Trinidad and Tobago Computer Society

Author: ttcsadmin

  • Remove the XP Service Pack 2 Security Alert icon

    Remove the XP Service Pack 2 Security Alert icon

    Introduction

    Updated : January 12th, 2005

    Windows XP Service Pack 2 installs a brand new “Security Center” for users to protect their computers against a variety of security risks.

    Windows XP SP2 Security Center
    (more…)
  • Tech Specs for Trinidad & Tobago

    Tech Specs for Trinidad & Tobago

    Tech Specs for Trinidad and Tobago

    Created : July 7th, 2004

    Introduction

    This page provides information about some of the basic technical specifications and standards in use in Trinidad and Tobago. Will you be visiting Trinidad and Tobago in the near future? Will you be bringing your electronic devices (e.g. digital camera, cellphone, PDA, laptop computer, MP3 player, etc) with you? This page is for you.

    Electricity

    In Trinidad and Tobago, electricity is distributed by the Trinidad & Tobago Electricity Commission (T&TEC). Their official website is located at: http://www.ttec.co.tt/. According to their website, electricity is supplied:

    • at a frequency of 60 Hertz (60Hz).
    • the typical residential supply is AC, 115/230 Volt, single phase, 3 wire.

    For most purposes, the electrical outlets available to the typical visitor (at hotels, guest houses, homes of relatives/friends, etc) will supply 115V/60Hz electricity.

    Notes:

    • The electrical voltage can vary in the range 110V to 120V depending on time of day, load conditions, demand, etc.
    • Your electrical device should be able to operate in the 110V to 120V range.

    Types of electrical plugs:

    • Flat blade attachment plug
    • Flat blades with round grounding pin

    Telephones (land lines)

    Land line service in Trinidad and Tobago is provided by Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago (TSTT). Their webiste is located at: http://www.tstt.co.tt. TSTT uses standards similar to those of North America:

    • Telephone outlets use the RJ-11 socket.
    • Phones, fax machines, answering machines, modems, etc. are connected to the outlet via a RJ-11 modular plug.

    Cellular telephones

    The local phone company, Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago, (TSTT) offers both TDMA and GSM cellular service. Reminder: Check with your cellular service provider for information about roaming rates, compatibility, etc.) before bringing your cellular phone to Trinidad and Tobago.

    Further information about the GSM service can be found on our GSM in TnT page.

    Television/video standards

    Trinidad and Tobago uses the North American standard for television broadcasting.

    • Television/video standard: NTSC.
    • Number of lines: 525.
    • Frequency: 60Hz.

    NTSC to PAL and PAL to NTSC conversions are available from local video production companies (check the local telephone directory for contact information) but can be expensive for the average visitor.

    Internet Access

    Dial-up access is still the most common with “broadband” available in limited areas. For general information check this page: Internet Access Options in TnT

    As a visitor, you have several options by which you can access the Internet:

    Hotels

    The major hotels offer access in one form or the other:

    • The access can be directly from your room via a Ethernet cable or WiFi.
    • It may also be from a specially designated “computer room” where the hotel already has computers set and ready to access the Internet
    • It may also be from a specially designated “computer room” where you can plug your portable computer into a telephone jack or ethernet port.

    Cybercafes

    There are many cybercafes locate throughout the country, check the local telephone directory for contact information. Quality of service, speed and available equipment/applications varies from cafe to cafe.

    Dial-up access

    One local ISP, Opus Networx offers a “visitor account” for the duration of your stay. Check the website: http://www.opusnetworx.co.tt for further details.

    619-EASY

    The local phone company (TSTT) offers Internet access service without the need to sign-up for an account. Simply configure your computer to dial 619-easy (3279) and use the username EASY (use all capital letters because it is case-sensitive). There is no password. The call will cost TT 75 cents per minute (VAT inclusive) and will be billed to the phone number from which the call was made. e.g. if you make the call from telephone number 611-0001 and spend 10 minutes online, then the charge of (0.75 x 10) TT$7.50 for Internet access time will be added to the bill for phone number 611-0001. Please do not abuse the facility and leave your relatives or friends with large phone bills for Internet access time.

    Freenets

    There are no “freenet”-style 80211.b, 80211.g or other such public access wireless (“WiFi”) networks currently in operation (July 2004).

    Computer Hardware

    Hardware for PC desktop systems e.g. RAM modules, motherboards, keyboards, mice, network cards, hard drives, floppy drives, video cards, cases, cables, etc are available “off-the-shelf” from local retailers.

    Hardware for Macs is not so common. However, modern desktop Macs do use some components that are common to both Macs and PCs so, to a certain, limited extent, hardware is available.

    Internal hardware for laptops (PCs and Macs) is rare. These machines use proprietary form factor parts which will not be available “off-the-shelf”.

    Reminder: If you are traveling with your various electronic devices (e.g. laptop computer, PDA, digital camera, MP3 player, etc) bring: your AC adapter, spare batteries and your battery charger if possible/where applicable.

    Measurement Systems

    Trinidad and Tobago uses the Metric system for measurement:

    • Length: millimetres, centimetres, metres, kilometres.
    • Liquids: litres.
    • Weight: grams, kilograms.
    • Speed: kilometres per hour (Km/h).

    However, as a former british colony, it is not uncommon for citizens to refer to these measurements in their imperial formats, e.g. “pounds”, “miles”, “feet”, “inches”, etc. Note: the Metric system should be used for all business transactions.

    Batteries

    • Carbon and alkaline batteries are commonly available in the following formats: AAA, AA, C, D.
    • “Button” batteries, such as those used in watches and calculators are available.
    • Rechargable batteries and those with exotic contents e.g. lithium are less common.

    If your electronic equipment (e.g. laptop, digital camera, MP3 player, PDA) uses a battery with a proprietary form factor, it is unlikely you will be able to purchase a replacement “off-the-shelf”.

    Reminder: travel with spare batteries and your battery charger if possible/where applicable.

    Recordable Media

    Recordable Media is available in the following formats:

    • VHS standard video tape: 120 and 160 minutes (as measured in SP recording mode). (As of 2013, this is no longer considered a common medium)
    • Compact cassettes (As of 2013, this is no longer considered a common medium).
    • CD-R(ecordable): 650MB and 700MB are common.
    • CD-R specifically for audio is also available (but more expensive than “data” CD-Rs).
    • CR-RW (CD-rewritable) is available.
    • Recordable 4.7GB DVDs are available. Formats include: DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+RW.

    Local Radio Stations

    Local radio stations use the North American standard for frequency allocation:

    • The AM band uses 540 Khz to 1600Khz.
    • The FM band uses 88Mhz to 108Mhz.

    There are two AM stations: 610 (state owned/operated) and 730 (privately owned/operated).

    There are fifteen FM stations: 90.1, 92, 93, 94.1, 95.1, 96.1,
    97, 98.1, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106.

    Programming content includes: news, community announcements, local music, caribbean music, east-indian music, foreign pop music, hip-hop, talk radio, religious music and talk, easy listening and “golden-oldies”.

    Local Television Stations

    The 4 local television stations use the North American standard for frequency allocation:

    • Trinidad and Tobago Televsion (TTT): state owned/operated. VHF Channel 2 (in Trinidad) and VHF channel 13 (some parts of northern Trinindad and all of Tobago)
    • The Information Channel (TIC): state owned/operated. VFH Channel 4 (in Trinidad) and VHF channel 16 (some parts of northern Trinidad and all of Tobago)
    • CCN-TV6: privately owned/operated. VHF Channel 6 (in Trinidad), UHF channel 18 (some parts of northern Trinindad and all of Tobago), UHF channel 19 (only in Tobago).
    • Gayelle TV: privately owned/operated. UHF Channel 23. This is a “community” channel located in north western Trinidad. Other parts of the Trinidad and and all of Tobago may not receive this broadcast signal.

    These stations operate “over the air” on standard VHF and UHF broadcast frequencies. They are also available (unscrambled) on the local cable television system (CCTT) in Trinidad: TTT can be found on channel 3, TIC can be found on channel 4, TV6 can be found on channel 5, Gayelle on channel 7.

    Contact the creator of this page

    Before you send that email, remember:

    We can only answer questions involving Trinidad and Tobago. Do not email us with questions about other countries. We may not be able to answer your question(s).

    Information on this page is subject to change without further notice. We may not reply if your question has already been answered by material provided on this page. This page is for information purposes only. It is not an endorsement of the services provided by any entity linked to or mentioned on this page. You are solely responsible for any and all: financial loss, damage to your equipment or loss of data that may result directly or indirectly from the use of information contained on this page.

    If you have questions (that have not already been answered on this page), comments, more information to add to this page, etc, please contact us

    Last updated : 05/july/2004

    DISCLAIMER

    The creator(s) of this page and the TTCS are not affiliated with any entity linked to or mentioned on this page. This page has not been endorsed in any way by these entities. Information on this page is subject to change without further notice. If you use any information from this page, you do so at your own discretion and risk and you are solely responsible for any and all: financial loss, damage to your equipment or loss of data that may result directly or indirectly from such use. In other words, if you screw-up, or your equipment or data gets screwed up, it is 100% YOUR fault! Don’t blame anyone else

  • The IEEE 1394 Standard

    The IEEE 1394 Standard

    The IEEE 1394 Standard was originally created as a replacement for the SCSI interface. Three versions of the IEEE 1394 Standard have been approved by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE):

    • 1394-1995:The original concept for a high-speed serial interface was conceived by Apple and the final Standard, 1394-1995, is based on Apple developed technology. The interface has the following capabilities:
      • Data transfer rates of up to 400 Mbps.
      • Bi-directional transfers.
      • High speed data transfer.
      • “Hot plug” connectivity (equipment using the interface can be connected and disconnected while the computer is powered on).
      • Digital interface.
      • A maximum cable length of 4.5 metres.
    • 1394a:Was finalised/adopted in 2000. It provided specifications for enhanced performance and power management on the FireWire bus.
    • 1394b:Was finalised/adopted in 2002. It supports a theoretical maximum speed of up to 3.2 Gbps at distances of up to 100 metres. It allows new types of media to be used for FireWire connections (e.g. fibre optic cabling).

    IEEE 1394a supports the following speeds:

    • 100 Mbps (S100)
    • 200 Mbps (S200)
    • 400 Mbps (S400)

    IEEE 1394b supports a maximum speed of 800 megabits per second and is backward compatible with 1394a.

    A maximum of 63 devices can be connected to one IEEE 1394 bus. The maximum number of bus-powered devices depends on the amount of power required by each device and the amount of power that can be provided by the computer.

    Most IEEE 1394 equipment and interface ports support IEEE 1394a. At this time, IEEE 1394b is most commonly found on products from Apple.

    IEEE 1394a is also known by the brand names “Firewire 400” and (to a lesser extent) “i.LINK”. IEEE 1394b is also known by the brand name “FireWire 800”.

    Cables and interface

    IEEE 1394 enables one cable to simultaneously carry digital video signals, digital audio signals, computer data and control signals. Cables are available in a variety of lengths. There are three types of connectors/ports:

    • 6-pin (Firewire 400. Can act as a power source for peripheral devices).
    • 4-pin (Firewire 400. Does not provide power to peripheral devices).
    • 9-pin (Firewire 800. Can act as a power source for peripheral devices).

    Cables can have different combinations of connectors:

    • 6-pin to 6-pin.
    • 6-pin to 4-pin.
    • 4-pin to 4-pin.
    • 9-pin to 9-pin.
    • 9-pin to 6-pin.
    • 9-pin to 4-pin.
    • Adapters are available to “downsize” a 6-pin connector to a 4-pin connector.
    • FireWire 400 devices/ports use either a 6-pin or 4-pin connector.
    • FireWire 800 uses the 9-pin connector and 9-pin port.
    • FireWire 400 products require an adapter cable in order to be used on a FireWire 800 port.
    • A FireWire 400 device can be plugged into either type of port (400 or 800) once it uses the appropriate connector.
    • FireWire 800 speeds can only be achieved if the FireWire 800 device is connected to a FireWire 800 port.

    Bus power:

    IEEE 1394 has been designed to allow devices to be powered through the IEEE 1394 cable (e.g. FireWire 800 can provide up to 45 watts, with a maximum of 1.5 amps and 30 volts). Devices receive power only when they actually need it. One of the best examples of such a device is the Apple iPod digital music player: “FireWire” is the sole data and power connection. The iPod recharges its built-in battery while downloading music from the computer.

    4-pin IEEE 1394 connectors/ports do not carry power therefore devices (which have those ports/are connected to such ports) will not receive power from the IEEE 1394 bus. They must be powered separately.

    Applications

    The most popular application of IEEE 1394 is as a data transfer interface for audio/visual (A/V) equipment and desktop and portable computers. Examples of that interface include connecting:

    • A/V devices to prosumer/professional editing equipment.
    • high resolution scanners to desktop and portable computers.
    • high speed optical drives (CD/DVD “burners”, DVD players) to desktop and portable computers.
    • external hard drives to desktop and portable computers.
    • consumer-level video cameras to desktop and portable computers.

    Firewire and i.LINK

    The IEEE 1394 Standard is sometimes refered to as “Firewire” and (to a lesser extent) “i.LINK” but this misleading because these terms (“Firewire” and “i.LINK”) are actually brand/marketing names and trademarks, not the actual Standard.

    “Firewire” is Apple’s brand/marketing name for IEEE 1394 and related technologies. “i.LINK” is Sony’s brand/marketing name for IEEE 1394 and related technologies. Vendors and manufacturers who wish to use these names and logos to promote their own products must enter into a licensing agreement with either company. Strictly speaking, hardware and software should be advertised as IEEE 1394 (a or b) compliant/compatible rather than “Firewire” or “i.LINK” compliant/compatible.

    According to Apple’s website:

    The FireWire Logo is an Apple trademark and must be licensed for use by third-parties. There is currently no licensing fee. The agreement is a 5-page Adobe Acrobat file, and contains all the information and guidelines third-party developers need to license the FireWire Logo for use on product packaging, advertising, and other product marketing materials.

    For the non-technical consumer: IEEE 1394, “Firewire” and “i.LINK” are compliant/compatible with one another because they are the same Standard. That is, an “i.LINK” device would work if plugged into a “Firewire” port and vice-versa.

    When purchasing IEEE 1394 equipment be aware of the following:

    • IEEE 1394, “Firewire” and “i.LINK” are the same Standard.
    • You may have to pay more if there is a (“Firewire” and “i.LINK”) brand name.
    • “Mac” devices can be used with a “PC” and vice-versa. However, be alert for device-driver issues.
    • Cables can be used interchangebly with Macs and PCs as long as they have the appropriate connectors.
    • Manufacturers may not explicitly state their device is “Firewire” or “i.LINK” compatible in order to avoid licensing agreements with Apple and Sony. If it is IEEE 1394 compliant/compatible, it should work.

    Trivia: Most people refer to IEEE 1394 as “Firewire” for many reasons:

    • IEEE 1394 sounds “too technical”.
    • “Firewire” is more “user-friendly” (sounds “better” than either “IEEE 1394” and “i.LINK).
    • End users find it easier to remember the term “Firewire”.
    • Apple has been better at marketing the “Firewire” brand name than Sony has with “i.LINK”.

    Disclaimer

    Information on this page is subject to change without further notice. If you use any information from this page, you do so at your own discretion and risk and you are solely responsible for any and all: financial loss, damage to your equipment or loss of data that may result directly or indirectly from such use. In other words, if you screw-up, or your equipment or data gets screwed up, it is 100 percent YOUR fault! Don’t blame anyone else.

  • GSM in TnT | [05-jul-2004]

    GSM in TnT | [05-jul-2004]

    GSM in TnT

    updated : 05 July 2004

    Introduction

    This page is about the GSM cellular telephone service offered by TSTT to citizens of Trinidad and Tobago.

    GSM is the: Global System for Mobile Communications. It is a next generation telecommunications service that offers capabilities beyond the traditional voice and text of exisiting cellular services. TSTT is marketing the service under the brand name: “mpower”.

    Note: the Trinidad and Tobago Computer Society (TTCS) is unable to answer questions about services in other countries.

    What are the features of GSM?]

    GSM offers the same features as the existing TDMA system :

    • Voice calls
    • Call waiting
    • Call hold
    • Call forwarding
    • Caller ID
    • SMS (short messaging service)
    • Per second billing (TSTT will not round the call time up to the nearest minute).
    • Voice Mail (a fee will be applied for playing-back recorded messages while roaming).

    In addition to these features:

    • “Call barring of incoming calls while roaming” (block incoming calls while roaming).
    • Ability to roam, that is, use GSM networks outside of Trinidad and Tobago. See this section of the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) section for more information about roaming.
    • Data Services
      The original GSM specification has a data transfer rate of 9.6K. Technologies such as GPRS (general packet radio service) have increased those transfer rates to allow users to browse the Internet, send/receive e-mail. In the near future, users will also be able to take advantage of multimedia services such as streaming audio and video.
    • WAP Internet access. (not available from TSTT at this time)

    Data Services, including Internet access, are currently under trial and have not been officially launched at this time (early July 2004). The Services should be launched towards the end of July 2004. Further information about data services can be found at this link.

    Where can I roam with my TSTT-based GSM phone?

    The ability to roam with a TSTT-based GSM phone is dependant upon these factors:

    • The GSM frequencies supported by your phone. The TSTT system uses 1800MHz (1.8GHz). If you travel frequently to different areas of the globe then a tri-band phone would be a better investment. See the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) section for more information about tri-band phones.
    • Whether or not TSTT has a roaming agreement with the network operator that provides GSM service in the area where you wish to roam. The roaming agreement provides for user authentication, billing procedures and service charges. See the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) section for more information about roaming.

    Reminder: roaming with a cellular phone (either TDMA or GSM) is expensive.

    List of countries where TSTT customers have GSM or TDMA roaming capability. More countries will be added to this list as information becomes available:

    This table is based on TSTT advertisements in the Guardian newspaper (Monday 13 October 2003, pages 36 and 37) and (Thursday 12 February 2004, page 79).

    Where can I roam with my TSTT-based GSM phone?

    The ability to roam with a TSTT-based GSM phone is dependant upon these factors:

    • The GSM frequencies supported by your phone. The TSTT system uses 1800MHz (1.8GHz). If you travel frequently to different areas of the globe then a tri-band phone would be a better investment. See the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) section for more information about tri-band phones.
    • Whether or not TSTT has a roaming agreement with the network operator that provides GSM service in the area where you wish to roam. The roaming agreement provides for user authentication, billing procedures and service charges. See the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) section for more information about roaming.

    Reminder: roaming with a cellular phone (either TDMA or GSM) is expensive.

    List of countries where TSTT customers have GSM or TDMA roaming capability. More countries will be added to this list as information becomes available:

    • This table is based on TSTT advertisments in the Guardian newspaper (Monday 13 October 2003, pages 36 and 37) and (Thursday 12 February 2004, page 79).
    Operator Available Service Technology/Frequency Rate (US$ per minute)
    Anguilla Cable & Wireless voice, voice mail TDMA
    Antigua APUA PCS voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1900MHz $0.66
    Antigua Cable & Wireless voice, voice mail TDMA
    Aruba Digicel voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.55
    Australia Optus voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz $0.44
    Austria Connect Austria voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.68
    Austria AUTMM-T-Mobile voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.72 ($0.33 for SMS)
    Barbados Cable & Wireless voice, voice mail TDMA
    Barbados Digicell voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900/1800/1900Mhz $0.55 ($0.36 for SMS)
    Belgium Base voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1800MHz $0.77
    Belize BTL voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1900MHz $1.43
    Bermuda Telecom/AT&T voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1900MHz $0.60
    Brazil1 TNL voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1800MHz $0.92
    Brazil BTL voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1800MHz $1.43
    Bulgaria Glo Bul voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.40
    Canada Microcell voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1900MHz $0.69
    Canada Rogers voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1900MHz $0.76
    Canada AT&T voice, voice mail TDMA $0.74
    Canada Cingular voice, voice mail TDMA $0.99
    Cayman Islands Cable & Wireless voice, voice mail TDMA
    Denmark Sonofon voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.58
    Denmark TDC Mobile voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.03
    Dominica Cable & Wireless voice, voice mail TDMA
    Dominican Republic Orange voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1900MHz $0.46
    France Orange France voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.74
    France SFR voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.73
    Germany O2 voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1800MHz $1.04
    Grenada Cable & Wireless voice, voice mail TDMA
    Grenada Digicel voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.55
    Guadeloupe Orange Caraibe voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz $0.61
    Guadeloupe Bouygues voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.91
    Hong Kong CSL voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.32
    Hong Kong Hutchison voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.30
    India Spice-Punjab voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz $1.44
    India Spice-Karanataka voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz $1.44
    Israel Cellcom voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $1.36
    Israel Orange/Partner voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.70
    Italy Vodafone/Omnitel voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.39
    Italy TIM voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.52
    Jamaica Digicel voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.55
    Jamaica Cable & Wireless voice,voice mail TDMA
    Martinique Bouygues voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.91
    Martinique Orange Caraibe voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz $0.61
    Mauritius Emtel voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz $0.48
    Montserrat Cable & Wireless voice, voice mail TDMA
    Netherlands Ben/T-Mobile voice, voice mail GSM 1800MHz $0.50
    Republic of Panama Cable & Wireless voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 850MHz $0.76 ($0.22 for SMS)
    Portugal Vodafone voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.61
    Russia Beeline/KB Impuls voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.50
    South Africa MTN voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz $0.38
    Spain2 ESPRT-Amena voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.80 ($0.29 for SMS)
    Spain TME voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.82
    Spain Vodafone/Airtel Mobile SA voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.70
    St.Bathelemey Orange Caraibe voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz $0.61
    St.Kitts & Nevis Cable & Wireless voice, voice mail TDMA
    St.Lucia AT&T voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1900MHz $0.61
    St.Lucia Digicel voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.55
    St.Lucia Cable & Wireless voice, voice mail TDMA
    St.Maarten Orange Caraibe voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz $0.61
    St.Maarten Bouygues voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.91
    St.Martin Orange Caraibe voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.61
    St.Vincent AT&T voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1900MHz $0.61
    St.Vincent Digicel voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.55
    St.Vincent Cable & Wireless voice, voice mail TDMA
    Sweden Telia Mobile AB voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.63
    Switzerland Sunrise voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.72
    Taiwan Farestone voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.24
    Turks & Caicos Cable & Wireless voice, voice mail TDMA
    UK O2 voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.81
    UK Orange voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1800MHz $0.32
    UK T-Mobile/One 2 One/DT Mobile voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1800MHz $0.35
    UK Vodafone voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.20
    USA AT&T voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1900MHz $1.09
    USA AT&T voice, voice mail TDMA $0.74
    USA Cingular voice, voice mail TDMA $0.99
    USA Cingular East voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1900MHz $0.76
    USA Cingular West voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1900MHz $0.76
    USA Verizon/Rogers AT&T voice, voice mail TDMA $0.99

    Important Notes:

    1 ALL calls terminated on the TNL Brazil network are charged a one time charge of US$0.54.

    2 ALL calls terminated on the ESPRT-Amena network are charged a set-up charge of US$0.17.

    • Rates are in US dollars and DO NOT include value added tax (VAT)and other taxes/tolls.
    • Rates are subject to change without further notice.
    • Charges apply to ALL calls made and received on the handset.
    • Prices/rates valid as of 09 February 2004.
    • Prices represent the per minute rate.
    • Toll and other charges are applied to all international calls made while roaming.
    • Toll charges are similar to those printed in the TSTT telephone directory.
    • Additional taxes maybe applied by the individual carriers.
    • TSTT’s GSM network operates on the 1800MHz (1.8GHz) frequency.

    Note to visitors from (USA/Canada/Europe/Asia/”foreign”): If your “home network” is based in one of these countries/with one of these cellular/network operators, then you may have “seamless” GSM roaming facilities in Trinidad and Tobago. As always, contact the cellular/network operator who currently provides you with GSM services for further information.

    New roaming agreements (countries) for TSTT customers

    Information in this section is based on a TSTT advertisment in the Guardian newspaper (Tuesday 22 June 2004, page 40).

    TSTT has expanded its roaming coverage by entering into agreements with the following cellular operators:

    Operator Available Service Technology/Frequency Airtime (US$ per minute) SMS (US$ per message)
    Curacao Telecom Curacao voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1900MHz $0.66 $0.40
    Dominica Orange Caraibe voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.78 $0.25
    Finland Finnet Networks voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz/3G $0.40 $0.19
    Greece Cosmote Mobile Tel voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1800MHz $0.54 $0.20
    India BPL-Kerala voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz $1.82 $0.48
    India BPL-Maharashtra voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz $1.82 $0.48
    India BPL-Mumbai voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz $1.82 $0.48
    India BPL-Tamil Nadu voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz $1.82 $0.48
    Malta Go Mobile voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1800MHz $0.62 $0.31
    Mexico Telcel voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1900MHz $0.94 $0.39
    St. Maarten Telcell voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz $0.60 $0.17
    Suriname Telesur voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.90 $0.28
    Taiwan Chunghwa Telecom Mobile voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 900MHz/1800MHz $0.31 $0.17
    USA T-Mobile voice, 2-way text, voice mail GSM 1900MHz $0.69 $0.10

    Notes:

    • Prices are valid/effective as of Thursday 3rd June 2004.
    • Prices DO NOT include tolls and taxes.
    • TSTT customers who roam in these countries will be able to:
      • Make and receive voice calls.
      • Send text messages.
      • Retrieve TSTT voicemail.
    • Customers of these carriers will be able to use the same features when they roam in Trinidad and Tobago.

    Special roaming rates for TSTT/Cable and Wireless customers

    Information in this section is based on a TSTT advertisment in the Guardian newspaper (Wednesday 02 June 2004, page 6).

    TSTT customers roaming on any Cable and Wireless cellular network in the Caribbean will be able to use the following roaming rates:

    • Airtime: US 22 cents per minute.
    • SMS text: US 35 cents per message. Receiving is free.
    • These prices DO NOT include VAT.
    • These prices are applicable as of 29 April 2004.
    • Additional taxes and tolls may be added to the base price depending on location.

    These rates are effective only when roaming in the following countries:

    • Anguilla
    • Antigua & Barbuda
    • Barbados
    • Cayman Islands
    • Dominica
    • Grenada
    • Jamaica
    • Montserrat
    • St Kitts & Nevis
    • St. Lucia
    • St. Vincent
    • Turks and Caicos

    Notes:

    • TSTT customers roaming on other cellular networks will be billed according to this table.
    • These rates apply to both TDMA and GSM customers.

    New international rates

    Information in this section is based on a TSTT advertisment in Newsday (Tuesday 29 June 2004, page 24).

    TSTT has reduced the rates on international calls by fifty percent (50%) effective 29 June 2004. This rate reduction is applicable to mobile users and means that the discount offered on the 10-10-335 service will no longer be available.

    These new rates DO NOT APPLY to the following countries:

    • Anguilla
    • Antigua
    • Barbados
    • British Virgin Islands
    • Cuba
    • Dominica
    • French Guiana
    • Grenada
    • Guadeloupe
    • Guyana
    • Jamaica
    • Martinique
    • Monserrat
    • Nauru Island
    • Niue Island
    • Norfolk Island
    • Sao Tome
    • Solomon Islands
    • St. Bartholomew
    • St. Helena
    • St. Kitts/Nevis
    • St. Lucia
    • St. Vincent and the Grenadines
    • Turks and Caicos
    • Venezuala
    • Wallis and Fortuna
    • Callers to these countries will receive a forty percent (40%) discount after the first four (4) minutes.

    What are the rates for post-paid GSM service?

    Mpower post-paid plans:

    mpower 100 mpower 200 mpower 500 mpower 800 mpower 1500 mpower 2500 mpower unlimited mpower corporate mpower corporate employee
    Monthly access fee $161.00 $287.50 $517.50 $690.00 $1,150.00 $1,725.00 $5,750.00 $86.25 $92.00
    Included minutes 100 200 500 800 1500 2500 Unlimited Not applicable Not applicable
    Rollover minutes Included Included Included Included Included Included Not applicable Free calls Mon – Fri: 10pm – 6am Free calls Mon – Fri: 10pm – 6am
    Sunday calls 12 cents per minute 12 cents per minute 12 cents per minute 12 cents per minute 12 cents per minute 12 cents per minute Not applicable 12 cents per minute 12 cents per minute
    Lingo messages 25 25 25 50 75 100 Unlimited Not applicable Not applicable
    Additional minutes $1.30 $1.04 92 cents 81 cents 75 cents 63 cents Not applicable 63 cents 63 cents
    Additional lingo 25 cents 25 cents 25 cents 25 cents 25 cents 25 cents Not applicable 20 cents 20 cents
    • This table is based on a TSTT advertisment in the Guardian newspaper (Saturday 29 March 2003, pages 40 and 41).
    • All prices are in TT dollars and are VAT inclusive.
    • These rates apply only to calls made on the TSTT network (i.e. within Trinidad and Tobago).
    • Rates for a TSTT customer roaming abroad can be found here.
    • Post-paid customers get the following “value-added-services” at no additional cost: caller ID, call waiting, call forwarding,
      call barring (block incoming calls while roaming) and voice mail, roll-over minutes, 12 cents per minute on Sundays, per second billing.
    • Data services will incur separate, additional service charges.
    • A fee will be applied for playing-back recorded messages (voice mail messages) while roaming.
    • Note to visitors from (USA/Canada/Europe/Asia/”foreign”): These rates are for TSTT customers on the TSTT network. Your roaming charges will be different.

    TSTT has revised its post-paid mpower plans. The new plans will be effective from 1st August 2004. All prices are in TT dollars and are VAT inclusive. The following table is based on an official TSTT advertisment (Trinidad Guardian Wednesday 30th June page 6 and Express Wednesday 30th June page 47).

    mpower 75 mpower 150 mpower 300 mpower 600 mpower 1000 mpower 2000 mpower 3000 mpower unlimited mpower corporate mpower corporate employee
    Monthly access fee $89.00 $161.00 $287.50 $517.50 $690.00 $1,150.00 $1,725.00 $3,450.00 $86.25 $92.00
    Included minutes 75 150 300 600 1000 2000 3000 Unlimited 100 100
    Rollover minutes Included Included Included Included Included Included Included Not applicable Free calls Mon – Fri: 10pm – 6am Free calls Mon – Fri: 10pm – 6am
    Sunday calls 12 cents per minute 12 cents per minute 12 cents per minute 12 cents per minute 12 cents per minute 12 cents per minute 12 cents per minute Not applicable 12 cents per minute 12 cents per minute
    Lingo messages 25 25 25 25 50 75 100 Unlimited 25 25
    Additional minutes 99 cents 90 cents 80 cents 70 cents 60 cents 50 cents 40 cents Not applicable 40 cents 50 cents
    Additional lingo 25 cents 25 cents 25 cents 25 cents 25 cents 25 cents 25 cents Not applicable 20 cents 20 cents

    What are the rates for pre-paid GSM service?

    An official TSTT advertisment (Trinidad Guardian Friday 5th December 2003 page 39) states the following rates for pre-paid GSM service:

    • Peak rate: TT$1.99 per minute.
    • Off-peak rate: TT$0.99 per minute.
    • Sunday rate: TT$0.65 per minute.
    • To send TSTT Lingo (SMS) messages: TT$0.35 per message.

    TSTT has revised the rates for its mpower pre-paid GSM service. The new rates will be effective from 1st August 2004. All prices are in TT dollars and are VAT inclusive. The following information is based on an official TSTT advertisment (Trinidad Guardian Wednesday 30th June page 6 and Express Wednesday 30th June page 47).

    There are 2 packages for pre-paid customers: “just talk” and “talk ‘n lingo”:

    “just talk” rates:

    • Peak: TT$1.59 per minute.
    • Off peak: TT$0.79 per minute.

    “talk ‘n lingo” rates:

    • Peak: TT$1.79 per minute.
    • Off peak: TT$0.69 per minute.
    • Saturdays and holidays: TT$0.69 per minute.
    • Sundays TT$0.59 per minute.
    • Lingo: 50 “free” per month.

    Pre-paid cards (for both Liberty and Mpower pre-paid customers) are available in the following denominations: The rates are in TT dollars:

    This table is based on an official TSTT advertisment: Trinidad Guardian Monday 24th May 2004 page 22.

    Card Denomination Cost of card (VAT incl) Bonus Expiry Available in
    $10 $11.50 nil 30 days e-card only
    $15 $17.25 nil 30 days e-card and mobile prepaid card
    $25 $28.75 nil 60 days e-card only
    $50 $57.50 nil 120 days e-card and mobile prepaid card
    $100 $115.00 $10 120 days e-card and mobile prepaid card
    $200 $230.00 $50 150 days e-card only

    Mzone: description and rates

    Information in this section is based on an official TSTT advertisment in Newsday Wednesday 30th June 2004 page 20.

    TSTT will be marketing its GSM-based data services under the brand name mzone. The first mzone service will be Internet access via GPRS (general packet radio service). Users will have an always-on connection and will be able to use their mobile telephone (once it is capable of doing so) or GPRS-enabled device (e.g. a PDA) to:

    • access their email.
    • browse the WWW.
    • transfer files.
    • use instant messaging.

    Preliminary reports from users of the trial service indicate that access speeds are similar to those of dial-up Internet access via regular land-lines.

    Data services will be launched soon and TSTT has published the following introductory rates:

    • Introductory rates are valid from 22nd July 2004 to 31st August 2004.
    • Users who sign for these special rates will pay them until 31st March 2005.
    • Users will have to pay regular rates from 1st April 2005.
    mzone unlimited mzone 10 mzone 20 mzone basic
    Monthly access fee $99.99 $37.50 $75.00 $15.00
    mbytes included unlimited 10 20 0
    Additional kbytes Not applicable 3 cents 3 cents 3 cents

    REGULAR mzone rates (see following table) will be effective from 1st September 2004.

    mzone unlimited mzone 10 mzone 20 mzone basic
    Monthly access fee $149.99 $49.99 $99.99 $19.99
    mbytes included unlimited 10 20 0
    Additional kbytes Not applicable 3 cents 3 cents 3 cents

    Will existing (TDMA) cellular phones continue to work now that TSTT operates a GSM service?

    TSTT has stated that it will continue to maintain/support the existing (TDMA) cellular network. However, as of Monday 17th May 2004, TSTT no longer activates TDMA phones for post-paid (“Connect”) service but existing “Connect” customers will continue to receive service. TSTT will continue to activate pre-paid TDMA (“Liberty”) phones. If you want to be on a post-paid plan, you will now have to purchase a GSM phone and sign up for one of the GSM packages. See these sections for more information:

    Can my (USA/Canada/European/Asian/”foreign”) GSM cellular phone work on the TSTT GSM system?

    It should be able to work on the TSTT system as long as it can use the 1800Mhz frequency. However, the ability to use your “foreign”
    phone and the features available to you while in Trinidad and Tobago will be determined by the roaming agreement between TSTT and the network operator that services the
    area where you normally use your phone. The roaming agreement provides for user authentication, billing procedures and service charges.

    Contact the cellular/network operator who currently provides you with GSM services. This network operator is the entity responsible for making the roaming agreement and will be able to tell you:

    • Where (geographic location) you can roam with your phone. For example, if you can roam with your phone in Trinidad and Tobago.
    • If your phone/handset is compatible with those foreign systems.
    • Which network and/or card-enabled features will be available to you while you roam.
    • The rates for roaming.
    • The billing procedures for roaming.
    • If the roaming is “seamless” or “unregistered”. See the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) section for more information about roaming.

    What models/brands of cellular phones will work on TSTT’s GSM system?

    Any GSM cellular phone that can use the 1800Mhz frequency should be able to work on the TSTT system. However, you should check with TSTT before
    purchasing that “used”/”pre-owned” phone. If you decide to switch from TDMA to GSM, there are a variety (in terms of features and cost) of GSM phones available from the popular brands e.g. Motorola and Nokia. At the present time GSM handsets and service plans are more expensive than TDMA handsets and service plans in Trinidad and Tobago.

    TSTT is offering the following Nokia handsets with its various GSM service plans :

    • Nokia 2100
    • Nokia 3310
    • Nokia 3410
    • Nokia 3510
    • Nokia 5100
    • Nokia 5210
    • Nokia 6310i
    • Nokia 6510
    • Nokia 6610
    • Nokia 7210
    • Nokia 7650
    • Nokia 8310
    • Nokia Communicator 9210i

    Further details about the Nokia phones on this list can be found at the official Nokia website: http://www.nokiausa.com/.

    TSTT is offering the following Motorola handsets with its various GSM service plans:

    • Motorola A388
    • Motorola C332
    • Motorola C333
    • Motorola T190
    • Motorola V66i

    TSTT is offering the following Samsung handsets with its various GSM service plans:

    • Samsung A300
    • Samsung R220

    TSTT is offering the following Sony-Ericsson handsets with its various GSM service plans:

    • Sony-Ericsson T202
    • Sony-Ericsson T68i

    As always, contact TSTT for further information on cost, availability, different brands of phones, etc.

    Will TSTT provide Subscriber Identity Modules (SIMs) for the GSM phones?

    TSTT will provide Subscriber Identity Modules (SIMs) (See: What are SIMs?) for the phones that are bundled with its various GSM service plans. In general, SIMs will be issued with the purchase of a handset. You will be able to purchase additional SIMs without having to purchase a handset.

    SIM configuration: TSTT will provide the SIM configuration in order to identify TSTT specific customers as well as enable various services for the local network. See the What models/brands of cellular phones will work on TSTT’s GSM system? section for a list of GSM phones being provided by TSTT.

    Activating non-TSTT SIMs

    • TSTT has stated that it cannot activate a foreign SIM card.
    • TSTT has stated that its GSM services cannot be activated on SIMs from a foreign provider.

    About “locked” phones

    • Handsets sold by TSTT will be “SIM-locked” and therefore will only work with TSTT SIMs.
    • If you have a (new/used) GSM phone from (USA/Canada/Europe/Asia/”foreign”) and it is “SIM-locked” to a foreign operator’s network, that phone/handset will not work with TSTT SIM cards. See: What are SIMs? and What is “SIM lock”?.
    • Note to visitors from (USA/Canada/Europe/Asia/”foreign”): The SIM provided by YOUR network operator will continue to work in YOUR phone when you roam in Trinidad and Tobago. However, if your phone is “SIM-locked”, you will not be able to use a TSTT SIM card in that phone.
    • The creator(s) of this page cannot provide any sort of help/instructions on how to unlock “SIM-locked” or any other sort of “locked” GSM phones! Do not ask for such instructions.
    • The creator(s) of this page cannot provide any sort of help/instructions on how to unlock “locked” TDMA phones!

    I am from (USA/Canada/Europe/Asia/”foreign”) and I want to use my GSM cellular phone on the TSTT GSM system

    You must first contact the cellular/network operator who currently provides you with GSM services. The network operator will be able to provide you with the relevant details about roaming especially where (geographic location) you can roam with your phone. You can also consult the following sections on this page:

    I want to purchase my GSM cellular phone from (USA/Canada/Europe/Asia/”foreign”) and use it on the TSTT GSM system

    If you want to purchase a GSM cellular phone from (USA/Canada/Europe/Asia/”foreign”), it must meet these specifications:

    • It must be able to operate on the 1800MHz (1.8GHz) frequency.
    • It must not be “SIM-locked” to a foreign operator’s network. If the phone/handset is locked, it will not work with TSTT SIM cards. See: What are SIMs? and What is “SIM lock”?.

    Other factors to take into consideration:

    • Do not purchase SIMs from outside of Trinidad and Tobago for use on the TSTT GSM network. See: Activating non-TSTT SIMs.
    • If you travel frequently and wish to roam with your GSM phone then you may want to purchase a tri-band phone. See the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) section for more information about tri-band phones.
    • If you wish to use the GSM data services (e.g. GPRS), make sure the particular phone model has that capability.
    • Know what you are purchasing! Less expensive GSM phones tend to be limited to voice and text messaging and do not have data capability.
    • SIM-locked phones restrict you to a particular cellular network. Lock-free phones (that is, phones which are not SIM-locked at the factory) allow you to use any SIM from any GSM provider anywhere in the world.

    TSTT GSM network specifications

    • Operator Name: Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago Ltd
    • Network Name: TSTT
    • Network Type: GSM 1800
    • Handset Code: TSTT
    • Network Code: 374 12
    • Network Status: Operational

    [ Back to Top of page ]

    FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

    • What is dual band?
      Dual band refers to the ability of GSM network infrastructure and phones to operate across two frequency bands. For example at 900MHz and at 1800MHz.
    • What is a tri-band phone?
      A tri-band cellular phone has the ability to operate on the 3 different frequencies (depending on location) commonly used by GSM operators. These GSM frequencies are: 900MHz, 1800MHz and 1900MHz.
    • What is a dual mode phone?
      A dual mode cellular phone has the ability to operate in either analog or digital mode depending on network conditions. This description is exclusive to TDMA phones since the GSM system is one hundred percent digital. TSTT has discontinued analog TDMA service.
    • Can my existing (TDMA) cellular phone work on the TSTT GSM system?
      No, because TDMA cellular phones are incompatible with the GSM system.
    • What is GPRS?
      GPRS is the GSM Packet Radio Service. Packet switching utilises the network only when there is data to be sent as opposed to sending a continuous stream of data over a permanent connection. Users are able to send and receive data at speeds of up to (a theoretical maximum) of 115Kbit/s. GPRS enables users to connect to a wide range of public and private data networks which use standard data protocols such as TCP/IP and make use of applications such as email or Internet (WWW) access.
    • What are SIMs?
      What are “Smart” cards?
      Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards are used to provide individual identities for each mobile user: e.g. authentication and storage for user data and network configuration information. The current generation of SIMs (“Smart” cards) contain microchips which extend the “intelligence” and capability of the card. Users are now able to access a vast range of card-enabled (as opposed to network-enabled) applications. The SIM must be inserted in the phone for the user to make and receive calls.
    • What is “SIM lock”?
      “SIM lock” is the term used to describe the pre-programming of handsets by manufacturers to ensure that the handsets will only work with SIMs issued by a specific GSM network operator. For example: TSTT has stated that it will be selling SIM-locked phones. This means that if you try to use a non-TSTT SIM, the phone will not work.
    • What is “roaming”?
      Roaming is the ability for a cellular customer to make and receive voice calls, send and receive data, etc on “visited” networks, that is, GSM networks located outside the geographical coverage area of their home network. These “visited” networks can be accessed in the same manner as the home network. For example, a TSTT customer (with a GSM phone) is able to make and receive voice calls while travelling in Europe (an example of international/global roaming). There are 3 types of roaming:

      • National Roaming: The visited network is in the same country as the home network.
      • International Roaming or Global Roaming: The visited network is outside the home country.
      • Inter-standard roaming: The visited network operates on a different technical standard than the home network.
    • What is “seamless roaming”?
      Seamless roaming allows cellular customers to make and receive calls on “visited” networks, as long as there is a roaming agreement between the operator of the “visited” network and the operator of their “home” network.
    • What is “unregistered roaming”?
      Unregistered roaming allows cellular customers to make (originate) calls on “visited” networks where there are NO roaming agreements between the operator of the “visited” network and the operator of their “home” network. Calls are billed via one of these methods: Collect, Credit Card or Calling Card. Calls which originate via unregistered roaming are usually more expensive than calls which originate via seamless roaming. TSTT does not officially support unregistered roaming at this time (July 2004).
    • Where did you get all of this information? Do you work for TSTT?
      The creator(s) of this page and the TTCS are not affiliated with Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago (TSTT). All information on this page was gathered from public sources. No one invoved in the creation and maintainence of this page is employed by TSTT.
    • How long has this GSM page been online?
      This GSM page has been online since 20 October 2002.

    [ Back to Top of page ]

    How do I contact TSTT for more information?

    TSTT can be contacted about GSM service:

    • At any TSTT Customer Service Centre.
    • Via telephone number: 824-TSTT (8788).
    • At the official TSTT website: http://www.tstt.co.tt
    • You can also check the local telephone directory for general information about TSTT Mobile Services and contact information.

    [ Back to Top of page ]

    Contact the creator of this page

    Before you send that email, remember:

    • We can only answer questions involving services in Trinidad and Tobago
    • Do not email us about services/problems etc in other countries.
    • We may not be able to answer your question(s). No one invoved with this page is employed by/affiliated with TSTT.
    • Information on this page is subject to change without further notice.
    • The creator(s) of this page cannot provide any sort of help/instructions on how to unlock “SIM-locked” or any other sort of “locked” GSM or TDMA cellular phones!
    • We may not reply if your question has already been answered by material provided on this page.
    • This page is for information purposes only. It is not an endorsement of the services provided by TSTT.

    If you have questions (that have not already been answered on this page), comments, more information to add to this page, etc, please contact us at: ttcs@opus.co.tt

    Last updated : 05/july/2004

    [ Back to Top of page ]

    DISCLAIMER: The creator(s) of this page and the TTCS are not affiliated with Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago (TSTT). This page has not been endorsed in any way by TSTT. Information on this page is subject to change without further notice. If you use any information from this page, you do so at your own discretion and risk and you are solely responsible for any and all: financial loss, damage to your equipment or loss of data that may result directly or indirectly from such use. In other words, if you screw-up, or your equipment or data gets screwed up, it is 100% YOUR fault! Don’t blame anyone else.

    [ Back to Top of page ]

  • Telecommunications (Amendment) Act, 2004

    Telecommunications (Amendment) Act, 2004

    The Telecommunications (Amendment) Bill 2004 was introduced in the House of Representatives in March 2004. The introductory text of the Bill states :

    “These amendments to the Telecommunications Act 2001 purport, inter alia, to bring clarity to provisions considered ambiguous, to encourage investment by creating and sustaining a framework for fair competition and to ensure the availability of quality services at affordable prices; all of the foregoing being required by the International Telecommunications Union and the World Trade Organisation in respect of legislative reform in the telecommunications/ICT industry.”

    The Explanatory Notes for modifying the definition of “public telephone service” “..will make it abundantly clear that the Authority will regulate the delivery of all public voice services irrespective of the means used to provide the service (e.g., VOIP)”

    Page 3 of the Explanatory Notes for the definition of “value added service” states that : “The existing definition creates ambiguity with respect to the classification of ISPs. Government’s policy requires the regulation of ISPs as public data telecommunications service providers. The revised definition (of value added services) is in accordance with this policy prescription as the definition makes it clearer that value added services are services that provide content and shall not include services by which such content is provided. ……

    Various comments/opinions of the Telecommunication (Amendment) Bill :

    The Telecommunications Amendment Bill, 2004 was passed in the House of Representatives on the 20th April, 2004. It was passed in the Senate with amendments on 18th May 2004. The House of Representatives approved the Senate Amendments on the 26 May 2004. It was assented to on June 14th, 2004.

  • SMS in TnT | [05-jun-2004]

    SMS in TnT | [05-jun-2004]

    SMS in TnT

    updated : 05 June 2004

    Introduction

    SMS or Short Message Service, (also known as short messaging service, text messaging, mobile messaging, or alphanumeric paging, celltext, texting, phone messaging) enables you to send brief text/numeric messages to and from digital cellular telephones. Messages can originate from cell phones as well as e-mail addresses and public SMS gateways on the Internet. Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago (TSTT) is offering the service under the brand name “TSTT Lingo”.

    The Trinidad and Tobago Computer Society (TTCS) is unable to answer questions about services, cellphones, etc offered/available in other countries.

    What are the benefits of SMS?

    Messages can be received while making voice calls, there are no busy signals to contend with, it is silent and discreet (unless you have one of the many annoying alert tones enabled!). Messages generated by SMS are delivered immediately and directly to your phone, there is no need to call an access number or enter/remember a password to retrieve it (as must be done with voice-mail).

    In Trinidad and Tobago, users of the pre-paid services (both “Liberty” for the TDMA and pre-paid Mpower GSM) have found that brief messages sent via SMS are cheaper than making a voice calls to “send” the same information.

    SMS messages are sent to and processed by a Short Message Service Centre, which then delivers the message to the recipient’s phone. If the phone is turned off, the service centre will store the message and attempt to re-deliver it for a period of 3 to 7 days. The actual time is dependant upon the service provider (TSTT).

    What is the difference between SMS, Instant Messaging Service (IMS), and E-mail?

    E-mail and SMS are both “store and forward” systems that utilize a “gateway” to pass messages from senders to recipients, however, the obvious difference between the two are the length/complexity of the messages that can be sent on the respective systems. The maximim size of a SMS message is usually 160 characters (actual size is dependant on the service provider). The messages are limited to text and numeral characters. Graphics, colour, HTML formatting and file attachments are not allowed.

    On the other hand, e-mail can contain thousands of characters and allows the use of HTML formatting, files to be attached and images to be embedded within the message . Instant Messaging Service (IMS), (e.g. AOL Instant Messenger “AIM”, ICQ, MSN Messenger and Yahoo Messenger) allows you to conduct real-time text conversations (“chat”) with people who are simultaneously connected to the Internet and, in some cases, allow the transfer of files. SMS messages are immediate, but not simultaneous.

    How do you send and receive SMS messages?

    Receiving messages is easy. Most phones will display an incoming message alert graphic on the screen. You may also set a tone to sound when incoming messages are received. Once a message is received, you can use the scroll keys on your phone to view the content of the message. Options to store, reply, or forward each message will be available at that time. The exact procedure to send a message varies from device to device, but it usually involves entering the recipient’s phone number or e-mail address, and then composing the message with the phone keypad. You may have the option to send the message instantly or store it for later delivery. Check the user’s manual for the specific details on how to access these features on your particular brand/model of cell phone.

    How do you use public gateways to send messages?

    Cellular service providers who offer SMS usually offer public SMS gateways, which allow you to compose and send messages from the service provider’s web site. TSTT does not offer such a service from/on any of its websites at this time. A number of independently operated message gateways also exist on the Internet. These public gateways are usually available from any computer with Internet access. Examples of locally operated gateways can be found at:

    Update: According to a news report (Sunday Guardian: 14th December 2003 page 3 and Sunday Newsday: 14th December 2003 page 8) TSTT will begin to charge for receiving SMS messages sent from the Internet in April 2004. How will this affect the public SMS gateways? We do not know but most likely they will have to shut down.

    Update 2: May 2004: TSTT has not implemented any charges for receiving SMS messages sent from the Internet at this time.

    What are the fees for the TSTT Short Message Service?

    Some information in this section is based on a TSTT advertisment in the Trinidad Guardian newspaper (Sunday 9th November 2003 pg 61)

    At this time (May 2004):

    • There are NO activation fees.
    • There are NO charges/fees for receiving messages.
    • There are NO charges/fees for sending messages via Internet email to a cellphone.
    • There are NO charges/fees for receiving messages sent via Internet email to a cellphone.
    • There are NO charges/fees for sending messages via a public SMS gateway to a cellphone.
    • There are NO charges/fees for receiving messages sent from a public SMS gateway to a cellphone.
    • Sending messages from a “Connect” (post-paid TDMA) cellphone costs TT 35 cents (VAT inclusive) per message.
    • Sending messages from a “Liberty” (pre-paid TDMA) cellphone costs TT 50 cents (VAT inclusive) per message.
    • Sending messages from a “Mpower” (post-paid and pre-paid GSM) cellphone costs TT 35 cents (VAT inclusive) per message.

    Update: According to a news report (Sunday Guardian: 14th December 2003 page 3 and Sunday Newsday: 14th December 2003 page 8) TSTT will begin to charge for receiving SMS messages sent from the Internet in April 2004. Actual prices have not been released. The charge for receiving SMS messages sent from the Internet will be applicable only when the sender “is not an Internet or mobile customer using TSTT’s network”.

    Update 2: May 2004: TSTT has not implemented any charges for receiving SMS messages sent from the Internet at this time.

    TSTT has implemented a commercial/pay “SMS Content service”. See this section: Commercial SMS Services for further details.

    Commercial SMS Services

    Information in this section is based on TSTT advertisements in the Trinidad Guardian newspaper (Saturday 22nd May 2004 pg 34 and Wednesday 26th May 2004 page 20)

    The TSTT SMS content service was launched on Monay 24th May 2004. It is being marketed under the brand “TSTT Lingo Info Text”.

    Lingo Infotext is available in the following categories/times/cost:

    • News: every morning: TT 40 cents per message for Liberty and Mpower (pre-paid and post-paid) customers.
    • Sports: once a day (Monday to Friday): TT 40 cents per message for Liberty and Mpower (pre-paid and post-paid) customers.
    • Scriptures: every morning: TT 40 cents per message for Liberty and Mpower (pre-paid and post-paid) customers.
    • Stock: as traded: TT 80 cents per message for Liberty and Mpower (pre-paid and post-paid) customers.
    • Movie schedules: on demand (will be more than one message): TT 20 cents per message for Liberty and Mpower (pre-paid and post-paid) customers.
    • Lotto: twice a week (Wednesday and Saturday): TT 30 cents per message for Liberty and Mpower (pre-paid and post-paid) customers.
    • Play Whe, Pick 2 and Cash Pot results are

      sent as one text message. Cost is TT 30 cents per message
      • Play Whe: twice a day: Monday to Saturday.
      • Pick 2: twice a day: Monday to Saturday.
      • Cash Pot: once a day: Monday to Saturday.
    • “Connect” customers (TDMA post-paid) pay a flat fee of TT$29 per month (ALL services included).
    • All prices are VAT inclusive.

    How to subscribe to the service:

    • Send a text message to 683-9999 with the words START ‘service name’.
    • e.g. START NEWS is the text to send to 683-9999 if you want messages about the news.
    • A confirmation text will be sent to phone being used to subscribe to the service.
    • Users can subscribe to as many services as they desire.

    How to UN-subscribe to the service:

    • Send a text message to 683-9999 with the words STOP ‘service name’.
    • e.g. STOP NEWS is the text to send to 683-9999 if you want stop messages about the news.
    • A confirmation text will be sent to phone being used to UN-subscribe from the service.
    • Users can RE-subscribe to the service whenever they desire.

    How to send a message via SMS on the TSTT system

    Some information in this section is based on an official TSTT advertisement in the Trinidad Guardian newspaper (dated Monday 4th March 2002 page 15)

    There are three ways to send messages via SMS:

    • To send a Short Message using Internet-based email, the message must be addressed to: 868#######@tsttmobile.co.tt (where ####### = the cell number of the person receiving the message). The email must conform to SMS message specifications
    • To send a Short Message using a local public gateway, use these links and follow all instructions:
    • To send a Short Message using your cellular telephone, the message must be addressed to: 868####### (where ####### = the cell number of the person receiving the message). The exact procedure to send a message from one cell phone to another cell phone varies from device to device, but it usually involves entering the recipient’s phone number and then composing the message with the phone keypad. Check the user’s manual for the specific details on how to access these features on your particular brand/model of cell phone.

    Using SMS to send/receive ringtones

    The TTCS has a separate page about ringtones:
    https://www.ttcs.tt/2002/07/17/about-ringtones-17-07-2002/

    Cell phones (in TnT) that support text messaging

    TDMA

    Ericsson:

    • A1288
    • A1228dsi
    • T18D

    Motorola:

    • V60t
    • V2300
    • V2390
    • 7790
    • 7890
    • Motorola Timeport

    Nokia:

    • 3320
    • 3360
    • 5120
    • 5120i
    • 5125
    • 6120i
    • 8260
    • 7160
    • 8860

    GSM

    • Nokia 2100
    • Nokia 3410
    • Nokia 3310
    • Nokia 3510
    • Nokia 5100
    • Nokia 5210
    • Nokia 6610
    • Nokia 7650
    • Nokia 6310i
    • Nokia 6510
    • Nokia 7210
    • Nokia 8310
    • Nokia Communicator 9210i
    • Motorola A388
    • Motorola C332
    • Motorola C333
    • Motorola V66i
    • Motorola T190
    • Samsung A300
    • Samsung R220
    • Sony-Ericsson T202
    • Sony-Ericsson T68i

    Notes:

    • Check your retailer to make sure your new phone supports sms before purchasing it!
    • If your phone model/manufacturer is not listed here, check your user’s manual to make sure it supports these features.
    • All sms options supported by these units may not be available on the TSTT system.
    • Check the users manual for further info on how to use these features on your phone.
    • Contact TSTT at: 824-TSTT(8788) if you require more information on the features, availability, restrictions, requirements, fees, etc associated with this service.

    SMS message specifications

    Your SMS message must meet the following specifications in order to be sent and received successfully:

    • Maximum size of the message: 160 characters (punctuation marks AND spaces are counted as characters).
    • Messages have to be in plain text. SMS does not support HTML formatting. In other words, it won’t look like a web page and you can’t see colours, graphics or those email “wallpapers”. Outlook/Outlook Express users take note! You may have to check your software settings/options/configuration and switch off HTML formatting.
    • You cannot send any sort of file attachments e.g. zip, mp3, mpeg, mpg, avi, doc, xls on the SMS system.

    SMS Etiquette

    • Turn down the volume of your alert tone. YOU need to know you received a message. No one else does.
    • Keep your subject line brief. The characters in the subject count towards your total of 160. Better yet, do not use a subject line that way you can maximise the content of your message.
    • Messages must be read on cell phone screens so keep your message brief.
    • Don’t send a “signature”, a tagline, inspirational quote or any other unnecessary material with your message. Remember, there is a character limit so your message will be truncated if it exceeds that limit.
    • Avoid unnecessary spaces in the message. Spaces count towards your total of 160 characters.

    The SMS (Short Message Service) Dictionary

    SMS supports a limited number of characters per text message (approx. 160) so here’s a list of abbreviations and emoticons to help create that message.

    Numerals

    @WRKAt work 2BCTNDTo be continued 2D4To die for 2G4UToo good for you 2HT2HNDLToo hot to handle 2l8Too late 4BARSFeeling very good today 4EForever 4YEOFor your eyes only

    A

    A3Anytime, Anywhere, Anyplace AAMAs a matter of fact ABAh Bless! ADCTD2LUVAddicted to Love AFAIKAs far as I know AFK:Away From Keyboard AKAAlso known as ALLWANISUAll I want is You AMLAll my love ASAPAs soon as possible ATBAll the best ATK:At The Keyboard ATM:At The Moment ATWAt the weekend AWHFYAre we having fun yet

    B

    B4Before BAK:Back At Keyboard BBFNBye Bye for now BBL:Be Back Later BBSBe back soon BBSDBe back soon darling BCNUBe seeing you BFBoy Friend BGWMBe gentle with me BRBBe right back BTWBy the way

    C

    CLD9Cloud 9 CMCall me CRSCan’t remember stuff CuSee you CUIMDSee you in my dreams CULSee you later CUL8RSee you later CYASee You

    D

    DkDon’t know DUR?Do you remember?

    E

    E2EGEar to ear grin EODEnd of discussion EOLEnd of lecture

    F

    F2FFace to face F2TFree to talk FAQFrequently Asked Questions FCFingers Crossed FITBFill in the Blank FUBARFouled up beyond all recognition FWIWFor What It’s Worth FYEOFor your eyes only FYAFor your amusement FYIFor your information

    G

    GALGet A Life GFGirlfirend GGGood Game GMESUMLUVINGive me some loving GMTA:Great Minds Think Alike GR8Great GSOHGood Salary, Own Home GTGGot to go GTSYGlad to see you

    H

    H2CUSHope to see you soon H8Hate HAGNHave a good night HANDHave a nice day HLDMECLSHold me close HT4UHot for You H&KHugs and Kisses

    I

    ICI See ICQI Seek you IDKI dont know IGOTUBABEI’ve got you babe IIRCIf I recall correctly IMHOIn my humble opinion IMII mean it ILUI love You IMBLUVIt must be love IOWIn other words IOUI owe you IRLIn Real Life IUSSIf you say so

    J

    J4FJust for fun JFKJust for kicks JSTCLLMEJust call Me

    K

    KCKeep cool KHUFKnow how you feel KISSKeep It Simple, Stupid KITKeep in touch KOTCKiss on the cheek KOTLKiss on the lips

    L

    L8Late L8RLater LMAOLaugh My A## Off LOLLaughing out loud LOLROFLaughing out load, rolling on floor LTNCLong time no see LTSGT2GTHRLets get together

    M

    MTEMy Thoughts Exactly M$ULKECRZMiss you like Crazy! M8Mate MCMerry Christmas MGBMay God Bless MYOBMind your own Business

    N

    NANo access NCNo comment NEAny NE1Anyone No1No-One NRN:No Reply Necessary NWONo way out

    O

    O4UOnly for you OICOh, I see OTOHOn the other hand

    P

    PITAPain In The A## PRTParty PRWParents Are Watching PCMPlease call me PPLPeople

    Q

    QTCutie

    R

    RAre RMBRing my Bell ROFLRolling On The Floor Laughing ROFLOLRolling On The Floor Laughing Out Loud ROTFLMAORolling On The Floor Laughing My A## Off RU?Are you? RUOK?Are you Ok?

    S

    SCStay cool SETESmiling Ear to Ear SOSignificant Other SOLSooner or later SME1Some One SNAFUSituation normal but all fouled up SOSSame old stuff SRYSorry SWALKSent with a loving Kiss SWGScientific Wild Guess

    T

    T+Think positive T2ulTalk to you later TDTUTotally devoted to you THXThanks T2GoTime to Go TICTongue in Cheek TMIYTake me Im yours TTFNTa ta for now. TTYLTalk to you later

    U

    UYou URT1You are the one

    V

    VRIVery

    W

    WB:Welcome Back WTF:What The F### WTG:Way To Go WUF:Where Are You From W8:Wait W4U:Waiting for you WAN2:Want to WRT:With respect to WUWH:Wish you were here

    X

    X!Typical Woman XKiss XCLUSVLYURSExclusively Yours

    Y

    Y!Typical Man YBSYou’ll be Sorry YGMYou’ve got mail

    Z

    No “words” available at this time.

    Emoticons

    Emoticons (also known as “smileys”) are used to convey a facial expression in text messages on mobile phones (SMS).

    :-)Smiley :-(I’m upset/angry > ;-> Rude suggestions %-)Google Eyes :*)I’m drunk B-)I’m wearing sunglasses :-)~I’m drooling :~~)I’ve got a cold :’-(I’ve been crying :-@I’m gonna scream :-0Uh-oh :-XMy lips are sealed :-QI smoke !-)Black eye :”)Blushing 😐 :-|Deja vu :@)Pig :-$Put your money where your mouth is :-)Smiley :-PStick tongue out :-(*)You make me sick x-(You’re mad :-“Whistling ;-)Wink :-Sceptical : @Shouting :-oAppalled :-XNot saying a word |-ISleeping |-OSnoring %-}Intoxicated :-vTalking :-wTalking with two tongues (0_0)bTalking on cellphone d(0_0)bWearing headphones (O_O)/Great to see you,want a hug?/getting mugged (-@_@-)Scared/funky sunglasses (x_x)Dead (:0_0:)Freckles :)Smiling without a nose 8-)Smiling with glasses [:-)Smiling with walkman :-)8Smiling with bow tie {:-)Smiling with hair d:-)Smiling with cap C|:-)Smiling with top hat (:-)Smiling with helmet :-)=Smiling with a beard #:-)Smiling with a fur hat :-DLaughter :-(Sad :(Sad, without nose :’-(Crying :-cUnhappy :-||Angry :-(0)Shouting >:-(Very angry :-OWow :-|Determined O :-)An angel :-9Salivating 🙁 )Shocked :-~)Having a cold 😮 zzBored B-)Sunglasses B:-)Sunglasses on head 8:-)Glasses on head {:-)Toupee }:-(Toupee blowing in the wind -:-)Punk :-{)With a moustache :-{}Lip stick q(0_0)pHands over ears/not listening/girl with bows (-_-)Sleeping <|>_<|>Cat (*_*)Unconscious (D_D)Looking sideways

    FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

    • Who can I contact at TSTT for further information?The contact number given in a TSTT advertisment is: 824-TSTT(8788).
    • Can you tell me if brand X, model y is sms capable?If it is not on the list, then no. Read your user’s manual and/or check the manufacturer’s website for further information.
    • You keep telling me to “read the user’s manual” but I don’t have one! Where can I get one?The manufacturer of your cell phone should have an electronic version of the manual available for download (usually a Word .doc file or an Acrobat .pdf file) from their official website. Nokia and Motorola offer such a service.
    • Why is there a limit of 160 characters?This is due to the limits of the SMS specification as well as the system in use by the SMS provider.
    • Can my phone be “upgraded” (via hardware or software) to support SMS?If the manufacturer did not include the capability then you either have to live without it or buy a new phone with SMS support. It cannot be upgraded.
    • Can I use SMS to download new ringtones to my phone?Yes,but your phone (brand/model) must support the ability to change ringtones (check the user’s manual for the specific details). At this time (June 2004) TSTT does not offer this feature. The TTCS also has a separate page to provide details about (Nokia) ringtones at this URL: https://www.ttcs.tt/2002/07/17/about-ringtones-17-07-2002
    • How do I change the “message received” alert tone for my phone?Check the user’s manual for the specific details on how to access these features on your particular brand/model of cell phone.
    • Why must I change the settings in Outlook/Outlook Express?These email clients send HTML formatted email by default. HTML is the “language” used to create web pages. SMS does not support HTML formatting. So if you want to use these clients to send SMS messages you have to turn off HTML formatting and send it in plain text.
    • I used the SMS gateway site(s) mentioned on this page but my message was not sent or I got an error message. What’s wrong with the gateway?These gateways must interface with TSTT so whenever the TSTT system is down, the gateway sites cannot transfer your message. The operators of the gateway site(s) have no control over the availability or reliability of the TSTT SMS service.
    • Is SMS the same as email?No.
    • Can I send SMS messages from the network in my office?Only if your network has Internet access and only if the system adminstrator allows it.
    • Can I send SMS messages from my TSTT cellphone to a cellphone on a foreign network in another country?No. At this time, you cannot send a SMS message from a cellphone on the TSTT cellular system (either TDMA or GSM) to a cellphone on an overseas (TDMA, GSM or PCS) network.
    • Can I send SMS messages from a cellphone on a TDMA network to a cellphone on a GSM or PCS network?Yes, but only because the networks are operated by the same carrier. In Trinidad and Tobago, TSTT operates both TDMA and GSM networks. Therefore it is possible to send a SMS message from a cellphone on the TDMA network to a cellphone on the GSM network and vice versa.
    • If I “roam” abroad with my TSTT cellphone, can I still send/receive SMS messages?Only if the following conditions are met:

      • You are using a GSM phone from TSTT

      • TSTT has a roaming agreement with network operator(s) in the country where you are roaming.

      • You are using a TSTT SIM-card in your phone.


      You will not be able to send/receive SMS messages if you are using a non-TSTT SIM. The TTCS page about GSM service in Trinidad and Tobago provides a list of coutries where TSTT GSM customers can roam and send/receive SMS messages.

    • How do I send SMS messages to cellphones in other countries?You will have to investigate this on your own since it will be country/SMS-provider specific. It is possible that there is an internet-email to SMS facility or a SMS gateway you can use to send such messages. Ask the intended recipient to do some research for you. If you want to share the information then email us: ttcs@opus.co.tt
    • Can someone from another country send SMS messages to me?Yes. They can use the email method or log onto one of the local sms gateways and send you a message. Remember

      , they have to know the number of your cellular telephone! Check this section for details.
    • Will SMS work on my GSM phone?Will the local SMS gateways be able to send messages to my GSM phone?Yes. Further information about the TSTT GSM system can be found here: https://www.ttcs.tt/2004/07/05/gsm-in-tnt-05-jul-2004
    • I don’t want this service . . . Can I switch it off?Once the cellphone provider has switched on the service and your phone is SMS capable, it will automatically receive messages addressed to it. However, (according to an official TSTT advertisment in the Trinidad Guardian newspaper, Thursday 7th March 2002, page 15) TSTT cellular customers can contact TSTT to have the service discontinued. The contact number given in the advertisment is: 824-TSTT(8788).
    • Is there any way to block someone from sending SMS messages to my phone?The only definite way to block messages to your phone is to contact TSTT (at 824-8788) and have the service discontinued, unfortunately, this would mean all SMS service/features, not just the nuisance messages, would be blocked.
    • How long has SMS been officially available on the local cellular network?TSTT officially launched the service to the public under the brand name “TSTT Lingo” on Monday 4th march 2002.
    • Where did you get all of this information? Do you work for TSTT?The creator(s) of this page and the TTCS are not affiliated with Telecommunications Services of Trinidad and Tobago (TSTT). All information on this page was gathered from public sources. No one invoved in the creation and maintainence of this page is employed by TSTT.
    • How long has this SMS page been online?This SMS page has been online ever since TSTT started testing the service in the last quarter of 2001.

    Troubleshooting Tips

    • Why can’t I receive messages?
      • Is your phone capable of receiving SMS? Some older phones cannot receive sms. Check your users manual.
      • Was it sent properly? review the send messages via SMS section and SMS message specifications to make sure.
      • Did the sender include some sort of attachment or HTML formatting that could “confuse” the SMS gateway?
      • Is it a used phone? Did the previous owner have the service switched off?
    • Why is the message cut off half way through the text?Why did I receive only part of the message? This will happen if the sender did not restrict the message to 160 characters!
    • Why can’t I send messages?
      • Is your phone capable of sending messages? Some older phones cannot transmit sms. Check your users manual.
      • Was it formatted properly? review the send messages via SMS and SMS message specifications to make sure.
      • Is it a used phone? Did the previous owner have the service switched off?

    Useful Links

    Contact the creator of this page

    Before you send that email, remember:

    • We can only answer questions involving services in Trinidad and Tobago.
    • Do not email us about services/problems etc in other countries.
    • We may not be able to answer your question(s). No one invoved with this page is employed by/affiliated with TSTT.
    • Information on this page is subject to change without further notice.
    • We may not reply if your question has already been answered by material provided on this page.
    • This page is for information purposes only. It is not an endorsement of the services provided by TSTT.

    Last updated : 05/june/2004

    Disclaimer

    The creator(s) of this page and the TTCS are not affiliated with TSTT. This page has not been endorsed in any way by TSTT. Information on this page is subject to change without further notice. If you use any information from this page, you do so at your own discretion and risk and you are soley responsible for any and all: financial loss, damage to your equipment or loss of data that may result directly or indirectly from such use. In other words, if you screw-up, or your equipment or data gets screwed up, it is 100% YOUR fault! Don’t blame anyone else.

  • Proposed Policy to exempt licensing of systems operating in the 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz ISM Bands

    Proposed Policy to exempt licensing of systems operating in the 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz ISM Bands

     

    In early May 2004, the Ministry of Public Administration & Information released a proposed policy “to exempt licensing of systems operating in the 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz Industrial, Scientific & Medical (ISM) Bands for the provision of affordable wireless connectivity and Broadband Internet Access”.

    The proposed policy recommends the use of 2.4GHz systems (such as 802.11b, 802.11g, Bluetooth) to be deployed within the constraints of or between the user’s premises for non-third party applications and 5.8GHz systems (such as 802.11a) to be deployed for both public and private network services.

    The deadline for comments from the public on this proposed policy was Friday 28th May 2004.

    Our main point in the comments on the proposed policy :

    The 2.4GHz band should be given the same privileges as the 5.8GHz band and let users/market forces decide which band is more appropriate for their needs. In other words, 2.4GHz systems should be allowed to be deployed for both public and private network services, just like 5.8GHz systems.

    Spectrum Plan for Accommodation of Broadband Wireless Access (BWA) Services.

    In April 2006, the Telecommmunications Authority of Trinidad and Tobago (TATT) published a Spectrum Plan for Accommodation of Broadband Wireless Access (BWA) Services for comment. “..This plan proposes spectrum bands based on current wireless access technologies and sets out the approach to be adopted by the Authority towards licensing of these bands.”

    In this document, this April 2006 policy states

    6.3.4 Individual or user licences will not be required in order to use radiocommunication equipment in the 2.4 GHz band.

    6.3.5 Radiocommunication systems using the 2.4 GHz band can be used for both private or public telecommunications networks and services or broadcasting services.

    A 2nd version of Spectrum Plan for the Accommodation of Broadband Wireless Access Services was posted in July 2006

     

     

  • Cellphones in Trinidad and Tobago

    Cellphones in Trinidad and Tobago

    This page provides generic information about GSM, SMS and ringtones and replaces the “GSM in TnT”, “SMS in TnT” and “About Ringtones” pages previously hosted at www.ttcsweb.org. If you need information specific to your cell phone provider, check their Official Websites.

    Last updated : 25 April 2006

    The official websites for cellphone operators in Trinidad and Tobago are:

    On these sites you can get:

    • Contact information e.g. telephone numbers, email addresses, etc.
    • The latest information on rates/tariffs for both local and international calls.
    • A list of the handsets (and their prices) being sold by the companies.
    • Information on prepaid and post paid packages.
    • Details about where customers can roam and the relevant rates/tariffs.
    • Information about service coverage.
    • A list of dealers that sell handsets and accessories for the different cellphone operators.
    • Updates on promotional events.

    What are the rates/fees/tariffs for GSM cellular service?

    See the Official Websites for the most recent rates.

    GSM FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

    What is dual band?

    Dual band refers to the ability of GSM network infrastructure and phones to operate across two frequency bands. For example at 900MHz and at 1800MHz.

    What is a tri-band phone?

    A tri-band cellular phone has the ability to operate on any 3 of the frequencies commonly used by cellphone providers. Common combinations include: 900MHz/1800MHz/1900MHz or 850MHz/1800MHz/1900MHz.

    What is a quad-band phone?

    A quad-band cellular phone has the ability to operate on these 4 frequencies: 850MHz, 900MHz, 1800MHz and 1900MHz.

    What GSM frequencies does TSTT/bmobile and Digicel operate? I want to buy my own GSM phone

    Digicel uses the 850Mhz and 1900Mhz frequency band. TSTT/bmobile uses the 1800Mhz frequency band.

    What is a dual “mode” phone?

    A dual mode cellular phone has the ability to operate in either analog or digital mode depending on network conditions. This description is exclusive to TDMA phones since the GSM system is one hundred percent digital. Analog TDMA service is NOT available in Trinidad and Tobago.

    Can a TDMA cellular phone work on the (Digicel or TSTT) GSM system?

    No. TDMA cellular phones are incompatible with the GSM system.

    What is GPRS?

    GPRS is the GSM Packet Radio Service. Packet switching utilises the network only when there is data to be sent as opposed to sending a continuous stream of data over a permanent connection. Users are able to send and receive data at speeds of up to (a theoretical maximum) of 115Kbit/s. GPRS enables users to connect to a wide range of public and private data networks which use standard data protocols such as TCP/IP and make use of applications such as email or Internet (WWW) access.

    What are SIMs? What are “Smart” cards?

    Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards are used to provide individual identities for each mobile user: e.g. authentication and storage for user data and network configuration information. The current generation of SIMs (“Smart” cards) contain microchips which extend the “intelligence” and capability of the card. Users are now able to access a vast range of card-enabled (as opposed to network-enabled) applications. The SIM must be inserted in the phone for the user to make and receive calls.

    What is “SIM lock”?

    “SIM lock” is the term used to describe the pre-programming of handsets by manufacturers to ensure that the handsets will only work with SIMs issued by a specific GSM network operator. Both Digicel and TSTT have stated that they will be selling SIM-locked phones.

    What is “roaming”?

    Roaming is the ability for a cellular customer to make and receive voice calls, send and receive data, etc on “visited” networks, that is, GSM networks located outside the geographical coverage area of their home network. These “visited” networks can be accessed in the same manner as the home network. For example, a customer (with a GSM phone) is able to make and receive voice calls while travelling in Europe (an example of international/global roaming). There are 3 types of roaming:

    • National Roaming: The visited network is in the same country as the home network.
    • International Roaming or Global Roaming: The visited network is outside the home country.
    • Inter-standard roaming: The visited network operates on a different technical standard than the home network.

    See the official websites for further information about where customers can roam and the cost of such services.

    What is “seamless roaming”?

    Seamless roaming allows cellular customers to make and receive calls on “visited” networks, as long as there is a roaming agreement between the operator of the “visited” network and the operator of their “home” network.

    What is “unregistered roaming”?

    Unregistered roaming allows cellular customers to make (originate) calls on “visited” networks where there are NO roaming agreements between the operator of the “visited” network and the operator of their “home” network. Calls are billed via one of these methods: Collect, Credit Card or Calling Card. Calls which originate via unregistered roaming are usually more expensive than calls which originate via seamless roaming.

    What is SMS?

    SMS or Short Message Service, (also known as short messaging service, text messaging, mobile messaging, or alphanumeric paging, celltext, texting, phone messaging) enables you to send brief text/numeric messages to and from digital cellular telephones. Messages can originate from cell phones as well as e-mail addresses and public SMS gateways on the Internet.

    What is the difference between SMS, Instant Messaging Service (IMS), and E-mail?

    E-mail and SMS are both “store and forward” systems that utilize a “gateway” to pass messages from senders to recipients, however, the obvious difference between the two are the length/complexity of the messages that can be sent on the respective systems. The maximim size of a SMS message is usually 160 characters (actual size is dependant on the service provider). The messages are limited to text and numeral characters. Graphics, colour, HTML formatting and file attachments are not allowed.

    On the other hand, e-mail can contain thousands of characters and allows the use of HTML formatting, files to be attached and images to be embedded within the message . Instant Messaging Service (IMS), (e.g. AOL Instant Messenger “AIM”, ICQ, MSN Messenger and Yahoo Messenger) allows you to conduct real-time text conversations (“chat”) with people who are simultaneously connected to the Internet and, in some cases, allow the transfer of files. SMS messages are immediate, but not simultaneous.

    How do you send and receive SMS messages?

    Receiving messages is easy. Most phones will display an incoming message alert graphic on the screen. You may also set a tone to sound when incoming messages are received. Once a message is received, you can use the scroll keys on your phone to view the content of the message. Options to store, reply, or forward each message will be available at that time. The exact procedure to send a message varies from device to device, but it usually involves entering the recipient’s phone number or e-mail address, and then composing the message with the phone keypad. You may have the option to send the message instantly or store it for later delivery. Check the user’s manual for the specific details on how to access these features on your particular brand/model of cell phone.

    How do you use public gateways to send messages?

    Cellular service providers who offer SMS usually offer public SMS gateways, which allow you to compose and send messages from the service provider’s web site. Digicel and TSTT DO NOT offer such a service from/on any of their websites at this time. A number of independently operated message gateways also exist on the Internet. These public gateways are usually available from any computer with Internet access. Examples of such gateways can be found at:

    At this time (April 2006) neither Digicel nor TSTT charge for receiving SMS messages sent from the Internet.

    Update : TSTT has disabled sending and receiving SMS via the Internet since late 2006. TSTT has given no notice on when such a service will be ever enabled.

    What are the fees for the Short Message Service?

    See the Official Websites for the most recent rates.

    How to send a message via SMS

    To send a Short Message using your cellular telephone, the message must be addressed to: 868####### (where ####### = the cell number of the person receiving the message). The exact procedure to send a message from one cell phone to another cell phone varies from device to device, but it usually involves entering the recipient’s phone number and then composing the message with the phone keypad. Check the user’s manual for the specific details on how to access these features on your particular brand/model of cell phone.

    Cell phones that support text messaging

    Most modern phones support SMS. See the Official Websites for information on which phones (and their features) are available to local consumers.

    Notes:

    • All sms options supported by the phone may not be available on the local networks. Ask your cellphone provider if in doubt.
    • Check the users manual for further info on how to use these features on your phone.

    SMS message specifications

    Your SMS message must meet the following specifications in order to be sent and received successfully:

    • Maximum size of the message: 160 characters (punctuation marks AND spaces are counted as characters).
    • Messages have to be in plain text. SMS does not support HTML formatting. In other words, it won’t look like a web page and you can’t see colours, graphics or those email “wallpapers”. Outlook/Outlook Express users take note! You may have to check your software settings/options/configuration and switch off HTML formatting.
    • You cannot send any sort of file attachments e.g. zip, mp3, mpeg, mpg, avi, doc, xls on the SMS system

    SMS Etiquette

    • Turn down the volume of your alert tone. YOU need to know you received a message. No one else does.
    • Keep your subject line brief. The characters in the subject count towards your total of 160. Better yet, do not use a subject line that way you can maximise the content of your message.
    • Messages must be read on cell phone screens so keep your message brief.
    • Don’t send a “signature”, a tagline, inspirational quote or any other unnecessary material with your message. Remember, there is a character limit so your message will be truncated if it exceeds that limit.
    • Avoid unnecessary spaces in the message. Spaces count towards your total of 160 characters.

    The SMS (Short Message Service) Dictionary

    SMS supports a limited number of characters per text message (approx. 160) so here’s a list of abbreviations and emoticons to help create that message.

    Numerals

    @WRK
    At work
    2BCTND
    To be continued
    2D4
    To die for
    2G4U
    Too good for you
    2HT2HNDL
    Too hot to handle
    2l8
    Too late
    4BARS
    Feeling very good today
    4E
    Forever
    4YEO
    For your eyes only

     

    A

    A3
    Anytime, Anywhere, Anyplace
    AAM
    As a matter of fact
    AB
    Ah Bless!
    ADCTD2LUV
    Addicted to Love
    AFAIK
    As far as I know
    AFK:
    Away From Keyboard
    AKA
    Also known as
    ALLWANISU
    All I want is You
    AML
    All my love
    ASAP
    As soon as possible
    ATB
    All the best
    ATK:
    At The Keyboard
    ATM:
    At The Moment
    ATW
    At the weekend
    AWHFY
    Are we having fun yet

    B

    B4
    Before
    BAK:
    Back At Keyboard
    BBFN
    Bye Bye for now
    BBL:
    Be Back Later
    BBS
    Be back soon
    BBSD
    Be back soon darling
    BCNU
    Be seeing you
    BF
    Boy Friend
    BGWM
    Be gentle with me
    BRB
    Be right back
    BTW
    By the way

     

    C

    CLD9
    Cloud 9
    CM
    Call me
    CRS
    Can’t remember stuff
    Cu
    See you
    CUIMD
    See you in my dreams
    CUL
    See you later
    CUL8R
    See you later
    CYA
    See You

    D

    Dk
    Don’t know
    DUR?
    Do you remember?

    E

    E2EG
    Ear to ear grin
    EOD
    End of discussion
    EOL
    End of lecture

     

    F

    F2F
    Face to face
    F2T
    Free to talk
    FAQ
    Frequently Asked Questions
    FC
    Fingers Crossed
    FITB
    Fill in the Blank
    FUBAR
    Fouled up beyond all recognition
    FWIW
    For What It’s Worth
    FYEO
    For your eyes only
    FYA
    For your amusement
    FYI
    For your information

    G

    GAL
    Get A Life
    GF
    Girlfirend
    GG
    Good Game
    GMESUMLUVIN
    Give me some loving
    GMTA:
    Great Minds Think Alike
    GR8
    Great
    GSOH
    Good Salary, Own Home
    GTG
    Got to go
    GTSY
    Glad to see you

     

    H

    H2CUS
    Hope to see you soon
    H8
    Hate
    HAGN
    Have a good night
    HAND
    Have a nice day
    HLDMECLS
    Hold me close
    HT4U
    Hot for You
    H&K
    Hugs and Kisses

    I

    IC
    I See
    ICQ
    I Seek you
    IDK
    I dont know
    IGOTUBABE
    I’ve got you babe
    IIRC
    If I recall correctly
    IMHO
    In my humble opinion
    IMI
    I mean it
    ILU
    I love You
    IMBLUV
    It must be love
    IOW
    In other words
    IOU
    I owe you
    IRL
    In Real Life
    IUSS
    If you say so

     

    J

    J4F
    Just for fun
    JFK
    Just for kicks
    JSTCLLME
    Just call Me

    K

    KC
    Keep cool
    KHUF
    Know how you feel
    KISS
    Keep It Simple, Stupid
    KIT
    Keep in touch
    KOTC
    Kiss on the cheek
    KOTL
    Kiss on the lips

     

    L

    L8
    Late
    L8R
    Later
    LMAO
    Laugh My A## Off
    LOL
    Laughing out loud
    LOLROF
    Laughing out load, rolling on floor
    LTNC
    Long time no see
    LTSGT2GTHR
    Lets get together

    M

    MTE
    My Thoughts Exactly
    M$ULKECRZ
    Miss you like Crazy!
    M8
    Mate
    MC
    Merry Christmas
    MGB
    May God Bless
    MYOB
    Mind your own Business

     

    N

    NA
    No access
    NC
    No comment
    NE
    Any
    NE1
    Anyone
    No1
    No-One
    NRN:
    No Reply Necessary
    NWO
    No way out

    O

    O4U
    Only for you
    OIC
    Oh, I see
    OTOH
    On the other hand

     

    P

    PITA
    Pain In The A##
    PRT
    Party
    PRW
    Parents Are Watching
    PCM
    Please call me
    PPL
    People

    Q

    QT
    Cutie

     

    R

    R
    Are
    RMB
    Ring my Bell
    ROFL
    Rolling On The Floor Laughing
    ROFLOL
    Rolling On The Floor Laughing Out Loud
    ROTFLMAO
    Rolling On The Floor Laughing My A## Off
    RU?
    Are you?
    RUOK?
    Are you Ok?

    S

    SC
    Stay cool
    SETE
    Smiling Ear to Ear
    SO
    Significant Other
    SOL
    Sooner or later
    SME1
    Some One
    SNAFU
    Situation normal but all fouled up
    SOS
    Same old stuff
    SRY
    Sorry
    SWALK
    Sent with a loving Kiss
    SWG
    Scientific Wild Guess

     

    T

    T+
    Think positive
    T2ul
    Talk to you later
    TDTU
    Totally devoted to you
    THX
    Thanks
    T2Go
    Time to Go
    TIC
    Tongue in Cheek
    TMIY
    Take me Im yours
    TTFN
    Ta ta for now.
    TTYL
    Talk to you later

    U

    U
    You
    URT1
    You are the one

    V

    VRI
    Very

     

    W

    WB:
    Welcome Back
    WTF:
    What The F###
    WTG:
    Way To Go
    WUF:
    Where Are You From
    W8:
    Wait
    W4U:
    Waiting for you
    WAN2:
    Want to
    WRT:
    With respect to
    WUWH:
    Wish you were here

    X

    X!
    Typical Woman
    X
    Kiss
    XCLUSVLYURS
    Exclusively Yours

    Y

    Y!
    Typical Man
    YBS
    You’ll be Sorry
    YGM
    You’ve got mail

     

    Z

    No “words” available at this time.

     

    Emoticons

    Emoticons (also known as “smileys”) are used to convey a facial expression in text messages on mobile phones (SMS).

    🙂
    Smiley
    🙁
    I’m upset/angry
    > ;->
    Rude suggestions
    %-)
    Google Eyes
    :*)
    I’m drunk
    B-)
    I’m wearing sunglasses
    :-)~
    I’m drooling
    :~~)
    I’ve got a cold
    :’-(
    I’ve been crying
    :-@
    I’m gonna scream
    :-0
    Uh-oh
    :-X
    My lips are sealed
    :-Q
    I smoke
    !-)
    Black eye
    :”)
    Blushing
    😐 😐
    Deja vu
    :@)
    Pig
    :-$
    Put your money where your mouth is
    🙂
    Smiley
    😛
    Stick tongue out
    :-(*)
    You make me sick
    x-(
    You’re mad
    :-“
    Whistling
    😉
    Wink
    :-\
    Sceptical
    : @
    Shouting
    😮
    Appalled
    :-X
    Not saying a word
    |-I
    Sleeping
    |-O
    Snoring
    %-}
    Intoxicated
    :-v
    Talking
    :-w
    Talking with two tongues
    (0_0)b
    Talking on cellphone
    d(0_0)b
    Wearing headphones
    \(O_O)/
    Great to see you,want a hug?/getting mugged
    (-@_@-)
    Scared/funky sunglasses
    (x_x)
    Dead
    (:0_0:)
    Freckles
    🙂
    Smiling without a nose
    😎
    Smiling with glasses
    [:-)
    Smiling with walkman
    :-)8
    Smiling with bow tie
    {:-)
    Smiling with hair
    d:-)
    Smiling with cap
    C|:-)
    Smiling with top hat
    (:-)
    Smiling with helmet
    :-)=
    Smiling with a beard
    #:-)
    Smiling with a fur hat
    😀
    Laughter
    🙁
    Sad
    🙁
    Sad, without nose
    :’-(
    Crying
    :-c
    Unhappy
    :-||
    Angry
    :-(0)
    Shouting
    >:-(
    Very angry
    :-O
    Wow
    😐
    Determined
    O 🙂
    An angel
    :-9
    Salivating
    🙁 )
    Shocked
    :-~)
    Having a cold
    😮 zz
    Bored
    B-)
    Sunglasses
    B:-)
    Sunglasses on head
    8:-)
    Glasses on head
    {:-)
    Toupee
    }:-(
    Toupee blowing in the wind
    -:-)
    Punk
    :-{)
    With a moustache
    :-{}
    Lip stick
    q(0_0)p
    Hands over ears/not listening/girl with bows
    (-_-)
    Sleeping
    <|>_<|>
    Cat
    (*_*)
    Unconscious
    (D_D)
    Looking sideways

     

    SMS FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

    • Can you tell me if brand X, model y is sms capable?
      No. Check:

      for further information

    • You keep telling me to “read the user’s manual” but I don’t have one! Where can I get one?
      The manufacturer of your cell phone should have an electronic version of the manual available for download (usually a Word .doc file or an Acrobat .pdf file) from their official website.
    • Why is there a limit of 160 characters?
      This is due to the limits of the SMS specification as well as the system in use by the SMS provider.
    • Can my phone be “upgraded” (via hardware or software) to support SMS?
      No.
    • How do I change the “message received” alert tone for my phone?
      Check the user’s manual for the specific details on how to access these features on your particular brand/model of cell phone.
    • Why must I change the settings in Outlook/Outlook Express?
      These email clients send HTML formatted email by default. HTML is the “language” used to create web pages. SMS does not support HTML formatting. So if you want to use these clients to send SMS messages you have to turn off HTML formatting and send it in plain text.
    • I used an SMS gateway site but my message was not sent or I got an error message. What’s wrong with the gateway?
      These gateways must interface with (Digicel or TSTT) so whenever those systems are down or have been programmed to block messages from specific sites, the gateway sites cannot transfer your message. The operators of the gateway site(s) have no control over the availability or reliability of the (Digicel or TSTT) SMS service.
    • Is SMS the same as email?
      No.
    • Can I send SMS messages from my (Digicel or TSTT) cellphone to a cellphone on a foreign network in another country?
    • If I “roam” abroad with my cellphone, can I still send/receive SMS messages?
      Yes. See the official websites for more information.
    • I don’t want this service . . . Can I switch it off?
      Once the cellphone provider has switched on the service and your phone is SMS capable, it will automatically receive messages addressed to it. However you may be able to have the service discontinued. Ask your cellphone provider.
    • Is there any way to block someone from sending SMS messages to my phone?
      The only definite way to block messages to your phone is to contact your cellphone provider and have the service discontinued, unfortunately, this would mean all SMS service/features, not just the nuisance messages, would be blocked.

    What are ringtones?

    Ringtones are the melodies/tunes/sounds/”noise” played when a call is received on your cellular telephone. Each phone has a certain
    number of tones pre-installed. However, many modern phones can be customised with a personalised ringtone. The user/owner has a wider variety to choose
    from and with a unique ring tone, it’s easier to distinguish one phone from another. Check the user’s manual and/or check the manufacturer’s website for further information on how to configure, add, delete, change the ringtones on your phone.

    What are the fees for obtaining ringtones?

    Check the Official Websites for further information. Independent ringtone providers (i.e. not associated with Digicel or TSTT/Bmobile) may charge a different (higher or lower) fee for transfering ringtones to your cellphone.

    What are the fees for obtaining wallpapers?

    Check the Official Websites for further information. Independent providers (i.e. not associated with Digicel or TSTT/Bmobile) may charge a different (higher or lower) fee for transfering wallpapers to your cellphone.

    How do you transfer ringtones/wallpapers/music/videos etc. to the phone?

    Read your user’s manual and/or check the manufacturer’s website for further information or ask the dealer who sold you the phone.

    These are the common methods of transfering data to and from a cellphone:

    • A special cable (from the cellphone manufacturer) that connects via the USB (more recent cables) or serial port (older cables) of your computer. Special software from the cellphone manufacturer is then used to format and transfer data between the phone and the computer.
    • Bluetooth. Requires that the computer either have built-in Bluetooth capability (e.g. a laptop) or that the user purchase and install a Bluetooth “adapter” or “dongle” in order to communicate with the Bluetooth-enabled phone. Special software from the cellphone manufacturer is then used to format and transfer data between the phone and the computer.
    • Infrared. Requires that the computer either have built-in infrared capability (e.g. a laptop) or that the user purchase and install an infrared “adapter” or “dongle” in order to communicate with theinfrared-enabled phone. Special software from the cellphone manufacturer is then used to format and transfer data between the phone and the computer.
    • Email. Requires the user to subscribe (pay) for data services from their cellphone provider. Works in a similar manner to regular computer based email. The file is sent as an attachment to the email. Memory/storage capacity of the phone will limit the size of the attachment.
    • MMS. Multimedia messaging service is an enhanced version of SMS which allows the user to send and receive pictures and short audio and video clips. Most cellphone providers usually charge either a flat fee per month or a per message fee for this service. The size of the pictures and short audio and video clips will be limited by the memory/storage capacity of the phone.

    Independent providers (i.e. not associated with Digicel or TSTT/Bmobile) usually charge a fee for transfering ringtones/wallpapers/music/videos etc. to your cellphone.

    Contact the creator of this page

    Before you send that email, remember:

    • If you have a problem with your phone or cell service, contact your providers directly! More information on their official websites.
    • Do not email us about services/problems etc. in other countries.
    • We may not be able to answer your question(s).
    • Information on this page is subject to change without further notice.
    • We may not reply if your question has already been answered by material provided on this page.
    • This page is for information purposes only. It is not an endorsement of the services provided by local telecom providers.

    If you have comments, more information, etc to add to this page, please contact us at: admin[ at ]ttcsweb.org

    Last updated : 3/july/2007

  • National Policy on Broadcast and the Broadcasting Industry

    National Policy on Broadcast and the Broadcasting Industry

    The Draft Policy on Broadcast and the Broadcasting Industry was released for public comment on the Trinidad and Tobago Government’s website in early August 2002 by the Ministry of Science, Technology & Tertiary Education. The Draft Policy includes proposals on the ownership structure of the broadcasting industry, a quota system for local programming content, non-profit and religious broadcasting among other issues.

    With the deadline for submissions for comments on October 31st, 2002, the Trinidad and Tobago Computer Society (TTCS) submitted comments on the Draft National Policy and the Broadcasting Industry.

    The Minister of Public Administration and Information announced the National policy on Broadcast and the Broadcasting Industry in the Senate on Tuesday 20th January 2004 and was made available for download from the NICT/FastForward website in February 2004.

  • Summary of TTCS Meetings held in 2003

    Summary of TTCS Meetings held in 2003

    We hold two types of meetings : Pizza Limes and Tech Meetings. A Pizza Lime is the name given to our monthly discussion forum which is usually held at Pizza Hut, Roxy Roundabout, Port of Spain on the second Wednesday of the month. The tech meeting is when we have computers on site to demonstrate a particular type of hardware or software.

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