When I had a Nokia EM5800 I was able to make calls without mobile internet being switched on. Now I have a Desire, I often, about 50% of the time, have no signal unless i switch on the internet, Does anyone know why? It worries me a bit as I would like to make calls abroad when on holiday but not use data.

That should not be the case, you should be able to make calls without having data enabled. Maybe instead of switching data off you are turning the mobile network off so no cellular activity for your phone.

I've just checked. I have a shortcut to "Mobile" which I turn on and off. I thought it was mobile internet though. Have I been totally stupid? If it's not mobile internet where is the shortcut to switch data on and off?

Depending on the widget (im presuming its a widget, on your homescreen?) it could be called mobile or telephone or cell or any other name which could slightly resemble turning on\off the voice mobile capability of your phone.

I suggest you remove that icon and go to the market and get something like Elixir

https://market.android.com/details?i...=search_result

Very customisable and lets you define what the icon does (mobile phone, or mobile data, or both.......)

Best of all, its free!!

Mike

I don't have a desire but my father does.
You can do it without a widget - when on the homescreen, press the menu/settings button. Then go into settings, then it should be obvious where to navigate to and you'll find a setting specifically for mobile data.

Thanks all. The widget is for mobile network - I thought it was for data!
I still can't find out how to disable data through settings but will persevere!

Try this:-
Settings - Mobile Networks - Untick data roaming

Menu>Settings>Wireless & networks>Mobile networks>Data enabled. Uncheck to switch off data. Data roaming is when you move to another country.