Powered down selection of a preferable wireless communications service provider in a multi-service provider environment

摘要

A powered down communication device locates a wireless service provider in a multi-service provider environment by examining frequency bands while powered down until a frequency band having a acceptable service provider is located. The frequency bands are examined in an order specified by a stored search schedule. An acceptable service provider is identified by comparing the identity of a service provider specified by an identifier received from a band being examined with a list of acceptable service providers. The communication device then registers with the acceptable service provider when powered up. <IMAGE>