If a handset doesn't flash, do I get charged?

What is “RF” testing?

"RF" generally refers to the radio waves themselves, or systems that handle radio signals directly, such as the circuits connected directly to the antenna.   Each time you drop or damage your cell phone the reception level goes down. Houdini’s RF test will eliminate failed handsets from ever reaching your customers or network.

What is unlocking?

Unlocking is removing a numeric code (password) that prevents a user from accessing certain technical settings of a phone. It is specifically designed to prevent a phone from being reprogrammed to work with a different carrier (service provider).  This is what is usually meant when a phone is referred to as "locked". Unlocked" phones can be reprogrammed to work with a different carrier. 

What is flashing a phone?

Flashing a phone involves the reloading of software on the handset itself.  Basic flashing involves clearing the SPC (service programming code) and the PRL (preferred roaming list).  More advanced flashing will be offered upon Houdini’s release.

Is flashing legal?

Yes, if the owner of the phone can certify the following:

The device was originally purchased prior to January 26, 2013. If it was not originally purchased prior to January 26, 2013, I have requested from the carrier that the carrier unlock and/or reprovision the Device for the purpose of activating the Device with the Provider, and the carrier failed to do so within a reasonable time from my request.

a) 65264- C “Wireless Telephone Handsets-Interoperability With Alternative Networks”- New handsets acquired after Jan 26th, 2013 “Wireless telephone handset originally acquired from the operator of a wireless telecommunications network or retailer no later than ninety days after the effective date of this exemption (Jan 26th, 2013) to connect to a different wireless telecommunications network, if the operator of the wireless communications network to which the handset is locked has failed to unlock it within a reasonable period of time following a request by the owner of the wireless telephone handset, and when circumvention is initiated by the owner, an individual consumer,who is also the owner of the copy of the computer program in such wireless telephone handset, solely in order to connect to a different wireless telecommunications network, and such access is to the network is authorized by the operator of the network”

What does it cost?

Houdini will be a transaction prepaid application.  The cost per flash is $5 for talk and text flashes and $10 for a full talk, text, and data flash. For $5-$10 you will receive an easily unlocked and flashed phone.

How many cables do you need, where do you get them, what do they cost?

Data cables can be purchased on your own or directly from the Houdinisoft Homepage.  We have developed a universal cable solution with drivers that will handle more then 300 phones for around $45.

How does it work and how do I use it? 

Houdini is easy to use, with our Auto-detection feature anyone can setup and be ready to Houdini in less than five minutes.  Simply plug in your phone and Houdini will recognize the phone that is connected.  After a few clicks and a little magic your phone is ready to be activated.  View our video for a quick demo.

How long does it take?

The entire Houdini process takes less than five minutes to complete.  Unlock and flash a phone for your customers in minutes.

Why is this better than flashing products I see on the internet? 

Houdini combines easy user functionality with advanced technical programming for any handset.  We designed Houdini for the least computer literate user so that it's easy for all users.

What phones can you flash? 

We focused on the top CDMA handsets in the market and will add handsets as they become available.  If you need to use Houdini with a handset that is not listed we will be more then happy to work with you to implement your handset with Houdini. Click here for Details.

What networks/systems can you flash to?  

We can flash to most CDMA networks and will work closely with any carrier who wishes to use our software.  GSM unlocking is currently under development and will be available soon.

What equipment do I need on my end? 

All you need to use Houdini is a computer with at least Windows 2000 or higher and an internet connection to download our client to your computer.  Cables can be purchased through us or you may use your own.

Can Houdini transfer pictures, ring tones, telephone directories, etc.? 

Houdini is currently developing these and more features to further assist in handset solutions.

Still have a question?

We encourage you to call us at 1-800-496-0156 so we may answer any additional questions you may have, or submit your question using our web contact form.