Millions of Cell Phones To Go Silent
December 26th, 2007 | by lsfloyd |
If you still use an old analog cell phone, its time to say goodbye. On February, 19 2008, wireless carriers who still operate an analog network, will be shutting it down. This includes Verizon Wireless, AT&T, and Alltel. You will not be affected if you are a T-Mobile or Sprint Nextel customer, because these carriers do not operate analog networks.
In 1983, commercial service on the analog network began. This new technology increased call capacity by allowing coverage areas to be divided into smaller areas called cells.
In 2002, the FCC decided to allow carriers to switch-off their analog networks in 2008. This move will make way for better use of the radio spectrum by digital technology.
Analog technology was good for a while, but now its time to say goodbye.
