Technical FAQ

What do the initials GSM stand for?

GSM stands for Global System for Mobile Communication.

What is GSM?

GSM is an open, non-proprietary system that is constantly evolving. One of its great strengths is the international roaming capability. This gives consumers seamless and same standardised same number contactability in more than 170 countries. GSM satellite roaming has extended service access to areas where terrestrial coverage is not available.

Which wireless carriers operate on GSM frequencies?

The major carriers in the US and Canada that currently utilize GSM technology are Cingular, AT&T, T-Mobile, Rogers Wireless and Fido Wireless. There are several other smaller GSM carriers in the US that utilize the technology as well. Please check with your carrier to make sure they're operating on GSM frequencies prior to making a purchase with us.

Will I have to program my new GSM phone once I receive it?

No, all of our devices are unlocked and can be used on any GSM carrier in the World! Just inert your SIM card are you will be ready to make/receive phone calls and text messages instantly. You will not have to call in to the carrier to have the new device activated on your existing account.

What is technically distinctive about the technology?

GSM differs from first generation wireless systems in that it uses digital technology and time division multiple access transmission methods. Voice is digitally encoded via a unique encoder, which emulates the characteristics of human speech. This method of transmission permits a very efficient data rate/information content ratio.

What are the advantages of GSM over CDMA?

GSM is used by over 80% of the worlds population that owns a cellular device. This means you have the potential to roam extensively with your GSM device to over 200 countries, depending on the roaming agreements your network provider has established.

Is there a health risk-using mobile phones?

The international scientific community reviews all relevant research as it is published. The consensus of these expert groups is that there is no demonstrable evidence of a risk to human health from mobile phone use. In addition, it is argued that the low powered radio signals produced by mobile phones do not have sufficient intrinsic energy to affect genetic material. The GSM Association continues to support international quality research into this question and contributes to a program coordinated by the World Health Organization.

Is GSM secure?

From the outset, GSM has been a system designed with stringent levels of inbuilt security. With constantly enhanced transmission protocols and algorithms added to the flexible and future proof platform, GSM remains the most secure public wireless standard in the world.

What is a locked phone? What is an unlocked phone?

A locked phone is a cellular device is manufactured in a way that restricts it be used only on one specific provider. Most locked phones can be unlocked by purchasing an unlock code, or by getting the device flashed to remove the lock feature and make the handset eligible to use on any GSM carrier. Many cellular phone stores worldwide do unlocking and the price typically ranges from $15-$150 to have this done (depending on the device).

All of our devices that we provide on our website come unlocked either from the manufacturer, or by unlocking them ourselves. You can be assured that when you receive your device you will have no problems using it on your network, as long as your network supports the frequencies provided by the handset. All of our handsets will work on any GSM network in North America.

What GSM Frequencies are used in North America?

North America utilizes two GSM frequencies (850 MHz and 1900 MHz) for voice transmission, although some wireless carriers may only utilize 1900Mhz. All of the GSM handsets on our website have at least the 1900Mhz GSM frequency minimally to ensure the device will work on any wireless carrier in North America. If you will be roaming overseas you may need to either purchase a tri-band device, or a quad-band device depending on the destination. Please check with your network provider to obtain international roaming frequencies.

Volume Wireless Company FAQ

Do You Have Physical Retail Locations?

Volume Wireless does not currently have any physical retail locations. We are an Online distributor of unlocked GSM devices and accessories. Our priority is to ensure competitive pricing and unbeatable customer service.

Where Are You Located?

Volume Wireless operates out of Canada, with our main shipping department in Montréal, QC. We currently ship to Canada and the USA.

I'm a US Resident. Will I Be Charged Import Tax When I Receive My Package?

No! All of our shipping methods already include any customs/duty fee's. You will not incur any additional border fee's with our shipping methods.

How much will I have to pay for shipping?

Our shipping rates are based on a customer friendly flat rate system. Please see the Shipping and Returns section of our website for all of our shipping rates.

What are Your Business Hours?

Volume Wireless is open between 10:00AM - 6:00 PM MST (Mon - Fri). Live chat support is also available during these regular business hours. Inquiries sent via email outside of our regular business hours will be responded to within 24 business hours.

When Will My Credit Card Be Charged Once I've Made Payment?

Once we receive your payment details we will begin the processing procedure immediately to avoid any delay in the transaction. Your credit card will be charged once we've processed your order (typically same day, depending on stock availability). In the event of a product being out of stock, we will not charge your card until we actually ship the product.

Will My Order Be Taxable?

Canadian residents will be charged GST or HST depending on their location, as per the Canadian Government. Orders shipped to the Province of Quebec will be charged GST and QST. US orders are tax exempt.

What Is Your Return Policy?

Please refer to the Shipping and Returns portion of our website for comprehensive return information and limitations.

What Is Your Warranty Policy?

Please refer to the Warranty Policy portion of our website for comprehensive warranty information.

If you still have a question that wasn't answered here please email us at customersupport@volumewireless.com