Expert: DebiN - 7/5/2009

Question
I recently purchased an Unlocked GSM cell phone from expansys.com. It is stated that it is a Quad Band 850/900/1800/1900. This phone is not a "name brand" phone. It's is the MWg Zinc II. Anyway, I am having difficulty using it on AT&T's network. It's strange, I have full bars and an E to show it is connected to Edge network. I make a call the phone rings, and it immediately drops the call after one ring and says "Call failed". I have gotten a few calls to acually connect, but the majority won't.


Answer
The problem with the phone is not the bands. It works on AT&T's 850 and 1900 bands. The problem is with the phone's radio antenna. It is either broken or defective or the phone just isn't up to standard and that is why it is not able to hold the call. When AT&T certifies phones on their network (as with all carriers), they test the phones and they have to pass rigorous tests before they can be sold and certified on their network. One of those tests is regarding the radio antenna. If it's not good enough to receive a call all the time and in various conditions and at specific distances from the tower, it won't be certified. Evidently, this device is not up to par. This is why I caution people to not buy phones that their carrier doesn't or hasn't sold because they are not certified on the network and you can't guarantee their usability. if at all possible, I would strongly recommend that you return this phone and get your money back, if possible. Buy a phone that is branded by AT&T, if you can, because your experience will be 100% better. I hope this helps. Thanks. Debin