Are all types of telephone, cellular and paging services available in Navajoland??
Telephone service has increased due to the availability of radio-telephone and cellular telephones, however only about 30% of Navajo homes have a telephone in them (1999). This may be higher in developed communities. Where there are no phone lines or at remote locations that cannot justify the expense of miles of poles to serve only a few homes, radio has been used to provide phone service. Unfortunately, only analog cellular service is available and coverage is sporadic. As of May 1999, small, handheld units only do well in some towns close to towers, such as Chinle and Window Rock/Fort Defiance. Digital cellular (PCS) service is not available at this time. Satchel sized analog cellular phones with 3 watts power have the best range, but this is only from high ground. Cellular One has instituted some innovative marketing to do business on the Rez. They have marketed pre-paid accounts that work while there is money on deposit. This eliminates the necessity of trying to collect for deliv
