Thank you for being a valued part of the CNET community. As of December 1, 2020, the forums are in read-only format. In early 2021, CNET Forums will no longer be available. We are grateful for the participation and advice you have provided to one another over the years.

Thanks,

CNET Support

Question

How to use a cell phone to dial out from an analog device

by Feb 2, 2013 10:49AM PST

Hi,
I have a device that has an analog modem built into it that will self dial out at a programed time. The device was designed to connect to an analog/traditional hardwired phone line. It would listen for a dial tone then dial a number, listen for the handshake and down load the data that is on the server.

I no longer have a land line and I am trying to find something that will some how allow this device to connect to the Internet/server via its dial up but using a cell phone.

Is that even possible? I did find a device that the specs said that it was designed to do that but I don't think it is actually on the market.

If anyone knows if this is possible and then if they could point me in the right direction I would appreciate it.
Thank you.

Discussion is locked

6 Posts
- Collapse + Expand Details
- Collapse -
Answer
Re: modem
by Forum moderator Feb 2, 2013 9:00PM PST

I'm afraid that isn't possible. Time for plan B.

Kees

- Collapse -
modem reply by Kees
by lichael Feb 2, 2013 11:41PM PST

Thank you for your reply.
I am just a layman so excuse the question.
Do you know the technology behind why this wouldn't work?
Thank you in advance.

- Collapse -
Just a few reasons.
by r. proffitt Forum moderator Feb 2, 2013 11:48PM PST

First off it doesn't have the circuitry to connect to a plain old telephone line. So we're stopped right there. Is there more to your story why you want to do this or is this the old why can't it be done question that you can ask of anyone?

If you need more answers to this, try it at the usual cell phone stores. If it was possible they would sell it to you.

I know of that link 2 cell system, but your question is not about that. As an electronics designer I'm sure that we can design something that will fix the issue but my bet is that cost is an issue. That is, a new design seems to run nearly a million. It may be time to replace that device?
Bob

- Collapse -
reply to Just a few reasons
by lichael Feb 3, 2013 7:38AM PST

HI Bob,
Thanks for your reply. I am asking for a reason and not just "why?"
The device I have does have the capability to connect to a standard phone line and still work.
The service that it is registered with is paid for for a long period of time and I can not get a refund.
So, I would like to still use it if possible.

I did find a piece of equipment that will allow the device to dial out on a cell phone.
It is Xtreme Technologies Xlink BT Bluetooth Gateway
But I think even thought the device dials out on the cell it must be missing something more.
I am just a lay person, but I am thinking that because the device is analog and the cell is digital there is a missing piece.

I found a device called the WireX by e-device but I don't know if it really exists.

You are correct that funds are a concern and yes I am considering the possibility of replacing the device.
I am just trying to investigate all options before loosing the contract money that I have already invested.
Thanks again.

- Collapse -
Here's the link 2 cell system.
by r. proffitt Forum moderator Feb 3, 2013 8:18AM PST
- Collapse -
Answer
dial tone presenter for cell phone?
by Feb 5, 2013 7:31AM PST

There is a device that does just that. Ask your carrier. Most of them now have a device that lets you use your cellular account as a home phone line! You can actually plug an old style touch tone wired phone. You get a dial tone and can dial out just as if you had a landline.

Back to How To forum

CNET Forums

Operating Systems
Software
Electronics & Gadgets
Hardware
Tablets & Mobile Devices
General Help
Brand Forums
Roadshow Autos
Off Topic

Other Forums

Forum Info