Analog Cellphones 1971 – 2008
Today marks the end of an era. Today, AT&T and Verizon shutdown their old analog AMPS networks and AT&T also shut off its old TDMA network leaving the only networks remaining in the US digital.
February 18, 2008, was the last day for old-style analog cell service in the United States, as the Federal Communications Commission mandates shutdown of obsolete systems in order to free frequency ranges for new advances services. Although the shutdown of analog cell phone service will impact comparatively few mobile phone users (the exceptions potentially being in rural areas were equipment was never upgraded, and the range of analog gear was superior to digital replacements), the switchover may have impacts for other systems: specifically, vehicle fleet tracking and some building alarm systems.
Can you remember your first analog cellphone? All the static, the cloning, the horrific sizes and battery life?
Ah memories!
