What are the pros and cons of digital vs. analog vs. PCS technology for cellular phones?
A. When cellular phones first started being used, almost 2 decades ago, analog was the only available network technology. This means that cellular phone calls were being made on a frequency level of 800 or 900 MHz, with an operating standard referred to as either AMPS (Advanced Mobile Phone Service), or NAMPS (Narrowband Advanced Mobile Phone System), which combines cellular voice processing and digital signaling. Although analog is the oldest form of transmitting cellular signals and hence the least sophisticated, it still allows for broad, nationwide coverage for its users. But, having nationwide coverage also has its downside, and that is the fact that airtime rates are becoming higher for analog users. Analog currently provides better coverage in rural areas because of the 15 plus years build-out. Voice quality in general is good, but can be prone to static and dropped calls. Police scanners can intercept calls making security an issue.
