Beepers work with specific coding from the carrier.
Modern beepers work off a transmitter installed within the paging device. All beepers can be called from a PC modem, as long as the modem has the right software installed on the computer. When you purchase a beeper, the carriers attach a special number or code to the beeper so it can receive pages. The transmitter works like a cell phone, either from a tower or satellite.
Coding
Each beeper is designated a channel access protocol code that allows that beeper to receive messages. The code limits the chances that other frequencies will affect the reception of the beeper. It also ensures that messages meant for that beeper are not sent to another paging system. A message converts over to the coding used by that specific beeper for the beeper to receive the message. The code also helps locate a lost or stolen beeper.
Internal Antenna
Each beeper also has an internal antenna made of a metal coil. The antenna picks up the signals sent to that antenna. Once the message is converted to the beeper coding, the antenna receives that coding and signal, setting off the beeper. For example, an alphanumeric beeper is sent a coded message, which is then converted into words or numbers the antenna receives. The person that gets paged, then calls for his or her messages.
Voicemail
Most beepers work with a message center or voice-mail system, such as those found on your phone. A person dials a telephone number from their PC modem and either gets an operator or voice-mail system. The caller leaves a message and the beeper is contacted, informing you that you are getting paged. The sender can also enter a numeric code or an operator translates the message to an electronic message that can be sent directly to the beeper. Either system allows the sender to contact the beeper, deliver a message and hang up. The beepers carrier handles all the transmitting capabilities and message conversions.
PC Modem
The most important component that allows a beeper to work with a PC modem is the computer's software. Your modem must have a phone dialer program to work through the phone lines. These programs allow you to use your modem as a telephone when contacting a beeper. You will need a microphone that plugs to the back of the computer and speakers to listen to the phone call. Both of these accessories have designated attachment points, either on the front or back of the hard drive. Most computers have a color-coding system and a picture of speakers and microphone.
Line Port
The PC modem also has a phone line port that will attach to your home's telephone jack. Once you have a telephone wire connected between the line port of the modem and an active phone jack, you can begin contacting any telephone, pager or beeper. Many other programs are available besides the dialer program.
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