HELP ... unlocking my phone & don't understand the instructions
 

I leave for Italy in 6 hours and I finally received my unlock code from Cingular. Only one problem the directions make no sense. It says you can only do it so many times and then the phone will be permanently locked, so I am hesitant to keep trying.

I called Cingular for assistance but just my luck ... they are closed.
Here are the instructions:


1. # (press the # key, 1 time)
2. P (pause, press the * key 3 times)
3. W (wait, press the * key 4 times)
4. + (press the * key 2 times)
5. Code (enter the code—10digits Older phones or 15digits Newer Phones)
6. + (press the * key 2 times and it should convert to a + sign)
7. 1 (press the 1 key 1 time for phones)
8. # (press the # key 1 time)

I have tried it two different ways. The first way just entering what is in the parenthesis and the second way entering what is in front of the parenthesis and what is in them. Once I enter everything nothing happens.

Anyone with experience with this that can help a frustrated traveler.... Thank you!
Ann

Let me direct you to HowardForums.com which is a big cell phone users/support forum. You might well be able to search for a solution there but feel free to get an account and just ask.

(Keep Italy warm for me, I'll follow you in a couple of weeks!)

Hi apirone, try this Cingular number (but Cingular is now AT&T).

This number was given to me at the Cingular/AT&T store some months ago.

I was told that they would unlock my cellphone while I was on the line with them. But I haven't called this number yet so I have no idea if it is still the correct number and if they are answering on a Sunday.

The number is 1-800-331-0500

Good luck and have a wonderful time in beautiful Italy.

Hi Andrew & LoveItaly,

I really appreciate the help.

LoveItaly, the number you gave me is the same number I had dialed and unfortunately they are closed on Sunday's :(

I tried the Howards Forums and although there is lots of info on codes I wasn't able to find directions that would help me deceiver the instructions I received.

I will keep searching but anyone else have any experience with these directions?

Thanks
Ann

I had problem unlocking a T Mobile phone and wound up taking the phone and the unlocking instructions to a local outlet. The salesperson unlocked the phone for me while I waited. If you have a local Cingular outlet, I'd call them and find out if they can do the same. Good luck.

Oh gads Ann, and you have a cold to boot!!

My local Cingular(now AT&T) store could not unlock my new cellphone hence they gave me that number.

Have you tried calling the customer service just to see if there is someone there that could help you? Just as a last gasp so to speak.

Or if you have a local store call them to see if someone there can unlock your phone. Assuming you even have time to do this of course.

Otherwise..if you really need a cellphone in Italy check into buying an inexpensive one there..sell it on EBay after you get home if you don't plan on returning to Italy soon.

I'd forget about it. You've got no time and too much going on! You can have a fine time in Italy without a cell phone. Or make arrangements after you arrive for something local that works for you.