Using the Battery

AboutYour Batteries

Your TDMA digital StarTAC™ phone can use either Lithium Ion (LiIon) or Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries. Batteries are available in these sizes:

Slim, Standard, and Extra Capacity.

Your phone can use two batteries at the same time. You can use:

•any single main or auxiliary battery or

•a main and auxiliary battery combination

to fit your needs. You can even extend your talk- time by attaching an auxiliary battery at any time, without interrupting your call.

Battery Talk-Time and Standby-Time

Talk-timeis the time you can talk on your phone before the battery is fully discharged. Standby-timeis the time your phone is on but not used for talking.

Notes:

•Talking on the phone uses more power than leaving it idle. The more power you use for talking, the less you’ll have for standby-time, and vice-versa.

•All times are approximate and depend on the battery used, network configuration, signal strength, and the features selected.

•Talk and standby times are lower in analog mode.

•Your phone operates more efficiently in Digital mode. If the icon is displayed in the lower left corner, your phone’s

Batteries

15

Page 14 Page 16
Page 15
Image 15
Motorola StarTAC specifications Using the Battery, AboutYour Batteries, Battery Talk-Time and Standby-Time
Page 14 Page 16

StarTAC specifications

The Motorola StarTAC, released in 1996, is widely regarded as the first truly "compact" mobile phone and a significant innovation in mobile telecommunication technology. Its clamshell design set it apart from its predecessors, allowing users to easily carry it in a pocket while protecting the keypad and screen. This design not only enhanced portability but also delivered a unique aesthetic appeal that became iconic.

One of the standout features of the StarTAC was its lightweight construction, weighing approximately 145 grams, which was remarkably light for a mobile phone at the time. The dimensions of the device made it one of the smallest mobile phones available, measuring just 3.1 x 6.1 x 1.2 inches. The StarTAC’s size and style contributed to its popularity among business professionals and fashion-forward individuals alike.

In terms of technology, the Motorola StarTAC operated on the first-generation (1G) analog network. This was one of the earliest mobile technologies available, offering basic voice call capabilities but lacking data transmission services. It utilized Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA) to manage calls, allowing multiple users to share the same frequency without interference. The analog technology provided high-quality voice clarity, which was a significant improvement over radio communication systems.

The device featured a limited but functional monochrome LCD display, which indicated signal strength, battery life, and caller ID. Additionally, the StarTAC was equipped with a customizable ringtone feature, allowing users to choose from a variety of pre-set tones, adding a personal touch to the mobile experience.

Battery life was another highlight, with the capacity to provide up to 100 hours of standby time and around 30 to 60 minutes of talk time, which was sufficient for users of that era. The phone's battery could be swapped, ensuring that users could replace it easily as needed.

User-friendly and intuitive, the Motorola StarTAC also offered features like voice dialing and a caller ID function, which were quite innovative during its time. Its combination of style, portability, and reliable performance made the StarTAC a trendsetter that paved the way for future mobile phone designs and technologies. The StarTAC is not just a phone; it is a historical landmark in the evolution of mobile communication, demonstrating how innovation can reshape user experience and interaction.
Top Page Image Contents