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Area Code 320: Essential Information About Its Coverage and History
Area code 320 serves central Minnesota, excluding the Twin Cities. Explore its geographic reach (45??27???N 94??45???W), technical specs, & supported services like VoIP. Learn about its 1996 split from 612, 10-digit dialing rules, & NANPA regulation. Discover key cities like Saint Cloud (45.5608, -94.16249).
Area Code 320: Essential Information About Its Coverage and History
Area code 320 is an integral part of the telecommunications network in Minnesota. Serving central parts of the state, it excludes the Twin Cities metro area. This guide provides detailed information about its geographic coverage, technical specifications, and regulatory aspects.
Where is Area Code 320 Located?
Area code 320 covers central Minnesota, including key cities like Saint Cloud. It was introduced to accommodate the growing demand for telephone numbers in the region, previously served by area code 612.
Key Cities Within Area Code 320
- Saint Cloud, Minnesota
- Latitude: 45.5608
- Longitude: -94.16249
Technical Specifications
- NPA Code: 320
- Type: Single
- Implementation Date: 1996
- State: Minnesota
Geographic Coverage
- Coordinates: 45??27???N 94??45???W
- Area Served: Central Minnesota, excluding the Twin Cities metro region
Telecommunications Services
Area code 320 supports various telecommunications services, including:
- Landline
- Wireless
- VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)
Regulatory Framework
Area code 320 is regulated by the North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA). It requires 10-digit dialing for local calls, a regulation established during its creation in 1996. This area code was formed by splitting from area code 612.
Historical Background
- 1996: Area code 320 was established by splitting from area code 612.
- 1998: Area code 612 was limited to Minneapolis and a few inner suburbs following the creation of area code 651.
- 2000: Area codes 763 and 952 were further split from 612.
Numbering and Utilization
While specific statistics on number availability and utilization rates are not provided, area code 320 plays a crucial role in meeting the region's telecommunication needs.
Conclusion
Area code 320 is vital for central Minnesota, providing essential communication services outside the busy Twin Cities metro area. With ongoing developments, it continues to support the region's telecommunication infrastructure. For more detailed information, visit the NANPA website.
Additional Resources
For further exploration of related topics, consider visiting:
These resources offer more in-depth insights into telecommunications regulations and services. Stay informed about area code developments and their impact on local infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What area code serves St. Cloud Minnesota?
St. Cloud, Minnesota is served by area code 320.
When was area code 320 created in Minnesota?
Area code 320 was created in 1996.
Why was area code 320 created?
Area code 320 was created to meet the growing demand for phone numbers in central Minnesota and relieve pressure on the existing area code 612, which served the Twin Cities metro area.
What part of Minnesota does area code 320 cover?
Area code 320 covers central Minnesota, excluding the Twin Cities metro area.
What area code was split to create area code 320?
Area code 320 was split from area code 612.
What types of phone services use area code 320?
Area code 320 supports landline, wireless, and VoIP services.
Is 10-digit dialing required for local calls within area code 320?
Yes, 10-digit dialing (including the area code) is required for all local calls within area code 320.
What is the NPA code for central Minnesota?
The NPA (Numbering Plan Area) code for central Minnesota is 320.
Which organization regulates area code 320?
Area code 320 is regulated by the North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA).
What other area codes were created as a result of the split from area code 612?
Following the creation of area code 320 in 1996, area codes 651 (1998), 763, and 952 (2000) were also created from the original 612 area code.
Where can I find the latitude and longitude coordinates for St. Cloud, Minnesota?
St. Cloud Minnesota is located at approximately 45.5608° N latitude and -94.16249° W longitude.
Besides NANPA, which other organizations provide information about telecommunications regulations?
The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) provide further information regarding telecommunications regulations.
What area does area code 320 cover in Minnesota?
Area code 320 covers central Minnesota, excluding the Twin Cities metro area. Key cities within this area code include St. Cloud. It was implemented in 1996 to handle the increasing demand for phone numbers.
When was area code 320 implemented?
Area code 320 was implemented in 1996. It was created by splitting from area code 612 to accommodate the growing need for phone numbers in central Minnesota.
How do I dial a number within area code 320?
You need to use 10-digit dialing for all calls within area code 320, including local calls. This regulation was established upon its creation in 1996.
What area code was split to create 320?
Area code 320 was split from area code 612 in 1996. Following this split, further divisions created area codes 651, 763, and 952 to serve the growing population around Minneapolis.
Where can I find more info on area code 320 regulations?
The North American Numbering Plan Administration (NANPA) regulates area code 320. Their website provides detailed information about area code regulations and planning across North America.
What is the latitude and longitude of St. Cloud Minnesota?
St. Cloud, Minnesota, a key city within area code 320, is located at approximately 45.5608 latitude and -94.16249 longitude. This city is in central Minnesota.
What Minnesota area code is for St. Cloud?
St. Cloud, Minnesota is located within area code 320. This area code covers central Minnesota and was created in 1996.