Cell Phone Tips for Court Reporters

Court reporters really need their cell phones!!  But do you remember when cell phones were called “car phones” and were mounted in your car?  Even before that they were the size of a large purse or tote bag that you lugged around, that is, if you could afford one.  Now they are these sleek devices that have everything we need.  Reporters can even use the Wood & Randall app to check their calendar, pay sheets, etc.  And the thought of losing your cell phone is frightening and could really impact your daily business.  I recently saw some information that I wanted to share with my fellow reporters.   

Need help in an emergency?  We can all dial 911 locally in an emergency, but on a worldwide basis, or even when you are outside your service area, you can dial 112 and you will be connected to local emergency services.  This will even work if your keypad is locked. 

Forget to recharge the cell phone?  Press the keys *#4720#.  This will lower the sound quality and give you longer battery life.

Worried about a lost or stolen cell phone?  First, check your cell phone’s serial number.  To do that, key in the digits *#06#.  A 15-digit code will appear on the screen. This number is unique to your handset. Write it down and keep it somewhere safe.  If your phone is stolen, you can phone your service provider and give them this code. They will then be able to block your handset so even if a thief changes the SIM card, your phone will be totally useless. You probably won’t get your phone back, but at least you know that whoever stole it can’t use/sell it either. 

Do you use directory assistance on a regular basis?  We have all noticed those charges on our cell phone bills.  McDonald’s has sponsored a program that allows cell phone users to dial 1-800-FREE-411 or 1-800-373-3411 for free directory assistance.  You will still be charged for placing a call like you would be for any call you would make, but you will not be charged the extra fee for directory assistance.  

Just dropped your cell phone in water?  We’ve all done that before.  Right?  Pull the battery out and dry it off as best you can and put it in a container of uncooked rice and leave it for several hours.  It just might save the day.