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In the US, area codes are used to identify specific geographic regions for the purpose of routing telephone calls. One such area code is 980, which covers a particular region in North Carolina. In this article, we’ll explore the history and coverage of area code 980, as well as some interesting facts about this code.
History of Area Code 980:
The North American Numbering Plan (NANP) was established in 1947 to standardize the assignment of telephone numbers in the US and Canada. At the time, there were only 86 area codes in use. As population and technology grew, the NANP added more area codes to meet demand. Area code 980 was introduced on April 1, 2001, as an overlay code for the existing 704 area code in North Carolina.
Coverage of Area Code 980:
Area code 980 covers the same geographic area as the 704 area code, which includes Charlotte and most of its suburbs in North Carolina. An overlay code was necessary because the 704 area code was running out of available phone numbers due to population growth and the increasing use of mobile phones and other devices.
Interesting Facts about Area Code 980:
- Area code 980 was the first overlay code in North Carolina, followed by the 919/984 overlay in the Raleigh area and the 336/743 overlay in the Piedmont Triad area.
- The creation of area code 980 was met with some resistance from local residents and businesses who were concerned about the additional cost and confusion of dialing 10 digits for every call.
- Area code 980 is often associated with the Charlotte metropolitan area, which is home to more than 2.5 million people.
- In addition to telephone calls, area code 980 is used for other purposes such as text messaging, fax machines, and alarm systems.
Conclusion:
Area code 980 plays an important role in the telecommunications infrastructure of North Carolina by providing additional phone numbers to meet the needs of a growing population. While its introduction was not without controversy, area code 980 is now an integral part of the Charlotte metropolitan area and is likely to remain so for many years to come.
FAQ’S
Q: What is Area Code 980?
A: Area Code 980 is a telephone area code in the North American Numbering Plan (NANP) that covers the Charlotte metropolitan area, which includes parts of North Carolina and South Carolina.
Q: When was Area Code 980 created?
A: Area Code 980 was created on April 1, 2001, as an overlay of the existing 704 area code.
Q: What cities are included in Area Code 980?
A: Area Code 980 includes the cities of Charlotte, Concord, Gastonia, Kannapolis, Monroe, and Salisbury in North Carolina, as well as Rock Hill in South Carolina.
Q: Do I need to dial the area code when making a local call within Area Code 980?
A: Yes, you need to dial the area code along with the seven-digit phone number for all calls within Area Code 980, even if the call is local.
Q: Can I keep my existing phone number if I move to an area served by Area Code 980?
A: Yes, you can keep your existing phone number if you move to an area served by Area Code 980, regardless of whether your current phone number is in the 704 or 980 area code.
Q: Can I get a phone number with Area Code 980 if I don’t live in the Charlotte metropolitan area?
A: No, you cannot get a phone number with Area Code 980 if you don’t live in the Charlotte metropolitan area. Area codes are assigned based on geographic location, and you can only get a phone number with the area code that corresponds to your location.
Q: How do I block unwanted calls from Area Code 980?
A: You can use call-blocking services or apps to block unwanted calls from Area Code 980, as well as other area codes or specific phone numbers.
Q: What should I do if I receive a suspicious call from Area Code 980?
A: If you receive a suspicious call from Area Code 980, or any other area code, do not provide any personal information or financial information over the phone. Hang up immediately and report the call to your phone carrier and/or law enforcement.Q: What should I do if I receive a suspicious call from Area Code 980?
