The word Telemetry, literally meaning "remote measurement" is used to describe technology that allows automated measurement and transmission of data by wire, radio, or other means, typically from inaccessible or dangerous locations, such as a satellite in orbit to control stations on ground, where the information is recorded and evaluated. When telemetry was still in its nascent stage, information was relayed over wires. Today it uses radio transmissions and GSM (Global System for Mobile communication) technology for data transmission. Major applications of Telemetry GSM include monitoring electric-power stations, gathering meteorological data, remote meter reading, logistics management, tracking endangered land and aquatic species, and monitoring manned and unmanned space flights. The remote meter reading is used even by small towns to read and record w3ater and electric meters of the towns' residents.

The list of potential applications of Telemetry GSM is practically endless. The complete list is definately beyond the scope of this one article. For instance, the Telemetry GSM modules are used in rail switching. In this application, the modules automatically report the position of the rail switching point to the traffic control center. The advantages of using General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) enabled GSM components lies in the fact that they do not have the same setup requirements and do not congest the network with fixed connections. This is because each module operates in a standby mode and goes active to send small amounts of data either at regular intervals or as and when required. These modules are also relatively inexpensive, easy to install and very reliable.

The importance of telemetry to basic biological, environmental and medical research cannot be overstressed. Since the early 1970s, the use of telemetry to provide real time physiological monitoring in coronary care units has become widely recognized. Nowadays, Telemetry GSM is used for monitoring of the electrophysiological state of patients who are at risk of abnormal heart activity. These patients are outfitted with a customized device without any other control except an On/Off button. This device comprises a wireless receiver for the long-distance telemetry and a GSM module. The messages are relayed as encrypted short messages via the standard SMS (short messaging system) protocol to the central database, where it is decrypted and subsequently allocated to the healthcare professional in charge of the patient. This technology allows the patient to get out of bed and walk around a little to keep from getting stiff and getting bed sores.