How are pagers activated?

To understand how pagers are activated, it's essential to consider the mechanisms of communication involved. Pagers typically receive signals through a dedicated radio frequency system. When a message is sent to a pager, it is transmitted via radio waves from a central dispatch point.

The activation occurs when a dispatcher dials a specific telephone number associated with the pager system. This call sends a signal that encodes the message, which is then relayed through the radio frequency to the pager, where it is decoded and displayed or signals an alert.

Other potential activation methods, such as pressing a button or an internet signal, are not standard for traditional pagers. Therefore, the dialing of a telephone number is the method that aligns with how conventional pagers function in emergency and fire service communication systems.