I have seen references to using *228. Just what does this do and why and when should I use it?
It is used to initially program the device opt 1, and it can be used to update the PRL list (cell tower addresses) on the device.
I had to call VZW yesterday with anissue and she walked me through calling *228 from my cell. She said I should do this once a week to update my phone with local towers.
Not sure about once a week, but after any upgrade you should allow VZW to re-program for both *228 Option 1 and *228 Option 2
I thought once a week was too often as well, just what she told me to do to insure I always had the latest list of tower updates. Could be because I live in an area where VZW was not here until they took over Alltel and they are still switching over towers in my area.
*228 is used to update your Preferred Roaming List (PRLs) and to activate devices. Use *228 to update your PRL about once a month. Once a week is overkill.
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Thank you James for clarifying. I thought once a week was too much when the VZW rep told me that yesterday.
I just tried to use the *228 and it said that this feature is not available use *611. Without going to *611 (whatever that is) why would this feature not be available?
just did the *228, option #2, on my droid and it worked fine. i read on another board, about doing it monthly and especially after a software update. most say it improves the signal. mine did go from the usual 1 bar that i usually get at home to 3 bars, but it has only been an hour, so don't know long term effects.
The facts are, *228 option 1 does initial program AND option 2 (PRL Update). Option 1 only needs to be done when initially activated or reactivated. Option 2 that retrieves the newest PRL's should be done every 2-3 months, so vzw says. But I do it more often. For Smartphone / PPC owners, per vzw Data support, it's OK. If not recommended to do Opt. 1 as often as Opt. 2 due to the fact that theirs potentially more data that will / can be retrieved.
JungleJim wrote: I just tried to use the *228 and it said that this feature is not available use *611. Without going to *611 (whatever that is) why would this feature not be available?
i KNOWTICED this too when i called once. it was because my signal strength was not up to par to handle the reprogramming. it is telling you that so you can find a better place to perform the function.
strange, when i had AT&T, they too said once a week but it was more of turning off my phone for at least 5 minutes in order for my phone to connect to the best tower.
