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Why .35 cents for a local call?
The local coin rate has been "de-regulated", as well as directory assistance charges. This means, an IPP can charge
whatever it wants for local or directory assistance calls.
This was to promote competition between the Local Exchange
carrier (LEC), and other payphone providers. This was also
the leading reason the LECs went to a .35 cent local coin
call, where as some IPPs stayed at .25 cents to keep their
phones in the lower rate base, and to compete directly with the LEC, and, even other IPPs in the area!
Does that phone require electricity to run?
No, our phones run on Line Current. Only a battery is used
to "wake" the phone up when someone picks up the handset!
Also, the battery is charging while you are talking.
Where does the voice come from?
The "smart-phone" has a voice chip, and all vocal prompts
come directly from the computer inside the phone! Only a live operator is heard when dialing "0" for operator assisted
calls.
Making a coin call? Follow directions!
The best way to make a coin call, is to First, dial your number,
listen for the amount, then deposit coins. This is the safest
way to make a coin call. If there is no dial tone, do NOT
attempt to make a call, you will loose your coins!
Prepaid calling cards, are they a good value?
They used to be a great buy, but not anymore! This is
Because you are charged a few "units" to use the card.
If the card says .09 cents (unit) a minute, you are charged
as many units as it takes to equal .28 cents for dialing
the toll-free number to use the card. Even if 3x.09=.27, that is not .28 cents, to they may charge another. Your first minute
can cost you a total of five!
Who can own payphone?
The LECs used to be the only providers of payphones, but
since the deregulation in 1984, anyone can get into the buiz!
You still must have a COCOT line installed by the LEC, and at
higher rates, and requirements than a residential or business line.
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