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Thailand has a quickly developing IT industry. Fixed telephone lines, mobile telephones, dial-up Internet and ADSL broadband are all available with varying quality. Some remote rural areas will not have access to some, if not all, of these services. Telephone (fixed line)Two major companies handle most telephone connections in Thailand, TOT and TT&T. True also provides fixed-line services, predominantly in Bangkok. Note: These companies do not provide their services to all areas, therefore research is a must for the installation. Determine what is needed for the required area and which company provides the best service before making a decision on the provider. International callsWhen calling internationally using the standard 001 prefix, calls will go through Cat Telecom (Communications Authority of Thailand).
When dialing 008 or 007 before the country code, a discounted call charge is applied although call; quality is variable. The prefix 007 is slightly more expensive with a corresponding improvement in quality. Recently other telephone companies have started using additional prefixes to offer discounted call rates. Check websites or local press for details of up to date promotions. How to get connectedThe companies listed above provide English-speaking customer service officers who can answer most enquiries. Many shopping centres have outlets for both TT&T and TOT. Foreigners who wish to connect a new line or re-connect an existing one must visit the chosen company office and provide the following documentation if they own or lease the property:
For those who rent a property, a letter from the landlord and a copy of their House Registration Document (Tabien Baan) is also required, although it is normally easier for the landlord to arrange a telephone connection. Paying billsBills are paid monthly, either at the local telecom office, by direct debit, by Internet or telephone banking, at the bank, cheque by post, credit card, direct debit, ATM transfer or at the Post Office. Only certain banks and credit cards will be accepted by individual telecoms providers so it is best to check with the company. Mobile TelephonesWhile the sale of mobile phone handsets is a huge business for Thailand, only three companies provide mobile service.
How to get a telephoneHandsets can be bought at any shopping centre, and most towns, will have many small stalls selling mobile phone units. SIM cards are sold at most service provider shops throughout the country. A passport is usually necessary to get a prepaid SIM card. Getting connectedThere are two different types of SIM card available:
Lost mobile telephonesReports can be made to the service provider to cancel lost mobile telephones. A new phone will be needed, but the new SIM card will be supplied either free or for a small fee.
Internet ProvidersInternet usage is expanding rapidly in Thailand, as is the list of providers. This is a list of Thailand's Internet service providers:
Dial-up connectionMany service providers give options for low-use Internet users such as dial-up accounts. These packages are sold at provider shops (such as 7 ELEVEN) or mobile phone shops found all over Thailand. Users receive a dial-up number, a security PIN and a limited time of usage. Each package has ADSL Broadband ConnectionADSL or broadband is available in most cities in Thailand but rural areas Following are the ADSL Broadband suppliers:
Getting a broadband connectionService providers don't have access to all areas. Firstly, a check must be made to see if connection is possible. Residences need to be within approximately 2 to 3 Km of the telephone exchange for a successful connection. To establish an account the following documents are required:
Note: Usually, a fixed telephone line will be an added bonus when broadband is connected so there is no need for a second telephone connection. Wi-Fi Hot SpotsWi-Fi hot spots are an ever increasing trend in coffee shops (Starbucks) and other venues such as Central Department Stores and McDonalds. Customers access the Internet for an hourly fee or for free as long as they buy products or services from the supplier. Further Information
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