3
T-Mobile
Orange
Vodafone
O2

Cygnet Communication Systems are an O2 Advanced Partner, however we work with the other four networks to ensure our clients have the most cost-effective solution to their requirements.

The Networks Explained:

Historically, there have been 4 mobile phone networks operating in the UK. Vodafone and O2 (formerly BT Cellnet) are the oldest and largest, originally operating analogue (1st generation) networks, and these were later joined by Orange and T-Mobile (formerly One 2 One). All of these companies now operate digital (2nd generation) networks. In addition, there are now several "virtual" networks that use these networks - Virgin Mobile, Value Telecom and Fresh, using the T-Mobile network and Tesco Mobile that uses the O2 network. These virtual networks have different tariffs and charges, but they use the T-Mobile & O2 masts and technology therefore coverage will be exactly the same on the virtual network as on the correct network.

A 2.5G network was first introduced by O2, which involved the technology behind the General Packet Radio Service (GPRS). This allowed mobile telephone users to access the Internet and to send/receive emails. The other networks introduced their 2.5G elements some time later. The speed of the GPRS network is up to 48 kbps; in general this is dependant upon network coverage and the individual handset. This speed is the rough equivalent of a dial up modem connected to the telephone line when using the Internet.

The first operator to provide sole 3G (3rd generation) coverage is 3, however the other 4 networks offer 3G networks, typically within the larger conurbations within the UK. The 3G networks offer additional data services such as video calling, entertainment, location-based services (local maps, traffic services, etc) however, the greatest improvement regarding business users is the speed available for email, web-browsing and data transfers. The speed of data transmitted on the 3G network is up to 8 times faster than the GPRS network. All networks are required to have a 80% UK coverage by 31 December 07.

Network coverage

All the 2G networks are required, by law, and the terms and conditions of their licence, to have 99% population coverage and 90% geographical coverage within the UK, but if you live or work in less densely populated areas you could well experience problems with any network. Generally speaking, Vodafone and O2 still seem to provide the best coverage, and T-Mobile lags some way behind. The Orange and T-Mobile signals are often believed to work less well in buildings, because of the higher frequency of their signals (see below). The networks publish maps showing how well they cover the country, but these are of little practical use to users. The best advice is probably to ask friends or colleagues in your local area how they find the signal strength of the various networks, however this can be handset dependent.

The Vodafone and O2 networks are GSM (GSM 900), whilst the Orange and T-Mobile networks are GSM 1800. This is a consideration if you wish to use your phone abroad. Different networks in different countries use either GSM 900 or GSM 1800. Generally speaking, if you plan to use your phone abroad, then you should make sure that you buy a tri-band phone, or a quad band phone.