Network Frequencies

One thing to consider before deciding to purchase unlock codes for a Nokia mobile phone is the network frequency on which the phone operates. There are currently four types of Nokia GSM phone - single-band, dual-band, tri-band and quad-band. There are also four GSM network frequencies - GSM 850Mhz, GSM 900Mhz, GSM 1800Mhz and GSM 1900Mhz. Single-band handsets will operate only on one specific GSM network frequency, dual-band handsets will operate on two specific GSM network frequencies, tri-band handsets will operate on three specific GSM network frequencies and quad-band handsets will operate on any GSM network in the world.

Sounds simple enough, right? Well, not really because you will need to know the network frequency your handset uses to ensure it will operate on the network you intend to use after unlocking your phone. Although not concrete, this is the general rule:

• Single-band GSM handsets purchased in the Americas will usually operate on GSM 850Mhz or GSM 1900Mhz (either of the two, not both).


• Single-band GSM handsets purchased in Europe, Africa, Asia, Asia-Pacific etc. will usually operate on GSM 900Mhz or GSM 1800Mhz (either of the two, not both).


• Dual-band GSM handsets purchased in the Americas will usually operate on GSM 850Mhz and GSM 1900Mhz.


• Dual-band GSM handsets purchased in Europe, Africa, Asia, Asia-Pacific etc. will usually operate on GSM 900Mhz and GSM 1800Mhz.


• Tri-band GSM handsets purchased in the Americas will usually operate on GSM 850Mhz, GSM 1800Mhz and GSM 1900Mhz.


• Tri-band GSM handsets purchased in Europe, Africa, Asia, Asia-Pacific etc. will usually operate on GSM 900Mhz, GSM 1800Mhz and GSM 1900Mhz.


• Quad-band GSM handsets purchased anywhere in the world will operate on GSM 850Mhz, GSM 900Mhz, GSM 1800Mhz and GSM 1900Mhz. (any worldwide GSM network)

The above rule obviously applies only to handsets purchased new and does not apply to used handsets that may have originated from another country. I am currently working on a 'Compatibility Calculator' which I should be adding to my site at www.unlocks.co.uk within the next few weeks. This calculator will enable customers to select their phone model, the network from which the phone originated and the network they intend to use after unlocking. The calculator will then inform the customer whether or not the phone will operate on the network they intend to use after unlocking.

Remember, unlocking your Nokia phone will not change the operating frequency of the handset!