Terminology » GSM vs EC-GSM: Understanding the Key Differences

GSM vs EC-GSM: Understanding the Key Differences

gsm ec-gsm mobile communication data rate network

This page compares GSM vs EC-GSM and describes the difference between GSM and EC-GSM technologies.

SpecificationsGSMEC-GSM
Specification3GPP Phase 1 GSM first introduced, Till Release 983GPP Release 13, as LPWA (Low Power Wide Area) Technology
AbbreviationGlobal System for Mobile CommunicationsExtended Coverage GSM
Frequency SpectrumLicensed GSM BandsLicensed GSM Bands
Coupling Loss (Max)144 dB164 dB
Bandwidth200 KHz200 KHz
Max. Data Rate< 500 Kbps (DL/UL)< 140 Kbps (DL/UL)
Battery lifeShortLong, ~10 Years with 5WH battery based on traffic pattern and coverage requirements
Device CostHigherLower
Variable Rates270.833 Kbps (Channel rate) GMSKGMSK (From 350 Kbps to 70 Kbps), 8PSK (Upto 240 Kbps)
Number of devices supportedLowerMuch higher
SecurityBetterBest (Improved compare to GSM/EDGE)
Logical channelsSame as GSM standardNew logical channels are added
Power savings modesNot availablePSM, eDRX are added
Duplexing modesFDD and TDD modes with full duplexHalf Duplex FDD
Power classVarious device power classes are supported for different gsm bands from 29 dBm to 43 dBm33 dBm , 23 dBm