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Area Code 406: Everything You Need to Know About Montana's Exclusive Phone Code
Area code 406 is the exclusive area code for the state of Montana, established in 1947 as part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP).
What is Area Code 406 and Where is it Used?
Area code 406 is the only area code serving the entire state of Montana. It covers both urban centers and rural areas, playing a crucial role in Montana's telecommunications infrastructure since its establishment in 1947.
Geographic Coverage and Major Cities
Geographic Reach
State: Montana
Type: Sole area code for the entire state
Major Cities Within Area Code 406
Billings: Latitude 45.78329, Longitude -108.50069
Bozeman: Latitude 45.67965, Longitude -111.03856
Butte: Latitude 46.00382, Longitude -112.53474
Great Falls: Latitude 47.50024, Longitude -111.30081
Helena: Latitude 46.59271, Longitude -112.03611
Missoula: Latitude 46.87215, Longitude -113.994
These cities are key economic and cultural hubs in Montana, contributing to the diverse use of area code 406.
Telecommunications Infrastructure
Major Carriers and Services
Carriers: AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, CenturyLink
Local Providers: Hot Springs Telephone Company, Northern Telephone Cooperative
Services Offered: Landline, Wireless, VoIP
The telecommunications infrastructure in Montana supports a wide range of needs, ensuring robust connectivity across the state.
Numbering and Usage Statistics
Total Numbers Available: Approximately 1.7 million lines as of 2013
Utilization Management: Through number pooling
Exhaust Projection: Sufficient numbers expected until 2031
Number pooling is a strategy used to manage the allocation of phone numbers efficiently, delaying the need for additional area codes.
Dialing Transition: Shifted to ten-digit dialing on October 24, 2021, due to the implementation of the 988 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
NANPA Regulations: Number pooling is enforced for efficient resource allocation
These regulations ensure compliance with national standards while addressing local needs.
Historical Context and Milestones
1947: Area code 406 established
2013: 1.7 million lines in service
2021: Transition to ten-digit dialing
These milestones highlight the evolution of telecommunications in Montana, reflecting technological advancements and regulatory changes.
Conclusion
Area code 406 is a vital component of Montana's communication framework, supporting a variety of services and adhering to regulatory standards. The introduction of number pooling and ten-digit dialing enhances resource management and compliance with national guidelines.
This comprehensive guide provides insights into area code 406, its historical significance, and its role in Montana's telecommunication landscape. For further exploration, access more data through the Montana Public Service Commission.