing calls or data sessions and optimizing network resources. However, if Handover is not handled properly, it might lead to dropped calls or interrupted data sessions.
Related Tech Terms
- Seamless Handover
- Hard Handover
- Soft Handover
- Inter-system Handover
- Handover Latency
