Area Code 256: Everything You Need to Know About Northern Alabama's Phone Network
Introduction
Area Code 256 serves as a crucial communication hub within Northern Alabama, encompassing significant cities such as Huntsville, Decatur, and Florence. Established in 1998, this area code operates alongside Area Code 938 to support the region's growing telecommunications needs. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore Area Code 256's geographic coverage, technical specifications, major carriers, and regulatory framework.
Geographic Coverage of Area Code 256
Area Code 256 primarily covers Northern Alabama, including several key urban centers:
- Anniston, Alabama
- Decatur, Alabama
- Florence, Alabama
- Gadsden, Alabama
- Huntsville, Alabama
- Madison, Alabama
These cities are known for their vibrant communities and economic activities, making Area Code 256 essential for local connectivity.
Technical Specifications
- NPA Code: 256
- Type: Overlay
- Implementation Date: March 23, 1998
- State: Alabama
Area Code 256 was created from Area Code 205 due to increased demand in the region. The introduction of Area Code 938 as an overlay in 2010 further supported the area's expanding telecommunications infrastructure.
Telecommunications Infrastructure
Major Carriers and Services
Area Code 256 is supported by multiple carriers providing a range of services:
- Carriers: AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, among others
- Services Offered:
- Landline
- Wireless
- VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)
These services ensure robust connectivity for both residential and business customers across Northern Alabama.
Regulatory Framework
The telecommunications operations within Area Code 256 are governed by the Alabama Public Service Commission. Key regulatory aspects include:
- Dialing Requirements: Mandatory ten-digit dialing
- NANPA Compliance: Adherence to North American Numbering Plan regulations
These regulations ensure efficient and fair use of telecommunications resources across the region.
Historical Context
- March 23, 1998: Area Code 256 was introduced to meet increasing demand.
- July 10, 2010: Area Code 938 was added as an overlay to support further growth.
These milestones highlight the dynamic nature of telecommunications in Northern Alabama, adapting to technological advances and population growth.
Conclusion
Area Code 256 is a vital component of Northern Alabama's telecommunications infrastructure, providing essential services to a broad range of communities. For more detailed regulatory information or to explore additional area codes, visit the Alabama Public Service Commission.
Additional Information
For those interested in further details about specific cities within Area Code 256, please refer to the following table:
City | Latitude | Longitude |
---|---|---|
Anniston | 33.65983 | -85.83163 |
Decatur | 34.60593 | -86.98334 |
Florence | 34.79981 | -87.67725 |
Gadsden | 34.01426 | -86.00664 |
Huntsville | 34.73037 | -86.5861 |
Madison | 34.69926 | -86.74833 |
This information can assist in understanding the geographic distribution and potential service needs within the area.
For more insights into telecommunications, explore related articles on our site, or contact your local service provider for specific queries related to Area Code 256. Stay connected and informed!