'Sunset'-ing on analog cell phone service

Cell phones over five years old could become completely useless, even for dialing 911, when some companies switch off analog service next week.

By JOSH NEWTON

TAHLEQUAH DAILY PRESS — It’s a phrase many may be unfamiliar with: “analog cellular sunset.”

The figurative sun is indeed setting for a number of cell phone users, and you may be affected. As of midnight Monday, Feb. 18, cellular telephone companies will not be required to provide analog service, according to the Federal Communications Commission Consumer Advisory.

But what does this analog cellular sunset mean, and who is affected?

“Cell phone users who use phones that are over five years old, and analog, may lose service,” said Cherokee County 911 Coordinator Darryl Maggard. “AT&T; Mobility, Alltel, Cellular One, Dobson, U.S. Cellular and Verizon Wireless, and some other cellular providers, have received FCC approval to turn off their old analog networks across the nation. You will not be affected if you subscribe to Sprint Nextel or T-Mobile.”

There could also be issues for those who simply use analog cell phones as an emergency 911 contact, with no service contract.

“The FCC [had] required that wireless carriers allow 911 access from all wireless phones, including those without a service contract. But with the approval from the FCC to turn the old wireless analog network down, all analog cell phones will lose this function as well,” said Maggard. “This could mean if you’re carrying an older cell phone [with no contract service], it may lose that feature after Feb. 19.”

Digital phones will not be affected, and will still have access to 911, according to Maggard. Digital phones carry features such as text or instant messaging, Internet browsing, a SIM card, or an MP3 player or integrated camera.

Still, Maggard urges those who don’t know if their phone is analog or digital to contact any local, cellular service providers.

“They should be able to determine if a cellular phone is analog or digital,” said Maggard.

According to the FCC, a limited number of alarm systems and OnStar subscribers will also be affected. Most alarm companies are contacting their affected customers by letter, bill insert, and/or telephone to arrange replacement installation of a digital alarm radio, says the FCC.

“If you believe your alarm system relies on an analog wireless radio, and you haven’t heard from your alarm company, or if you’re unsure about what type of alarm system you have, contact the company to determine your options for maintaining service,” states the FCC Web site, www.fcc.gov.

OnStar subscribers who may be affected are those who use analog-only-equipped vehicles – generally, cars older than 2003 models; in fact, according to the FCC, OnStar says these vehicles cannot be upgraded, and service in such vehicles haven’t worked since Dec. 31, 2007.

The FCC urges those unsure about what OnStar equipment their vehicle uses to visit www.myonstar.com/adt.os.