Comprehensive Guide to Area Code 401: Rhode Island's Exclusive Telephone Code

Area Code 401 is the sole telephone area code serving the entire state of Rhode Island. As a part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), it was established in 1947 and remains one of the original area codes still in use today. This article delves into its geographic coverage, technical specifications, regulatory framework, and future projections.

Quick Facts About Area Code 401

NPA Code: 401
Type: Single
Implementation Date: 1947
State: Rhode Island
Projected Exhaust Date: 2055

Geographic Coverage of Area Code 401

Area Code 401 encompasses the entire state of Rhode Island, covering all major cities and towns. Here are some of the prominent cities within this area code:

Bristol: Latitude 41.67705, Longitude -71.26616
Cranston: Latitude 41.77982, Longitude -71.43728
East Providence: Latitude 41.81371, Longitude -71.37005
Newport East: Latitude 41.51579, Longitude -71.28752
North Providence: Latitude 41.8501, Longitude -71.46617
Pawtucket: Latitude 41.87871, Longitude -71.38256
Providence: Latitude 41.82399, Longitude -71.41283
West Warwick: Latitude 41.69689, Longitude -71.52194
Woonsocket: Latitude 42.00288, Longitude -71.51478

Numbering Statistics and Projections

While specific data on the total numbers available and utilization rate is not specified, Area Code 401 is projected to remain sufficient for the region's needs until 2055.

Network Infrastructure and Services

Area Code 401 supports a variety of telecommunications services, including:

Landline
Wireless
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)

Major Carriers

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Regulatory Framework and Dialing Requirements

Area Code 401 is governed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). For local calls, 10-digit dialing is required. The area code complies with all NANP guidelines and regulations.

Historical Milestones of Area Code 401

1947: Area Code 401 was established as one of the original area codes in North America.
2055: Projected exhaust date, indicating no new area codes are expected to be needed until then.

Conclusion

Area Code 401 is integral to Rhode Island's communication infrastructure, maintaining its status as the state's sole area code since its inception. It continues to meet the region's telecommunication needs effectively, with a long-term projection of sufficiency.

For more detailed information on dialing patterns and regulations, visit the FCC's official site. For additional insights on area codes and telecommunications, explore our related articles on telecom regulations and numbering plans.