Cellular phones have taken over communications. With them we conduct international business as well as call home to see what's for dinner--or what to pick up for dinner. Fortunately, they are virtually trouble free. Even so, there are things you can do to keep them that way.

How Does It Work?

First, check the cell phone owner's manual for troubleshooting tips.

A cellular phone (hand-held mobile phone) is a small, portable telephone with a built-in antenna. The phone is recharged by plugging it into a household electrical outlet or from a car battery by connection through the cigarette lighter unit.

The mobile telephone (vehicle-mounted mobile phone) connects by radio signals to a nearby base station in what's called a cell. Each cell varies in size depending on the number of callers in the cell. As the mobile phone moves from one cell to another, it automatically connects to the base station in the next cell. Each base station then sends the call to a mobile exchange, which connects to a main exchange in the network.

Fix-It Tip

Cell phones can be recycled. If you decide to replace a working cell phone (perhaps to change providers), you may be able to donate your phone to be used as an emergency-only phone for a homeless or low-income individual or family. Ask your service provider.

What Can Go Wrong?

Most cell phones have unusual fasteners to discourage you from opening up the case.

Actually, there's not much that can go wrong with a cell phone--at least not much you can fix. Most cell phones are purchased or leased under contract with a cellular service provider, so needed repairs are done by the contractor, not the consumer. And with the cost of cell phones going down every day, it's often cheaper to replace the unit rather than repair it. In most cases, cell phone problems are caused by a low battery, a damaged charger, or by mishandling--such as dropping the phone out the window of a car.

Caution!

The most important maintenance you can do is keep your cell phone dry because moisture can corrode electronic circuits very quickly. Cell phones are difficult to dry out. Don't take your cell in the pool.

How Can I Identify the Problem?

In most cases, your cell phone will either work or it won't. It may be a problem of signal strength, easily tested by trying to call from another location. More often, it's a battery problem. If the battery will not hold a charge, try discharging the battery entirely by leaving it disconnected from the charger unit. If the phone still will not maintain a charge, the problem could be with either the phone or the charger unit, and professional service from your provider will be necessary. There is little else you can do to repair a cell phone.

Fix-It Tip

At least once a week, wipe your cell phone clean with a soft cloth slightly dampened in a mild household cleaner. Alternately, carefully spray the unit with a disinfectant to reduce germs. Make sure you don't get the mouth or ear holes wet.