GSM Frequencies

GSM Frequencies used in each country

As depending upon your cell phone there are 4 types of frequencies are used. These frequencies are 850, 900, 1800 and 1900. Depending on the country only some of the frequencies are used. For example in the UK only 900 and 1800 are used, while in the United States 850 and 1900 are used.

Bands

Cell phones may only be able to receive certain frequencies which frequencies they use are referred to as bands

Single Band - Can only receive one frequency. The frequency depends on the country the mobile was manufactured for, for example a Single Band phone for the UK may only support GSM 900, and these phones are now uncommon.

Dual Band - Can receive two frequencies. Again depending on the country the mobile was manufactured for the two frequencies may differ. The most common are 900/1800(UK) and 850/1900(US).

Tri-Band - Can receive three frequencies. There a two types of tri-band phones those which receive 900/1800/1900 (European) and 850/1800/1900(us).

Quad Band - Can receive all 4 frequencies, so will work in ANY country.Most of the T-Mobile new cell phones that are associated with GSM networks are quad band - quad band capability is becoming a minimum standard for GSM phones.