What is telecommunications?
Telecommunications is the sending of information such as voice, text, images and data from one place to another using electronic devices. It lets people communicate even when separated by great distances.
Key idea
Telecommunications links people across distance through the telephone, the internet and satellites, reducing the barrier of distance and time.
Development of telecommunication devices
Telecommunications began with the telephone and grew rapidly to mobile phones, fibre optics, the internet and satellites.
- Telephone — allows voice conversation between two parties.
- Internet — connects computers around the world and allows fast exchange of information.
- Satellite — relays signals from space for broadcasting and long-distance communication.
- Fibre optics — transmits data as light at very high speed.
Economic importance
Telecommunications speeds up business transactions and electronic commerce (e-commerce). Traders can reach customers and suppliers instantly, order goods and make payments online. Rural areas also gain access to information and education.
Remember
In Malaysia, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) regulates the telecommunications industry.