[at-l] communications

[lparker@cacaphony.net (L. Parker)]

Just a few tips on cell phone coverage...

Take an analog phone, not a digital. The digital phones only transmit with
half of the power that the analog phones use, the signal quality in weak
areas is consequently terrible. (And dual mode phones just sit there
switching between modes.)

If you can see civilization from where you are standing, you can probably
use your phone. If you can't see civilization, you probably can't use it.
Most mountain tops work, almost none of the valleys, although occasionally
you can get a signal in a saddle if there are no mountains blocking the view
to the tower.

You will get better reception after dark. (Less interference)

Take your credit card. You WILL hit areas that won't let you place a call
without it, and they won't accept your calling card either, go figure....

Lee I Joe