ANTONOVICH WANTS AREA CODE JUST FOR CELL PHONES, MODEMS.

Byline: City News Service

Frustrated with the number of area codes in Los Angeles County, Supervisor Mike Antonovich said Friday he's got a plan.

On Jan. 16, many areas formerly served by the 213 area code must be reached by dialing the new 323 area code.

The new area code went into effect several months ago, but until Jan. 16, people can still reach those in 323 by dialing 213.

After Jan. 16, anyone who dials 213 for a number in the 323 zone will hear a recording telling them of the change and instructing them to redial.

The new area code ``is especially confusing because it will be in the shape of a doughnut, with the remaining 213 area in its hole,'' Antonovich said.

``As a result, a motorist driving from Pasadena or Glendale to Los Angeles International Airport will start in area code 626 or 818, enter 323, then 213, then 323 again, and finally - for now - 310.

``When an area code is changed, these chaotic disruptions hammer consumers and businesses,'' the supervisor said. ``Consumers are unable to complete calls outside the area code and would need a 3-foot stack of telephone books to cover our entire area,'' he said. ``Businesses must print new stationery, change business cards and update advertising to accommodate the new area code.''

The increase in the number of area codes is a result of the proliferation of cellular phones, pagers, computer modems and fax machines.

``However, this could be kept to a minimum by assigning `nontraditional' telephone services to a separate area code,'' Antonovich said.

On Tuesday, Antonovich will ask his colleagues to vote to support an overlay area code in Los Angeles County for cellular phones, pagers, computer modems and fax machines.