pager network

The paging networks are cellular networks with fixed links between the base stations based on X.25. The frequency range depends on the service offered and is 460 MHz for Cityruf, for example. Depending on the service, the data is transmitted in analog or digital form. It is always a simplex operation without return channel with single call, group call and collective call.

Paging services provide system access to the telephone network, ISDN and the Internet. They are mainly used by private users who need to be reachable at all times and in all places. Compared to mobile telephony, the paging system is a relatively inexpensive information system. Depending on the paging system, the subscriber pays only a basic fee. It may also be that the service is free of charge if the sender of the paging call bears the costs.

The paging networks that exist in Germany are non-compatible systems that can only be used in Germany. In the case of the individual networks, the territory of Germany is divided into regions. Subscribers are assigned to specific regions and can only be reached within these regions. If a subscriber wants to change regions or be additionally reachable in another region, he must register this with the network operator. It has not yet been possible to implement a uniform European paging standard that also covers roaming. ERMES is intended to establish such a standard for paging systems.