3G FAQs

Overview

On August 17th, ATMC Wireless launched a new 3G wireless broadband network in Brunswick County. This network will provide faster broadband data speeds for 3G wireless devices such as 3G phones, iPhones, mobile laptop air cards, 3G smart phones and Netbooks. Below is a list of frequently asked questions.

What is 3G?
3G stands for "third generation" cellular technology which offers accelerated data speeds and simultaneous voice and data capabilities. The ATMC Wireless 3G network uses HSDPA/UMTS technology (High Speed Downlink Packet Access/Universal Mobile Telephone System). It gives ATMC Wireless customers the advantage of being able to:

• Surf the Internet faster from their wireless phone by loading pages in seconds
• Download games, songs and video clips and access email faster from favorite providers like Yahoo!, MSN, and AOL.
• Surf the Internet and make a call at the same time

In addition, the 3G network makes it possible to utilize the following optional subscription services:

• Cellular Video- view high quality video clips from TV shows, news, sports and weather
• Mobile Computing- use a laptop air card or Netbook for high-speed computing on the go
• AT&T Video Share- coming soon, the first-ever service in the U.S. that enables users to share live video over their wireless phone while on a voice call (available on select phones).
• AT&T Mobile Music- use your mobile phone to purchase and download music from the largest catalog in the mobile music industry.

Where in Brunswick County is 3G working? How does one know if they are on a 3G or 2G network?
ATMC Wireless' 3G Network is the largest in the county. Initially, 33 of ATMC Wireless' 48 wireless transmission sites will be 3G, covering the more densely populated areas east of Highway 17 to the ocean. In addition, there will be coverage in the northern part of the county, including Leland. Other sites will be upgraded to 3G in the near future.

How widespread is the 3G network outside of Brunswick County?
Because ATMC Wireless is part of the nationwide AT&T Mobility Network, 3G service will be available to ATMC Wireless customers throughout the nation everywhere AT&T has 3G coverage. This includes current 3G areas in NC and SC such as Raleigh, Durham, Burlington, Winston-Salem, Fayetteville, Jacksonville, Greensboro, Charlotte, Myrtle Beach, Columbia, Greenville, Spartanburg, Clemson, Charleston and now Brunswick County. When outside of Brunswick County, ATMC Wireless customers are covered anywhere in the world that AT&T Wireless 3G is available.

How much does 3G cost?
Utilizing the amazing capabilities of 3G does not cost any more than 2G service. The customer's rates are based on the monthly plan they select. All the customer needs to use the service is a monthly data plan and a 3G capable phone.

Does a customer have to have a 3G phone to use the 3G network?
A 3G phone is required to utilize the 3G network. Customers using 2G phones will not experience any change in service.

What will someone with a 3G phone notice now that a 3G network is in place?
A 3G emblem will appear on the phone, and users will experience increased response times and download speeds when using wireless data applications.

How do you know whether or not your phone is 3G?
Most phones will not have a specific indicator on the outer shell cover but there are other ways to determine the phone type. While powering on a 3G phone, the screen should display a 3G emblem upon start-up. While in a 3G service area, the phone screen should indicate 3G coverage type. The user's guide for the phone should provide information about the phone type. The Internet is also a valuable tool which can be used to verify your phone capabilities. Calling your local ATMC Wireless Store is also an option.

Will there be any changes in coverage or service for those without a 3G phone?
No. Those without a 3G phone will not see a change in their service.

In addition to 3G enabled cell phones, what other wireless devices are enhanced by a 3G network?
iPhone, Blackberry, Mobile Laptop Aircards and Netbooks

What kinds of 3G phones are available?
ATMC Wireless' stock of 3G phones runs the gamut from flip phones and quick texting phones to the AT&T exclusive iPhone. Wireless data cards and the new wireless Netbook computers are also now available. Please refer customers to www.atmcwireless.com for a full list of 3G phones we have available.

Do you have to have a wireless plan from ATMC Wireless to use the ATMC Wireless 3G network?
To use the ATMC Wireless 3G network in Brunswick County, a person must be a customer of either ATMC Wireless or have wireless service from AT&T. Those with wireless service from other companies such as Verizon, U.S. Cellular, T-Mobile, Sprint, etc. will not have access to the ATMC Wireless network.

Do other wireless carriers offer 3G services in Brunswick County?
Yes, but none have coverage as extensive as the ATMC Wireless 3G Network.

Will 3G service areas be expanded?
ATMC will continue to invest in and improve its wireless network in 2010 by adding additional 3G equipment to additional wireless towers and by offering even faster wireless broadband speeds.

How does the ATMC/AT&T 3G network compare to the other types of 3G services?
The 3G services offered by ATMC Wireless and AT&T allow the user to utilize voice services while simultaneously using data services such as web surfing, downloads, etc. For example, you can talk on your phone and search the Web for movie times at the same time. Other 3G services do not allow simultaneous use of data and voice services.