Mobile telephone communication has evolved with technology. First there was
analogue, then the 2G (second generation) first digital mobile telephone
system GSM (Global System for Mobile
communication) and later the second digital system CDMA (Code Division
Multiple Access) to exist alongside of GSM.
3G of "Third Generation" is a new wave of wireless
communication using internet access and moving colour images turning mobile
telephones into multimedia players.
The move to 3G is touted to bring us in line with mainstream technology
that, because there are wider carriers, will have advanced services. A new
handset will be required for this new network.
Next
G
The
Next G technology, which was originally based on Swedish technology
by the Ericsson company, was firstly designed to operate to cover
distances of up to 50 km from each base station. Ericssons have
since provided Extended Reach software and Telstra has now commenced
implementing this at selected base stations in an effort to upgrade
and extend the service available. Telstra’s website provides maps
of coverage areas.
Handsets are available from Next G device suppliers
such as Motorola, Samsung, Sony Ericsson, LG and
Nokia.
Not
only is mobile telephone service available you can now send and
receive emails and access the internet, via My Place or the BigPond
Mobile Services, depending on the mobile phone handset you select.
Take some time to check out which of the various handsets available
suits you as they also have several other features available. If
you intend to use your mobile phone in your vehicle there are
accessories available to improve your coverage.
The
coverage you get on the mobile network will depend on your location,
the model mobile telephone you are using and whether it has an
external antenna. So if you are travelling extensively in your
RV or 4WD to regional and rural areas then a mobile telephone with a
‘blue tick’
symbol should be selected. Telstra recommend these ‘blue
tick’
handsets for ‘rural areas’ which they define as ‘Those
areas outside metropolitan and regional areas, within the Next G™
network coverage area’
To maximise coverage
and get the best reception Telstra recommend a car kit that enables
connection to the antenna on the outside of your vehicle. Take care
in selecting a car kit as not all of them enable direct connection
of the antenna to the mobile phone. An alternative is to purchase a
patch lead which can be connected to an external aerial on the
vehicle but again not all handsets will accept a patch lead.
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