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CELLULAR PHONES
Last year we hypothesized about the "Dick Tracy wrist radio", and why with
today's technology we haven't seen it yet. Well, here in 1994 we still don't
have one for sale, but the good news is that at least there are prototype wrist
cell phones materializing from one or two manufacturers. Don't hold your
breath though -- they're still prototypes. More good news, shirt-pocket sized
phones are everywhere, and their larger, vehicle-bound cousins contain more
features than ever before.
A cellular phone works via an FM transmitter/receiver in the telephone
itself, and a network of closely spaced cells (or individual transmitters) in a
pre-set geographical area. The phone talks to its local cell transmitter,
which is in turn connected to the nearest standard telephone system. As you
move away from the cell that is currently handling your call, the cell "hands
off" the call to the next nearest cell to you, so there is no interruption in
service.
Your local coverage area can cover as much as a 70 to 250 mile radius,
however, a technology called roaming can extend your cellular service well
beyond your local area. Roaming enables you to make and receive calls from your
cellular phone in another city, or anywhere in the U.S., Canada and the
Bahamas. All you have to do is transmit a roaming activation code when you get
to your new destination, and callers can reach you easily. In some cases
roaming is automatically switched for you, depending on your local cellular
provider.
Prices for cellular service vary from place to place, and you can expect
to pay anywhere between $15 and $60 per month for basic service. Each local
call will cost you an additional 20-80 cents per minute, and if you make a long
distance call you will be charged extra for that as well. You are also charged
when someone calls you, so, unless you watch your talk time, cellular phone
service can get pretty expensive. Fortunately, you are not charged if you
reach a busy number (as long as you hang up within 60 seconds), or for callers
trying to reach you if you don't pick up your phone.
The digital cellular revolution has recently emerged in some areas. This
new service can handle many more calls per cell, affords a higher quality
transmission, and features complete privacy. Current cellular phone calls can
be eavesdropped by persons with multi-band scanners. However, you will need to
buy a digital cellular phone to realize all the digital benefits. These new
phones are completely compatible with all current analog cellular systems, but
there are only a few models currently available.
MOBILE PHONES
The mobile phone ($99-$1200) consists of three parts: the electronics, a
box usually mounted in the truck or under the dash; the antenna, which can be
glass-mounted to the back window, or roof-mounted for the best performance; and
the handset itself, which is often located between the front driver and front
passenger.
There are a few basic features found in almost all mobile phones. An LCD
or LED display indicates the number you're dialing, the transmission signal
strength, the elapsed time of the call in progress, and other pertinent
information. Like the backlit dialing keypad, the display is also illuminated
for night operation. A volume control is provided for the earpiece volume, so
you can hear clearly in varying sound environments. Mute, multiple call
timers, redial and a scratch-pad memory (for quickly storing information, such
as a telephone number) are cellular staples, as is an electronic lock with
password protection, so that parking attendants can't make calls to Japan using
your phone.
In addition, don't forget about hands-free conversation -- an essential
for all mobile phones these days. Using a tiny microphone placed near your
visor, coupled with a speaker built into the phone cradle, you can converse
without taking your hand off the wheel. These systems are smart enough to know
when you want private conversation, and will cut off whenever the handset is
picked up.
Convenience features as listed below are found on mid to high-priced
cellular fare. In some cases these features are available as options that you
can add later on.
Call restriction takes the concept of electronic lock a step further.
Although passengers may use the phone for local calls, more expensive long
distance calls can be prohibited.
Memory dialing works very much the same as in a conventional phone. You
press a two-digit code, and the phone will dial the appropriate phone
number. Depending upon the model you can store anywhere from 20-150
phones numbers in memory. Some phones include one-touch speed dialing of
1-9 numbers, and many offer Alphanumeric memory, which makes it much
easier to recall stored numbers. Instead of having to memorize a two-
digit code for each person, with alphanumeric memory, you can key in the
person's name by using the alpha-coded keys on the dial pad.
With Voice Activated Dialing, you only have to hit a single key, and then
speak out loud to tell the phone who to dial. This feature can be found on
the more expensive phones, or as an option on mid-priced phones.
Radio mute is extremely convenient. Whenever you receive or make a call,
your car stereo or radio volume will automatically be turned down.
In addition, some models have Auto-Answer capability, whereby the phone
will automatically pick up on the second ring.
A call-in absence indicator will tell you that a call came in while you
were away from the phone, a few models will tell you how many calls were
received, and still others will allow the caller to leave his or her phone
number. Some newer models even operate like answering machines whereby a
personalized outgoing message greets callers and the system allows them to
leave voice messages.
A number of manufacturers provide a horn alert feature that beeps your
horn when an incoming call is detected.
An auxiliary telephone port comes in very handy for those times you wish
to quickly connect a notebook computer, or portable FAX machine to your
cellular phone. Some phones have this RJ-11 jack built in, and for others
it's available as an option.
Multiple-NAM allows you to have numerous telephone numbers assigned to one
phone. This feature is convenient if you frequently travel between two or
more cities for business, and you don't want to pay long distance roaming
charges. So Multiple-NAM allows you to have a cellular telephone number
assigned to each city. Some phones have dual NAMs, others come with four
or six.
Transportable Conversion is a unique feature that enables the car phone to
be transformed into a transportable phone via the addition of an optional
kit. Transportable phones have many of the features found in mobile
phones, the only difference is that this type of cellular phone can be
moved from place to place because the 3-watt transceiver, rechargeable
batteries, and antenna are contained in a single hardcover book-sized
package.
PORTABLE PHONES
Just like the miniaturization of a notebook computer results in a costlier
package, the portable cellular phone is more expensive than mobile fare. This
year's crop of portables range in weight from 11 ounces to a mere 3.8 ounces of
electronic circuits and plastic. Speaking of plastic, expect to pay anywhere
from $99 to $1500 for a portable phone.
Because you can only cram so much transceiving power into such a small
size there is one drawback to portable use. The transceiver power is cut from
3 watts down to only .6 watts or 1.2 watts in one or two models. What this
means in real life is that you won't have the range or performance of a full 3
watt mobile phone -- this translates into dropped calls or static from time to
time. It all depends on the area in which you live. Flat surroundings, and
markets with closely-spaced cells will offer the best performance for portable
use.
Interestingly, due to its low wattage, a portable's battery power often
lasts longer than the older transportable type. Portable standby time will
range from about six hours to as much as 30 hours depending upon the model and
battery used. Similarly, continuous talk time can range from 30 minutes to
three hours.
Many of the same features found in mobile cellular phones are available in
the portable, albeit some mobile features such as radio mute, and horn alert
are not likely to be found. Memory dialing will range from 30-100 stored
numbers, and conveniences such as electronic lock, call restriction, signal
strength metering, call timers, automatic answer, one-touch dialing,
alphanumeric memory, lighted display, and dial-pad, Multiple NAMs and a
scratchpad memory are all available on the portable. There is a unique new
feature on some models that consists of a vibrating system that signals you
when a call is received. This is an ideal way to be alerted to a call so that
you don't disturb others or when a noisy environment prevents you from hearing
the phone ring.
Although portables are convenient, a more permanent approach is often
needed. Fortunately many manufacturers offer the convenience of portability
with the flexibility and range of permanent-mount installations. All you have
to do is pop your portable into a car-mounted cradle, and it's quickly
transformed into a cellular car phone. Optional car-mount kits contain a
special cradle-mount that can accept the portable phone via the use of handset
cord, or alternatively, an extra handset is provided along with a cradle in
which the portable is plugged into. Either way, the kit includes a cable for
connection to a permanent cellular antenna, and direct connection to the car's
battery power. Most manufacturers have hands-free speakerphone options, and
many offer booster kits to upgrade the portable from .6 to a full 3 watts of
transmitting and receiving power. Amenities such as voice activated dialing and
RJ-11 data jacks are also available in kit form on some models.
When buying a portable make sure it's well-balanced in features, and
comfortable to hold. The lightest and smallest models cost the most money, and
you can pay as much as a $500 premium to save a few ounces and inches in size.
SHOPPING AROUND
Unlike, other types of electronics, you may notice that the suggested list
prices of cellular phones are much, much higher than the actual street prices.
This is because in return for signing up business, many cellular franchises
will offer retailers a rebate from $200-$400 for each customer sold a phone.
However, in most cases you will have to sign a service contract with the
cellular phone service providing the rebate, and that will lock you into a 60
day to three year term. While it's true that there are only two cellular
service franchises assigned to a single cellular market, each provider may
offer different services, or cover a different number of cities or towns, so
you may not wish to be locked into any one particular company. Generally,
though prices are fairly competitive between the two providers.
Cellular phones may also be purchased directly from the franchise itself.
This is sometimes a good deal as a free antenna and installation are sometimes
included -- a nice buy when you consider that retailers can charge anywhere
from $50 to over $150 to install a car system.
It can't hurt to shop around. All types of discount stores, car audio
shops, telephone stores and mail order companies sell cellular phones these
days. Make sure that whoever you buy from has a good return policy, and is an
authorized sales and service center for the products they sell. If you aren't
sure whether the retailer is authorized just call the manufacturer of the brand
you're interested in, the folks in customer support will be happy to guide you
in the right direction.
BEST BUYS
MOBILE PHONES
[P] Nokia 6000 (Price: $700.00 - $1199.00) The Nokia 6000 is a digital cellular
phone. Like all digital phones it can also operate on a standard analog
cellular system. This phone features privacy (in digital mode), 100 number
memory, scratchpad memory, any key answer, auto answer, theft alarm, radio
mute, horn alert, 4 NAMs. Notable options include a voice recognition unit, and
a data/FAX adapter.
[M] AT&T 3050 (Price: $250-$550) The AT&T 3050 is a feature packed analog phone
featuring voice recognition and voice activated dialing. The phone also
includes a built-in answering machine, voice memo pad, 60 number alphanumeric
memory, escalating ring and dual NAM. Options include: an auxiliary speaker, a
limo kit, a transportable conversion kit and a data interface jack. Two year
warranty.
[E] Motorola TX-300 (Price: 0-$250) Sturdy and well-made phone with 30 number
memory, single one-touch dialing button, auto-answer, call in absence
indicator. Three year warranty.
PORTABLE PHONES
[P] Nokia 2120 (Price: $499 - $899) In years past we gave the high-end
Motorola Micro T.A.C. models a Best Buy in this price category, but Motorola
continues to stick with an inferior LED display, and Nokia really came up with
a winner in technology and ergonomics. First off, the 2120 is a digital phone
that weighs only 8.3 ounces. Secondly, the phone boasts a gorgeous 5-line,
backlit, super-twist, LCD, display with continuous battery, signal strength and
digital service indicators. Thirdly, this phone features 99 alphanumeric
memory locations, call privacy (in digital mode only), high-speed cellular
FAX/data support, any key answer, 6 NAMs, automatic answer, and one-touch
dialing. The phone provides 45 minutes of talk time and 8.7 hours of standby
time in digital mode with it's slim battery. Options include numerous battery
sizes including one with a vibrator option, numerous chargers and car kits, a
PCMCIA Data/FAX interface, a belt clip and a headset. One year warranty.
[M] Motorola MICRO T.A.C Ultra Lite (Price: $499-$699) At only 5.9 ounces this
phone is one of the smallest and lightest available. The Ultra Lite
incorporates a "Star Trek" type flip-down mouthpiece, that when closed ends a
call automatically. Other features include: 101 memory locations, alphanumeric
memory, one-touch dialing, continuous redial, a call-in absence indicator, and
a single line LED display that is quite difficult to read in bright sunlight.
Other amenities include: a battery strength meter, and auto answer. The
standard battery offers 60 minutes of talk time and 8 hours of standby. The
Ultra Lite comes in various packages, some of which include different
accessories and models, such as VibraCall capability, higher capacity
batteries, extra chargers, a data jack, car kits with 3 watt booster
capability, hands-free operation and voice recognition. If the phone is
purchased directly from Motorola it comes with a special VIP Classic Gold
Program that gives the phone a five year warranty (instead of the usual 3 year
warranty), a technology upgrade option, immediate exchange/repair and many
other courtesies.
[E] Pioneer PCC-720 (Price: $200 - $400) Pioneer's new pocket cellular phone is
a flip design similar to the one found in Motorola products. This 7.5 ounce
model incorporates a very nice 7-character LCD display, automatic answer, dual
NAMs, 30 number memory, a battery and signal strength indicator and an
electronic scracthpad. Options include numerous battery and car kit
configurations.