Nextel i305 built to last

CNY Business Journal (1996+), Jun 04, 2004 by Dickinson, Casey J

SYRACUSE - Some wireless-users can be a bit rough on their phones. Contractors, builders, and construction workers put wireless phones to the test on job sites every day, sometimes with disastrous results. The Motorola-built Nextel i305 might help these hardcore users keep the same phone a while longer. The rubber-armored phone has all the features of other Nextel models but is built to military specifications for shock, dust, and rain resistance. The i305 meets the military standard 81OF for protection against the elements and heavyduty use.

If the i305 is built to withstand the rigors of military users, a few job-site drops shouldn't reduce it to a pile of electronic parts. While the rubber coating secures the phone against moisture and shock, it also ensures a solid grip, making drops less likely than with a slick plastic model. its water resistance can help ensure that a small spill doesn't become a big problem for a contractor left without a phone for a day or two.

SIM-card technology allows i305 users to switch to a new phone immediately should the phone fail. The data cards hold the phone's identity and can quickly be transferred to a new model. Some users have one model for work and another for play, switching the SIM card between units as needed.

The i305 fits comfortably in the hand and features a large display for viewing numbers or information from the Web. Rubber covers protect the slots for charging and the unit's earphone jack. A button on the front of the phone turns on the speaker for handsfree talk. The side-mounted volume control and direct-connect buttons are easily operated.

The i305's military heritage was apparent to security officers at Canada's Parliament buildings during a cross-border test of a pair of the phones. Upon spotting the rugged-looking i305 on the X-ray screen, the phones got a thorough going over.

"Is this some type of walkie-talkie?" one officer inquired before telling us we'd have to keep the devices turned off inside the building.

The i305's Global Positioning System (GPS) function mysteriously failed to acquire any GPS, satellites aroundOttawa's Parliament buildings, though it worked fine elsewhere in the city.

Nextel's key direct-connect, walkie-talkie feature now works across the Western hemisphere. Users can stay in contact across several countries using the push-to-talk feature. After crossing the border into Canada, the only difference in function was the appearance of the Telus name below Nextel on the phone's display. Last month, Nextel extended its 'Direct Connect walkie-talkie service to include Canada, Brazil, Argentina, and Peru. Nextel will add all of Mexico to its International Direct Connect later this year.

The i305 may not be the most fashionable phone around, but fashion isn't always on the mind of those who use phones for work. Nextel's marketing materials boast that the phones are designed to match work ethics rather than work outfits. For contractors, construction workers, and police officers, the solid-looking i305 will match their outfits nicely.