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75

Question 75

With reference to communication technologies, what is/are the difference/differences between LTE (Long-Term Evolution) and VoLTE (Voice over Long-Term Evolution)?
1. LTE is commonly marketed as 3G and VoLTE is commonly marketed as advanced 3G.
2. LTE is data-only technology and VoLTE is voice-only technology.
Select the correct answer using the code given below.

AOptions

A
A) 1 only
B
B) 2 only
C
C) Both 1 and 2
D
D) Neither 1 nor 2

BSolution

Let's analyze the differences between LTE (Long-Term Evolution) and VoLTE (Voice over Long-Term Evolution):

1. LTE is commonly marketed as 3G and VoLTE is commonly marketed as advanced 3G. This statement is incorrect. LTE is widely marketed as 4G technology, representing a significant advancement over 3G (like UMTS or HSPA). VoLTE is a technology that specifically enables voice calls over the 4G LTE data network, thus building upon and enhancing 4G capabilities, not 3G.

2. LTE is data-only technology and VoLTE is voice-only technology. This statement is incorrect. LTE is primarily designed as a data-centric technology for high-speed internet access. However, it can support voice calls through various mechanisms, including circuit-switched fallback (CSFB) to 2G/3G networks, or, more efficiently, using Voice over IP (VoIP) if VoLTE is not available. VoLTE, on the other hand, is specifically designed to carry voice traffic as data packets over the LTE network, providing higher quality voice calls and enabling simultaneous voice and data usage. Therefore, neither is 'only' data or 'only' voice.

Thus, neither statement 1 nor statement 2 is correct.

Diagram for Q75

CStrategy

For questions on technology, understand the fundamental purpose and capabilities of each. Distinguish between different generations of technology (e.g., 3G, 4G, 5G) and their specific enhancements. Avoid absolute statements like 'only' unless the technology is strictly limited to one function.

DSyllabus Analysis

This question falls under the Science & Technology section of the UPSC Prelims syllabus, specifically focusing on telecommunications technology and mobile networks.

EQuestion Analysis

Medium. The question tests specific technical knowledge about mobile communication standards, which can be confusing if one is not familiar with the nuances of LTE and VoLTE capabilities.