Troubleshooting

Before Calling For Service

Is the phone locked?

See Electronic Lock, page 39.

Is NS (No Service) lit?

See “Start-up Status Indicators” on page 5.

Have you charged the battery?

Refer to “Prepare the Battery for Initial Use” on page 1 for charging instructions.

Have you programmed a unique operating mode?

Constant flashing of RM while in your home service area may indicate that an incompatible System Type has been selected. Refer to “Reviewing / Changing Scanning Mode” on page 45.

Is the phone operating with non-standard settings?

You may have inadvertently selected improper operating characteristics. See Feature Menu, page 32.

Have you selected the wrong home system?

If your phone is programmed for Two-System Operation

(see page 44), press RCL , to display the active telephone number.

Are new MicroTAC accessories not working with older MicroTAC phones?

Because of increased charging capabilities designed into your new MicroTAC phone, some accessories that plug into the data connector will not fit older versions of MicroTAC phones.

NOTE Older versions of MicroTAC charging accessories that plug into the data connector may not charge new

MicroTAC phones.

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Motorola MicroTAC owner manual Troubleshooting, Before Calling For Service

MicroTAC specifications

The Motorola MicroTAC, introduced in 1989, is an iconic mobile phone that set the stage for the evolution of modern cellular technology. Known for its innovative design, the MicroTAC was one of the first truly portable mobile phones, demonstrating how far telecommunications had come since the bulky models of earlier decades.

One of the standout features of the MicroTAC was its flip design, which allowed the phone to be compact when closed and easy to carry. When opened, the phone revealed a numeric keypad and a small monochrome display, which provided essential functions and caller ID information. This flip mechanism not only contributed to its portability but also protected the keypad and screen from damage when not in use.

The MicroTAC was notable for its lightweight plastic casing, which made it significantly lighter than its contemporaries. Weighing just under 250 grams, it was a remarkable feat of engineering at the time. The phone had a unique “antenna-in-handle” design, which contributed to its sleek appearance while also optimizing signal reception. This innovation was part of Motorola’s effort to make mobile communication accessible and convenient.

In terms of battery life, the MicroTAC featured a rechargeable NiCd battery that provided several hours of talk time. While modern smartphones boast days of battery life, the MicroTAC was considered admirable for its time, allowing users the freedom to communicate on the go without frequent recharges.

The Motorola MicroTAC operated on analog networks, specifically using the Advanced Mobile Phone System (AMPS). This technology allowed for a clearer voice transmission and was crucial in the early days of mobile communication, enabling users to connect in various environments where fixed lines were impractical.

Additionally, the MicroTAC boasted features like call waiting, auto redial, and a phone book capable of storing multiple contacts—a considerable leap forward from earlier mobile devices.

Despite its simplicity compared to modern smartphones, the Motorola MicroTAC laid the groundwork for future mobile technologies and design principles. Its combination of portability, innovative engineering, and user-friendly features solidified Motorola's reputation as a leader in telecommunications. The MicroTAC remains a nostalgic symbol of the early mobile telephony era and a testament to the foundational technologies that paved the way for today's devices.