I searched the archives and found this question addressed but not
fully. I have a verizon cell with a dual-band radio 800/1900. I get
service everywhere except...my new apartment. Ofcourse, probably a
typical scenario. The second I walk into the apt, the signal drops to
nothing. Outside, I have full strength. My assumption is that it must
be the construction of the building that's creating some type of
faraday cage.

The obvious solutions to my problem a
Buy a new phone from a different provider
Use a land line
Purchase a cell repeater for the 800/1900 freq (unsure which is being
used in my area but I will find out)
Connect an external antenna to the phone

Switching providers is not an option due to the fact that I've tried
'em and Verizon has the best coverage in my area...w/ the exception of
my apt.

I hate the idea of having multiple phone numbers so I dont want a land
line.

I am honestly considering the cell repeater but the cost is putting me
off. They cost around $500-700. I get the feeling this could be built
for pretty cheap but I'm not an electrical engineer so ... Apparently,
they use them in my office building for sprint since our company has a
very large contract with them.

I'd prefer to remain wireless so an external antenna, unless it's small
enough to strap to my flip phone(which I have been unable to find) is
out of the question.

What about a passive antenna? I know that traditionally they are
looked down upon and can even cause signal degradation but in my case,
the signal is VERY strong just outside. Is it a possibility? If so,
what size antennas should I purchase for the 800 or 1900 bands?
Obviously, I will have to figure out which is being used in my area but
there must be a simple formula for the size. Also, coaxial type,
placement, etc?

I'm using the samsung sch-i600 smartphone with windows mobile 2002 on
the verizon cdma network. This phone is dual-band, digital. No
amps/analog.

Any other ideas?