How to Re-Program a Cell Phone to Be Used With Another Satellite

CDMA cell phones need tower updates from time to time and area to area.

Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) phones, such as those on the Verizon and Sprint networks, need to be updated so they know what towers they can connect to. These updates, which should typically be performed every three months or so, are called preferred roaming list (or PRL) updates. The update period shortens when a user travels away from his home coverage area regularly. Performing the PRL update is a simple process that keeps you going with the best coverage possible.

Things You'll Need

• CDMA mobile phone

Instructions

For Verizon Devices

1. Power on your Verizon Wireless device.

2. Enter into your dialer application if on a smart phone; on simple phones, simply begin dialing. Enter *228 and press "Send."

3. Listen to the automated prompts and press "2" once you hear the option to update roaming capabilities.

4. Allow the process time to complete. Typically this takes up to two minutes. Do not hang up or power down the phone during this process.

5. Listen and watch for confirmation that the process has completed. If the device restarts, allow it to.

For other CDMA phones (Sprint, US Cellular, etc.)

1. Power on the device.

2. Enter the device's menu.

3. Locate "Settings" and enter that portion of the menu.

4. Search for "About Phone" or simply "Update."

5. Select "PRL Update" once in this portion of the menu.

Tips & Warnings

• If the process fails, you may retry at a later point in time. This feature is available 24/7.

References

• personal experience

Resources

• Verizon FAQs: PRL updates
• Sprint Users: What is a PRL Update?