6
6.
Protocol support
The RIM 801D OEM radio modem offers two link-level protocols: NCL
(Native Control Language) and RAP (Radio Access Protocol). Both
protocols serve the same function: they control the exchange of DataTAC
data packets and radio control commands between the radio modem and the
host device.
RAP offers several advantages over NCL when used with the RIM 801D, or
other applications where the radio modem is physically located close to the
host device. RAP is a scaleable protocol that is easy to implement, it uses
only 1 to 3 K of program storage. RAP helps application developers
simplify software development on small-memory devices like PDAs,
vending machines, POS terminals, alarm panels, and other embedded
systems.
This chapter describes SDUs, the packets of data which are exchanged over
the DataTAC wireless network. Following this is an examination of the NCL
and RAP protocols. For more detailed technical documentation, please
refer to RIM’s Programmer’s Guide to RAP and SDUs.
