Tbaytel

A coverage area is subdivided into a section called "cells". An antenna and a switching system serve each cell. As the subscriber drives through the region, their conversation is automatically switched from one cell to the next, without interruption, giving them maximum signal strength.

As long as the subscriber is in the coverage area, they can call any other phone in the world. Their phone is portable and calls can be made from virtually anywhere they are.

Cell sites are the cellular user's link between their cellular phone and the remaining phone system. These sites are the first place messages bound for the cellular user are guided, and the first place messages coming from the cellular units are passed through.

The most distinguishing feature of a cell site is its array of antennas. A number of antennas are used at a cell site with each antenna listening for signals in a bi-directional way. The use of bi-directional antennas ensures optimum results within a coverage area and they may be adjusted individually.

Each antenna consists of two antennas. One transmits and the other receives signals. Sending and receiving are referred to as channels and they are capable of handling a number of two-way conversations on different frequencies simultaneously.

Inside the cell site, the transmitters and receivers are connected to antennas, along with equipment required to monitor the operation of the cell site to ensure its working order. In addition, electronics are located at the cell site that is used to connect the cell site to the MTSO.

Digital cellular phone service is the most sophisticated commercial phone service available today. Instead of wires, radio signals tie the cellular telephone to the Tbaytel network. Digital service offers unparalleled voice clarity and call security.

With Tbaytel Mobility digital service you have access to the widest digital cellular coverage in the city, and with a tri-mode phone you continue to have access to our extensive analog cellular service area across the region.

Cellular technology provides a number of protection procedures to ensure the privacy of conversations, such as frequent channel hand-off over a number of channels, if available. Although it is virtually impossible to target and monitor a specific cellular phone conversation, the frequencies can be scanned at random. As a result, caution should be used when discussing confidential matters over any cellular phone.

Signal Strength affects the quality of reception and as well, the signal may be affected by influences such as terrain, weather, foliage, buildings, and other construction or type of cellular unit.

Congestion during peak calling hours may require re-dialing to obtain a free channel. When all channels are busy, a "fast busy" signal will be heard or a "network busy" indicator will appear on the phone display.

Cutoffs may occur as the signal weakens. Cut off may also occur because the switching system could not find another free channel.

Cross-Talk may occur during a weak signal when a customer may hear transmission from another call during a cellular phone conversation.

The MTX is the interface between the cell sites and the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and acts as a link between the cellular network. An MTSO also handles routing traffic within the system (i.e. Roaming).