So Many Cell Phone Providers!

Wherever you're located, the likelihood of having a choice among several cellular service providers for your wireless needs is high. Major cities usually have a choice between 3-5 major service providers and another 2-4 mini cellular players. The seemingly endless combinations of service providers makes way for some confusing yet interesting options for consumers. This brief article will help new cell phone consumers, and some old, learn the basic ins and outs of cell phone service providers.

First a clarifications on network terms you'll encounter.

CDMA: Short for Code-Division Multiple Access, this is a digital cellular technology that uses spread-spectrum techniques. Unlike competing systems that use TDMA, such as GSM, CDMA does not assign a specific frequency to each user. Instead, every channel uses the full available spectrum. The frequency of the transmitted signal is then made to vary according to a defined pattern, so it can be intercepted only by a receiver whose frequency response is programmed with the same code, so it follows exactly along with the transmitter frequency. Major CDMA players are in North America are Telus Mobility, Verizon Wireless, Sprint Nextel, and Bell Mobility.

GSM: GSM is currently the world's largest cellular network. GSM stand for Global System for Mobile Communications. GSM uses narrowband TDMA, which allows eight simultaneous calls on the same radio frequency. Considered the most advanced digital cellular technology, GSM networks are leaders in many typically "digital" services including Short Message Service (SMS), over the air (OTA) configuration and GSM positioning. Many new GSM phones are called "global phones" because they can be used in virtually any country. They also have SIM cards ("Subscriber Identification Module") that enable unique identification of each user and easy transportation of your data between phones. GSM 900 (transmitting on the 900 MHz frequency band) is Europe's main digital network. It's also used in the Asia-Pacific region. GSM 1800 is also used in Europe and Asia, but has not been as widely adopted as GSM 900. GSM 1900 is the system used mainly in the Americas and Canada. Top North American providers are Cingular Wireless, T-Mobile, Rogers Wireless and Fido.

So the question is now which network do I choose? GSM appears to provide a greater range for those who travel, yet CDMA supposedly has clearer reception. Theoretically having the entire spectrum available for your use should mean greater call clarity, however, this is not always the case. Many CDMA subscribers will attest that their GSM counterparts have better reception in some hard to reach areas.

Consumers should also be mindful of the types of phones available on each network. Manufacturers try to produce phones for each, nonetheless, LG typically produces cell phones for the CDMA network, and Nokia on the GSM, (although Nokia has a huge CDMA portfolio as well.) Take some time and browse the phones and their options -- you have a huge selection so start now. Wireless functions such as SMS, or roaming may dictate which carrier you choose. But again, you have plenty of options to choose from, and if you've never had a cell phone before, take some time to learn about the hundreds of options you have, both in a phone and with particular plans/carriers. Don't just compare phones either. Providers nowadays have comparable phones, therefore, the selling feature may be plans and attached options. Price, when evenings begin, add-on costs such as txt messaging, data-transfer, should all be compared and analyzed before purchase. Be sure to take advantage of monthly deals from providers, usually you can get a solid cell phone for FREE! Generally you need to sign up for a contract that lasts 2-3 years, however, if you're planning on staying with the firm and are confident with your choice, the contract isn't such a bad idea.

Switching providers is also an option with existing customers. Let me explain. Switching carriers is no longer a tedious event. Already present in the US and soon to be implemented in Canada, cell phone number portability will enable customers to switch service providers to take advantage of 'new activation' discounts with the new carrier all while keeping your old phone number. This feature can only benefit the consumer. Service providers will likely lower their fees and increase their perks in attempt to prevent a mass exodus from their customer base.

Some other phone options include prepaid options, where you can prepay for a pre-determined amount of minutes, no contract. You can also invest in unlocked cell phones, where you do not have the contract obligations and you own the phone. It works like this: you purchase the phone, usually from an independent dealer, then you activate the phone with a compatible service provider on a monthly plan. This is a pricey option, typically high end phones fall under this category, those that aren't offered by the carrier but will operate on their network.

So as you can tell there are plenty of phone and carrier options for customers vying to get the best deal. The biggest thing is likely patience. Be patient when it comes to purchasing, better deals likely lie somewhere else. Also, figure out what your needs are. Do you travel? Want to be tied into a contract? Once you know what you want, compare between providers. Do the same type of comparison with phone featuress as well. You'll be surprised how a little research on phone and service provider quality can save you a load of headaches in the future.

Visit DiscussWireless for consumer discussion forums with categories of all major cell phone providers and manufacturers. Compare and review cell phones and plans here, read posts from other consumers regarding service issues and phone reviews.

---

Cell Phones Endanger Children

If your child uses a cell phone, take note. A recent news report has prompted renewed concerns about the safety of cell phone use, especially by children.In January, 2005, The National Radiological Protection... Read More

Buying A Cell Phone ? Making Smart Choices

Whether you're buying your first cell phone, upgrading to a newer one or contemplating a new cell phone plan, it's a good idea to thoroughly research your purchase. There are a multitude of... Read More

Cell Phone Etiquette

CELL PHONE ETIQUETTE Okay, I'll admit I have been pushed over the edge.... Read More

Telephone Tips, Techniques and Etiquette

Whether using the telephone for business or personal use, using this communication tool effectively means being timely, communicating clearly and having the other person's interest in mind.1 ? Plan and schedule your telephone... Read More

Latin Ringtones Mean Dinero for Ringtone Providers

Until recently, when you thought of ringtones, you usually thought of hip-hop ringtones. This is not surprising given the genre's wide acceptance of ringtones and cell phones and such smash chart crashers as... Read More

Protective Accessories For Your Cell Phone

Like most electronic devices, cell phones are remarkably fragile. Your cellular phone needs to be protected from water, extreme temperatures, scratches, and unnecessary falls. Luckily, a wide selection of cellular accessories is available... Read More

Advantages and Disadvantages of Prepaid Cell Phones

We are constantly seeing advertisements on TV promoting cell phones and cell phones carriers with what they call great introductory offers if you sign up with them on their network.Is it worthwhile signing... Read More

10 Questions About Cellular Phones Answered

1. What's the difference between analog and digital phones?Analog phones operate on an older and less effective technology. This technology doesn't scale well and is more costly. Analog service is not compatible with... Read More

Cell Phones Safety - Are They a Risk ?

Cell phones are everywhere and I believe they are here to stay. With the advent of cellular phones for public use came a whole host of issues that I don't think anyone expected,... Read More

Americans Catching on to Wireless Text Messaging

Once considered a teenage fad, text messaging popularity in the United States is rising dramatically. According to The Wall Street Journal, 4.7 billion text messages were sent in the USA in December, 2004... Read More

Donate Your Old Cellular Phone To Support A Worthy Cause

With new features being added to cellular phones at an incredible rate, you may be considering upgrading your phone to a newer model. If you want to use your phone to send e-mail,... Read More

Be In When Youre Out

Busy entrepreneurs cannot be at their desk twenty four hours a day, seven days a week. Wouldn't it be great if you could have your calls routed to your mobile phone, or find... Read More

Prepaid Cell Phones ? Are They Right For You

In today's world of communication technology, there's a lot out there to consider before investing in a cell phone plan. With a multitude of carriers offering scores of options, it isn't always easy... Read More

What is SMS?

What is SMS?SMS, also known as short messaging service, is the rage in Europe and parts of Asia. Gradually SMS is gaining momentum in the US as a low cost messaging solution. SMS... Read More

Sorting Through Your Cellular Phone Options

Some people purchase a cellular phone for emergency use only, but others use their cellular phone on a daily basis as a replacement for their land-line home phone. With the number of options... Read More

New Tips For Shopping Cellular Services

The best money saving practice for buying new cellular phones and service plans is to buy from a dealer, not through the cellular provider directly. Dealers compete against each other with lower prices... Read More

Camera Cell Phones - Say It With Pictures!

Camera cell phones are sweeping the nation! In fact, long gone are the days when a telephone is used for the sole purpose of speaking to another person. Cell phone cameras are all... Read More

An Introduction to Text Messaging

Why Text?Text messaging is a quick way to stay in touch with people for personal or business purposes. With text messaging, you can chat with a partner by typing on the keyboard and... Read More

How Successful Is 3G REALLY In The UK?

How successful is 3G REALLY in the UK? I'm getting mixed messages about 3G take-up in the UK. On one hand, 3 announce that they have added 3m subscribers (http://www.guardian.co.uk/mobile/article/0,2763,1449689,00.html), and then on... Read More

Ringtones Explained - Monophonic, Polyphonic, or Whatever Phonic Rings Your Bell

Downloadable Ring tones - The Latest TrendWhat can you say about ring tones? NOTHING ... except that cell phones capable of downloading ringtones are the newest "must have" item today! One of the... Read More

The Teen Cellular Phone Market is Growing in Leaps and Bounds

Everywhere you turn around, you see someone talking on a cell phone. This latest technological shift in the way we converse with each other has not been lost on teenagers. In fact, experts... Read More

Heres How Cell Phones Make Your Life Easier

Cell phones, the prepaid ones, are the great way to stay within your budget restraints. You will either make an adjustment to how many minutes the prepaid cellular covers, or discipline yourself to... Read More

Cell Phone Reviews - Reaping the Benefits Of Online Wireless Reviews

There are a lot of benefits that are offered by the major cell phone carriers today that many people don't take advantage of ? simply because they're unaware of them. Among these is... Read More

Motorola Cellular Phone

Motorola cellular phone ? description.Motorola has a great selection of phones and by acquiring a Motorola cellular phone you are getting yourself one of the best and technologically advanced cellular phones. An example... Read More

Senior Citizen Calling Tips

The AARP, American Association of Retired Persons, ( http://www.aarp.org/ ) conducted a survey in 2000 entitled, "Consumer Understanding of pricing Practices and Savings Opportunities in Long Distance Telephone Industry." This report... Read More

Your Company and Your Office Phone System

The telephone is an extremely important piece of equipment and a good office phone system is at the centre of any smoothly run company. In today's modern corporate environment it is impossible to... Read More

Prepaid Cellular Phone

Reasons why someone would purchase a prepaid cellular phone.Prepaid cellular phone is an alternative to a monthly cellular phone plan. Prepaid cellular phone services are currently being offered by AT&T, Cricket, Verizon, and... Read More

Location Sensitivity - Cell Phone GPS

This is basically a system to locate the handheld when making a call to 911. In the mid to late 1990's, many people got cell phones just for the emergency use of being... Read More

Camera Cell Phone Samsung

Camera cell phone by Samsung ? description.Samsung manufacture a large selection of cellular phones including camera cell phone by Samsung. An example are great phones like SPH-a600 digital camera cell phone by Samsung... Read More