The ABC's
Bluetooth Technology for wirelessly transferring data short distances (up to 30 feet) among notebooks, cell phones, Palm or Pocket PC handhelds, and printers. It is available on many notebooks. Bluetooth is not a competitor to wireless Ethernet. Most often you'll find notebooks with Bluetooth built-in.
DVD-Rom/CDRW Combo Drives Slowly being phased out but you'll still find it in some budget and business notebooks. It reads DVDs and CDs and writes CDs. Dropping back to a read-only DVD or CD drive saves, at most, $50 to $75.
Dual Layer, Dual Format DVD RW Drives Adding writeable DVD is extremely cost effective these days. Virtually all consumer laptops will have some kind of DVD writing capability. Dual format writes both mi-nus(DVD RW) and plus(DVD+RW) discs at a maximum capacity of 4.7GB. Dual Layer adds another layer on top of the disc to give it a total capacity of 8.5GB.
Docking station A cradle for your notebook that provides space for extra drives and attachment ports for all your cables. Docking stations are popular in business, but are losing favor to port replicators among individuals. Replicators typically don't have any expansion bays.
EDGE (Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution) A 3G wireless standard that offers broadband internet speeds using the GSM network. It competes with EVDO, another 3G service provider, providing high speed connections via a cellular modem in your laptop, PC Card and ExpressCard standards. In the United States, Cingular and T-Mobile are the primary providers of the service. Connection speeds are not as fast as EVDO, ranging from 100-160Kbps.
EVDO (Evolution-Data Optimized) A 3G wireless standard that offers broadband internet speeds via a cellu-lar modem in your laptop, PC Card and ExpressCard standards. In the United States, Verizon and Sprint are the primary providers of the service. Wherever there's a cell phone signal, you can access the internet at speeds ranging from 200-800 Kbps. A new EVDO standard (Revision A) promises faster download and up-load speeds (1.1Mbps-3.1Mbps).
ExpressCard Slot Already replacing PC Card slots as a feature for expandability. ExpressCard supports two form factors: ExpressCard/34 (34 mm wide) and ExpressCard/54 (54 mm wide, in an L-shape). Currently, there are very few ExpressCard devices out there that can take advantage of the faster bus speeds.
FireWire A high-speed connector (capable of 400 Mbps). Universal on Macs, common on media-oriented PCs for transfers from digital video (DV) cameras. USB is used for virtually all other high-speed data transfers on PC notebooks.
Kensington slot A universal connector for a physical security lock, named after the company that invented the feature. Regardless of the brand, virtually every notebook security lock you can buy fits the Kensington-style slot.
Key pitch Distance from the center of one key to the next. Desktop keyboards have a 19mm (0.75 inches) pitch. Full size notebook keyboards have a 97 percent (18.5mm) pitch. To check key pitch, measure across 10 keys (from the left side of the Q key to the left side of the left bracket ([) key).
Modular Bay A cavity in a notebook used primarily for removable drives, but also for accessories. A two-bay notebook has an internal bay for the hard drive and a second bay for a CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, floppy disk drive, or a spare battery.
PC Card slot A space in a notebook where you can insert credit card-size accessories such as modems, network adapters, wireless network adapters, security cards, and memory cards, as well as connection points for some external disk drives. PC Cards are slowly becoming legacy ports as they are being replaced by ExpressCards.
Pointing device A built-in substitute for the mouse—either a touch pad or a pointing stick that looks like a pencil eraser stuck below the G and H keys. Some notebooks have both types. Many users still prefer plugging in a traditional mouse.
Port replicator A hardware device that attaches to a notebook and connects all the cables (modem, printer, power, and mouse) that you would otherwise attach one by one to your notebook's ports. It is simpler than a docking station and cheaper. Most replicators include a security locking slot.
Travel weight The total weight of a notebook package for computing on the road, including the notebook, transformer, battery, and possibly an adapter module for connecting accessories. Marketing literature usually quotes system weight (computer, battery, and usually the internal optical drive). Add 0.75 pounds for the transformer and 0.5 pounds for the optical drive if it wasn't quoted by the manufacturer.
Universal Serial Bus (USB) An all-purpose input/output connector that lets you attach a digital camera, audio player, memory key, mouse, external drive, or printer. A notebook has one to four USB ports (two are adequate for most users). All notebooks sold today use USB 2.0, capable of 480 Mbps.
WWAN (Wireless Wide Area Network) Uses a cellular network instead of a local-area network(WLAN). Cellular technology covers a wider area in the globe and are usually provided by a service provider such as Verizon, Sprint, T-Mobile and Cingular, in the United States.
Widescreen An LCD display with a width-to-height ratio of 16 to 10 (sometimes 16:9) instead of the more common 4:3. They're better for watching movies, but total size (square inches) is about the same.
Wi-Fi Short for wireless fidelity, an umbrella term for wireless Ethernet. 802.11b, capable of 11 Mbps theoretical speed (about 5 Mbps actual), is most common. 802.11g, capable of 54 Mbps, is succeeding (and in-corporates) 802.11b. Some corporations prefer 802.11a, also 54 Mbps. It is possible for a wireless card to in-tegrate both g (with b) and a. Virtually every notebook incorporates wired Ethernet; many include wireless, too.
XGA (Extended Graphics Array) One of the two most common screen resolutions for notebooks and desktops: 1,024 pixels horizontally by 768 vertically. Equally common is SXGA+ (1,400 by 1,050). Other resolutions are SXGA (1,280 by 1,024, used more on desktops than notebooks), and UXGA (1,600 by 1,200). The higher resolutions make for crisp graphics and small text. Widescreen displays typically use WXGA (1280 by 768), WSXGA+ (1680 by 1050), and WUXGA (1920 by 1200).
2/21/07
Buying Tips and Tricks - PCMag.com
Bear these thoughts in mind when buying and using notebook PCs.
Consider the travel weight. Compare travel weights, not system weights. That's the notebook (system weight) plus the power adapter (typically 0.75 pounds). For one-drive systems, add an expansion slice for the optical drive (2 to 3 pounds). If the vendor quoted the weight with a weight-saver bezel (translation: a blank plate in place of the optical drive) you may have to add the weight of an internal CD or DVD drive (0.5 pounds).
Don't get hung up on small weight differences. What really counts is the total weight of the bag you sling over your shoulder. On its own, a 5-pound notebook with a nice screen and two drives weighs 25 percent more than a 4-pound system with a smaller screen, smaller keys, and no DVD drive. But notebook bags weigh 2 to 5 pounds and all your other stuff (power adapter, cell phone, music player, paper documents, and paperback novel) adds 2 to (gulp) 10 pounds. A heavier notebook might add an additional pound to the bag's overall weight, but when everything weighs 10 pounds is that extra pound really worth worrying about?
Why 3.5-pound subnotebooks weigh more than 5-pound thin-and-lights. Before you spring for that svelte one-drive subnotebook with a smaller display and keyboard, consider how you normally travel. If you need the optical drive more than occasionally, your real walking weight will be 3.5 pounds for the notebook, plus an additional pound for the modular slice that contains the optical drive.
Small notebook, smaller battery. Manufacturers sometimes keep weight down on subnotebooks by shipping with three- to four-cell batteries that are good for just 2 to 3 hours of power. Serious users will need to add an extended battery that mounts underneath or a replacement main battery that sticks out the back. Often times, purchasing an extra battery is cheaper when you buy it with your system.
Bigger equals more rugged. A small system with tightly integrated components is somewhat more likely to break in a fall than a bulkier unit where there's room for extra bracing. Conversely, the smaller the LCD, the less likely it is to break.
Midlife battery crisis. Batteries don't last forever. A frequently used 2- or 3-year-old notebook may be due for a new battery (usually $100 to $150). One way to lengthen your battery life span is to charge it up fully, unplug, let the battery run down and then recharge again.
Think about the extended warranty. An extended warranty is a moneymaker for the seller. For individual buyers, there is the comfort of knowing that if the notebook breaks, especially early in life, the store may just hand you a new one.
Think twice about hi-res. Higher resolution is generally better, except when you try to read the fonts. Users with imperfect eyesight may want to stick with WXGA (1280-by-800) resolution rather than WUXGA (1920-by-1200).
Make sure you know the difference between a transflective (glossy) screen versus a matted (anti-glare) screen. A transflective screen is better suited for movies, photos, and video editing but produces more glare. In contrast, a matted screen has an anti-glare coating that's ideal for word processing and web browsing.
You might want two power adapters. Then you can have one at home and one at the office. One of the two can be a multi-product charger (from Targus or iGo) that also handles PDAs and cell phones. They cost between $75 and $100.
Consider the travel weight. Compare travel weights, not system weights. That's the notebook (system weight) plus the power adapter (typically 0.75 pounds). For one-drive systems, add an expansion slice for the optical drive (2 to 3 pounds). If the vendor quoted the weight with a weight-saver bezel (translation: a blank plate in place of the optical drive) you may have to add the weight of an internal CD or DVD drive (0.5 pounds).
Don't get hung up on small weight differences. What really counts is the total weight of the bag you sling over your shoulder. On its own, a 5-pound notebook with a nice screen and two drives weighs 25 percent more than a 4-pound system with a smaller screen, smaller keys, and no DVD drive. But notebook bags weigh 2 to 5 pounds and all your other stuff (power adapter, cell phone, music player, paper documents, and paperback novel) adds 2 to (gulp) 10 pounds. A heavier notebook might add an additional pound to the bag's overall weight, but when everything weighs 10 pounds is that extra pound really worth worrying about?
Why 3.5-pound subnotebooks weigh more than 5-pound thin-and-lights. Before you spring for that svelte one-drive subnotebook with a smaller display and keyboard, consider how you normally travel. If you need the optical drive more than occasionally, your real walking weight will be 3.5 pounds for the notebook, plus an additional pound for the modular slice that contains the optical drive.
Small notebook, smaller battery. Manufacturers sometimes keep weight down on subnotebooks by shipping with three- to four-cell batteries that are good for just 2 to 3 hours of power. Serious users will need to add an extended battery that mounts underneath or a replacement main battery that sticks out the back. Often times, purchasing an extra battery is cheaper when you buy it with your system.
Bigger equals more rugged. A small system with tightly integrated components is somewhat more likely to break in a fall than a bulkier unit where there's room for extra bracing. Conversely, the smaller the LCD, the less likely it is to break.
Midlife battery crisis. Batteries don't last forever. A frequently used 2- or 3-year-old notebook may be due for a new battery (usually $100 to $150). One way to lengthen your battery life span is to charge it up fully, unplug, let the battery run down and then recharge again.
Think about the extended warranty. An extended warranty is a moneymaker for the seller. For individual buyers, there is the comfort of knowing that if the notebook breaks, especially early in life, the store may just hand you a new one.
Think twice about hi-res. Higher resolution is generally better, except when you try to read the fonts. Users with imperfect eyesight may want to stick with WXGA (1280-by-800) resolution rather than WUXGA (1920-by-1200).
Make sure you know the difference between a transflective (glossy) screen versus a matted (anti-glare) screen. A transflective screen is better suited for movies, photos, and video editing but produces more glare. In contrast, a matted screen has an anti-glare coating that's ideal for word processing and web browsing.
You might want two power adapters. Then you can have one at home and one at the office. One of the two can be a multi-product charger (from Targus or iGo) that also handles PDAs and cell phones. They cost between $75 and $100.
Buying advice Laptop computers
A longtime companion at work, school, and on the road, the laptop has finally come homeBigger, crisper displays and more usable key layouts have replaced small screens and cramped keyboards. Processors have caught up in speed, and innovative new processors provide some real advantages. Fast CD and DVD recording drives are common, as are ample hard drives. As computers become a repository for digital photos, music, and video, manufacturers are making laptops and the peripherals to which they connect increasingly compatible with home-entertainment systems. And a growing interest in wireless computing plays to the laptop's main strength: its portability. A laptop is the most convenient way to take full advantage of the growing availability of high-speed wireless Internet access at airports, schools, hotels, restaurants, and coffee shops.Most laptops now have wireless networking capability built in and deliver commendably long battery life. The thinnest laptops on the market are less than an inch thick and weigh just 3 to 5 pounds. To get these light, sleek models, however, you'll have to pay a premium and make a few sacrifices in performance and screen size.WHAT'S AVAILABLEDell, Gateway, Hewlett-Packard (which also makes Compaq), Lenovo (formerly branded as IBM), Sony, and Toshiba are the leading Windows laptop brands. Apple makes Mac OS MacBook and MacBook Pro models. Laptops can be grouped into several basic configurations:Budget models. These have slower processors, fewer features, and lower screen quality than others but are suitable for routine office work and home software. Price: $1,000 or less.Workhorse/multimedia models. These have faster processors and more built-in devices, so there's less need for external attachments. They also have larger screens and enhanced sound and video components for home-entertainment uses. They're not lightweight or battery-efficient enough for frequent travelers. Price: $1,000 and up.Slim-and-light models. These are for travelers. They are about an inch thick and weigh about 3 to 4 pounds. Some require an external drive to read DVDs or burn CDs. Price: $1,000 and up.Tablet-style. These sit in your hand like a clipboard and have handwriting-recognition software. Some convert to a "normal" laptop with a keyboard. Price: $1,600 and up.HOW TO CHOOSEDecide if a laptop is right for you. If you're on a tight budget and aren't cramped for space, a comparably equipped desktop computer may be preferable because it costs a few hundred dollars less. It's also a better choice for heavy users who spend hours at the computer each day. Otherwise, consider a laptop. If you'll use it mostly at home, built-in wireless networking lets you use it throughout the house and easily store it.Windows vs. Macintosh. Many people choose laptops using the Windows operating system because it's what they've always used, but Apple's Mac OSX is a fine alternative. In recent subscriber surveys, Consumer Reports found Apple technical support to be top-notch. According to a recent survey, we also found that Apple computers have been less susceptible to most viruses and spyware than Windows-based computers. Apple's MacBook will suit you if you're interested in basic photo editing, music, video, and office applications, but the 13.3-inch screen is small. The Apple MacBook Pro is suited to more intensive tasks but is relatively expensive as laptops go.Buy à la carte. Dell and Gateway pioneered the notion that every computer can be tailored to an individual's needs, much like choosing the options for a car. This configure-to-order model is now common practice for laptops as well as desktops.You can also purchase a computer off the shelf. (You can do the same online if you opt for the default choices of equipment the manufacturer offers.) That's fine if you don't have very strict requirements for how a laptop is outfitted or if you want to take advantage of an attractive sale.Menus show you all the options and let you see how a change in one affects the overall price. You might decide to use a less-expensive processor, for example, but spend more for wireless capability or better graphics. Configure-to-order will often give you choices you won't get if you buy an off-the-shelf model. And configure-to-order means less chance of overlooking important details. But be sure to double-check your choices before ordering, and look for unwanted items that some manufacturers include by default.Downplay the processor speed. Speed is no longer the be-all and end-all of personal computers. Current processors deliver all the speed most people need. Spend the money on more memory instead.Look closely at warranties and insurance. Since the average cost of repair is usually not much more than the average cost of an extended warranty, we don't recommend buying a service you might not use. If you intend to travel a lot, consider buying screen insurance from the manufacturer.
- From ConsumerReports.org
- From ConsumerReports.org
2/18/07
How to Buy a Cell Phone - PC World
The Big Picture
Cell phones are more than just convenient communication tools: They allow you to sync with the calendar on your PC, dial a number by the sound of your voice, look up breaking news on the Internet, take photos, play games, send text messages, check e-mail, listen to music, and more. But choosing a phone--and the service plan to go with it--requires some legwork.
Your choice of phone may depend on your choice of wireless service provider. If you're shopping for a carrier, you first need to figure out which carrier offers the best coverage and the best monthly service plan in your area. Then, you'll have to select a phone from the assortment your chosen service provider offers. With the exception of a few handsets, most phones work only on one provider's system because carriers have mutually exclusive networks, and many carriers lock their phones so you can't take the same phone to another provider.
There's been a lot of talk about the third generation of mobile communications technology called 3G, which is supposed to boost data-transfer performance to 2 megabits per second from the more common data-transfer rate of 19.2 kilobits per second. 3G will be particularly handy if you use a phone to wirelessly access data such as e-mail, text messages, and the Web.
A few nationwide carriers currently provide 3G. For instance, Sprint and Verizon Wireless use the Evolution Data Optimized (EvDO) network, which offers average download speeds of 400 to 700 kbps and potential maximum download speeds of 2 Mbps. Meanwhile, as of this writing, Cingular's 3G network, called High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), is available on only one handset. (Cingular's HSDPA is also available for use with PC Cards.) HSDPA promises average download data rates of 400 to 700 kbps with bursts to more than 1 Mbps. Currently, most Cingular phones support Enhanced Data rates for Global Evolution (EDGE), which promises data transmission speeds of 384 kbps, and General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), with average speeds of 40 kbps and capable of up to 115 kbps. Other carriers are expected to launch their 3G networks soon.
Key Phone Features
Wireless standard: World travelers are more affected by wireless standards than are users based strictly in the United States. This is because most of the world uses networks based on GSM, which is the global system for mobile communications standard. U.S. carriers, however, use a variety of networks in addition to GSM. U.S. carriers work on the CDMA (code division multiple access), TDMA (time division multiple access), iDEN (integrated digital enhanced network), AMPS (advanced mobile phone service), GPRS (general packet radio service), EDGE (enhanced data rates for global evolution), and/or EvDO (evolution data optimized) standards. Cingular runs on the AMPS, EDGE, GSM, GPRS, and TDMA networks. Nextel uses the iDEN network exclusively. Sprint and Verizon Wireless run on CDMA and EvDO; Verizon also uses AMPS. T-Mobile supports GSM and GPRS networks. It is important to note that Cingular runs on both GSM and TDMA networks, but the services and the phones that use them do not interoperate.
Wireless mode: Dual-mode phones, which send and receive both digital and analog signals, tend to be more reliable than single-mode models. In rural areas where digital service is often spotty or nonexistent, a dual-mode phone can fall back on an analog signal to allow service, though roaming fees may apply. Bear in mind that using an analog mode consumes more battery power than using a digital mode. If you use your phone mainly in big cities,where digital service is widespread, you can stick with a single-mode model, which is often cheaper than a dual-mode phone.
Band support: The more radio bands a phone supports, the more frequencies it picks up. Quad-band phones, as their name suggests, operate across four frequency bands. Theoretically, they provide better coverage than triple-, dual-, or single-band phones. These so-called world phones are compatible with four GSM frequencies--850 MHz (prevalent in the United States), 900 MHz (prevalent in Europe), 1800 MHz (prevalent in Asia), and 1900 MHz (also available in the U.S.). As a result, they function around the globe. You can also find tri-mode phones that work on two digital frequency bands in addition to an analog network, a particularly handy feature if you travel to rural areas.
Design: You can choose among flip-open, clamshell-style phones; nonflip, candybar-style phones; slider-style phones that--obviously--slide open; and swivel phones that twist open. Flip phones can be more difficult to use with one hand because the cover may be heavier than the base, and a few low-end models lack a separate caller ID screen on the cover. Fortunately, many new phones sport dual screens--a small, external LCD on the cover plus an internal display. If you buy a nonflip phone, make sure it has a keypad lock that prevents inadvertent dialing--a helpful feature when you put the phone in a pocket or bag.
Whichever type of phone you choose, check its ergonomics. Is it comfortable against your ear, and can you hear callers without constant adjustment? Can you use the phone with one hand? How about hands-free use: Can you comfortably hold the phone to your ear by scrunching your neck and shoulder? Also, look for placement of the headset jack; a jack located on top of the phone is often more convenient than one located on the side.
Size and weight: Part of what makes a phone easy to use is its portability. A typical nonflip phone weighs about 4 ounces and is about the size of an energy bar--5 inches long, 2 inches wide, and 1 inch thick. Anything above that is considered large. An exception is a PDA phone, like a Palm Treo or BlackBerry device. These phones more closely resembles a PDA on steroids than a cell phone.
Battery life: Most new phones allow at least three hours of talk time and two to six days on standby. Some phones can last up to 14 days on standby. Keep in mind that usage affects battery life, as does the signal strength of your cellular service. A phone that constantly searches for signals will run itself down quickly. Depending on the phone, recharging the battery should take about an hour or longer. When you buy a phone, consider optional accessories such as a higher-capacity battery and a portable charging adapter for use in a car.
Screen: If you intend to send and receive text messages, surf the Web, or use the phone's organizer, make sure the screen is up to snuff. Six lines of text are sufficient for most folks; anything less will make your eyes--and your thumb--sore from scrolling. Some handsets let you adjust the font size to fit more text on the screen, but the more digits you pack in, the tinier they get. Consider a PDA phone if you plan to go online or send lots of messages; many models come with a large LCD.
An LCD's contrast and backlight strengths are also important. The phones we've seen show marked differences in viewing quality. If your phone allows you to adjust such settings, you can make text and graphics easily viewable--even in bright places. These days most phones offer color screens, which are easy on the eyes.
Keypad: If you can't figure out how to use certain functions on a phone within a few minutes (with or without consulting the manual), try another. The keypad layout and menu system should be intuitive. The buttons should be responsive and easy to press. Check out the navigation buttons on the keypad. A joystick-style knob on some phones can make navigating menus quick. Most handsets come with up/down and left/right arrow keys. Buttons that protrude slightly are much easier to use than flat or recessed keys.
Many PDA phones and a few standard cell phones come with a small QWERTY keyboard. The tiny keys may not suit everyone, but for those who need them, they're easier to use than a software-based keyboard on a touch-sensitive screen.
Voice communications and organizer: Mobile phones bombard you with call-management features--voice-activated calling, voice recording, phone books, call histories, speed dialing, and so on. Enabling some of the features (such as caller ID, call waiting, and three-way calling) depends on your service plan. Most phones also provide security features that can restrict incoming and outgoing calls, lock the keypad, and protect or mass-delete phone book entries. Some handsets also provide a speakerphone. Some even function as two-way radios, connecting you with others on the same carrier; and in many cases, such communications don't count as airtime--a great benefit for IT personnel and other roving staff.
If you want to talk on the phone hands-free (a must if you use the phone while driving), look for a model that comes with a headset or an earphone. If you don't want to mess with cords, consider a phone that supports Bluetooth; it allows you to pair it with a wireless Bluetooth headset.
Wireless data: Nearly all new cell phones are capable of doing tasks such as sending and receiving e-mail and IM, downloading custom ring tones and simple games, or connecting to the Internet (usually through a minibrowser that's designed to work best with text-only versions of popular sites like Amazon, Google, and Yahoo). Such features, however, are heavily dependent on your provider and your service plan.
Going online while you're waiting for the elevator is a cool idea, but most phones connect at slow speeds: only up to 115 kbps on a GPRS network and up to 384 kbps on EDGE; 3G networks, such as EvDO, provide faster connections at up to 2 mbps.
Key Service Provider Features
Coverage: The biggest nationwide carriers are Cingular, Sprint Nextel, T-Mobile, and Verizon Wireless. Not all networks are created equal, however. Service can be erratic even if a carrier claims to have coverage in an area; the quality of the reception varies, too. One way to find out about a carrier's network reliability is to try out the service and one of its phones. Nearly all nationwide carriers offer a trial period of up to 30 days where you pay for only the minutes you use. You should also poll friends and colleagues about their experiences. Find out how good the phone signal is at your home, office, or anywhere else you'll need to use it.
Plan type: If you do a lot of cross-country traveling, signing up for a national phone plan is best because it will let you send and receive calls anywhere in the United States (and even in parts of Canada) at no extra charge. A local or regional plan limits the areas where you can originate a call and still pull from your monthly pool of minutes. If you have a world phone and plan to use it in other countries, choose service with international roaming.
Minutes: When choosing a plan, it's best to overestimate the number of minutes you'll be using for every sent and received call. Because one carrier's definition of off-peak may be different from another's, ask the carrier to specify the times for its peak, off-peak, and weekend hours. Other service charges include a data plan (for e-mail, photos, IM, and Web access), three-way calling, and downloads.
Contract: Virtually all carriers offer discounted service fees if you commit to a specified period of time, usually two years, though one year is sometimes available. The longer the contract period, the lower the rate. If you break the agreement, you'll incur hefty fees.
Other services: There's almost always a fee for activating service to your phone or switching the service from your old phone to a new one. Look into phone replacement plans or extended warranties, both of which typically entitle you to a new phone if yours is lost, stolen, or goes kaput.
Cell phones are more than just convenient communication tools: They allow you to sync with the calendar on your PC, dial a number by the sound of your voice, look up breaking news on the Internet, take photos, play games, send text messages, check e-mail, listen to music, and more. But choosing a phone--and the service plan to go with it--requires some legwork.
Your choice of phone may depend on your choice of wireless service provider. If you're shopping for a carrier, you first need to figure out which carrier offers the best coverage and the best monthly service plan in your area. Then, you'll have to select a phone from the assortment your chosen service provider offers. With the exception of a few handsets, most phones work only on one provider's system because carriers have mutually exclusive networks, and many carriers lock their phones so you can't take the same phone to another provider.
There's been a lot of talk about the third generation of mobile communications technology called 3G, which is supposed to boost data-transfer performance to 2 megabits per second from the more common data-transfer rate of 19.2 kilobits per second. 3G will be particularly handy if you use a phone to wirelessly access data such as e-mail, text messages, and the Web.
A few nationwide carriers currently provide 3G. For instance, Sprint and Verizon Wireless use the Evolution Data Optimized (EvDO) network, which offers average download speeds of 400 to 700 kbps and potential maximum download speeds of 2 Mbps. Meanwhile, as of this writing, Cingular's 3G network, called High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), is available on only one handset. (Cingular's HSDPA is also available for use with PC Cards.) HSDPA promises average download data rates of 400 to 700 kbps with bursts to more than 1 Mbps. Currently, most Cingular phones support Enhanced Data rates for Global Evolution (EDGE), which promises data transmission speeds of 384 kbps, and General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), with average speeds of 40 kbps and capable of up to 115 kbps. Other carriers are expected to launch their 3G networks soon.
Key Phone Features
Wireless standard: World travelers are more affected by wireless standards than are users based strictly in the United States. This is because most of the world uses networks based on GSM, which is the global system for mobile communications standard. U.S. carriers, however, use a variety of networks in addition to GSM. U.S. carriers work on the CDMA (code division multiple access), TDMA (time division multiple access), iDEN (integrated digital enhanced network), AMPS (advanced mobile phone service), GPRS (general packet radio service), EDGE (enhanced data rates for global evolution), and/or EvDO (evolution data optimized) standards. Cingular runs on the AMPS, EDGE, GSM, GPRS, and TDMA networks. Nextel uses the iDEN network exclusively. Sprint and Verizon Wireless run on CDMA and EvDO; Verizon also uses AMPS. T-Mobile supports GSM and GPRS networks. It is important to note that Cingular runs on both GSM and TDMA networks, but the services and the phones that use them do not interoperate.
Wireless mode: Dual-mode phones, which send and receive both digital and analog signals, tend to be more reliable than single-mode models. In rural areas where digital service is often spotty or nonexistent, a dual-mode phone can fall back on an analog signal to allow service, though roaming fees may apply. Bear in mind that using an analog mode consumes more battery power than using a digital mode. If you use your phone mainly in big cities,where digital service is widespread, you can stick with a single-mode model, which is often cheaper than a dual-mode phone.
Band support: The more radio bands a phone supports, the more frequencies it picks up. Quad-band phones, as their name suggests, operate across four frequency bands. Theoretically, they provide better coverage than triple-, dual-, or single-band phones. These so-called world phones are compatible with four GSM frequencies--850 MHz (prevalent in the United States), 900 MHz (prevalent in Europe), 1800 MHz (prevalent in Asia), and 1900 MHz (also available in the U.S.). As a result, they function around the globe. You can also find tri-mode phones that work on two digital frequency bands in addition to an analog network, a particularly handy feature if you travel to rural areas.
Design: You can choose among flip-open, clamshell-style phones; nonflip, candybar-style phones; slider-style phones that--obviously--slide open; and swivel phones that twist open. Flip phones can be more difficult to use with one hand because the cover may be heavier than the base, and a few low-end models lack a separate caller ID screen on the cover. Fortunately, many new phones sport dual screens--a small, external LCD on the cover plus an internal display. If you buy a nonflip phone, make sure it has a keypad lock that prevents inadvertent dialing--a helpful feature when you put the phone in a pocket or bag.
Whichever type of phone you choose, check its ergonomics. Is it comfortable against your ear, and can you hear callers without constant adjustment? Can you use the phone with one hand? How about hands-free use: Can you comfortably hold the phone to your ear by scrunching your neck and shoulder? Also, look for placement of the headset jack; a jack located on top of the phone is often more convenient than one located on the side.
Size and weight: Part of what makes a phone easy to use is its portability. A typical nonflip phone weighs about 4 ounces and is about the size of an energy bar--5 inches long, 2 inches wide, and 1 inch thick. Anything above that is considered large. An exception is a PDA phone, like a Palm Treo or BlackBerry device. These phones more closely resembles a PDA on steroids than a cell phone.
Battery life: Most new phones allow at least three hours of talk time and two to six days on standby. Some phones can last up to 14 days on standby. Keep in mind that usage affects battery life, as does the signal strength of your cellular service. A phone that constantly searches for signals will run itself down quickly. Depending on the phone, recharging the battery should take about an hour or longer. When you buy a phone, consider optional accessories such as a higher-capacity battery and a portable charging adapter for use in a car.
Screen: If you intend to send and receive text messages, surf the Web, or use the phone's organizer, make sure the screen is up to snuff. Six lines of text are sufficient for most folks; anything less will make your eyes--and your thumb--sore from scrolling. Some handsets let you adjust the font size to fit more text on the screen, but the more digits you pack in, the tinier they get. Consider a PDA phone if you plan to go online or send lots of messages; many models come with a large LCD.
An LCD's contrast and backlight strengths are also important. The phones we've seen show marked differences in viewing quality. If your phone allows you to adjust such settings, you can make text and graphics easily viewable--even in bright places. These days most phones offer color screens, which are easy on the eyes.
Keypad: If you can't figure out how to use certain functions on a phone within a few minutes (with or without consulting the manual), try another. The keypad layout and menu system should be intuitive. The buttons should be responsive and easy to press. Check out the navigation buttons on the keypad. A joystick-style knob on some phones can make navigating menus quick. Most handsets come with up/down and left/right arrow keys. Buttons that protrude slightly are much easier to use than flat or recessed keys.
Many PDA phones and a few standard cell phones come with a small QWERTY keyboard. The tiny keys may not suit everyone, but for those who need them, they're easier to use than a software-based keyboard on a touch-sensitive screen.
Voice communications and organizer: Mobile phones bombard you with call-management features--voice-activated calling, voice recording, phone books, call histories, speed dialing, and so on. Enabling some of the features (such as caller ID, call waiting, and three-way calling) depends on your service plan. Most phones also provide security features that can restrict incoming and outgoing calls, lock the keypad, and protect or mass-delete phone book entries. Some handsets also provide a speakerphone. Some even function as two-way radios, connecting you with others on the same carrier; and in many cases, such communications don't count as airtime--a great benefit for IT personnel and other roving staff.
If you want to talk on the phone hands-free (a must if you use the phone while driving), look for a model that comes with a headset or an earphone. If you don't want to mess with cords, consider a phone that supports Bluetooth; it allows you to pair it with a wireless Bluetooth headset.
Wireless data: Nearly all new cell phones are capable of doing tasks such as sending and receiving e-mail and IM, downloading custom ring tones and simple games, or connecting to the Internet (usually through a minibrowser that's designed to work best with text-only versions of popular sites like Amazon, Google, and Yahoo). Such features, however, are heavily dependent on your provider and your service plan.
Going online while you're waiting for the elevator is a cool idea, but most phones connect at slow speeds: only up to 115 kbps on a GPRS network and up to 384 kbps on EDGE; 3G networks, such as EvDO, provide faster connections at up to 2 mbps.
Key Service Provider Features
Coverage: The biggest nationwide carriers are Cingular, Sprint Nextel, T-Mobile, and Verizon Wireless. Not all networks are created equal, however. Service can be erratic even if a carrier claims to have coverage in an area; the quality of the reception varies, too. One way to find out about a carrier's network reliability is to try out the service and one of its phones. Nearly all nationwide carriers offer a trial period of up to 30 days where you pay for only the minutes you use. You should also poll friends and colleagues about their experiences. Find out how good the phone signal is at your home, office, or anywhere else you'll need to use it.
Plan type: If you do a lot of cross-country traveling, signing up for a national phone plan is best because it will let you send and receive calls anywhere in the United States (and even in parts of Canada) at no extra charge. A local or regional plan limits the areas where you can originate a call and still pull from your monthly pool of minutes. If you have a world phone and plan to use it in other countries, choose service with international roaming.
Minutes: When choosing a plan, it's best to overestimate the number of minutes you'll be using for every sent and received call. Because one carrier's definition of off-peak may be different from another's, ask the carrier to specify the times for its peak, off-peak, and weekend hours. Other service charges include a data plan (for e-mail, photos, IM, and Web access), three-way calling, and downloads.
Contract: Virtually all carriers offer discounted service fees if you commit to a specified period of time, usually two years, though one year is sometimes available. The longer the contract period, the lower the rate. If you break the agreement, you'll incur hefty fees.
Other services: There's almost always a fee for activating service to your phone or switching the service from your old phone to a new one. Look into phone replacement plans or extended warranties, both of which typically entitle you to a new phone if yours is lost, stolen, or goes kaput.
Phones: Top 10 Buying Tips---PC Magazine
1. Ask around about the best carrier. Coverage and call quality vary widely between the six national carriers. The carriers will tell you that they're perfect, so ask neighbors, friends, and co-workers about who has the best coverage where you live, work and travel.
2. Pay attention to battery life. A dead phone is no phone at all, so look for a phone's "continuous talk time" rating. Assume you'll be able to go a day without charging for each hour of talk time.
3. Test the speaker. Usually, you'll be able to make local calls with a test phone at the wireless store. Make sure voices come through loud enough and clear enough.
4. Take a hands-off approach when driving. Several states now require you to use a hands-free kit in your car. For a car phone, look for speaker-independent voice commands so you don't have to touch the phone to dial. Try to find a phone with Bluetooth wireless capability for the widest selection of wireless headsets.
5. Keep an eye out for nickel-and-diming. Your base plan may not include instant messaging, picture messaging, e-mail access or calls in rural areas. If you're going to do any of those things, make sure it's included.
6. Shop in person, but buy online. Always go to a store to check out phone keypads, screens and speakers. But check carriers' Web sites and independent retailers like amazon.com for online deals once you've settled on a product.
7. Lock yourself in. Advertised, super-low prices for phones almost always require signing up for a new, two-year contract. Read the fine print to find the price for a phone with a one-year contract. If signing any contract drives you to distraction, check out no-commitment phones like AT&T's GoPhone or Virgin Mobile's prepaid service.
8. Consider a family plan. These are always the best deal for couples or families with multiple phones. You share a bucket of minutes, each get your own phone number and can save up to 50% over getting separate plans.
9. Get the right bands for your trips. If you travel between US cities, make sure your phone has both 850 and 1900 Mhz bands for the best coverage. If you often travel in the rural USA, an analog band will help big-time. And if you regularly go overseas, get a 'worldphone' with the 1800 Mhz band.
10. Don't be afraid to give it back. Most carriers offer a 15-day period when they'll take a phone back, no questions asked. Use your phone heavily the first week after you buy it. If anything deeply disturbs you – muffled sound, dead areas, a limp battery – return it and get a new one.
2. Pay attention to battery life. A dead phone is no phone at all, so look for a phone's "continuous talk time" rating. Assume you'll be able to go a day without charging for each hour of talk time.
3. Test the speaker. Usually, you'll be able to make local calls with a test phone at the wireless store. Make sure voices come through loud enough and clear enough.
4. Take a hands-off approach when driving. Several states now require you to use a hands-free kit in your car. For a car phone, look for speaker-independent voice commands so you don't have to touch the phone to dial. Try to find a phone with Bluetooth wireless capability for the widest selection of wireless headsets.
5. Keep an eye out for nickel-and-diming. Your base plan may not include instant messaging, picture messaging, e-mail access or calls in rural areas. If you're going to do any of those things, make sure it's included.
6. Shop in person, but buy online. Always go to a store to check out phone keypads, screens and speakers. But check carriers' Web sites and independent retailers like amazon.com for online deals once you've settled on a product.
7. Lock yourself in. Advertised, super-low prices for phones almost always require signing up for a new, two-year contract. Read the fine print to find the price for a phone with a one-year contract. If signing any contract drives you to distraction, check out no-commitment phones like AT&T's GoPhone or Virgin Mobile's prepaid service.
8. Consider a family plan. These are always the best deal for couples or families with multiple phones. You share a bucket of minutes, each get your own phone number and can save up to 50% over getting separate plans.
9. Get the right bands for your trips. If you travel between US cities, make sure your phone has both 850 and 1900 Mhz bands for the best coverage. If you often travel in the rural USA, an analog band will help big-time. And if you regularly go overseas, get a 'worldphone' with the 1800 Mhz band.
10. Don't be afraid to give it back. Most carriers offer a 15-day period when they'll take a phone back, no questions asked. Use your phone heavily the first week after you buy it. If anything deeply disturbs you – muffled sound, dead areas, a limp battery – return it and get a new one.
2/17/07
Useful Links
Art(1) www.craftschool.blogspot.comBusiness(1)www.knowingbiz.blogspot.comCar(1)www.carcomforts.blogspot.comComputer/Cell phone(2)www.electroitems.blogspot.comwww.knowinglinux.blogspot.comEducation(2)www.educationqueries.blogspot.com www.school-activities.blogspot.comwww.knowinglinux.blogspot.comFinance(5)www.getrefinance.blogspot.comwww.moneybymortgage.blogspot.comwww.insuringhealth.blogspot.comwww.getloan4u.blogspot.comwww.gettinginsurance.blogspot.com www.moneyfrommortgage.blogspot.comHealth(5)www.familyhealth4all.blogspot.comwww.insuringhealth.blogspot.comwww.how2maintainhealth.blogspot.comwww.ymaintainhealth.blogspot.comwww.cancertherapies.blogspot.comHelping heart(1)www.thehelpingheart.blogspot.comHome(1)www.home4comforts.blogspot.comInsurance(3)www.insuringhealth.blogspot.com www.insure4wheeler.blogspot.com
www.gettinginsurance.blogspot.comLoan(1)www.getloan4u.blogspot.comShopping(2)http://www.getonlybest.blogspot.com/http://www.electroitems.blogspot.com/Software(1)http://www.knowinglinux.blogspot.com/Travel(2)http://www.himtour.blogspot.com/http://www.travel4peace.blogspot.com/Work at home(2)www.networkmoney.blogspot.
www.gettinginsurance.blogspot.comLoan(1)www.getloan4u.blogspot.comShopping(2)http://www.getonlybest.blogspot.com/http://www.electroitems.blogspot.com/Software(1)http://www.knowinglinux.blogspot.com/Travel(2)http://www.himtour.blogspot.com/http://www.travel4peace.blogspot.com/Work at home(2)www.networkmoney.blogspot.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)