W300i Problem or Network Problem?, Emergency Use Only with very strong signal Options

[Lanny]

Hello: I suspect this is a problem with the network operator's HW or SW, but I would like to verify that with the knowledgeable people here.
In our town, frequently, when I open the Handset, I see that it has an extremely strong signal, but, at the same time, I see a message that it is for Emergency Use Only. I do not recall seeing this problem, when I am in another city. Usually, after 30-60 seconds, the signal decreases and the problem goes away. Questions: (a) Is this a problem in my handset? (b) Is this probably a problem with the HW or SW of the Network operator? TIA!

[MikLSP]

When your handset shows signal bars but you cannot access your network that is usually because the phone is picking up signal from another network which uses the same frequency. This is why you can see signal bars but of course you are not permitted to access it.

[Lanny]

When your handset shows signal bars but you cannot access your network that is usually because the phone is picking up signal from another network which uses the same frequency. This is why you can see signal bars but of course you are not permitted to access it.

Thank you for the reply and for the information you provided! I suspect that is what is going on. A few hours ago, I took the Tigo SIM out of the W300i and put it into my Nokia 2610. And, I put my COMCEL SIM into the W300i. Both phones seem to be working, without any problems. If you are not correct about interference causing this issue, my other idea is that the Software/Firmware in the W300i and the HW/SW at the Tigo cell may have compatability problems. COMCEL and Movistar use both GSM bands: 850/1900. TIGO only uses the GSM 1900 band. So, probably you are correct that the COMCEL or Movistar 1900 signals, which are probably stronger, are interferring with the TIGO signal. Thanks again!