celoni@Navajo.ARPA (12/10/85)
Our exchange went easy access this summer, and the carrier codes are much more versatile than I realized. 10ITT, 10777 (Sprint), 10444 (Allnet), 10333 (USTel), 10888 (SBS) code+call sends call over carrier; telco or carrier bills depending on whether you set up account with carrier (only way to get volume discounts). None have a monthly minimum except SBS, which blocks calls unless you have an account. PLUS: code+# connects you free to carrier's local switch (even from pay phone), as if you just dialed their local access number. So you can use your 5-8 digit authorization code and have calls billed to it from any phone without paying zone charges. Or you can call "inward" numbers like 10777# 593539, 10444# ALLNET, 10888# ASKSBS. (10444# is the same as 950-1044, 10333# as 950-1033, 10888# as 950-1088, and 10777# as 950-0777.) I've heard this type of access talked about but never advertised; it may not be true in all equal-access areas. 10222 (MCI), 10ATT same as above, except no 10nnn# service. You can dial 10222 0 call MCIcardnumber or 10288 0 call ATTcardnumber to place a card call (and pay the $0.55-1.05 surcharge) or 10288 0 call 0 for human AT&T operator assistance. 700/ 555-4141 is the free call to see what carrier you're using; e.g., 10222 700 555 4141 gives an MCI recording no matter who your 1+ carrier is. Most recordings incorrectly assume you've chosen them as your primary carrier. MCI's bills now show 700 MCI HELP for billing inquiries: "no charge when dialed over MCI". (Will other carriers will complete the call and bill for it?) It's sure convenient to have a non-ATT primary carrier (though after the highly misleading choose-us mailings they sent to us I'd avoid them anyway), but even better, not being locked in to anyone, to be able to shop/choose each call. If more people knew about it, it might stimulate even more competitive improvements in services and rates. +j