What is MT mobile terminated (SMS)

The technical details of Mobile Terminated (MT) SMS.

1. Definition:
   • MT SMS stands for Mobile Terminated Short Message Service.
   • It refers to text messages that are sent from a Short Message Service Center (SMSC) to a mobile phone.
   • The term “Mobile Terminated” indicates the direction of the message, which is being terminated or sent to the mobile phone.
2. Message Flow:
   • The flow of MT SMS involves several components:
     • Sender: This can be an individual or an organization.
     • Receiver: The recipient, who is a mobile phone user.
     • SMSC (Short Message Service Center): A crucial component responsible for storing and forwarding text messages between mobile devices.
   • Here’s how the message flow occurs:
     • The sender creates a text message.
     • The message is then sent to the SMSC for delivery to the receiver’s mobile phone.
     • The SMSC plays a central role:
       • It routes the message to the appropriate mobile network operator (MNO) for delivery.
       • It performs functions like message queuing, routing, and conversion.
     • Once the MNO receives the message, it is transmitted to the receiver’s mobile phone.
3. Role of the SMSC:
   • The SMSC performs critical functions:
     • Message Queuing: It stores messages until they can be delivered to the receiver’s mobile phone.
     • Message Routing: It determines the appropriate MNO based on the receiver’s mobile phone number.
     • Message Conversion: It converts the message to the appropriate format for delivery, considering the phone’s capabilities and the network used by the MNO.
4. Characteristics of MT SMS:
   • Text-Based: MT SMS messages are limited to a maximum of 160 characters per message.
   • Asynchronous: They are not sent in real-time; instead, they are delivered when the receiver’s mobile phone is connected to the network.
   • Low Cost: MT SMS messages are typically cost-effective compared to other communication forms.
   • Reliable: They are generally considered reliable, as messages are stored on the SMSC until delivery.
   • Universal: MT SMS messages are supported by virtually all mobile phones and networks.