SMS
Short Message Service: available on digital GSM networks allowing text messages of up to 160 characters to be sent and received via the network operator's message center to your mobile phone, or from the Internet, using a so-called "SMS gateway" website.
If the phone is powered off or out of range, messages are stored in the network and are delivered at the next opportunity.
Short Code SMS
Short code SMS is usually a 4 digit number to which SMS can be sent (5 in case of USA). These numbers are country specific. Short codes are used when situations demand a high recall capability. A code or keyword is normally associated with a short code. These work within a country and are expensive.
Additional Charges may apply when you send an SMS to short code numbers. Some applications are even built for a revere charge (downloading games & ring tones are typical examples).
Mobile Originated - MO
SMS sent from a mobile phone, is called incoming SMS, or mobile originated (MO).
Mobile Terminated (MT)
SMS sent from a gateway to an mobile phone are called mobile terminated (MT).
Two-way SMS - Overview
SMS sent from a mobile phone, is called incoming SMS, or mobile originated (MO). This SMS reaches our SMS Gateway, which is collected and processed. Depending on the incoming, an appropriate reply ("Echo") is sent to the customer. Our SMS Gateway is used for sending the SMS. This is outgoing message to a mobile phone is called mobile terminated (MT)
Bulk Messaging / Bulk SMS
Transmitting a huge number of SMS messages at a time. Sending Unsolicited SMS may be treated as spam.
Short Message Service Center or SMSC
SMSC is short for "Short Message Service Center," and is the machine(s) within a wireless service provider's network that provides the routing of all SMS or text messages. Much like an email server, the SMSC handles large volumes of messages sent between two mobile phones or a mobile phone and a software application.