Samsung SGH2100 Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Unveiled

Introduction to Samsung SGH-2100

The Samsung SGH-2100 was a mobile phone that marked the early days of GSM technology in the consumer market. With its release in 1999, the device promised essential mobile communication with a design and functionality that suited the era's technological landscape. While it may not boast features that today’s smartphones possess, the SGH-2100 was a significant leap forward in mobile technology at its time of release.

Design and Build

The SGH-2100 came in at dimensions of 116 x 45 x 24 mm, weighing approximately 111 grams with a slim battery. This made it reasonably compact and lightweight for its time. The phone's design boasted a monochrome graphic display that offered 115 x 60 pixel resolution, which was substantial for viewing text and basic graphics. The display could present 4 lines, making it functional for reading simple messages and browsing through the menu.

Network and Connectivity

In terms of connectivity, the Samsung SGH-2100 was designed to work on GSM networks. It supported 2G bands, specifically GSM 900 and 1800, which were common network frequencies for mobile communication in many parts of the world at the time. Unfortunately, it did not support GPRS or EDGE technologies, limiting its data connectivity options. Moreover, the phone did not come equipped with WLAN, Bluetooth, or USB support, which reflects the technological limitations of its era.

Memory and Storage

The SGH-2100 had a minimalistic approach to memory and storage. It did not come with a card slot, meaning users could not expand storage or use memory cards. The phone’s built-in memory allowed space for phonebook entries, storing up to 100 contacts. Additionally, the call records feature allowed users to store up to 10 dialed, 10 received, and 10 missed calls, which was standard for mobile devices at the time.

Sound and Alerts

Sound functionalities on the Samsung SGH-2100 included basic alert types. The phone supported vibration and monophonic ringtones for incoming calls and notifications. However, it did not feature a loudspeaker or a 3.5mm headphone jack, limiting its multimedia audio capabilities. At its core, the phone was primarily designed for voice communication, deemphasizing the need for advanced sound features.

Communication and Messaging

Messaging on the SGH-2100 was limited to SMS, which was a prevalent messaging service of the time. This feature allowed users to send and receive short text messages, a key communication method before the advent of internet-based messaging services. Other communication facilities such as a browser or email client were absent, as mobile Internet was not widespread.

Battery Life

The device was powered by a removable Li-Ion battery, which was the standard for mobile phones at the time. The standard battery provided standby time up to approximately 85 hours and a talk time of about 3.5 hours. This was adequate for typical usage patterns of the late 1990s and early 2000s, where phones were primarily used for calls and text messages.

Additional Features

Samsung SGH-2100 included a basic set of additional features such as an alarm clock and support for 17 different languages, enhancing its accessibility to a wider user base. The device did not support games or Java applications, reflecting its focus on functionality and communication rather than entertainment.

Market Position and Legacy

Launched at a time when the mobile phone industry was in its formative years, the Samsung SGH-2100 played a role in popularizing GSM mobile phones. While it lacked many features contemporary users take for granted, its contribution to mobile communication history is notable. As mobile technology rapidly advanced, the features and functionalities of the SGH-2100 paved the way for more sophisticated developments in subsequent years.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Samsung SGH-2100, with its practical design and focus on core communication functionalities, is a landmark in the evolution of mobile phones. Representing a bridge between earlier mobile communication devices and the smartphones of today, it serves as a reminder of how technology has evolved. Its simplicity, reliability, and ease of use allowed many users to make the leap into mobile technology at the cusp of the new millennium.