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Some calls don't list caller's I.D. Since having caller I.D. installed, I've been puzzled as to why some of the calls come in "unavailable." Understandably many businesses put a block on their numbers, but why do individual numbers that I know are not blocked show "unavailable?" Also, some give a number but not a name. Does the area code have any connection? Surely I'm not the only one who has this question. -- Mary T., Ashland According to US West representatives, the calls marked "unavailable" are either coming from a phone system that does not have the capability of transmitting the information or they are trying to sell you something. These calls may come from someone you know in a rural area where the telephone technology is a bit behind the times. While the phone call can go through, the caller's phone system doesn't have anything to say to your caller I.D. box. This can also happen with calls from a cellular phone. But those unavailable numbers also may be coming from a telemarketer or another business that has its own phone system. Their system either doesn't have the capability of transmitting their name or they choose not to send it along the lines. The calls that list a phone number and not a name are most likely coming from a cellular phone. It depends on how the account name is listed with the telephone company. (Send your questions to "Since You Asked," Mail Tribune Newsroom, P.O. Box 1108, Medford, OR 97501; or by fax to (541) 776-4376; or by e-mail to: [email protected] Please include your name, address and phone number for verification.) Today's News Index Mail Tribune Copyright � The Mail Tribune 1999, Medford, Oregon USA