2torial #0639:
Learn2 Choose a Pager (continued)

Decide where you'll use it

Service plans connect you within all or part of the area their antenna or satellite system covers. The extent of your provider's network and the choices you make about what part of that network you want to use determine your "coverage." As with wireless phones, coverage tends to be best around major population centers (where antennae are clustered), and worse to nonexistent in rural or remote areas.

Note that the pager itself has to be within the service area to receive messages; your callers can be anywhere. So determining your coverage needs means determining where you'll be while you use your pager. You can then choose a paging company partially based on how well it can match your desired coverage area.

Most paging companies offer three to five coverage choices:

Local. The least expensive option, local coverage works within a metropolitan area and usually also takes in all or part of the state or province where your town is located. This is a good choice if you'll mostly be using the pager in or near your hometown.

Regional. In the U.S., for instance, paging companies break the country up into five or six regions, each consisting of several states. If you travel a lot within a certain territory--for instance, on sales calls--this could be a good choice.

National. Useful mainly for the frequent traveler, this service covers the major population centers of a whole country. In the U.S., it tends to cost about three or four times as much per month as local service.

Global. A few of the larger wireless companies offer global coverage, through satellite transmission. It's most suitable for diehard international road warriors.

Roaming. If you travel out of your coverage area occasionally and still want to use your pager, many companies offer roaming. For an additional monthly service fee, you can transfer your pager's coverage area to wherever you are (as long as your pager service has antennae there). Some companies offer "roaming on demand": the choice to change your local coverage area temporarily. Ask providers if this is an option, and request prices on activation, service, messaging, and per-call costs.