How to Interface a Desktop Phone to a Cell Phone

Cell phones can interface with desktop computers, allowing for exchange of photos, music and contacts.

Cell phones serve as a multimedia hub playing music, recording and playing videos, and shooting and displaying photos. This multimedia is available through various outlets and methods, including interfacing with a desktop PC. PC owners create their own personal photos and videos, and download music from the Web. Transferring this media to a cell phone requires extra equipment and software, not standard for a cell phone or desktop PC. Fortunately, these accessories are readily available and straightforward in learning how to set up.

Instructions

1. Purchase a USB data cable that includes the cell phone driver and synching software on a CD. Ensure the software is compatible with the cell phone and the desktop operating system, and also match the brand and model number. The cost of the cable and software is about $40. Go directly to the manufacturer's website to find cables sold as accessories for the cell phone. Also visit a local electronics retailer or any online marketplace site, such as Amazon or Ebay, to find cell phone cables and software developed by third-party companies.

2. Insert the software CD into the desktop computer before inserting the USB cable. Follow the intuitive installation instructions on the computer screen. The wizard will install both the driver and synching software.

3. Connect the USB cable to the cell phone and to the desktop computer's USB port when prompted by the software installation wizard. Continue to follow the instructions and be ready to unplug and plug the cable, and restart the cell phone and desktop PC if prompted.

4. Click on the synching program's icon after installation is complete. You should see an animated icon near the system time-clock on the desktop PC and the charging indicator on the cell phone should shows activity. Follow the synching programs help and tutorial instructions to transfer music, photos, and videos.

Tips & Warnings

• If the software CD only includes drivers, but no synching program, then visit the cell phone manufacturer's website or a third-party developer to find compatible downloads.

• If the included driver and synching software CD is obsolete, your cell phone interface with your desktop PC may not occur. Visit the cell phone or cable manufacturer's website for updated software.

References

• CNET Reviews--Weekend Project: Sync Your Cell Phone With Your Computer
• CNET Reviews--Weekend Project: Sync Your Cell Phone With Your Computer--"Install the Software"

Resources

• CNET Reviews: Sync with Your Cell
• Samsung: PC Studio