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Home > North American Phone Hire > American Mobile Phone Networks
In the USA there are several different types of mobile phone networks available. The Advanced Mobile Phone System, [AMPS], which may also be known as Analogue Mobile Phone System or American Mobile Phone System. This is an analogue network, which operates at 800MHz.

The Time Division Multiple Access, [TDMA], is a digital network that also works at 800MHz, but has less coverage than AMPS.

In the USA the TDMA system is used in conjunction with the more widespread AMPS network to offer a service which uses the benefits of both networks. By using dual band mobile phones known as D-AMPS, the user has the benefits of the digital system when available, but also has the advantage of a good coverage area by being able to operate on the AMPS network.

There is also GSM 1900 coverage in parts of North America, however coverage is restricted, so we advise that you contact your GSM Service Provider to ensure that GSM 1900 service is available in the areas you intend to visit.

Related links...
> What is D-AMPS?
> What is GSM?
> Tri-band phone hire