I've been meaning to blog this for a while now.  I needed a cell phone that is Delhi-based, and looked around for options.  What i really wanted was a cell phone that allowed me to connect to the internet as well - a better alternative to a dial-up connection. And i found the Reliance CDMA 1X option.  I've tried to connect to the internet with the USB cable and the serial port - the USB cable works like a dream - the serial port connection leaves a lot to be deisred.

Had some teething problems with the dealer who fobbed off 'pirated' cables to me - and the handset - LG RD 2030 - isn't very nice - and it came without a microphone in it !

It all works now though :):):).

Some real delights in using this :

- much faster connection speeds than i get on my dsl link back in Bombay - which is through Powersurfer, originally owned by the Electricity board - BSES, and recently taken over by Reliance.  As a result, much faster processing and far better communication capabilities - webcam and Skype - two of the key tools i use for sense of presence work so well.  I need to get one of these (see pic of usb port) now ! 

- the ability to be mobile and connected, anywhere-anytime-alwayson, not dependent on wifi or the availability of hotsposts - wow that was a real experience - sitting in a cafe and making international calls through Skype on my laptop, downloading mail at the airport, blogging under the shade of  a tree in the garden ...

- and it doesn't cost the earth - Rs. 24 (approx. 50 cents) an hour

Now the news that Skype goes mobile - wow this is getting to be really exciting times !

Update : as i blog this piece - the electricity here has gone off - it happens frequently in summer in Delhi.  The nice thing is i am still able to connect to the internet thru the CDMA phone :).