Unveiling Motorola Timeport 280 Specs Prices & ProsCons

Introduction to Motorola Timeport 280

The Motorola Timeport 280 was launched by Motorola in 2001 and quickly became identifiable due to its distinct features and functionality, offering an insight into the mobile technology advancements of the early 2000s. This feature phone was among the devices that marked the transition from basic mobile phones to devices that started to provide more than just voice communication.

Network Capabilities

The Timeport 280 was designed to operate on GSM 900 / 1800 / 1900 bands, making it one of the tri-band devices available at the time. This capability allowed users to use the phone across different regions, which was especially beneficial for international travelers. Additionally, it supported GPRS class 8 technology, enabling basic internet functionalities despite the limitation in speed and data capabilities by today's standards.

Design and Build

The Motorola Timeport 280 was built with a typical feature phone design of its era, characterized by its monochrome graphic display. The phone has dimensions measuring 125 x 49 x 24 mm, compact enough to be held comfortably. It weighed 109 grams, which provided a balance of durability and portability. The Timeport 280 utilized a Mini-SIM card and included an infrared port, which at the time, represented cutting-edge technology for data transfer between devices.

Display Characteristics

The display of the Timeport 280 was a monochrome graphic screen, using Optimax technology for improved readability. It supported a resolution of 128 x 100 pixels, displaying up to 7 lines by 16 characters. Although lacking color, the display was efficient for navigation and textual communication, which included reading SMS messages and navigating through the phone’s menus.

Memory and Storage

In terms of memory, the Motorola Timeport 280 could store up to 1000 contacts, a significant amount for the period, offering extensive phonebook management. For call records, it could maintain a history of 10 dialed, 5 received, and 5 missed calls. However, it did not support expandable memory, which meant all data was stored internally without the possibility of using external cards.

Sound and Alerts

The device did not include a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm headphone jack, which limited sound output options. It featured monophonic ringtones and allowed users to compose their melodies, a novelty at the time. Alerts were managed through vibration, catering to users who preferred discreet notifications.

Communications and Connectivity

Despite lacking modern connectivity options such as WLAN and Bluetooth, the inclusion of an infrared port allowed for some level of wireless data transfer. However, there was no built-in radio or USB connectivity, which limited the multimedia and connectivity options compared to later models in mobile technology's evolution.

Software and Features

The Timeport 280 included basic software features, such as support for SMS messaging and a WAP browser, enabling rudimentary internet access. It also had a clock feature, but no alarm functionality, limiting its use as a time-management tool. The device included games, adding simple entertainment value. However, it did not support Java, which constrained the enhancement of its software capabilities with additional applications.

Battery Performance

Equipped with a removable Li-Ion 800 mAh battery, the Timeport 280 provided a standby time ranging from 150 to 250 hours and a talk time of 3 to 4 hours. This battery life was considered adequate for the phone's usage patterns and power demands of the time. The removable nature of the battery allowed users to replace it when necessary, extending the overall office-life of the device.

Legacy and Discontinuation

The Motorola Timeport 280, like many devices of its era, was eventually discontinued as technology advanced towards smartphones with color screens, integrated cameras, and enhanced connectivity options. Despite this, it remains a notable part of early mobile technology history, illustrating the pace at which innovation has transformed telecommunications. The device still holds nostalgic value for users who experienced the dawn of mobile communication and can be appreciated for the step it represented towards today’s advanced technology sphere.