Carrier
Shorthand for wireless carrier, carriers provide the network infrastructure for the delivery of messages between end users and connection aggregators or application providers.

Content Provider
Content providers are entities that own or have the right to content. They often license content to application providers for delivery to end users.

CSC
CSC is the abbreviation for common short code.

SMS 
Short message service; also commonly known as a text message.

Wireless Subscriber
A wireless subscriber is any individual who has purchased mobile phone service from a wireless service provider.

Wireless Application Protocol or WAP
An open international standard for applications that use wireless communication. Its principal application is to enable access to the internet from a mobile phone or PDA.

WAP Browser 
A WAP browser is designed to provide all of the basic services of a computer based web browser but simplified to operate within the restrictions of a mobile phone. WAP is now the protocol used for the majority of the world's mobile internet sites, known as WAP sites. Dial up www.mobilesmartads.mobi

on your cell phone to see an example.

On-deck vs. Off-deck
"On-deck" is defined as accessing information via the wireless provider's main WAP page. If you are "Off-deck" your link is accessed only when the URL is typed into the mobile web address bar

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faqs - basics of text messaging

What is text messaging? How do I know if I can send text messages?
Text messaging is a way to communicate on your mobile phone by sending and receiving plain text messages. Other terms for text messaging include SMS (which stands for Short Message Service), texting, mobile messaging, wireless messaging, and short mail. To determine if you can send text messages, the best thing to do is contact your wireless service provider or reference your mobile phone's manual. The text messaging service is typically found on your mobile phone menu under 'Messages'. After selecting 'Messaging', if you have an option to 'Send' or 'Create' a message, this is typically how you would begin the process of sending a text message. The type of message you would create or send is a 'short message', 'text message', or 'message'.

Is text messaging the same as email?
Technically, they are not the same. However, they are very similar, and many mobile devices can send and receive both.

Who can I send an SMS or text messages to?
In the U.S., you can send an SMS or text message to any other mobile phone user by addressing the message to their mobile phone number. Additionally, you can send messages to participate in polls, voting, games and a variety of other exciting mobile applications by addressing your SMS or text message to a short code. Look for short codes on product packaging and in TV and print advertising.

What kind of phone do I need to send SMS or text messages?
Nearly every new mobile phone allows you to send and receive SMS or text messages, and this information will be presented to you as part of the phone's capabilities when you make your purchase. For older phones, it is best to contact your wireless service provider if you are not sure, and they can either explain how to send and read messages or provide you details on upgrading to a phone with these capabilities.