Phone Buying Tips

When it comes to choosing wireless phone equipment, you have three basic choices:

Mobile
Mobile phones are recommended for people who spend a lot of time in their vehicles. Mobile phones operate continuously off the automobile's battery, providing endless hours of "talk time." An external antenna provides the clearest reception for the phone. Some models have optional accessory kits that can convert your mobile phone into a transportable phone, enabling you to take the phone out of the vehicle.

Transportable
These stand-alone phones are designed for people who anticipate spending equal amounts of time inside and outside of their cars. A cigarette lighter adapter allows the phone to be used inside the car, while a built-in battery and antenna permit operation away from the vehicle. An optional external antenna can provide clearer phone reception while in your vehicle.

Portable or Handheld
Because these small, lightweight phones fit easily in a briefcase, pocket, or purse, they're the most convenient choice for personal communications. A built-in battery and antenna let these phones operate as stand-alone units. These phones will provide varying talk and standby times before needing to be recharged, depending on the phone model and its battery. An optional cigarette lighter adapter allows you to run your phone off your car's battery, thus saving your phone's battery.

Before buying a phone, decide when and where you will use it most to determine which type of phone will best meet your needs. If you choose a portable or handheld model, be sure you like its style and weight.