>GSM and CDMA seem to be the most prevalent with some small (Nextel,
>and local carriers) pockets of other.
I was told that my carrier, T-Mobile will work with any unlocked GSM
phone. You can order a "To-Go" SIM from their online store for $7
(includes overnight delivery and xx minutes).
Siemens S46 can use one available network in the US--T-Mobile. [specs:
http://snipurl.com/9q82m] Phone can find these networks:
GSM 900/1900 and TDMA 800/1900. Only one in the US now is GSM 1900. Is
the phone unlocked? Does it have a cell phone provider's logo? To unlock
it, you need either a USB cable for that phone, or to figure out how to
get the unlock code and sequence. If it's locked to AT&T, recycle it and
get a new or used one from a friend. Nokia phones are the easiest to
unlock. For others you have to contact the provider or manufacturer for
an unlock code or use a cable and special software.
T-Mobile To-Go [prepaid is better than flexpay] http://snipurl.com/9q798:
Nokia 1208 - http://snipurl.com/9q6q9 $19.99, incl. $30 refill bonus;
850 MHz;1900 MHz
Nokia 1680 - http://snipurl.com/9q6t3 $49.99, incl. $30 refill bonus;
850 MHz;1900 MHz
Samsung black stripe - http://snipurl.com/9q6w5 incl. $30 refill bonus;
850 MHz;1800 MHz;1900 MHz
Buy $100 refill to get all US minutes for 10 cents, expiring after 1
year unless rolled over. 850/1900 MHz phones can roam within the US.
Other countries have 900/1800 MHz networks. T-Mobile will unlock phones
after 3-6 months, but you won't want to switch if you're mostly in the
DC area. Or pick up a SpeakOut phone at 7-11 stores.
Betty
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