Intro:
Before you begin
Step 1:
Choose the right system
Step 2:
Calculate the airtime you'll need
Step 3:
Know when and where you're going to use it
Step 4:
Choose a calling plan
Step 5:
Choose a phone
Step 6:
Read your monthly bill

A calculator, to figure out total costs

The yellow pages, to contact individual wireless providers

Web access (optional): various Websites are designed for one-stop wireless shopping, and allowing you to quickly compare prices between plans

An afternoon (three to four hours): one hour to figure out the sort of plan you need, and a few hours to comparison shop

2torial #0410: Learn2 Shop for a Wireless Phone Who says talk is cheap? It's hard to believe the human race has survived as long as it has without the benefit of wireless (a.k.a. cellular) phones. What did people do before they could order take-out while stuck in traffic, make a conference call as they stood in line at the post office, or call in sick from a comfortable, seaside lounge chair? While the benefits are myriad, so unfortunately are the decisions you face when purchasing a phone and calling plan. Should you go with the simple, single-rate plan? Or the one that gives you a free phone? Is digital wireless more dependable, or will you benefit most from a traditional analog system? We'll help you answer these questions and more as we take you through the process of shopping for a wireless phone. While traditional phones transport data by copper wire, wireless phones rely on radio waves. Of course, a small, handheld phone cannot produce a powerful signal, so wireless phones are dependent on clusters of antennae, each of which serves a small area. Together, the antennae resemble the cells that make up a living organism (hence the name "cellular"). As you move from one "cell" to another, a computer automatically connects you to the next antenna. As the wireless industry matures, the network of antennae is expands and improves, meaning more reliable service for customers. Step 1