Standards Advisory

Many cell phone dealers are knowingly misguiding consumers by selling used cell phones and claiming they are new.  Here are some tips to avoid being cheated.

• Before purchasing cell phones find out from the dealer or retailer whether the phone is new, used, refurbished or reconditioned.

• Examine the display screens and the casing of the phone carefully for signs of scratches, stains, fading on the keypad and display area. Check also for evidence to verify whether the screws were tampered with. This is evidence that attempts were made to open the phone to do repairs.

• If the phone is new, you should receive the original manual, charger and battery.  These should be of the same brand and series of the phone you want to purchase. Check the serial number to verify this.

• Check the call timer feature, and the address book, the dialed call box, and the received calls box, for evidence of prior use.

For further information, call the Guyana national Bureau of Standards on : 225-6226, 225-9013 or 227-7890.

This week we continue to feature tips on how to detect used cell phones.  Remember an old phone can look like new by simply changing the casing.

• Check the phonebook ,missed calls and dialed calls box.  If numbers are stored, then the phone was previously used.

• In many cases cell phone dealers replace the original components on used phones with inferior ones to make to phone look new.

The batteries, chargers, head sets and other accessories on the new phone carry the brand name of the phone.

On used phones, the fake accessories carry no brand name.

• The screen displays on used phones are cloudy or coloured.

• Check the screws at the back of the phone, if there is any evidence of tampering (scratches.) then the phone was opened and tampered with.

Guidelines on Purchasing Electrical / Electronic Appliances

When purchasing electrical / electronic appliances, check for the following information carefully:

-         The country of manufacture

-         Mark of Certification (UL, EU, CSA) this mark indicates that the manufacturer has had the product tested and that it has met standard safety and quality requirements of the relevant certification body.

-         The voltage and cycle range (50 or 60 Hertz) to ensure compatibility  with the system in your area

Ask for a demonstration on how to operate the item. Ensure the brochure accompanying the product is in the English Language.

Read the instruction manual carefully and ensure you receive a warranty/ Guarantee for the product.