HomeZone not a Wireless Local Loop (WLL) Technology

Despite SamoaTel's claims that they use Wireless Local Loop technology to provide the HomeZone product, the HomeZone product is actually a simplified GSM mobile service - nothing more or less.

 

What is Wireless Local Loop (WLL)

In the strict sense of the term every fixed-line telephone connection is a local loop, that is a wired loop from the customer premise to the sub or main switch. In some instances, where physical fanning out of copper wires is cumbursome due to terrain, the so called "last mile" (does not have to be a mile - this is just a term) of the connection is replaced by a wireless means to connect the customer to the public switched telephone network (PSTN). In other instances, the wired infrastructure connected to customers' premises is wirelessly connected to the PSTN over some distance. In either of these scenarios this type of connection can be accomplished by any means of wireless or radio connectivity, such as GSM or CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) radio system - thus the term Wireless Local Loop also known as radio in the loop (RITL) or fixed-radio access (FRA). No matter what technology is used the connection established is always to the public switched telephone network (PSTN). Basically, the customers connected via WLL enjoy the same services (voice, internet, fax) as anyone else connected via copper wires - in a sense the WLL is a means of connectivity and is often not even noticeable to the end user. In the case of HomeZone, however, the GSM network is a seperate entity with its own billing system, switching technology and even different rates, and, incapable of fax and internet access - in short an inferior service not comparable with true fixed-line telephone service. Even the new HomeZone Plus lacks the quality and the services that one expects from a basic fixed line connection. We ask SamoaTel to tell the truth about these things and stop misrepresenting clear facts.