DIY Cellular Networks
In the May/June 2010 issue of MIT Technology Review, there’s an article on building your own cellular network. You thought only cellular providers had the ability to offer such service, right? Well, thanks to an open source project called OpenBTS, you can too, and it doesn’t have to cost a lot.
The article is reproduced at the Technology Review website and goes into detail about why and how you would create a custom cellular network. The OpenBTS system saves considerable costs by eliminating typical hardware needs and using VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol). In particular, it uses the open source Asterisk software.
The interesting thing about the OpenBTS setup is that users of a custom cellular network can reach each other even if the system is not connected to the Internet. But an internet connection is required to reach anyone outside of the local network. As a result, this setup is often useful for outdoor events, on oil rigs, in other remote areas. It’s based on GSM technology, so only GSM phones can use this system. (Since GSM is the most widely used cellular communications standard, that’s not a big problem for most people worldwide.) The only drawback is that certain frequencies have to be used which might interfere with commercial carriers and thus be prohibited in some countries, including the U.S.
Samsung Galaxy Spica Joins the Android Crowd
Android (ver. Android 1.5)Aside from the Nexus One, another Android Phone just debut, this time at the CES 2010 event. Samsung has launched its latest Android phone called the Samsung Galaxy Spica.
The Samsung Galaxy Spica boasts of a slim and compact form factor and with its Android platform gives you seamless connectivity and access to various Google such as Gmail, Maps, Google Search and more. It also supports popular social networking sites including Facebook and MySpace. This phone is loaded with an 800 MHZ processor and supports DivX. Of course you can also download various applications from the Android market.
This Android phone also features DNSe 2.0 that provides better sound quality. For your listening the Galaxy Spica has a 3.5mm ear jack.
Complete specs of the Samsung Galaxy Spica are as follow:
- Android (ver. Android 1.5)
- 3.2” HVGA(320×480) TFT Display
- 3MP autofocus camera
- 180MB Internal Memory
- microSD expansion card
- video and audio playback
The Samsung Galaxy Spica is a HSDPA 3.6Mbps (900/2100)
EDGE/GPRS (850/900/1800/1900) phone. It runs on 1500 mAh battery. While this maybe a nice Android device, the Samsung Galaxy Spica is still not as feature-packed as the Nexus One. Unfortunately, pricing and release date of this Android phone are still unknown. Although, we’re pretty much sure that it will be much cheaper than the Nexus One.
Motorola and AT&T Brings the MOTO Q9h to U.S. Mobile Market
AT&T customers have a new option when shopping for their mobile devices at AT&T retail stores; Motorola’’s MOTO 9Qh is now available at AT&T retail stores for $199. With various AT&T data plans. The MOTO Q9h is a 3-G powered smart device with worldwide capabilities.
The MOTO Q9h, like all the other Motorola mobile devices, looks sleeker than ever with its svelte and eye-catching, ultra-thin design with high-end finishes that includes exquisite materials and soft touch materials that adds to its seductive features. With the MOTO Q9h, Motorola has really done well in the looks department of its mobile devices. By its eye-candy appearance alone, you would surely want to have this mobile phone.
But before you go to your nearest AT&T retail stores, here’’s a summary of the key features of the MOTO Q9h to help you decide whether to get this phone or try out something else:
KEY Features of the MOTO Q9h
- The MOTO Q9h is equipped with HSDPA technology that will let you have download speeds of as fast as 3.6 Mbps when connecting to the internet with a flick of a button. When connected to the internet, you”ll have push email capabilities to send and receive corporate Microsoft Exchange email, fast internet browsing, high-speed music downloads, video streaming and casting. You can stay connected even while you do your other errands, or connect immediately whenever you need to check important emails wherever you may be.
- Motorola’’s latest mobile phones have always been known to emit fun and excitement with is dynamic and vibrant features. The MOTO Q9h embodies these features by blending functionality and entertainment in one unique device. Its entertainment features will keep you company during lull and boring moments. The MOTO Q9h has an integrated 2.0 camera which lets you capture precious moments. It is integrated with Window’’s Media Player that has access to over 200 music libraries. You can enjoy your favorite mp3′’s via any Bluetooth stereo headsets even when you are answering important calls. Downloading music and data files is not a problem as well since the MOTO Q9h supports USB 2.0 for faster transfer of files from your PC to your MOTO Q9h’’s SD card. Make sure to get the 2GB microSD card so that you can download your favorite music video and enjoy watching it with 30 frames per second.
- With a clear 320×240 display and a full-blown optimized QWERTY keyboard which allows you to type out emails, SMS, notes, presentations and more, the MOTO Q9h is almost your portable PC with phone functionality. The MOTO Q9h’’s smooth lighting transitions even lets you read clearly even when in an environment that has poor lighting.
Ok now, is the right time to rush out to your nearest AT&T retail stores.