Wireless Cell Phone Plan

Wireless telephones are hand-held phones with built-in antennas, often called cell, mobile, or PCS phones. These phones are popular with callers because they can be carried easily from place to place.

Wireless telephones are two-way radios. When you talk into a wireless telephone, it picks up your voice and converts the sound to radiofrequency energy (or radio waves). The radio waves travel through the air until they reach a receiver at a nearby base station. The base station then sends your call through the telephone network until it reaches the person you are calling. When you receive a call on your wireless telephone, the message travels through the telephone network until it reaches a base station close to your wireless phone. Then the base station sends out radio waves that are detected by a receiver in your telephone, where the signals are changed back into the sound of a voice.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) each regulate wireless telephones. FCC ensures that all wireless phones sold in the United States follow safety guidelines that limit radiofrequency (RF) energy. FDA monitors the health effects of wireless telephones. Each agency has the authority to take action if a wireless phone produces hazardous levels of RF energy.

FDA derives its authority to regulate wireless telephones from the Radiation Control provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (originally enacted as the Radiation Control for Health and Safety Act of 1968).

FCC derives its authority to regulate wireless telephones from the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) and the Telecommunications Act of 1996.

What about wireless phone interference with medical equipment? Radiofrequency energy (RF) from wireless phones can interact with some electronic devices. For this reason, FDA helped develop a detailed test method to measure electromagnetic interference (EMI) of implanted cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators from wireless telephones. This test method is now part of a standard sponsored by the Association for the Advancement of Medical instrumentation (AAMI). The final draft, a joint effort by FDA, medical device manufacturers, and many other groups, was completed in late 2000. This standard will allow manufacturers to ensure that cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators are safe from wireless phone EMI.

FDA has tested hearing aids for interference from handheld wireless phones and helped develop a voluntary standard sponsored by the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE). This standard specifies test methods and performance requirements for hearing aids and wireless phones so that that no interference occurs when a person uses a compatible phone and a compatible hearing aid at the same time. This standard was approved by the IEEE in 2000.

FDA continues to monitor the use of wireless phones for possible interactions with other medical devices. Should harmful interference be found to occur, FDA will conduct testing to assess the interference and work to resolve the problem.

What research is needed to decide whether RF exposure from wireless phones poses a health risk? A combination of laboratory studies and epidemiological studies of people actually using wireless phones would provide some of the data that are needed. Lifetime animal exposure studies could be completed in a few years. However, very large numbers of animals would be needed to provide reliable proof of a cancer promoting effect if one exists. Epidemiological studies can provide data that is directly applicable to human populations, but 10 or more years follow-up may be needed to provide answers about some health effects, such as cancer.

This is because the interval between the time of exposure to a cancer-causing agent and the time tumors develop – if they do – may be many, many years. The interpretation of epidemiological studies is hampered by difficulties in measuring actual RF exposure during day-to-day use of wireless phones. Many factors affect this measurement, such as the angle at which the phone is held, or which model of phone is used.

What is FDA doing to find out more about the possible health effects of wireless phone RF?FDA is working with the U.S. National Toxicology Program and with groups of investigators around the world to ensure that high priority animal studies are conducted to address important questions about the effects of exposure to radiofrequency energy (RF).

FDA has been a leading participant in the World Health Organization International Electromagnetic Fields (EMF) Project since its inception in 1996. An influential result of this work has been the development of a detailed agenda of research needs that has driven the establishment of new research programs around the world. The Project has also helped develop a series of public information documents on EMF issues.

FDA and the Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association (CTIA) have a formal Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) to do research on wireless phone safety. FDA provides the scientific oversight, obtaining input from experts in government, industry, and academic organizations. CTIA-funded research is conducted through contracts to independent investigators. The initial research will include both laboratory studies and studies of wireless phone users. The CRADA will also include a broad assessment of additional research needs in the context of the latest research developments around the world.

What steps can I take to reduce my exposure to radiofrequency energy from my wireless phone? If there is a risk from these products–and at this point we do not know that there is–it is probably very small. But if you are concerned about avoiding even potential risks, you can take a few simple steps to minimize your exposure to radiofrequency energy (RF). Since time is a key factor in how much exposure a person receives, reducing the amount of time spent using a wireless phone will reduce RF exposure.

If you must conduct extended conversations by wireless phone every day, you could place more distance between your body and the source of the RF, since the exposure level drops off dramatically with distance. For example, you could use a headset and carry the wireless phone away from your body or use a wireless phone connected to a remote antenna.

Again, the scientific data do not demonstrate that wireless phones are harmful. But if you are concerned about the RF exposure from these products, you can use measures like those described above to reduce your RF exposure from wireless phone use.

Company Overview

Verizon Wireless prides itself in being the most profitable mobile carrier in the US. Based in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, it has a strong population of about 70 million customers. Its customer loyalty and low churn are notable as it continues to expand its network coverage across the country.

Prepaid Plans

Verizon Wireless has three INpulse plans that cater to your prepaid needs. The Core plan costs 10 cents per minute and the daily access charge is only 99 cents. You only pay this access charge on the days you use the service and IN calling, calling between Verizon phones, is unlimited. The INpulse Plus has a daily access charge of $1.99 on the days you use the phone. It includes unlimited IN calling and night minutes from 9:01 pm to 5:59 am. All other calls have a rate of 5 cents per minute. The Power plan is for $2.99 and it offers unlimited calls anytime of the day.

Pros and Cons

The INpulse plan gives a lot of savings especially if you choose the Power plan which allows unlimited calling for only $2.99 per day of use. But while many other providers do not charge an activation fee, activating a Verizon Wireless phone costs $25.

Features

Minutes

The rate per minute depends on the Inpulse plan that you subscribe to. The standard charge is 10 cents and it is available with the Core plan. But if you choose the highest plan which is the Inpulse Power, you get to have unlimited calling anytime at no additional charge.

Data

Mobile web access rate is 99 cents on the days you use this service.

Text and picture

The Core plan charges 10 cents per message sent and received. The Plus plan rates at 5 cents and the Power plan charges only 2 cents. The same charges apply when receiving international text messages but sending costs 25 cents. There are two options for unlimited messaging: $20 per month which includes unlimited messaging to any network in the US and $10 per month for unlimited messaging to any Verizon Wireless phones plus 250 text messages to any network. Sending pictures and videos has a rate of 25 cents per message.

International

Verizon Wireless covers international calling. This charges an additional rate on top of the per minute rate of your INpulse plan. You may call customer service to check the international calling rates to specific countries. Calling Puerto Rico has no additional charge.

Calling Features

The Verizon Wireless INpulse plans include standard calling features: call waiting, three-way calling, call forwarding and caller ID.

Long distance

Verizon has a nationwide coverage that allows calling to anywhere in the US and even Puerto Rico at no additional charge.

911

Yes.

Payment Options

You can purchase refill cards online using your credit/debit card or check. Cash payment is an additional option when purchasing at Verizon retailers.

Roaming charge

In areas where there is no Verizon signal, you can roam at a rate of 20 cents per minute on top of the casual airtime charges.

Activation fee

Activating the Pay As You Go service may require a $25 activation fee.

Minute expiration rules

The service period vary depending on the denomination of the refill card you purchase: $15-$29.99 expires in 30 days, $30-$74.99 expires in 60 days, $75-$99.99 expires in 90 days and $100 or more lasts for up to one year.

Customer Service

You may reach the Verizon Wireless customer service through email, toll-free number or speed dial from your handset.

Phones

Verizon Wireless offers a wide range of phone selections from regular flip phones to touch screen phones to PDAs and Blackberry devices. Some models include the Blackberry Pearl 8130, Blackberry 8830 World Edition, Motorola Q, Palm Centro and the LG Voyager.

Cordless telephones consist of a base unit that connects to the land-line system and also communicates with remote handsets by low power radio This permits use of the handset from any location within range of the base. Because of the power required to transmit to the handset, the base station is powered with an electronic power supply. Thus, cordless phones typically do not function during power outages. The range of modern cordless phones is normally on the order of a few hundred yards.

Whether you are at home or at work, it is highly popular amongst consumers. The reasons behind its growth of popularity are its high storage phone book memory, 40 minutes of recording time, LCD display and polyphonic ring tones. Another reason for its popularity may also be because it is easily available in your local markets with various models and various price ranges. The most trusted manufacturers are Siemens, Panasonic and Motorola to mention a few. Supposedly, Motorola is the best manufacturer of cordless phones producing various types of phones. Moreover, it also gives you the options of hands free usage and illuminated back light. The cordless phone is not a difficult device to understand and is absolutely user friendly. If the particular model’s range allows, you may even take it with you while you drive off to some place. Its hands free option able you to drive safely too. Other additional features of the cordless phone are integrated digital answering machine and short messaging service. Nowadays, consumers are very concerned about the quality of the products they purchase. In the case of a cordless phone you may seek help from the World Wide Web where you could get information on various models of phones with their price range as well.

About the technology behind the cordless phone, we can simply understand it as a device which works on the principle of radio waves. It sends and receives digital signals which is later encrypted and converted into sound.

The price varies according to its model, for example, a 5.8 GHz set would be much costlier than a 2.4 GHz set as the former is the latest model. The price may also vary depending on the features available and the brand. Panasonic are considerably expensive compared to other brand names. While purchasing a cordless phone, it is advisable to scrutinize the frequency of the phone as well.

Can you image being stranded somewhere by yourself? Now, if that picture isn’t bad enough, image being stranded without your cell phone. It’s hard to believe that about 15 years ago, cell phones were practically unheard of. Wireless phones, especially cellular phones, are one of today’s best inventions. Even wireless home phones are wonderfully convenient. For all of you talkaholics, wireless phones allow you to prepare dinner, change the baby’s diaper, do the laundry, and water the garden, all while carrying on hours of conversation without missing a beat. How neat is that?

The down sides to wireless phones are that they need to be charged quite frequently. After 2-3 hours of usage, wireless phones usually need recharging. This can be especially annoying since a very important conversation could be interrupted or cut short. How many times have you been in the middle of a conversation and go “…Did you hear me,…hello, hello..”, then you realize that your call has been cut off? Then your party calls back, apologizing for the interruption. Sometimes the interruption is at no fault of either party. It is can be due to the signal being lost as well. This can also be very annoying in the event of an emergency and crucial information is being communicated.

However, there are more positive reasons why almost everybody (including your grandmother) uses some form of a wireless phone. For instance, authorities can track you down using your wireless or cell phone through frequency towers in the event of a kidnapping, accident or other emergency situation. Also traveling with and using your wireless phone out of town is another “Must Have” convenience. Don’t you agree? They are also becoming more and more compact, even in different styles, colors, features and accessories for more carrying convenience. How nice!

Overall, the conveniences of all wireless phones, whether cellular or mobile, are still well worth and out-weigh the inconveniences. In fact, cell phones have practically made pay phones obsolete. Think about it, when was the last time you saw a pay phone or one that worked? It makes you wonder what will be the next device we won’t be able to live without in the next 10 to 15 years. Guess everyone will just have to wait and see.

It’s time you know what the latest technological gadget is. In
fact, this new toy is buzzing everywhere nowadays. PDA cell
phones are popping up more and more in the market place. Young
or old, maybe you should be asking yourself whether this new
cellular phone is something you should consider owning? Well, if
you’re unsure about whether a PDA mobile phone is the right
piece of hardware for you, don’t be. Read on and find out
everything you need to know about these great wireless phones!
Many consumers understand the value of owning a mobile phone
today. They are really convenient and easy to use. We almost
take them for granted because they’re extremely affordable to
own and maintain. They come with tons of loaded features to help
make our lives that much easier. They store phone numbers and
addresses, can link you to the Internet, can download your email
on a whim, and allow you to chat on Instant Messenger with your
closest loved ones whenever you want. Bored? Not when you own a
cellular phone, equipped with the latest games, cool polyphonic
ring tones, and picture messaging. Use it to take notes, and
keep you up to date with important meetings. There is simply
nothing that a cell phone cannot do nowadays. They even take
pictures and video images – and to think, these nifty little
toys can be held, literally, in the palm of your hand. Well, the
newest trend to hit our palms is the PDA wireless phone – better
known as a personal digital assistant. Imagine combining the
convenience of a cell phone with the reliability of a PDA – it’s
a match made in heaven! Here’s why. First of all, PDA’s are very
portable. You can take them anywhere! They fit in your purse,
briefcase, even your own pocket. They’re also very durable, so
they’re built to last! PDA’s are also pretty inexpensive these
days. You can get yourself a pretty decent and affordable
personal digital assistant for about $150. Once you get one,
you’ll realize just how amazing these devices really are! These
awesome gadgets store your personal and professional
information, at the touch of a button! Wireless PDA’s are also
programmable. You can run the most popular of applications on a
palm pilot, allowing you to interact with your home or office
computer. You can store documents, graphics, notes – the
possibilities are endless, and transferring information from one
medium to another is a breeze! What does it mean when you
combine the power of a PDA with a mobile phone? Pure magic!
There are many companies offering this innovative product. Check
it out! PalmOne makes a PDA cell phone that makes it easier than
ever for consumers to keep their business and personal life in
order without all the excess bulk! Remember, these phones are
compatible with either Macs or PCs, making it simple for you to
download information when you need it the most. Key features on
these types of phones include a mini “qwerty” keyboard for
typing notes, Bluetooth technology, USB capability, and lithium
powered batteries. Many of these PDA mobiles also include MP3
features! It’s all you’ll ever need to get through your day with
ease! Many people may even consider getting rid of their mobile
phones and replacing it with these new PDA cell phones. If you
think about it, you really don’t need much else! Tons of
Americans walk around with briefcases or purses full of gadgets
that only store a certain type of information. At one time, a
cell phone was used primarily to make or receive calls. Now,
times have changed. Long gone are the days when mobiles were
bulky, heavy, and inadequate. As you may know, cell phones have
marked their way into the world today, helping millions of
people get what they need in their professional and personal
lives. Not only do cell phones help us when we’re in a bind,
they keep us well in tuned with the world. We can access the
daily news, read our horoscopes, check movie listings, and so
much more. Keep your address book updated with your contacts.
Store email addresses, contact names, phone numbers – the sky is
the limit! In fact, there’s nothing a cell phone can’t do these
days! Without a doubt, cellular phones definitely enhance our
lives. They can notify us when we have an important meeting or
date coming up. You’ll never forget a friend or loved one’s
birthday again! They come equipped with cool features, such as
unique ring tones, games, and colour screens. Want to get
online? No problem! You can picture message your friends, send
text messages on the fly, even go online and download your email
messages. These features come in handy, especially when
travelling. In fact, many mobiles today are designed to be used
anywhere around the world! So, there’s no need to worry about
bringing a day planner or agenda to keep track of your to do
list. A cell phone is all you need! Now, you can enjoy the
convenience and affordability of combining your heavily used and
much needed cell phone with a practicality of a PDA or portable
hand held system. Look around – you’ll soon see that many
popular cellular phone carriers are carrying PDA cell phones,
all equipped with different, but important features. In fact,
customers can pick and choose which PDA phone best suits their
needs. It’s all too simple! However, one thing is clear – owning
a PDA mobile is an effective way to keep your business sorted.
Imagine just how much information these powerful tools store!
Cell phones are extremely practical but their downside is that
they can only store so much information! For example, most
mobile phones come with phone books that store between 100-500
contact entries. Certainly not enough when you’re building a
list of personal and professional contacts. Having a PDA cell
phone is like carrying around a mini computer in your pocket and
the possibilities are surely endless! While it can’t fix your
family meals every night or make the kids go to bed, it will
keep you and your family extremely organized and in tune with
what’s going on day to day! While a PDA cellular phone is used
primarily for professional use, take advantage of the many fun
features it has to offer. If you ever wanted to own an MP3
player, there’s no need to buy one on its own! Some PDA mobiles
come with a Windows Media Player device to keep you occupied
with your favourite tunes during the day! If you’re travelling
and are looking to maximize your time, surf the Internet. Even
better, catch up on your emails! It’s like taking your office on
the road, wherever you go, whenever you go! If you’re worried
about using your PDA too much – don’t! Many PDA cell phones will
give you somewhere along the lines of 250 minutes of talk time
and 240 hours of standby time. Keeping spare chargers and a base
charger is always convenient to ensure that you’ll never go
without your phone when you need it the most! You’ll enjoy
typical features, such as a speakerphone, vibrating ringers,
text capability, and Internet options. Connect using Outlook,
and you’ll never have to search for a phone number or email
address again! Store it once and forget about it! For those
individuals who are constantly travelling and on the road or in
the sky, a PDA mobile phone makes sense. It’s the perfect gift
and travel companion! Sometimes, it can be difficult to take a
break from your day to find an Internet café or office that will
allow you to connect and check your email and important
messages. Now, imagine being able to access your information
from anywhere in the world! You could be having dinner, in a
car, or in between meetings, and you’ll never miss those
important messages ever again! It’s important to note, your PDA
cell phone contains the Internet, which will allow you to surf
the web. So, now you can book your hotel reservations, find a
phone number for a taxi, look for a restaurant in your area -
it’s all possible without having to exhaust other options! Sync
your phone with your laptop, and access your work, no matter
where you are. Access flight information with the touch of a
button! Get movie listings and find out where some of the best
attractions are when you’re visiting a new town. It’s obvious
that owning a PDA cell phone has its advantages. Remember, PDA
phones are extremely lightweight and portable. So much power for
such a tiny device – and to think, many phones will give you the
option to add more memory if you need it, for additional
storage! It’s also good to know that many companies will also
throw in extra cellular accessories, such as a headset, leather
case, belt clip or hand strap. These always come in handy to
protect and maintain the look of your equipment. They’re also
very suitable when on the road. Having a headset allows you to
use your phone while on the road keeping you safe as you drive
with both hands on the wheel! If you’re going to use your phone
on the road while driving, at least be safe! Be conscious of
yourself and the other drivers around you! It doesn’t stop
there! You can upgrade to a Bluetooth headset, or consider
buying an extra adapter, charger, or magnet mount antenna set.
You could also consider getting a starter kit that comes with
the essentials to make the most out of your PDA cellular phone.
One thing is for sure. The rave about PDA cell phones is
sweeping the nation. Stop and think for a moment. Many people
carry around more than one of the following – a cell phone, an
agenda or journal, a PDA system, a camera, an MP3 player. Well,
all you need is the PDA mobile! It will replace all of these
rather expensive items and provide for its consumers the
convenience of owning the best all-in-one device to ever hit the
market!