Scanner radio I can buy that also gets cellular frequencies?

Question

I'm looking for a VHF/UHF scanner radio that also gets cellular frequencies. Since I'm in the U.S. I would need to either use a converter, or buy one from or in Canada to get the 900MHZ cellular frequencies. Where can I buy one and which is the best to buy? Also, I plan to move around so I would want one that is either handheld or that I could mount in my car. Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

Why do you want one?

Well other than the ECPA act making it illegal, it will be a moot point in 3 months anyway in the USA.

Alas all cell phones that operate now are digital pretty much and unless you have the scheme to decode the conversation you will not be able to listen at all with a scanner. h**l the police have to have taps put in at the company office to listen to a phone conversation.. basically they have to clone a phone to listen in now (unlike the listening on a scanner part)

The scanners used to pickup Analog cell phone conversations. however it became too crowded too quick and the ability to listen in brought around all the digital technology.

The only reason we still have it in use today (analog) is it's mandated by the FCC. However the FCC has given the go ahead to shut those systems down in 2008 and most cell companies plan on turning them off the second the law comes into effect rendering your new scanner useless for cell phones (besides there is almost no one using analog cell phones anymore except a few old timers)