Wal-Mart Site states C168i won't work in this area

[scubarx]

Wal-Mart's site asks for a zip code when you access the Motorola C168i.

It then gives the following message:


Warning: The following cell phone model is not operable in the ZIP code you've entered, 38801. Find phones that operate in your area

OR check this phone for a match in a different ZIP code:

AT&T Prepaid Motorola C168i Paygo Phone


Any ideas as to why? Is this a common problem? Any other choices for a phone?

I had hoped to use this as a tracker in my travel trailer as a theft recovery device, but it would obviously need to work anywhere (at least in the USA.)

SL

[Mike]

The C168i is a dual band phone. If AT&T has coverage in your area, it will work.
Go ahead and buy it.

Mike

[scubarx]

Thanks, Mike

Most helpful....

I'm very impressed with your design. Hoping to do something soon. There seems to be a rash of travel trailers being stolen, particularly the fiberglass egg types. Since they all look so much alike, it makes recovery all the more difficult. My plan would be to install a unit somewhere hidden away inside. Power to the phone would not be a problem as it could be wired in permanently. What about power to the circuit board itself? Does it have to run on batterys?

Thanks,

Steve

[Mike]

Just hook the 5-volt phone charger power to the input of the tracker's regulator. That will run it fine. You can use a couple of Schottky diodes to switch between battery and external power, too.