Worldwide Networks [Return to main Technology page]

Global Roaming

For global roaming it is best to check with your network operator prior to travelling. Find out whether your network operator has a roaming partner in that country and the type of mobile needed to connect to that network. Also ask your network operator for details of call charges during roaming abroad, as there may be charges for receiving a call. There may be other charges specific to individual networks hence it is always best to check before travelling.

Second Generation spectrum in USA

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the USA split the designated spectrum into six duplex blocks. USA has been divided into 51 Major Trading Areas (MTA) and 493 Basic Trading Areas (BTA). An MTA is broadly equivalent in size to a state, whilst a BTA approximates to a large city. Using a process of auctioning, the FCC has granted 10 years licences to two operators in every MTA, and four operators in every BTA. MTA's have access to 3 x 15 Mhz duplex blocks, whilst BTA's have access to 3 x 5 Mhz duplex block.

Air Interfaces for Third Generation services:

USA plans to deploy EDGE, WCDMA and multi carrier CDMA in the existing bands used by second-generation systems.

Europe plans to use IMT-2000 Band for WCDMA and EDGE for GSM 1800 bands.

Asia is expected to utilise IMT-2000 Band for WCDMA and GSM 1800 band for EDGE.

Korea is expected to utilise IMT-2000 Band for WCDMA.

Japan plans to deploy IMT-2000 band for WCDMA.

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