Does anyone know the difference between CDMA and GSM cell phone technology? I am trying to decide between Verizon (CDMA) & AT&T (GSM) services.

Any recommendations, I live in central jersey.

Thanks

 

With gsm service you can get any GSM phone, as long as it is unlocked (not hooked to any particular provider) and use it.
CDMA phones are VERY limited.

They are only coming oput with bluetooth phones this year......

go to:

http://www.howardforums.com for ANY questions you have. The forums are basically the same thing but for cell phones/service.

Enjoy

 

CDMA = Code division multiple access

GSM = Global System for mobile Communication

CDMA is mostly limited to the US. It was also called "digital" when there was still analog service available. It provides a clear signal and is widespread in the US. CDMA is almost exclusively used in North America. It also has limitted coverage in Central and S. America.

GSM is used predominately in Europe and in Asia. There are 3 bands that are generally used 900 Mhz, 1800 Mhz, and 1900 Mhz. The US uses 1900, Europe uses 1800, and Asia uses 900 IIRC. GSM is not that widespread in the US but it is quickly gaining service coverage. If you travel abroad quite a bit, GSM is the way to go. If you get an unlocked phone you can simply switch the SIM card when you go to Europe with a European phonecarrier and use a local number there.

 

The US uses 850 and 1900. Europe and Asia use 900 and 1800. GSM is very widespread in the US.

 

I was under the impression that the 850 band was used for CDMA and TDMA.

To clairify GSM's coverage is not a widespread as CDMA coverage, it is getting better quickly though.

 

I can verify, 850 is used for GSM in the US.