That's because the digital systems are still under construction in parts of the country. The so-called dead zones, where the signal doesn't go through, cause the problem. The solution can be as simple as moving over a few feet and calling the person back, but the experience is still annoying. Nevertheless, phone companies like digital best because it can carry more calls simultaneously than do analog wireless systems. Digital adds benefits like clearer sound than analog's and the capability for services like voice mail and call waiting.
Road warriors are willing to put up with the negatives for the convenience.
With the new cheaper rates, bosses are happy, too, come expense-report time. Home users may not be willing to give up their regular phones but can still save money with cheap long-distance rates. Most new wireless users spend about 80 minutes a month for essential calls, reports the Strategis Group, a communications consulting group. Ripke, who buys 1,500 minutes a month, said her wireless phone helps her keep in touch with family in North Carolina and Wisconsin. I call without having to worry about what I'm going to owe this month.