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911
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Posted by: thefez1

I have considered replcing my landline several times but I like the peace of mind of having the ability to call 911 and have them trace my location if I ever needed it. Will cell phones ever have a similar ability or do they already?

Posted by: Telekom

Quote:

Originally posted by thefez1
I have considered replcing my landline several times but I like the peace of mind of having the ability to call 911 and have them trace my location if I ever needed it. Will cell phones ever have a similar ability or do they already?

Yes, mobiles will have this capability eventually. Most carriers are now charging a "programs" fee for this and for WNP. I'm not sure when the mandated time is that the systems are supposed to be done, but it's there. Also the reporting agencies have to get their equipment ready for it as well.

Posted by: saa001

Check with your local police department. Some of them have a good start with wirless location on 911 calls. The area where I live has several provideers alreay up and running. Also their dispatch center has a map that will help locate the caller. They usually give a location within a certain radius along with a probablility.

In the next several years look for just about every PSAP (public safety answering position) to have this capability.

Posted by: Gibbonboy

I don't know where you are, but Pennsylvania has just started a push toward Phase II in every PSAP. Currently, we are one of less than five, out of a total of 67 counties, who accept Phase II information, and can process it.
Keep in mind that any provider using a GPS handset solution will not be able to provide a location of an indoor caller. A network solution (triangulation) will only work well where there are enough sites to acquire a reliable fix.
We've been lucky to get grant money to upgrade our systems, but many counties are struggling to keep their wireline 911 systems current, and can't spare much for wireless. Several lawsuits have been filed claiming misuse of wireless 911 surcharges.
Location information varies with conditions and provider, but it sure beats trying to get someone who can't even tell you which state they're in to give you their exact location. And a callback number is handy for those who insist on sitting on their phones with no keyguard turned on, or keeping *9 emergency dialling activated.
Personally, I have VOIP at my house, which provides no location information to the PSAP. Luckily, the dispatchers all know exactly where I live. I wouldn't rely on location information being widely available to PSAP's for at least 3-5 years.

Posted by: asjeep

i called 911 the other night as i was driving down the highway (drunk driver)

911 knew what intersection i was passing......

my unit has gps built in....wonderful thing

Posted by: Telekom

Quote:

Originally posted by asjeep
i called 911 the other night as i was driving down the highway (drunk driver)

911 knew what intersection i was passing......

my unit has gps built in....wonderful thing

Since you list no information at all for yourself what carrier and what phone?

Posted by: asjeep

sorry i am with verizon, and it was a vx4400....

but i have since had to xfer to cricket here in denver, as verizon cxld my dealer demo plan......

i am selling the vx4400 in the forums should anyone be interested... wonderful phone, i'm gonna miss it..... i hate the kyocera rave.... uggg but we all have bears to cross