Overview
GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) is the fastest growing and most advanced mobile technology available today. GSM phones work with a small electronic chip called the SIM card. The SIM card holds the phone number assigned by the service provider, your phonebook and other registration information. GSM operates on multiple frequency bands around the world - 900 Mhz and 1800Mhz, used in Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and South America ; 850 Mhz and 1900 Mhz, used in the.North America and South America. Different service providers operate on different frequency within the country. For example, T-mobile operates on 1900 mhz in the USA, while Cingular operates on 1900 mhz or 850 mhz. When selecting your cell phone make sure that you select a phone that operates on your service provider's band.

Dual band - Usually are phones that operate on 900 mhz or 1800 mhz. These phones will work around the world but, will not work in North America.

Tri-band - Tri-band phones usually include 900 mhz, 1800 mhz and 1900 mhz band. These phones will work around the world and in the North America. These phones will not work with service providers that only support 850 mhz in your area.

Quad band - Quad band phones cover all the bands - 850 mhz, 900 mhz, 1800 mhz, 1900 mhz. Quad band phones will work all over the world with all GSM service providers.

Unlocked GSM Phones
Unlocked GSM phones are not locked to a specific service provider.Unlocked phones will work with any GSM service provider that is supported by the phone's frequency band. Normally, all the phones sold by the service providers are locked to be used with their service only. For example, a locked phone from T-mobile wouldn't work with Cingular's service.

3G
3G is an International Telecommunication Union (ITU) specification for the third-generation mobile communications technology that was created for high-speed transfer of data and multimedia content, such as video, downloads, music and interactive games. 3G aims to increase bandwidth up to 384 Kbps when a device is stationary or moving at pedestrian speed, 128 Kbps in a car, and 2 Mbps in fixed applications. 3G will work over wireless air interfaces, such as GSM, TDMA, and CDMA. The new EDGE service was developed specifically to meet the bandwidth needs of 3G.

EDGE
Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE) is a faster GSM wireless service that can deliver data at rates up to 384 Kbps on a broadband. The standard is based on the GSM standard and uses TDMA.
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Bluetooth
Simply known as a “cable replacement” technology, Bluetooth is a radio-frequency standard that functions as a personal-area network (PAN). It replaces cable-based connections, like USBs, with short-range wireless connections. The technology can be applied between desktops and notebook computers, handhelds, PDAs, mobile phones, camera phones, headphones, printers, digital cameras, headsets, keyboards and computer mice.

GSM Cell Phone Guide

Overview
GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) is the fastest growing and most advanced mobile technology available today. GSM phones work with a small electronic chip called the SIM card. The SIM card holds the phone number assigned by the service provider, your phonebook and other registration information. GSM operates on multiple frequency bands around the world - 900 Mhz and 1800Mhz, used in Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and South America ; 850 Mhz and 1900 Mhz, used in the.North America and South America. Different service providers operate on different frequency within the country. For example, T-mobile operates on 1900 mhz in the USA, while Cingular operates on 1900 mhz or 850 mhz. When selecting your cell phone make sure that you select a phone that operates on your service provider's band.

Dual band - Usually are phones that operate on 900 mhz or 1800 mhz. These phones will work around the world but, will not work in North America.

Tri-band - Tri-band phones usually include 900 mhz, 1800 mhz and 1900 mhz band. These phones will work around the world and in the North America. These phones will not work with service providers that only support 850 mhz in your area.

Quad band - Quad band phones cover all the bands - 850 mhz, 900 mhz, 1800 mhz, 1900 mhz. Quad band phones will work all over the world with all GSM service providers.

Unlocked GSM Phones
Unlocked GSM phones are not locked to a specific service provider.Unlocked phones will work with any GSM service provider that is supported by the phone's frequency band. Normally, all the phones sold by the service providers are locked to be used with their service only. For example, a locked phone from T-mobile wouldn't work with Cingular's service.

3G
3G is an International Telecommunication Union (ITU) specification for the third-generation mobile communications technology that was created for high-speed transfer of data and multimedia content, such as video, downloads, music and interactive games. 3G aims to increase bandwidth up to 384 Kbps when a device is stationary or moving at pedestrian speed, 128 Kbps in a car, and 2 Mbps in fixed applications. 3G will work over wireless air interfaces, such as GSM, TDMA, and CDMA. The new EDGE service was developed specifically to meet the bandwidth needs of 3G.

EDGE
Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE) is a faster GSM wireless service that can deliver data at rates up to 384 Kbps on a broadband. The standard is based on the GSM standard and uses TDMA.
Back to top

Bluetooth
Simply known as a “cable replacement” technology, Bluetooth is a radio-frequency standard that functions as a personal-area network (PAN). It replaces cable-based connections, like USBs, with short-range wireless connections. The technology can be applied between desktops and notebook computers, handhelds, PDAs, mobile phones, camera phones, headphones, printers, digital cameras, headsets, keyboards and computer mice.

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Cell Phone Buying Guide

Pick your partner. Before choosing a phone, if you're not already tied into a contract, you will need to select a carrier. Verizon, AT&T, Sprint/Nextel, and T-Mobile are the major nationwide wireless providers. However, you can purchase a plan through smaller companies as well. Service offerings vary from region to region, so know what's available.
Get an upgrade. If already locked into a contract, know when it expires. If you're renewing, you may be eligible for a free phone upgrade or heavy discounts on new models.
Location, location, location. Coverage is usually the most important factor in picking a carrier. After all, there's no point in having a cell phone if you have no reception. If you've ever owned a cell phone, you know how geographically sensitive cell phones can be. Step an inch to the left, and your reception suddenly cuts out. When doing your research, your best bet will be to ask everyone around you how their service ranks.
Look it up. Find out which companies have cell phone towers near you. The more towers, the better reception you're likely to have. CellReception.com lets you type in your zip code to find cell phone towers registered with the FCC. Perhaps even more helpful, however, are people's comments and ratings, which let you track service right down to a street address.
Compare plans. All carriers have several calling plans, usually broken down by minutes used per month. Look at old phone bills to see how many minutes you average and then choose your plan accordingly. Take note of your calling patterns, and when peak and off-peak hours begin and end.
Kids talk free. Tired of paying for your kid's marathon phone conversations? Shop around for family plans — many let you share minutes and text messages.
Everything included. Beware of any additional costs associated with using your cell phone, like receiving and sending text or picture messages, and surfing the Internet. Consider purchasing a data plan that allows for unlimited usage; it may be cheaper than paying for each use.
Try it out. Ask to borrow a friend's cell phone and see how the service is in the places you'd be using it most. Or take advantage of a carrier's return policy; most offer two-week grace periods before you're locked into a contract.
Forgo the extras. Think about what features you really want. Extras like Bluetooth and a built-in camera are great, but they're a waste of money if you're not going to use them.
Choose carefully. Keep in mind which features you will be using most when test-driving different models. If your phone is always in use, consider the model's battery life. If you'll be texting a lot, does it have a comfortable keypad? If you often talk while multitasking, does it have voice-activated dialing and speakerphone? Are there buttons on the outside that will get activated when jostled in your purse?

Tips on buying your mobile

An increasing number of people of all ages own mobile phones, enjoying the convenience, freedom and re-assurance they provide.



There is a range of different handsets and contracts available, providing mobile communication solutions to suit consumers. The Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association’s Tips on buying your mobile provides a simple step-by-step guide to choosing a mobile phone plan to suit YOUR needs.



As you work through this list, you may find it helpful to write down the features that are important to you.



AMTA also recommends you read Tips on managing your mobile spend, which provides useful tips to help you manage your mobile budget.


Take care if buying second-hand mobiles:
Buying second-hand mobiles online or at auctions can be risky because they may have been reported lost or stolen, or the IMEI may be blocked and consequently the phone will not work . Check the mobile’s status at http://www.lost.amta.org.au/ by entering the mobile’s IMEI number. It only provides details of phones reported lost or stolen at the time of the inquiry. There can be a 72-hour lag between when a mobile is reported lost and stolen to the carrier and showing “blocked” on the website. If you buy a mobile that’s been reported lost or stolen and blocked, the carrier will not unblock it.
What’s your budget? Before you do anything else, think about why you want a mobile phone and determine your budget. There are numerous types of call plan, to suit various budgets and needs. There are also services available to help you keep track of what you spend – consider whether this would help you and check out what options are available. (Look at AMTA’s Tips on managing your mobile spend for more information and hints to help you save money.)


What are your usage patterns? How often will you be using the phone, at what time of day and what will be your average call length? Will you be using the phone mostly for voice calls, or to SMS friends? Your usage patterns may help determine what type of plan is best for you and your budget.


What types of plan are available? There are four basic types of service agreement: fixed-term contracts, monthly plans, pre-paid or leasing. Pre-paid is ideal if you want to ensure you stay within a specified budget - perfect for teenagers. Getting a pre-paid first is also a good way of finding out what your usage is and helping you decide what type of plan might best suit you. Monthly plans allow you the flexibility of receiving monthly bills without signing a long-term contract. Business users may prefer the convenience of fixed-term, while leasing may suit you if you only need a phone and handset for a short time. New ‘capped’ plans (available post or pre-paid, depending on mobile carrier) also offer convenience and value and may suit many users.


What are the call rates within each plan? Call rates vary from plan-to-plan. It's important to assess both the rates and the call charge calculation methods when assessing your options. Issues to consider include: How are call charges calculated? On some plans you will be billed per second, on others, per block of time used (usually per 30 or 60 seconds), or, on the newer ‘capped’ deals (post and pre-paid), ‘call caps’ apply to many services, providing value and certainty; Is there a flag fall (an amount paid for each connection, in addition to call costs)? Are there any special offers (eg cheaper calls off-peak, or to friends on the same network, or for SMS)?


What features do you need in a handset? A basic handset will allow you to make calls and send and receive SMS. You’ll need a more sophisticated one if you want to use the phone abroad, use MMS, voice recording, make video calls, download video or access the internet. Other features to consider are battery capacity (some handsets run longer between charges than others), ease of use, and your coverage requirements (see ‘coverage’). Consider what you really need – or you’ll be paying for features you never use. If you already have a handset, are you eligible for other plans?


How much flexibility do you need? Consider your need for flexibility - and your budget - before you buy a handset or take out a plan. Are you likely to want the flexibility to upgrade your handset when a new one becomes available? Might you want to change to a different plan in six months? There are many different options for paying for handsets (eg up-front, flexi-rent deals, as part of your service agreement), and different plans (whether pre-paid or post-paid) have different terms and conditions – for example some include penalties for changing networks, or plans, for example. Read the small print and check you can meet all the minimum conditions of the contract before signing anything.


What coverage do you require? Where will you be using the phone – only in metropolitan areas, or in the country? The two dominant types of mobile network are GSM and CDMA. A 3G data network has also recently been launched in Australia. Which is best for you depends on where you are likely to require coverage. Check with the carriers where they have coverage to ensure they can provide the service where you need it before signing up. Your coverage requirements may also affect your handset choice (there are CDMA and GSM handsets).


Evaluate the options. Once you’ve worked out what you need/want, do your homework; shop around and compare what is available, and what will best suit your likely usage and budget:

Consider the whole cost of the package. Offers such as ‘$0 upfront’ mean that the cost of the handset is absorbed into the overall contract price, not that the handset is free. Such offers may provide you with a good way of obtaining the handset you want, but they may not be your only – or cheapest – option. Similarly, think about whether you really want any ‘free’ gifts – or whether it’d be cheaper for you to choose a different plan and go and buy the ‘freebie’ yourself. Ensure you understand which services are included at special prices (including ‘caps’). Premium rate services, for example, may not be. Fair use policies may also apply. Make sure you read and understand such policies.

How to Buy a Cell Phone

Features to Consider

When you're shopping for a phone, you can do some simple hands-on tests in the store to make sure that the handset has everything you need.

Call quality: What good is a phone if it can't make calls? Some of the most simple, bare-bones "feature" phones offer the best call quality--and on the flip side, some fancy smartphones offer dismal calling. When evaluating phones, be sure to make a few test calls. In PCWorld's hands-on tests, we generally make some calls in a quiet room and several calls in a noisy environment. You might not be able to replicate such tests indoors, but try your best. Take note of static, tinny voices, or any interference. Ask the person on the other end of the line if they can hear a disruptive amount of background noise.

Design: Your choices range from phones with large touchscreens to slider-style handsets with full-QWERTY keyboards. Whichever type of phone you select, check its ergonomics. Is it comfortable to hold against your ear, and can you hear callers without constant adjustment? Can you use the phone with one hand? Consider hands-free use: Can you comfortably hold the phone to your ear by scrunching your neck and shoulder? Can it fit comfortably in your pocket or bag? You also want to make sure the phone is durable enough to handle some roughing up. A solidly built phone should be able to withstand getting banged around in a handbag or pocket, as well as a bit of moisture and a short-range drop. You should think about investing in a case or display protector, as well--especially if you’re accident-prone.

Operating system: If you're looking to do more than make calls and send text messages with your phone, consider the platform on which it runs. The mobile operating system you choose will greatly affect the capabilities of your phone. The most popular platforms are Google's Android (found on multiple devices), iOS (found only on iPhone models), BlackBerry OS (found on BlackBerrys of various designs), and Microsoft’s Windows Phone 7. Each has its advantages and disadvantages; you should definitely familiarize yourself with all of the platforms before settling on one.

Display: If you intend do a lot of Web browsing or movie streaming, make sure that the screen is up to snuff. Is it big enough for you to take full advantage of the phone's features? If you're going to surf the Web or edit office documents on your phone, a screen that measures less than 3 inches diagonally will feel cramped.

Consider the screen's resolution: The higher the resolution, the better the screen will look--an important factor if you plan to use your phone to watch videos or view photos.

AMOLED displays perform well in sunlight, but many people think they make colors look oversaturated. qHD displays (whose resolution is one-quarter of a full-HD 1080p frame and three-quarters of a 720p frame) generally look the best in video playback and games.

Cell phone buying guide

Pick a cell phone service provider
Buying a cell phone is more than a matter of choosing a handset--you also have to pick a service provider, or carrier, as well. Each carrier in the United States offers a different selection of technologies and services, so it's important to think about your needs when making a choice. For that reason, selecting a carrier should be the first step in the cell phone buying process.
Twisting technology

Wireless carriers in the United States operate over two different networks: Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) and Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM). Though each technology transmits voice and data, they do so in different ways, which makes them incompatible. As a result, you can't take a CDMA phone and use it on GSM or vice versa.

Of the U.S. carriers, AT&T and T-Mobile use GSM while Sprint, Verizon, and smaller carriers such as MetroPCS and U.S. Cellular use CDMA. Though Nextel is part of Sprint, Nextel-branded phones use a third technology called iDEN, or Integrated Digital Enhanced Network. Many of these carriers offer prepaid services. Verizon, for example, has its own prepaid plan page.


 CDMA coverage is very strong in the United States, particularly in rural areas, but GSM service has a larger global footprint (it's the standard in Europe, for example) and GSM phones use the convenient SIM cards, which allow you to, among other things, switch phones more easily. Also, when taken on a global scale, GSM users will find a wider selection of handsets. Note: SIM cards now come in a smaller Micro-SIM form factor to accommodate thinner handsets. Not all phones support both sizes, so be sure to check and see what size cards the phone uses before swapping handsets.

With that in mind, if you travel overseas frequently or you enjoy switching out your phone often for the newest model available, then GSM is the better choice. Not all GSM phones will work overseas, however, so be sure to read CNET's quick guide to world phones. But if you'll be making calls mostly in the United States, then CDMA is an equally good option. What's more, some CDMA phones now also support GSM networks for international use.

The Nokia Lumia 800 uses GSM.
Besides technology, there are other factors that should play in your carrier decision. You should begin by deciding which carrier has the most economical service plans and the most attractive selection of phones. The quality of customer service is another determinant, but that can be difficult to evaluate beforehand. Since knowing the pros and cons of each operator isn't easy, we invite you to take a closer look at service providers in our quick guide to cell phone carriers. Besides the major operators, you might also consider Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) carriers that cater to a special demographic or lifestyle. For example, Virgin Mobile is targeted toward younger users while Boost Mobile is centered on urban users who want advanced features. MVNOs do not operate their own cellular network, but they lease network space from national carriers instead.

8 Tips On BUYING The Mobile Phone That's Right For You!

Mobile phone technology and mobile services are developing and improving very quickly. If you are confused about what to look for when buying a new phone here are eight important tips to consider.
What Functions Do You Want, and What Functions Do You need?

The most basic function of any mobile phone is to send and receive phone calls and SMS text messages. Beyond the basics some mobile phones have calculators. Others have voice answering and voice dialing, allowing you to send and receive phone calls without using your hands. More sophisticated phones have built in digital cameras, MP3 and video players, computer games and other features.

Choose the phone with the features that you can really use and don’t waste money on a phone with functions that you will seldom use or with functions that duplicate your other electronic gadgets.

Do a Sound and Display Check

Will you be making calls in noisy settings? If so then you should check the volume of the phone and see if it is strong enough to be heard. Make sure that the phone has an easy to use volume control so that you can turn it up whenever necessary and make sure that the volume is really adequate for your needs.
Take a look at the display and also consider the colors. The display is one of the most important features of any mobile phone. Make sure that the display is easily readable even in difficult lighting conditions. You can’t check this feature over the Internet, rather, you should go to the store and examine the phone physically.
If you are buying a phone with a colour display then you should realize that quality of colour and resolution varies dramatically from model to model. If you want to watch videos or look at photos taken with your phone’s camera then you will need a handset with at least “65,000 colour”. The quality of the colours is shown with a number; the higher the number the higher the picture quality.

Check the Quality of the Ring Tones

Polyphonic ring tones are featured in all of the new mobile phones. Polyphonic tones make it possible for a ring tone to sound like many instruments playing together. As with colors, the quality of the ring tone is measured numerically.

If your retailer says that the phone has “16 polyphonic” it means that 16 instruments can be heard in a ring tone. If you want a good sound then you need at least a 16.

See Which Accessories are Included with the Phone

All mobile phones normally come with a battery and charger, but there are other accessories that may be useful to you. Check to see if the phone comes with a spare battery, an earphone, a leather casing, a neck strap or an antenna. If you need any of these accessories and if they are optional, then your phone will cost you more than you thought. If the accessories are part of the deal, then you may be getting a bargain. Also, if you don’t need an accessory now, but would like to get one in the future, check to see if accessories for your model are easily available on the market.

Find Out How Long the Battery Will Last

Battery life is an important variable. The average user only asks about the “talk time” of a a battery. However, “stand-by” time is just as important, especially for people who do not want to carry around a charger with them.

It is common to find phones whose batteries have a three to seven-hour talk time, but you should also find out whether the battery has enough stand-by time so that you can make it through the entire day without recharging.

Consider the “Look and Feel” of the Phone

Once again you can’t choose a phone from a catalog or over the Internet. You might prefer to go down to the store and handle the phone before buying it. Feel how much it weighs and see if the menus are easy to understand. Take a look at the layout of the keyboard and other buttons. On some of the smaller phones the buttons are so small that it is difficult and tiresome to dial a number or compose a message.

If you consider your phone a fashion accessory then choose one that best suits your personality and style.

Take a Careful Look at the Price

Be sensible. Buy a mobile phone that lets you stay within your budget. If you follow the previous tips and get a phone that matches your requirements, you should be able to get a handset that will not put you in debt or force you to cut back on your usual expenditures. Remember one thing about consumer electronics: the prices usually fall. If you can’t afford to buy a phone that can show videos this year, next year it may be within your reach.