Buying a cell phone isn't as easy as it used to be. They come in a myriad of shapes and sizes. And most do much more than send and receive calls.

Cell phones play music, take pictures, do instant messaging, browse the Web and much more. And some phones work everywhere the road may lead; others may not.

Pick your network

 You may want to simply run out and buy the latest and hottest phone. Slow down. It may sound backwards, but identify your geographic needs first. Think about exactly where you plan to use your phone.

For example, if you are planning to use your phone in the farmlands of the United States, make sure that the phone will work on an analog network. And to get a signal in the major metropolitan areas, the network you select should be digital.

If you are a true road warrior, CDMA (code division multiple access) may offer the best coverage. CDMA phones can handle both older analog and newer digital signals. However, GSM (global system mobile) is a good choice for extensive coverage throughout the United States and other countries. This came in real handy for my recent trip to Ireland. Before leaving Phoenix, I called Cingular and added Ireland to my plan. While there, I often had better coverage than home! Go figure.