Physical Principles of Wireless Communications, 2nd Edition

CHAPTER 1

An Introduction to Modern Wireless Communications

1.1  A Brief History of Wireless Communications

Before 1844, long-distance communications depended on physically transporting messages on horseback (e.g., the Pony Express) or in ocean-crossing vessels. Weeks might pass before Americans learned of important events in Europe. This situation was radically altered by the advent of the electric telegraph that enabled almost instantaneous message transmission. During the course of the 19th century, telegraph wires were strung across continents, and a cable was laid across the floor of the Atlantic Ocean. However, there was no possibility of ...