Tech Gadgets in the Chapel

[SingerGuy]

I would like to see a Bluetooth transmitter in every chapel that reaches out to every Bluetooth-enabled phone and automatically puts the phone on Silent mode. That way people couldn't forget to silence their phones in church.

I'd also like to see this transmitter in every movie theater!

[russellhltn]

Are phones controllable that way by Bluetooth? Would it be legal for "us" to access the phone to change it's settings? How would you keep the effect confined to the chapel and out of the hallways?

[nbflint]

The phone would also have to have bluetooth turned on. I for one do not have bluetooth turned on when not in use as it reduces battery life. Dispite the legal questions, you'd probally get a better result for less cost by just printing a reminder in the bulletin to turn cell phones off or to silent.

[jdlessley]

The Bluetooth transmitter does not communicate with any devices but rather jams the signals. It is not legal in some municipalities and some states. The device is used in such places as live performance theaters and similar places to prevent communications. It is not only Bluetooth that can be jammed but cell phones and other over-the-air communications devices. You can see why it is so controversial.

The military has used these devices for some time now in areas needing extra security.

[rmrichesjr]

The Bluetooth transmitter does not communicate with any devices but rather jams the signals. It is not legal in some municipalities and some states. The device is used in such places as live performance theaters and similar places to prevent communications. It is not only Bluetooth that can be jammed but cell phones and other over-the-air communications devices. You can see why it is so controversial.

The military has used these devices for some time now in areas needing extra security.

Last time I studied FCC regulations, in the USA radio transmission devices that jam other communications are also pretty serious violations of said FCC regulations.

[Mikerowaved]

I would like to see a Bluetooth transmitter in every chapel that reaches out to every Bluetooth-enabled phone and automatically puts the phone on Silent mode. That way people couldn't forget to silence their phones in church.

I'd also like to see this transmitter in every movie theater!

Folks, I believe this was meant to be more sarcasm than a real suggestion.

[SingerGuy]

Folks, I believe this was meant to be more sarcasm than a real suggestion.

Ding, ding, ding!

Of course, it would be nice if there was an industry standard that could come about that would allow something like this to happen (on a per-phone opt-in basis of course).

Our Stake President insists that whoever is conducting gives a reminder at the beginning of meetings to silence the phones. The last meeting I was in one of the jokers on the high council sent a text message to the 1st Counselor during a Saturday leadership meeting, right as the Stake President was making that announcement. Yep, the counselor's phone hadn't been silenced.

That was the last time I ever heard a phone ring in a meeting.

[russellhltn]

Last time I studied FCC regulations, in the USA radio transmission devices that jam other communications are also pretty serious violations of said FCC regulations.

Quoted for emphasis. It may be legal in other countries, but it's not legal in the US. However, Faraday cages are legal. Perhaps we'll see some new designs for a new generation of buildings?

Folks, I believe this was meant to be more sarcasm than a real suggestion.

I have a hard time applying sarcasm to that post. I think wistful desire is closer.

Of course, it would be nice if there was an industry standard that could come about that would allow something like this to happen (on a per-phone opt-in basis of course).

Yeah, it would be nice, but the question of confining the results to the desired room remains.
And it may move this conversation outside the realm of church tech.

[SheffieldTR]

Believe it or not, as I have sat on the stand I have received text messages about an event or something that needed to be announced or corrected from a member of the congregation. I for one am glad that technology can be used to further the work, and sometimes it needs to be during the meetings.

[allenkroff]

Although initially proffered "tongue in cheek", you might be interested to know that your wish may just be closer than you think. Microsoft calls it Device Manners Policy. You can read about it here:

http://www.engadget.com/2008/06/05/micr ... alking-zo/

My particular phone (MotoQ9c) allows me to schedule times for it to be automatically set to vibrate so no interruptions during Church meetings (as long as they are on the calender).

Be careful what you wish for...