HOW DO YOU DISPOSE OF OLD CELL PHONES?
Your discarded cell phone could be poisoning people and water
By John Moe Marketplace Tech Report, Friday, April 22, 2011
http://marketplace.publicradio.org/display/web/2011/04/22/tech-report-your-discarded-cell/?refid=0
There's always some new gadget coming around the bend, tempting you to buy it. But what becomes of the old gadget? If you're not careful, it could be causing some real problems.
This Earth Day, we take a look at the risks that go along with recycling your personal electronics. It's something that comes up every time you buy, for instance, a new phone. You can shove the old one in a drawer, which takes up space. You can also choose to simply throw it in the garbage and let it be taken to a landfill. Hopefully, you'll avoid that option because you know that harmful chemicals could escape a broken phone and find their way to the water table.
There are other options but you have to be careful. It's not uncommon to see drop boxes that are marked as recycling stations for used electronics.
But according to our guest, Sarah Westervelt of Basel Action Network, many of the phones dropped in those boxes are sold off to unethical companies in the developing world. There, the phones are stripped down for the precious metals and other ingredients that are inside. This is done without much safety precaution for the workers (often children). The leftover chemicals from this process are then often just dumped into whatever body of water is nearby.
Westervelt says to look for the "E-Stewards" signage on the facility to see if the recycling organization is operating in an ethical capacity. You can also go to e-stewards.org for assistance.
Also in this program, the New York Public Library needs your help figuring out what some very old menus say. Check them out here and get to work!
MY THOUGHTS
This issue of disposing old cell phones and batteries should really be a concern. I've seen these dropboxes in the malls. It's time to find out what they do with these old gadgets.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Friday, April 22, 2011
Landline Vs. Cell phone
Land line Vs. Cell phone
http://www.valleynewslive.com/story/14495711/landlines-vs-cellphones-422
Posted: Apr 22, 2011 5:39 PM TST Updated: Apr 22, 2011 7:41 PM TST
Having a land-line is a thing of the past. Many have cut the cord for a cell phone.
A new report from the National Center for Health Statistics shows more than 30% of North Dakotans use their cell phone as their primary phone number now. But, Valley News Live did some digging, and this trend could be dangerous during times when you need it the most.
Dan Willers grew up with a landline, but doesn't miss having one anymore. Like most of us, he has cut the cord... and it's helped cut costs as well.
"It's one of those things, you got your keys, wallet, cellphone you're on your way!" Willers says.
But in the event of an emergency, it could rob you time of when help comes. Byron Seiber with Red River Regional Dispatch tells us, "The cellphone gives us location by triangulating three tower sites, giving us a general idea of where you're at."
Unlike landlines, cellphone don't have"enhanced 911," meaning dispatchers won't be able to locate exactly where you are.
"If you're on the 2nd or 3rd floor, that doesn't help first responders. They're not going to know which apartment to go to," Seiber explains.
Seiber says it has been a growing trend. Out of all the 911 calls received in 2010, nearly 72% were made from cell phones.
Without the enhanced 911, it has prompted dispatchers to change the way they ask questions when there's an emergency. in year's passed, it's used to be "911, what's your emergency, based on your information, what's the address of your emergency."
But despite the facts, some still think having a cell phone at hand, can save you.
Willers points out, "Since you're not home anyway, you wouldn't have a land line during a car accident."
MY THOUGHTS
I belong to the 30%. I have lived with a landline for years and survived. Even landlines at the office don't get that much attention anymore. Except probably the local lines.
http://www.valleynewslive.com/story/14495711/landlines-vs-cellphones-422
Posted: Apr 22, 2011 5:39 PM TST Updated: Apr 22, 2011 7:41 PM TST
Having a land-line is a thing of the past. Many have cut the cord for a cell phone.
A new report from the National Center for Health Statistics shows more than 30% of North Dakotans use their cell phone as their primary phone number now. But, Valley News Live did some digging, and this trend could be dangerous during times when you need it the most.
Dan Willers grew up with a landline, but doesn't miss having one anymore. Like most of us, he has cut the cord... and it's helped cut costs as well.
"It's one of those things, you got your keys, wallet, cellphone you're on your way!" Willers says.
But in the event of an emergency, it could rob you time of when help comes. Byron Seiber with Red River Regional Dispatch tells us, "The cellphone gives us location by triangulating three tower sites, giving us a general idea of where you're at."
Unlike landlines, cellphone don't have"enhanced 911," meaning dispatchers won't be able to locate exactly where you are.
"If you're on the 2nd or 3rd floor, that doesn't help first responders. They're not going to know which apartment to go to," Seiber explains.
Seiber says it has been a growing trend. Out of all the 911 calls received in 2010, nearly 72% were made from cell phones.
Without the enhanced 911, it has prompted dispatchers to change the way they ask questions when there's an emergency. in year's passed, it's used to be "911, what's your emergency, based on your information, what's the address of your emergency."
But despite the facts, some still think having a cell phone at hand, can save you.
Willers points out, "Since you're not home anyway, you wouldn't have a land line during a car accident."
MY THOUGHTS
I belong to the 30%. I have lived with a landline for years and survived. Even landlines at the office don't get that much attention anymore. Except probably the local lines.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
APPLE SUES SAMSUNG
Apple Sues Samsung Over Galaxy Phones, Tablet
By Liane Cassavoy, About.com Guide April 19, 2011
Samsung's Galaxy line of smartphones and tablets have impressed reviewers and consumers alike, but a new lawsuit alleges that these devices infringe upon patents owned by Apple. The lawsuit, filed last week by Apple, claims that Samsung's mobile devices are "blatant" copies of Apple's iPhone and iPad.
The lawsuit, which was filed in the U.S. District Court of Northern California, accuses Samsung of copying the look and product design of the iPhone and iPad when creating the Android-based Galaxy line of smartphones and tablets.
The Wall Street Journal, which was the first to report on the lawsuit, quotes the 38-page filing as saying: "Rather than innovate and develop its own technology and a unique Samsung style for its smart phone products and computer tablets, Samsung chose to copy Apple's technology, user interface and innovative style in these infringing products."
Photo © T-Mobile
MY THOUGHTS
WDYT?
By Liane Cassavoy, About.com Guide April 19, 2011
Samsung's Galaxy line of smartphones and tablets have impressed reviewers and consumers alike, but a new lawsuit alleges that these devices infringe upon patents owned by Apple. The lawsuit, filed last week by Apple, claims that Samsung's mobile devices are "blatant" copies of Apple's iPhone and iPad.
The lawsuit, which was filed in the U.S. District Court of Northern California, accuses Samsung of copying the look and product design of the iPhone and iPad when creating the Android-based Galaxy line of smartphones and tablets.
The Wall Street Journal, which was the first to report on the lawsuit, quotes the 38-page filing as saying: "Rather than innovate and develop its own technology and a unique Samsung style for its smart phone products and computer tablets, Samsung chose to copy Apple's technology, user interface and innovative style in these infringing products."
Photo © T-Mobile
MY THOUGHTS
WDYT?
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
WHITE iPhone 4
White iPhone 4 Coming Soon?
By Liane Cassavoy, About.com Guide April 17, 2011
www.about.com
When Steve Jobs unveiled the iPhone 4 last year, he showed off a white version of the phone. Now, almost a year later, that white iPhone 4 may finally be about to hit the market. Numerous reports this week suggest that the white iPhone 4 will be available later this month.
When the iPhone 4 was released in June 2010, it was available in a black model only. At the time, Apple said the white version was delayed due to a manufacturing issue. At the time, it was expected that the delay would only last a few months -- but now, 10 months later, the white iPhone 4 remains unavailable.
But not for long, if these new reports prove true. Bloomberg reports that Apple will begin selling the white iPhone in "the next few weeks." That information is attributed to three unnamed sources with knowledge of the company's plans.
9to5Mac also is now reporting that the white iPhone has shown up in Apple's inventory and will be released "very soon."
Stay tuned.
MY THOUGHTS
Haven't we seen the white iPhone 4 already? Or was that casing?
By Liane Cassavoy, About.com Guide April 17, 2011
www.about.com
When Steve Jobs unveiled the iPhone 4 last year, he showed off a white version of the phone. Now, almost a year later, that white iPhone 4 may finally be about to hit the market. Numerous reports this week suggest that the white iPhone 4 will be available later this month.
When the iPhone 4 was released in June 2010, it was available in a black model only. At the time, Apple said the white version was delayed due to a manufacturing issue. At the time, it was expected that the delay would only last a few months -- but now, 10 months later, the white iPhone 4 remains unavailable.
But not for long, if these new reports prove true. Bloomberg reports that Apple will begin selling the white iPhone in "the next few weeks." That information is attributed to three unnamed sources with knowledge of the company's plans.
9to5Mac also is now reporting that the white iPhone has shown up in Apple's inventory and will be released "very soon."
Stay tuned.
MY THOUGHTS
Haven't we seen the white iPhone 4 already? Or was that casing?
Thursday, April 14, 2011
IPHONE 5
iPhone 5 to Get 8-Megapixel Camera?
By Liane Cassavoy, About.com Guide April 3, 2011
Apple's WWDC is still a few months off, but rumors already are beginning to swirl about what iPhone-related announcements the company is likely to make at the June event. The latest speculation is that Apple may announce an iPhone with an 8-megapixel camera, powered by a Sony sensor.
The rumors of a Sony-supplied camera gained steam last week when the Wall Street Journal's Walt Mossberg sat down with Sony CEO Howard Stringer at an event in New York. As reported by 9to5Mac, Sony's CEO made a comment about supplying cameras to Apple, but did not offer any firm details on what type of camera it would supply.
Another source, TheStreet.com, reported back in April 2010 that Apple had "picked Sony's 8-megapixel camera chip for the 2011 iPhone." The report says that information was obtained from "supply and manufacturing sources."
Nothing has been confirmed, but -- as 9to5Mac points out -- that same report from TheStreet.com correctly predicted that the iPhone 4, which had not been announced at that time, would contain a 5-megapixel camera.
MY THOUGHTS
It's never gonna end. It's your choice if you want to be sucked into these marketing ploys feeding on your constant desire to be "in". Or worse, to be always a step or 2 ahead of others.
By Liane Cassavoy, About.com Guide April 3, 2011
Apple's WWDC is still a few months off, but rumors already are beginning to swirl about what iPhone-related announcements the company is likely to make at the June event. The latest speculation is that Apple may announce an iPhone with an 8-megapixel camera, powered by a Sony sensor.
The rumors of a Sony-supplied camera gained steam last week when the Wall Street Journal's Walt Mossberg sat down with Sony CEO Howard Stringer at an event in New York. As reported by 9to5Mac, Sony's CEO made a comment about supplying cameras to Apple, but did not offer any firm details on what type of camera it would supply.
Another source, TheStreet.com, reported back in April 2010 that Apple had "picked Sony's 8-megapixel camera chip for the 2011 iPhone." The report says that information was obtained from "supply and manufacturing sources."
Nothing has been confirmed, but -- as 9to5Mac points out -- that same report from TheStreet.com correctly predicted that the iPhone 4, which had not been announced at that time, would contain a 5-megapixel camera.
MY THOUGHTS
It's never gonna end. It's your choice if you want to be sucked into these marketing ploys feeding on your constant desire to be "in". Or worse, to be always a step or 2 ahead of others.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
What is 4G wireless
Definition: What is 4G Wireless?
By Liane Cassavoy, About.com Guide
Definition:
4G wireless is the term used to describe the fourth-generation of wireless service. 4G is a step up from 3G, which is currently the most widespread, high-speed wireless service. 4G is only available in limited areas.
While all 4G service is called "4G," the underlying technology is not the same. Sprint, for example, uses WiMax technology for its 4G network, while Verizon Wireless uses a technology called Long Term Evolution, or LTE.
No matter what technology is behind it, 4G wireless is designed to deliver speed. On average, 4G wireless is supposed to be anywhere from four to ten times faster than today's 3G networks. Sprint says its 4G WiMax network can offer download speeds that are ten times faster than a 3G connection, with speeds that top out at 10 megabits per second. Verizon's LTE network, meanwhile, can deliver speeds between 5 mbps and 12 mbps.
Also Known As: Fourth-generation wireless service
MY THOUGHTS
Sometimes I look at the kids in the family and I wonder...how will they communicate with each other when they get to be our age today?
By Liane Cassavoy, About.com Guide
Definition:
4G wireless is the term used to describe the fourth-generation of wireless service. 4G is a step up from 3G, which is currently the most widespread, high-speed wireless service. 4G is only available in limited areas.
While all 4G service is called "4G," the underlying technology is not the same. Sprint, for example, uses WiMax technology for its 4G network, while Verizon Wireless uses a technology called Long Term Evolution, or LTE.
No matter what technology is behind it, 4G wireless is designed to deliver speed. On average, 4G wireless is supposed to be anywhere from four to ten times faster than today's 3G networks. Sprint says its 4G WiMax network can offer download speeds that are ten times faster than a 3G connection, with speeds that top out at 10 megabits per second. Verizon's LTE network, meanwhile, can deliver speeds between 5 mbps and 12 mbps.
Also Known As: Fourth-generation wireless service
MY THOUGHTS
Sometimes I look at the kids in the family and I wonder...how will they communicate with each other when they get to be our age today?
Thursday, April 7, 2011
WHAT IS A CELLPHONE HARD RESET
What Is a Hard Reset on Your BlackBerry?
This article explains what a hard reset is and why you might need one.
By Elise Hines, About.com Contributing Writer
Filed In:
Definition: A hard reset is when you remove the BlackBerry's battery and all connections to any other power sources (e.g., USB cable connected to a PC or a BlackBerry charger), and then replace the battery. This severs all network connections, forces the device to reboot, and can resolve many BlackBerry software issues.
Performing a hard reset is a typical troubleshooting step to resolve BlackBerry issues. If your BlackBerry is frozen or will not allow you to perform a soft reset, you should perform a hard reset. Rebooting your BlackBerry on a regular basis may help you avoid performing hard resets.
MY THOUGHTS
Looks like this is something you have to do no matter what kind of cellphone you have.
This article explains what a hard reset is and why you might need one.
By Elise Hines, About.com Contributing Writer
Filed In:
Definition: A hard reset is when you remove the BlackBerry's battery and all connections to any other power sources (e.g., USB cable connected to a PC or a BlackBerry charger), and then replace the battery. This severs all network connections, forces the device to reboot, and can resolve many BlackBerry software issues.
Performing a hard reset is a typical troubleshooting step to resolve BlackBerry issues. If your BlackBerry is frozen or will not allow you to perform a soft reset, you should perform a hard reset. Rebooting your BlackBerry on a regular basis may help you avoid performing hard resets.
MY THOUGHTS
Looks like this is something you have to do no matter what kind of cellphone you have.
Friday, April 1, 2011
JITTERBUG J: A CELL PHONE FOR YOUR FOLKS
Jitterbug J Review: Cell Phone Made Simple
About.com Rating 4 Star Rating
By Liane Cassavoy, About.com Guide
Cell phones don't get any easier to use than GreatCall's Jitterbug J. And that's the point: this cell phone is designed for folks who wouldn't typically use a mobile phone. It doesn't offer a lot in the way of extras -- you won't find a camera or a Web browser on this phone -- but what it does, the Jitterbug J does well.
The Jitterbug J is made by Samsung, and it's a quality-built phone. It's a flip style phone that feels compact yet sturdy in your hand. Available in red, white, or grey, the Jitterbug J measures 3.9 by 2.1 by 1.0 inches when closed. The exterior of the phone features a small monochrome display that shows you the date and time, or the number of incoming calls.
The phone flips open easily with one hand, thanks in part to the rubberized edging around the handset. Once it's open, you see the interior screen, which measures 2.1-inches diagonally, and the Jitterbug's marquee feature: its easy-to-use controls.
The number keys are big -- very big -- so as to easily viewed even by older folks and those with poor eyesight. The keys are backlit, too, making it easily to dial in dim light. Even though the keys are oversized, the Jitterbug J doesn't look cartoonish: it strikes a nice balance between appearance and usability.
Instead of typical phone controls, like send and end keys, the Jitterbug J has yes and no buttons. These make navigating the phone's features a snap. If you have a new message, for example, you're asked if you'd like to read it, and you can enter your response with one of the keys.
Making Calls
Voice quality varied in my test calls, with some calls sounding a bit hollow. I also noticed occasional static. Many of my calls were of very good quality, however, with voices coming through loud and clear on both ends of the line. I experienced no dropped calls during my tests.
Messaging
The Jitterbug J's messaging features are simple, but straightforward, just like the phone itself. The phone can send and receive text messages, but not picture or video messages; you'll have to view those online. Composing text messages can be a chore on the Jitterbug J's numeric keypad, but the phone does include some automatic replies that you can use, such as "Call me" or "Thank you."
Extra Services
The Jitterbug J doesn't run any of the typical apps or extras you'll find on many of today's cell phones. There are no games, no Web browser, no email. What you will find instead is a unique collection of services that are designed for the folks most likely to use the Jitterbug J.
Available options include The Check-in Call, which allows an operator to call you at pre-set times to check up on your well-being; LiveNurse, which gives you 24/7 access to registered nurses; The Wellness Call, which delivers a 4-5 minute motivational weekly call designed to improve your health and reduce stress; Daily Health Tips, which delivers suggestions for a healthy lifestyle; and Medication Reminder, which deliver automated reminder calls. GreatCall also offers services that let you check weather and news, and a calendar service.
Bottom Line
The Jitterbug J isn't for everyone. It's not the latest or greatest smartphone. It's not the best phone for anyone who uses text messaging more than casually. It lacks a camera and a Web browser. But for older folks and anyone who's looking for a basic cell phone that's drop-dead simple to use, the Jitterbug J will be a hard to top.
MY THOUGHTS
If you think your folks would feel more comfortable (and confident) with this phone, here's what it looks like (if you haven't seen it yet) -
About.com Rating 4 Star Rating
By Liane Cassavoy, About.com Guide
Cell phones don't get any easier to use than GreatCall's Jitterbug J. And that's the point: this cell phone is designed for folks who wouldn't typically use a mobile phone. It doesn't offer a lot in the way of extras -- you won't find a camera or a Web browser on this phone -- but what it does, the Jitterbug J does well.
The Jitterbug J is made by Samsung, and it's a quality-built phone. It's a flip style phone that feels compact yet sturdy in your hand. Available in red, white, or grey, the Jitterbug J measures 3.9 by 2.1 by 1.0 inches when closed. The exterior of the phone features a small monochrome display that shows you the date and time, or the number of incoming calls.
The phone flips open easily with one hand, thanks in part to the rubberized edging around the handset. Once it's open, you see the interior screen, which measures 2.1-inches diagonally, and the Jitterbug's marquee feature: its easy-to-use controls.
The number keys are big -- very big -- so as to easily viewed even by older folks and those with poor eyesight. The keys are backlit, too, making it easily to dial in dim light. Even though the keys are oversized, the Jitterbug J doesn't look cartoonish: it strikes a nice balance between appearance and usability.
Instead of typical phone controls, like send and end keys, the Jitterbug J has yes and no buttons. These make navigating the phone's features a snap. If you have a new message, for example, you're asked if you'd like to read it, and you can enter your response with one of the keys.
Making Calls
Voice quality varied in my test calls, with some calls sounding a bit hollow. I also noticed occasional static. Many of my calls were of very good quality, however, with voices coming through loud and clear on both ends of the line. I experienced no dropped calls during my tests.
Messaging
The Jitterbug J's messaging features are simple, but straightforward, just like the phone itself. The phone can send and receive text messages, but not picture or video messages; you'll have to view those online. Composing text messages can be a chore on the Jitterbug J's numeric keypad, but the phone does include some automatic replies that you can use, such as "Call me" or "Thank you."
Extra Services
The Jitterbug J doesn't run any of the typical apps or extras you'll find on many of today's cell phones. There are no games, no Web browser, no email. What you will find instead is a unique collection of services that are designed for the folks most likely to use the Jitterbug J.
Available options include The Check-in Call, which allows an operator to call you at pre-set times to check up on your well-being; LiveNurse, which gives you 24/7 access to registered nurses; The Wellness Call, which delivers a 4-5 minute motivational weekly call designed to improve your health and reduce stress; Daily Health Tips, which delivers suggestions for a healthy lifestyle; and Medication Reminder, which deliver automated reminder calls. GreatCall also offers services that let you check weather and news, and a calendar service.
Bottom Line
The Jitterbug J isn't for everyone. It's not the latest or greatest smartphone. It's not the best phone for anyone who uses text messaging more than casually. It lacks a camera and a Web browser. But for older folks and anyone who's looking for a basic cell phone that's drop-dead simple to use, the Jitterbug J will be a hard to top.
MY THOUGHTS
If you think your folks would feel more comfortable (and confident) with this phone, here's what it looks like (if you haven't seen it yet) -
 |
| from about.com |
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)