Is your phone analog? The analog cellular networks AMPS (Advanced Mobile Phone System) have been phased out by all telecom providers in favour of the new digital networks. But in our area, there are a number of people who still might have analog phones or use analog cellular signals and they may not know it.
Most of us have made the switch to from analog cellular service to digital, but for anyone who still has an analog ‘brick’ phone there may be a very unpleasant surprise. The FCC has granted Verizon and ATT the only Major National AMPS providers, permission to pull the plug on their analog networks on Monday, February 18, 2008.
It is not only the phones that may be cut off. But many alarm systems run on AMPS, and they will be cut as well. In addition a variety of in-car monitors, security systems in older cars will also be affected. So, if you are not in a GSM area or if your On-Star vehicle is 2002 or earlier, you will have to make other arrangement.
US Cellular will continue analog service until the end of this year. December 31st will mark the end of the analog signal era. Check to see if that ‘emergency phone’ you got for Grandma or son or daughter is analog. It could be an unpleasant surprise to find out when there is actually an emergency.
If you have not already checked with your alarm system company, I strongly suggest you do. And soon.
For On-Star customers, GM is offering an upgrade, but it will cost $200 dollars or perhaps more and they are not offering –at the moment at least – any rebates or discounts. You can contact them directly.
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