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Unscrambling the networks

Section Editor Joni Blecher, a.k.a. the Cell Phone Diva

Q: What’s the difference between CDMA and AMPS? And should both be together in a phone? Can I send a message around the world to GSM phones using a CDMA phone?–Joao

A: Let’s start with the first half of the question. Here in the United States, we use CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) and AMPS (Advanced Mobile Phone System), among other networks. In short, CDMA is a digital network; in the most basic terms possible, calls should come through pretty clear. But AMPS is an analog network, where calls aren’t always so clear. AMPS was the cellular network in use before the all-digital CDMA, TDMA, and GSM networks were deployed. For the most part, AMPS networks are still available, especially in rural areas, although you’ll pay dearly when making an analog roaming call off a digital network. As for CDMA, a few carriers support this network, the big players being Verizon Wireless and Sprint PCS.

I typically prefer a CDMA phone that supports AMPS, simply because it means more coverage. When I need to make a call, I can’t be bothered looking for a network or driving an extra 10 miles to find one. For example, if I’m stranded on the highway without a call box in sight and a phone that can’t get any service, an analog signal (AMPS network) is usually available, and I can use it to make a call if my mobile also supports AMPS.

Finally, text messaging: In general, the answer is yes, you can send a text message from a CDMA to a GSM phone anywhere. However, your best bet is to check with the carrier first; be sure to ask about text messaging plans so that you don’t end up with a devastating bill.

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Yahoo! Mail – eh_track@yahoo.com: “Induced to break the law

A bill currently before the U.S. Senate may make it illegal for me to tell you about software that can make copies of copyrighted files. Though it’s aimed at file-sharing networks, Senator Hatch’s Induce Act would make anyone who induces another person to commit copyright infringement liable for the same penalties.

If I were to recommend a really good CD ripper, such as, say, CDex or iTunes, any record company could say I induced people to make illegal copies of copyrighted material, and get the law on me. Remember–this isn’t a civil matter, it’s criminal, possibly involving jail time. The real problem is that inducement, as mentioned in the bill, could cover a broad range of activities, such as writing and talking. Looks like a conflict with the First Amendment to me.

The act tries to define ‘intentionally induces,’ but it comes off as vague, which means all sorts of people could get hauled before the courts by the FBI at the behest of corporations. I’m pretty disappointed one of my representatives, Senator Barbara Boxer, signed on to introduce the Induce Act. I hope you all get a chance to tell your representatives to defeat this poorly written bill.

Wayne Cunningham

Senior Editor, CNET Download.com”

Induced to break the law

A bill currently before the U.S. Senate may make it illegal for me to tell you about software that can make copies of copyrighted files. Though it’s aimed at file-sharing networks, Senator Hatch’s Induce Act would make anyone who induces another person to commit copyright infringement liable for the same penalties.

If I were to recommend a really good CD ripper, such as, say, CDex or iTunes, any record company could say I induced people to make illegal copies of copyrighted material, and get the law on me. Remember–this isn’t a civil matter, it’s criminal, possibly involving jail time. The real problem is that inducement, as mentioned in the bill, could cover a broad range of activities, such as writing and talking. Looks like a conflict with the First Amendment to me.

The act tries to define ‘intentionally induces,’ but it comes off as vague, which means all sorts of people could get hauled before the courts by the FBI at the behest of corporations. I’m pretty disappointed one of my representatives, Senator Barbara Boxer, signed on to introduce the Induce Act. I hope you all get a chance to tell your representatives to defeat this poorly written bill.Wayne Cunningham

Senior Editor, CNET Download.com