Patent ID: 6026299
Filing Date: 2000-02-15
Classification: H04W

Abstract:
A method by which a powered down communication device locates a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment, comprising the steps of:tuning to a first frequency band according to a frequency band search schedule while powered down;receiving a received geographic identifier from a service provider in the first frequency band;comparing the received geographic identifier to a listing of stored geographic identifiers in order to attempt to locate a matching stored geographic identifier, each of the stored geographic identifiers being associated with a desirable frequency band having a desirable service provider;examining frequency bands according to the frequency band search schedule while powered down until a second frequency band having the desirable service provider is located, the examination being carried out if the step of comparing the received geographic identifier does not produce the matching stored geographic identifier; andupdating the listing of stored geographic identifiers so that the second frequency band is associated with the received geographic identifier; andregistering with the acceptable service provider when powered up.