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Cellular Phones/NET10 GSM vs CDMA

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Expert: - 6/4/2010


Question
I'm debating between the Samsung R451C and the Samsung T401G from Net10. One uses GSM service and the other uses CDMA.
I'm wondering which is best to use for coverage in Contoocook, NH.
This is a very rural area, so it's hard to receive signal with a lot of carriers.
So does CDMA or GSM make a difference for this? If so, which is better?

Answer
My best advice is to talk to friends who live in your area to find out if the carrier they use works well. GSM is a far better technology, however, CDMA may work better where you live. Don't commit to anything until are sure what is better. I would also say that Net10 would only sell one of the technologies typically where you live, i.e., whichever is better or with whom they resell. If they are offering both, then they are telling you that either will work, but first, please check with a friend or neighbor to check out who their carrier is. If it's Verizon, then go with the CDMA, if AT&T, then go with GSM. Likely, that is who they would be reselling. I hope this helps.  

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DebiN

Expertise

I can answer questions on cellular phones, the physical device, the network, contracts, billing, ordering, porting and what to look for when purchasing cell phones. I am located in the United States. I am an expert on BlackBerrys, Treos, HTC devices and iPhones as well as cellphones and aircards. I have over 15 years of experience in both the wireless and wireline world with the carriers. I have a lot of knowledge regarding the wireless providers - their services, prices and policies, both GSM AT&T and T-Mobile) and CDMA (Verizon, Sprint/Nextel). I am very familiar with the individual devices and their specifications. I can also answer questions regarding BlackBerrys, iPhones and other PDAs, both Palm-based and Windows-based. I can troubleshoot most any problem someone is having with their cellular device or with the provider.

Experience

Over 20 years in the Telecom industry working for the carriers with individuals, small business, medium business and large corporations(Fortune 500). Also worked as a professor in Maryland for 10 years teaching telecommunications.

Organizations
I belong to several organizations

Education/Credentials
Master's in Telecommunications

Awards and Honors
Received several awards for papers that I have published over the years

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