Protective cases
Car adapters
Desktop chargers
Computer/PDA interface
Hands free kit
Wireless in general
How do I choose a wireless phone?
Many factors go into choosing a wireless handset: price, size, weight, features, color and ease of use. Shopping online can allow you to view a lot of phones and determine the specs on the phones from the convenience of your own home. You can also go to a wireless retailer and actually handle the models you like to make sure they are what you want.
How do I choose a calling plan?
Choosing a calling plan can be much like choosing a handset -- there are a lot of options. The best way to choose a calling plan is to look at your calling practices and match a calling plan to them.
When do you make the majority of your calls?
This will determine what kind of plan you need. If most of your calls are during peak hours you may want a plan with a high number of free peak minutes. Conversely, if most of your calls are nights and weekends, you will want a plan with free nights and weekends.
How much roaming will you do?
Depending on your travel habits, a regional or national plan may be your best choice.
What are your long distance options?
Where you call might make a big difference in monthly billing. If the majority of your calling is long distance, a free long distance plan might be a good fit.
Should I get month-to-month service or sign an annual contract?
This all depends on your level of comfort with contracts. The contracted plans often have cost benefits, but the month to month allows some flexibility.
What is wireless web?
Wireless web is a collection of specially designed websites accessible by wireless handset. You can get stock quotes, weather, sports scores, headlines and more.
Can I really get my email on my wireless phone?
Yes. Through wireless web and wireless email you can receive and send email from your wireless handset.
Is phone insurance right for you?
Phone insurance is typically a repair/replace program offered by the carrier. It covers damage to the handset incurred during usage and promises to repair or replace the handset (see carrier’s policy for exact rules).
Batteries
How long should a battery last?
On average a battery will last anywhere from 200 to 400 charges.
What is the proper way to charge a battery?
Without a conditioning charger, the proper way to charge a battery is to drain it fully through use or just being “ON”. When the battery is “empty” the handset will turn itself off and can be placed in the charger. To avoid interrupting the charge cycle, leave the handset turned off until the unit is fully charged. With a conditioning charger the handset does not need to be fully discharged. However it is a good idea not to interrupt the charge cycle.
Do I have to turn my phone off to charge it?
No. You do not have to turn your phone off to charge it. However, it is a good idea so that you do not interrupt the charging cycle by answering the ringing handset.
Should I get a NiCad or NiMH battery?
Nickel Cadmium (NiCad) batteries typically hold a charge longer than Nickel Metal Hydride (NiHM) batteries. Conversely, NiMH batteries do not tend to develop “memory” -- a tendency to charge less and less fully over time caused by not fully discharging the battery before recharging it.
What about Lithium Ion (LiIon) Batteries?
Lithium Ion (LiIon) batteries last significantly longer than NiCads and NiMH batteries in both talk and stand-by modes. However the LiIon batteries may cost as much as three times more.
Accessories
Protective case
Although protective cases are not necessary, they can be useful for instances like keeping your phone dry or protecting it in case something may spill on it. Leather and leatherette cases are available for most wireless handsets.
Car adapters
Car adapters are handy – they allow you to charge your handsets while driving.
Desktop chargers
These chargers allow you to fully charge your handset. For convenience, you could purchase one for your office and one for your home so you can recharge your battery at your convenience.
Computer/PDA interfaces
Some handsets have the capability to link to computers and PDAs. If you are interested in this feature, consult your handset manual to determine if your phone has this capability.
Hands free kit
A hands free kit is a great safety measure if you use your wireless phone in the car a lot. Hands free kits are available for nearly every model wireless handset.
