In everyday life, a cellular connection is an invisible yet constant presence. But what happens if you're cut off from everything? When a disaster, such as a hurricane or wildfire, disrupts networks, that connection is lost, preventing you from contacting family members or accessing emergency services.
"When your cellular phone does not work, and your service does not work, your life no longer works," said Jon Freier, president of T-Mobile's consumer group.
During catastrophes, companies like T-Mobile, AT&T and Verizon roll out heavy equipment -- robust satellite trucks, drones and portable generators -- and dispatch professionals to reconnect networks and aid those affected.
T-Mobile invited me to its headquarters in Bellevue, Washington, for an inside look at how the company responds when network connections are upended. Large-scale disasters require significant, ongoing resources and year-round teams of emergency response professionals. I got to see the hardware and coordination required to restore communication when it matters the most.
We mostly think of wireless carriers as the corporations behind our phone, network and mobile services, the names that bill us each month for these necessities. But when speaking with T-Mobile's emergency responders, as well as rapid-recovery professionals from other companies, it became clear that it's never business as usual in a disaster zone. Restoring connection amid chaos requires a next-level of resources -- and commitment.
A SatCOLT and other response vehicles were parked outside T-Mobile headquarters. Jeff Carlson/CNET
Resources that can deploy ASAP
During my visit, T-Mobile showcased a sampling of its emergency equipment, including a SatCOLT (satellite cell on a light truck), a support truck towing a Wi-Fi-enabled trailer with charging stations, and a flight operations trailer with an assortment of aerial vehicles. Buzzing above was a large drone, tethered by a cable, hovering 50 feet in the air.
T-Mobile brought a sampling of emergency response vehicles to its headquarters. Jeff Carlson/CNET
Other resources included towed trailers that can create a 1-mile wireless network known as SatCOWs (satellite cellular on wheels), and RVs where T-Mobile employees and first responders can sleep during operations.
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