Yesterday, I visited our local AT&T store to inquire about Internet Air Cards. Well, I wasn't met with any encouragement at all.
First the CR told me that if I was going to do anything besides just check my e-mail, like surf or download music, it wouldn't work. I told him we probably wouldn't be downloading music but we would be doing some surfing. I was told that they have a 5 something limit and we would be go over that so they wouldn't work. He told me the only thing I could do is use Wi-Fi.
I then asked about satelite service and he told me that AT&T didn't offer it. So, I asked who did offer satelite internet service and he told me the only provider was Hughes Net.
I was also told that you couldn't use the air card in a wireless modem so two computers could be on the internet at the same time. He said there wasn't enough allowed time in a month to do that. You could only be on with one computer at a time as the alloted air time was too small.
Now, I know I have seen other discussions on this web site about this. And, from these discussions I come to the conclusion that an air card would be the way for us to go. We will not be operating a business and it will only be personal use. I really hate to spend the money right now for a satellite system. Of course we would be taking advantage of free wi-fi when available.
So, please help! Input please.
Thanks, Judy and Bob
Rockinmotion said
01:55 PM May 16, 2010
If you have (or get) an iPhone, theoretically AT&T will be supporting tethering "soon" (although probably at an extra charge, imagine that). You might want to think about just using an iPhone or an iPad as is right now for your surfing. I rarely take my netbook traveling any more because the iPhone works so well (albeit small.)
NorCal Dan said
03:20 PM May 16, 2010
I have an aircard that we use when wifi isn't available. It's from Sprint and has a 5 GB limit per month. I have never busted the limit and we do a lot of internet surfing. I also upload weather data to my server 24/7. I've come close a couple times, but that was because the DW had to download a big Microsoft security upgrade for her laptop.
I use a Mac and I can share the connection from the aircard to the Macs built-in wifi radio. By doing that I create my own wifi hotspot so DW can get on with her laptop.
Bottom line is the salesman gave you some bad information. There are numerous ways to accomplish what your wanting to do...the new mifi is built to do exactly what you need, connect multiple computers to the internet. Tethering is an option but I do not have personal experience with it so can't speak to it. I believe Howard tethers his phone. And as I mentioned you can use an aircard, then either share that via your computer, or, you can purchase a router that will accept the aircard and share the connection. I don't recommend this as the router is really not needed in most situations, but a lot of people use this setup.
DagoRanch said
04:06 PM May 16, 2010
Well, you know maybe that AT&T salesperson was kind of doing you a favor. I WOULD NOT use AT&T as a cellular data provider for an always mobile person that needs to rely on that connection outside of urban areas.
When it comes to cellular data providers, you need to go with the carrier that has the best network, with the best coverage. PERIOD.
And hands down, that is Verizon. They have the largest network and are the only cellular carrier that has invested heavily in rural areas, that's why their network is so large.
Second best would be Sprint, their network is almost as large as Verizon's.
A distant third would be AT&T and T-Mobile. Their networks aren't bad per-se, they just haven't built them out beyond urban areas, so they're fine if all you're going to do is travel between large metro areas, but for a full-time RV'er.... I wouldn't recommend either of them.
5 Gigabytes of data is plenty of data for most uses. You'll only run into a problem if you download lot's of applications, music and movies.
Racerguy said
05:20 PM May 16, 2010
Go to Verizon store and either buy for full price the latest usb modem or sign up for two years data service and get it for free.Take your laptop with you .They will help you get it up and running.When you get home get ahold of 3Gstore.com and buy a Cradle Point router.Have them help you set it up with your Verizon card now in the router.You now have your own secure wi-fi system.My wife and I both spend around 5 hours each surfing the web and doing all our financial business plus I publish my blog and we have never come close to the 5 Gig limit.Do not download movies though or you WILL use it up in a hurry.Thats what satellite tv is for.By the way don't mention to the Verizon people you will be putting the modem in a router.They don't have a clue about that.FYI we do nor use Verizon phone service,all we buy from them is data.
Dreamers said
06:42 PM May 16, 2010
You may be on to something. We have AT&T phones and always have and didn't want to change them.
I will be contacting the Verizon store sometime this week to see what they tell me. Hope it works. As for the 5 Gigs, I don't think we will each be on the internet 5 hours a day - in fact, most of the time very much less and only occassionaly might we reach 5 hours. At the present time, we only have the one laptop and then a desktop but before we start fulltiming there will be two laptops and we still don't know about the desktop.
When we have access to free Wi-Fi will try to do most of our surfing and save ours for banking, and other personal business, etc.
By the way, what does Verizon charge?
Thanks, Judy & Bob
P.S Just waiting for the house to sale.
-- Edited by Dreamers on Sunday 16th of May 2010 06:44:47 PM
DagoRanch said
07:11 PM May 16, 2010
Dreamers wrote:You may be on to something.
I would hope so I work in the wireless industry.... for now.
Verizon, as all other providers charge $59.99 a month for their cellular data cards for 5 Gigabytes of data per month.
3G Store just announced a cheaper alternative to the 2 year contract, it's a month to month service for $49.99 (It's Verizon). Check with them for details, it's technically still Verizon, but it's through what we in the biz call an MVNO. As long as the MVNO stays in business, you're golden, if they fold.... then there are problems. Yes, they fold a lot! I'm sure 3G Store can give you the straight info on what exactly this is.
Dreamers said
07:39 PM May 16, 2010
Tony, what kind of trouble would I have other than just having to find another provider?
Judy
Racerguy said
07:40 PM May 16, 2010
Just a FYI, 3gstore has excelent customer service and technical support.I paid only slightly more for my cradle point from them than I could have paid for one off of E-Bay, but good tech support is a real plus with items like this.
DagoRanch said
08:01 PM May 16, 2010
Dreamers wrote:
Tony, what kind of trouble would I have other than just having to find another provider?
Judy
The "trouble" comes when the MVNO folds and the end user has to either 1. Find another provider. 2. Sign on with the master provider (in this case, Verizon) this process NEVER goes smoothly. If I was a betting man, I would envision that through this program the card you get will only work with this particular MVNO, so that means if they go under, you're going to have shell out for another card and start service as a new customer with Verizon.... there's another sticky point, you're really not a new customer, you were just being lumped in a group. This creates problems when you want to start new service, it's not insurmountable, just a general PITA.
As George pointed out 3Store does a good job with customers, I'm sure they'll steer you in the right direction. BTW, 3G Store is offering this deal, but they aren't the MVNO, they're going through somebody else to offer this.
tallan said
08:41 PM May 16, 2010
Just some quick help. My wife and I both use our blackberry devices and tether them to our computers. We pay an additional $30 a month for this through verizon and it gives us both 5Gig. I have never come close to running out of data. With windows 7 I can turn my computer into a hotspot that my entire rig can share. It is great! The speeds are just as fast as cable and we have been very pleased. Let me know if you have more questions about this. I also have a wireless network in my rig with wireless printing and network data storage. I guess when a thirty something and his family does fulltime, we take our technology with us! We love it!!
bjoyce said
10:20 PM May 16, 2010
For voice service AT&T and Verizon are fairly close in coverage. But for internet Verizon is the best as about everyone has said with Sprint next and then AT&T. T-Mobile hasn't turned on their 3G service yet, so right now it doesn't count. The carriers do not give you a discount to add an aircard (USB modem, etc.) to your account so you have no advantage to use the same company for internet as for voice. Verizon does give a break to add internet to some of its phones, it costs less to use them as modems than an aircard. None work for you in Canada or Mexico without huge roaming charges.
There have been many discussions here in the "Technology on the Road" forum on this subject.
DagoRanch said
12:25 AM May 17, 2010
bjoyce wrote:T-Mobile hasn't turned on their 3G service yet Actually they have Bill. Been online for awhile now. Since they're a GSM network there are only a few of cards that work with them. They're also using a completely different chunk of spectrum - the AWS 1700/2100 MHz frequency-band. There's only one card that I know of that takes advantage of AWS and that's the Option Wireless 452.
Racerguy said
08:22 AM May 17, 2010
We use T-Mobile for voice( no set plan we just call and buy minutes) Averages around $30 a month for two phones. We don't talk on phone much so this works for us.Have found very few places we had no service.We have a Verizon air card and so far here in the desert west( northern Arizona,Southern California) have not been without data service yet.On occasion it has been a little slow but not bad.
TXRVr said
08:42 AM May 17, 2010
Dreamers wrote:
Yesterday, I visited our local AT&T store to inquire about Internet Air Cards. Well, I wasn't met with any encouragement at all.
So, please help! Input please.
Thanks, Judy and Bob
It isn't uncommon to find cell store employees who have no clue.
A USB aircard and a wireless router like the Cradlepoint mentioned is outdated technology if one wishes to connect more than one computer. A fairly new device called a MI-FI card provides simultaneous connect for up to five computers. You can even connect to a desktop by plugging in a Wireless G USB Adapter to it. I have a MI-FI card sitting on the desk here with two desktops and one laptop wirelessly connected.
I really appreciate all this up to date information. Since all of this stuff changes so fast and so often, it is great to have this knowledge that is so recent.
Thanks to you all who know so much more than I do for helping me try to figure this all out. And thanks to Dreamers for asking the question.
Sherry
bjoyce said
09:37 AM May 17, 2010
TXRVr wrote:
Dreamers wrote:
Yesterday, I visited our local AT&T store to inquire about Internet Air Cards. Well, I wasn't met with any encouragement at all.
So, please help! Input please.
Thanks, Judy and Bob
It isn't uncommon to find cell store employees who have no clue.
A USB aircard and a wireless router like the Cradlepoint mentioned is outdated technology if one wishes to connect more than one computer. A fairly new device called a MI-FI card provides simultaneous connect for up to five computers. You can even connect to a desktop by plugging in a Wireless G USB Adapter to it. I have a MI-FI card sitting on the desk here with two desktops and one laptop wirelessly connected.
There is nothing outdated about a USB adapter and Cradlepoint router! The MiFi is a nice device, but does not have an external antenna jack so you have to buy a wireless amp to use an external antenna or a special $130 device to boost the signal when needed (which only works with the MiFi). I camp in enough places where I need the antenna on the roof to get a good internet signal that the MiFi is a nonstarter for me.
If I went with Sprint/Clear 4G/3G I need to use USB and my Cradlepoint router will work with it, that is not outdated technology.
Edit: Fixed typo
-- Edited by bjoyce on Tuesday 18th of May 2010 09:13:13 AM
DagoRanch said
11:56 AM May 17, 2010
To put it more succinctly, it's the same technology.... but a different form factor. :)
fleamarketeer said
03:30 AM May 18, 2010
Thanks for the simple MIFI information. I've looked at a few threads about it but they were all written in... "geek". Now I know I don't need it.
I still use wifi while traveling. I'm waiting for data prices to get a bit more reasonable, like Straight Talk. The 3G store's offering looks like a step in the right direction. Thanks to the OP and all those who answered.
fleamarketeer
RonandJacki said
08:53 AM May 18, 2010
I've been using Verizon for a long time while driving truck around 48 states. Works great. The only place I've had any problems, as no signal, is through Nevada down US95, except near towns, and years ago in Amarillo, Tx, for some reason. I realize I didn't get into the remote places where Rvers sometimes end up, but their broadband works great. Generally, where ever I have a cell phone signal, I have broadband.
bshart said
07:33 PM May 18, 2010
We are part-timers and have dsl at home so we didn't want a contract. Just bought a card for pre-paid mobile broadband with Verizon. Haven't been on a trip yet, but it works at home. Limited data allowance, but I think it will work for us. 1 day - 75mb - $15. 1 week - 250mb - $30. 1 month - 500mb - $50. If we decide to go full-time, can convert to Verizon contract. Just want to check e-mail, limited surfing, and check financials. Card was $129 at Best Buy, but saw an ad this week for $99, maybe with contract.
-- Edited by bshart on Tuesday 18th of May 2010 07:34:18 PM
lb311 said
09:46 PM May 18, 2010
Although not a full-timer yet, I have worked quite a bit from all parts of the US the past few years. My software job requires that I have solid internet connectivity. So far, nothing has compared to Verizon for data coverage. If you stay in metro areas, ATT and Verizon will be fairly comparable, but venture out a few miles from a metro area or interstate highway, and you'll likely only find Verizon coverage.
I've got a Mifi device and have been quite happy with it as it's so small and self-powered, I can easily slip it into my purse with my iPhone (or carry it with my iPad) to give me an instant wifi hotspot whereever I want it (at or away from the RV).
But if I were full-timing, I'd probably opt for the Cradlepoint/USB Modem solution for the reasons Bill mentions (easier/cheaper external antenna and signal booster options).
Gary said
06:57 AM May 19, 2010
Can you use the MiFi with the Cradlepoint or an external antenna/booster?
Dreamers said
08:20 AM May 19, 2010
I, too, need to connect more than 1 computer. Does that mean I need the MiFi or can I go with the cradlepoint, etc. We will be fulltiming and staying who knows where.
Judy
bjoyce said
10:38 AM May 19, 2010
Gary wrote:
Can you use the MiFi with the Cradlepoint or an external antenna/booster?
You can use the MiFi with the Cradlepoint to boost the wifi range out from the 30 feet the MiFi does on its own. The external antenna needs to hook to the MiFi, not the Cradlepoint, since it is boosting the cell phone signal to the MiFi. But there is no external antenna jack on the MiFi so you have to use other methods to boost the cell phone signal. There is a $130 booster that only works with the MiFi. There is a passive adapter that works with external Wilson antennas and amplifiers, but these are getting hard to find and only boost about half what a wired antenna port will do. You can also get a pricey ($200 for cheap ones and up to $450 for the really good ones) wireless amplifier that hooks to an external antenna. Reports are these wireless amps do not provide full internet speeds since they are intended for voice.
The MiFi has many pluses, it is all in one, it is very small, it runs on batteries (there are a couple Cradlepoint routers that also run on batteries but they are physically larger than the MiFi), and you can often get it for free. For many it works well. There is no speed advantage to the MiFi, it is EVDO RevA just like most all of the aircards from the last three years or so.
I also tell people not to take advantage of the "new every two years" offers for aircards if they already have a working EVDO RevA one like the UM150 or USB720 since the new aircard will not be any faster.
Once the carriers move to 4G (LTE for Verizon, AT&T and probably T-Mobile and WiMax for Sprint which exists today) there will probably not be external antenna jacks on any of the cards since the frequencies are not in the same range as cell phones. The Sprint/Clearwire 301 is out and has no external antenna jack. I suspect companies like Cyfre and Wilson will have wireless amplifiers and antennas that will help these cards and phones, but they do not have them today.
Buy today what works today. The offerings are changing fast.
Satellite internet is still around for those who travel into Canada and Mexico (or Canadians who travel into the US), into the boonies where cell phone internet is slow or nonexistent, or where you need more than 5GB per month. We use both satellite internet and a Verizon aircard and kept satellite for all of the reasons I stated (we travel into Canada, we stay places like Long Beach, WA and Bullhead City, AZ where Verizon has terrible speeds, and we use more than 5GB some months).
bjoyce said
10:44 AM May 19, 2010
Dreamers wrote:
I, too, need to connect more than 1 computer. Does that mean I need the MiFi or can I go with the cradlepoint, etc. We will be fulltiming and staying who knows where.
Judy
That is what the Cradlepoint router does, provide wifi from the aircard and most models also can provide Ethernet ports for desktop computers. The Mifi is a combination aircard/router that provides wifi for up to 5 devices or can hook via USB for one computer, which you need to do every once in a while to update your tower information. (You also need to update the tower info for USB aircards but those made by Novatel can be done while in a Cradlepoint router).
bjoyce said
10:48 AM May 19, 2010
lb311 wrote:
Although not a full-timer yet, I have worked quite a bit from all parts of the US the past few years. My software job requires that I have solid internet connectivity. So far, nothing has compared to Verizon for data coverage. If you stay in metro areas, ATT and Verizon will be fairly comparable, but venture out a few miles from a metro area or interstate highway, and you'll likely only find Verizon coverage.
A friend who blogs has a Verizon aircard and an iPhone (AT&T) and has encountered two places lately where Verizon didn't work and the AT&T did. These were in Tennessee and Arkansas.
NorCal Dan said
11:35 AM May 19, 2010
I still don't see the need for the extra router. If a person is using an aircard (or other external device, I sometimes use my hField Wi-Fire antenna) for their internet they can "share" that connection using the built-in wifi radio in their computer...this would allow multiple computers to use the same internet connection without purchasing more equipment.
KarenInTheWoods said
05:06 PM May 19, 2010
I have a really good reason to use the router with my aircard...
My reason: because I have cracked the aircard at the base where the plastic meets the metal where it plugs into the USB port. ACK! Had to replace the aircard at my own expense, I think it was $289 if I recall correctly.
Now, my aircard and router are safely set up high on our entertainment center at home, or on the dash when we are in our motorhome. It is no longer dangerously hanging off the side of my laptop where the dogs or a grandkid could bump it and destroy it again.
(note: the Cradlepoint CTR-350 router has both a 120AC cord and a 12 volt DC cord, great for us boondockers, as my laptop also has a DC cord too $99 at Best Buy)
Another thing to note, I have attached a Wilson antenna to my aircard the very first time I used it and went to detach it, and guess what? The tiny inside prong of the antenna jack BROKE and came out with the antenna plug! ACK! Called up AT&T, they said they do NOT warranty their aircard if you use an auxiliary antenna, so I am now voided. I asked WHY do they put on an antenna jack if they don't let you use it? They said ask Sierra. I called Sierra who makes the aircard, again, same song and dance and not warrantied. Since I used an antenna, I voided my warranty ~! Guess who had to buy ANOTHER aircard? I am under contract and would be paying regardless if I had replaced the aircard or not.
I am with AT&T because they are the only providers with a signal over my home. This is our only way to connect to the internet. We have no other internet other than the aircard. When we get ready to fulltime in 2013 I think we will switch over to Verizon.
I only use 3 to 4 GB a month, so the 5GB limit is comfortable. I don't download movies or music, so my internet use is basically email, browsing and sending photos to family and friends.
Since using the router, I have not had to buy any more air cards! (grin grin)
.
bjoyce said
06:57 PM May 19, 2010
NorCal Dan wrote:
I still don't see the need for the extra router. If a person is using an aircard (or other external device, I sometimes use my hField Wi-Fire antenna) for their internet they can "share" that connection using the built-in wifi radio in their computer...this would allow multiple computers to use the same internet connection without purchasing more equipment.
You have to leave one computer on all the time as the master to have that work. That is one bit of hassle I have no interest in doing so I use a router. Plus Karen is right that these aircards can be a bit flimsy in construction. I spent the money on a router, it is OK if you do not.
bjoyce said
07:04 PM May 19, 2010
KarenInTheWoods wrote:
I am with AT&T because they are the only providers with a signal over my home. This is our only way to connect to the internet. We have no other internet other than the aircard. When we get ready to fulltime in 2013 I think we will switch over to Verizon.
I only use 3 to 4 GB a month, so the 5GB limit is comfortable. I don't download movies or music, so my internet use is basically email, browsing and sending photos to family and friends.
Since using the router, I have not had to buy any more air cards! (grin grin)
.
Who knows what will be possible in 2013? I don't. I am sure that if you are using 3 to 4GB now it will creep up in three years and mostly it will not be your fault. More and more websites are playing videos on startup, often ads. More and more apps are autoupdating, like Google Earth does. Plus the web is getting richer and richer with content, so it takes a bit more bandwidth. Hopefully there will be affordable options that give you more than 5GB in 2013.
heyduke said
05:22 AM May 20, 2010
... and hopefully satellite internet prices will come down for the installations...
Darrell and Judy said
07:00 AM May 20, 2010
Just to throw in my two cents worth. We started with a Sprint Air Card and found that it worked great near cities and the interstate, however, in more remote areas it was extremely slow if it worked at all. When the two year contract was up we switched to Verizon air card which we use in a Cradlepoint router. We have had good coverage where ever we've been (out west in the desert maybe another story). Anyway, we never come close to using up the 5GB allowed per month. The only time we came close was when we shared our connection for two weeks with a group of people that we were with on a Habitat for Humanity Build (that is, we allowed them to login to our router signal so they could send emails, surf the internet, etc.). We do use AT&T for our cell phone (love those rollover minutes) but wouldn't recommend them for an air card. Obviously your AT&T sales representative didn't have a clue when it comes to air cards. By the way, we purchased our router and air card through Alex at the 3G Store, they are more up to date as to what's happening in the industry. I-Pads are now coming out with a $29.99 unlimited connection - right now they are using AT&T which I believe is the same 3G signal as AT&T's air card.
Dreamers said
11:13 AM May 20, 2010
Judy & Darrell, thanks so much for your input. If I understand all of this technology (which I don't), I will need both a mi-fi and a cradlepoint router. I will then connect my mi-fi into my cradlepoint. At tht point we will have internet service in both laptops and without having to leave a designated master computer on. Am I right?
Now, I think what everyone is saying is that I can then also, plug a desktop computer (should I decide to take it) into the cradlepoint and it will also have internet.
What is the difference between an air card itself and the mi-fi?
Someone please let me know. I'm definitely not technology savy. I think that 3G will probably be my best bet and let them walk me thru everything I'm going to need. I understand they will do that, right?
Thanks, Judy and Bob
Terry and Jo said
12:02 PM May 20, 2010
Dreamers wrote:
Judy & Darrell, thanks so much for your input. If I understand all of this technology (which I don't), I will need both a mi-fi and a cradlepoint router. I will then connect my mi-fi into my cradlepoint. At tht point we will have internet service in both laptops and without having to leave a designated master computer on. Am I right?
Now, I think what everyone is saying is that I can then also, plug a desktop computer (should I decide to take it) into the cradlepoint and it will also have internet.
What is the difference between an air card itself and the mi-fi?
Someone please let me know. I'm definitely not technology savy. I think that 3G will probably be my best bet and let them walk me thru everything I'm going to need. I understand they will do that, right?
Thanks, Judy and Bob
Perhaps I am confused here because I have kind of gotten out of the technology business (I used to manage a Radio Shack store), but if you have the Verizon MiFi, it doesn't necessarily need a router. We have a MiFi and both our desktop and our laptop can be connecting to the MiFi with just the internal wireless capability.
Plus, while there is a "socket" in the MiFi, it is for tethering directly to the computer or as an input for a power source to charge the internal battery. I don't recall seeing any other "socket", so I would assume that if one does use a Cradlepoint with the MiFi, it would have to be able to charge the MiFi as well as connect for signal purposes. Or, am I confused as well?
Terry
Ken & Sarah said
01:04 PM May 20, 2010
I have the Cradlepoint 9000 and it is all I need. I looked at the mifi but decided to go with the Cradlepoint. Their support staff is great. I use it for two laptops, two Nooks, one Wii, one IPod Touch and an Iphone, all of the work great with it. I don't believe you will go wrong with it.
-- Edited by Ken & Sarah on Thursday 20th of May 2010 01:05:28 PM
K & E said
02:06 PM May 20, 2010
Does anyone have any experience with using Windows 7 as a wi-fi hotspot? I tried to get Connectify.me to work, but I get a "no internet found" message. Any ideas? We have US Cellular as our cell phone carrier and tether to our laptop. We just bought the second laptop with Windows 7 and were hoping to us it as wi-fi. US Cellular doesn't have mi-fi. The 3G store said we could try using the Sprint router and it might work. If not, we have to pay for return shipping. It sure would be easier to use the Windows 7. Any help or advice would be very much appreciated.
Darrell and Judy said
02:34 PM May 20, 2010
To answers Dreamers questions about MIFI - I haven't kept up on the MIFI technology but, when they first came out they would support upto five wireless units (computers and/or printers). They were a type of router in themselves, however, you could not plug in any type of amplifier and/or antenna. We have a Cradlepoint router with a Wilson 3 watt amplifier and a booster antenna. The antenna connects to the amplifier which connects to the air card whether it be in the router or the computer. Since we are traveling about and our signal varies, I wanted the ability to "boost" the signal if necessary. That's why we didn't go with the MIFI.
Your best bet is to call the 3G Store and ask Alex all of your questions, he is up to date on all the latest technology and will take the time to walk you through it without pressuring you to buy. You can find their number on their website, 3GStore.com. There are so many more new options out there from a year ago when I bought my system. Next year, when my Verizon contract ends, I will take another look at what's available and decide if I want to change. Again, I'm keeping my eye on the I-Pad to see how far they advance that in the coming next year (I wouldn't by one right now as my primary source for the internet).
Hope this helps you out a little. It can be a little overwhelming trying to get your arms around all the information but, I can tell you that the sales representatives at AT&T, Sprint, and Verizon can be some of the worse sources of information (not all but enough to make you want to go else where for your information).
bjoyce said
07:52 PM May 20, 2010
Alex does not work at 3GStore.com any more. But 3GStore should have people who can answer questions. Alex does pop into the Escapees forum and the InternetByDataCard Yahoo group to answer questions, but not for 3GStore.
Racerguy said
09:06 PM May 20, 2010
We left Colorado April 27th and have been in the Colorado Mountains,into Utah,on to Arizona ,Southern California and now in Santa Rosa California and our Verizon signal has been strong every place we stopped.We use a cradle Point router for My Wife and My laptops and before we left Colorado Linda's oldest Daughter also shared our signal with no problems.There are ways to tether some phones and use them as a modem for a little less but what we have works for us.
Howard said
10:10 AM May 23, 2010
Dreamers,
With regard to your last question, you DO NOT need both a Mi-Fi AND a Cradlepoint.
Mi-Fi
As mentioned, the Mi-Fi is a combination "aircard"/router and has several benefits. It's one piece of equipment instead of two. The "aircard" part brings in the cell signal and the "router" part allows you to connect multiple devices to that signal.
But the "aircard" part of it is no better than other aircards on the market. It's drawback is that it doesn't have that external antenna port to attach an antenna or booster to expand your coverage.
Often that extra coverage is not needed, but if you park in places where several of us do, you could be without internet or have very slow internet. That's why many full-timers don't use the Mi-Fi but rather go with the other option.
Aircard with Cradlepoint Router
Another option is to go with an "aircard" that has an external antenna port to which you can connect an antenna and booster for greater coverage (i.e. you can draw in a cellular signal that might be just outside the range of the aircard alone).
With the aircard that has the external antenna port, you can then attach the aircard to a Cradlepoint router and have your own Wi-Fi hotspot to which any number of computers can connect wirelessly. And some of the Cradlepoint routers have ports where you can connect by ethernet cable (i.e. desktop if you prefer to connect that way).
The bottom line difference between the two is the ability to expand the coverage to pick up a signal in more remote locations.
We have satellite internet, but we use the latter option as our back-up. Actually, we have a phone that acts like an aircard. Same premise, so I won't confuse the discussion.
Yes, call 3gstore and have them walk you through it. Though Alex left in February, there are other knowledgeable folks there.
Sherry said
12:48 PM May 23, 2010
Howard, There was some really good information on this thread in April which seems to be gone now. How can I find it? I tried searching for the particular post I was looking for and can't find it. Is there a forum archieve? Today's new topics says there were 40 posts on this topic
thanks Sherry
TXRVr said
08:36 AM May 25, 2010
There is nothing outdated about a USB adapter and Cradlepoint router!
-- Edited by bjoyce on Tuesday 18th of May 2010 09:13:13 AM
Perhaps a poor choice of words on my part. No disrepect intended.
From reading everyone's comments, it appears that this is a convenience issue and has a cost factor to consider. Both systems provide wireless reception and distribution for mulitple computers. If one needs the extended range and external antenna feature then Cradlepoint would be the logical choice. The Cradlepoint is only about 3 x 5 inches so is portable. The Mi-Fi is even thinner and smaller than that. Very handy for a shirt pocket. The cost in purchasing a Cradlepoint and a USB air device may be more than just a stand alone Mi-Fi card ( I only paid $25 for it). Then there is an extra expense for a booster. But when you really need it for remote locations then the expense is justified.
OFBG said
04:05 PM May 25, 2010
I use a Verizon air card. Twice I have gone over the 5gig limit but Verizon never charged me extra. I also have 2 computers, both running Windows 7. I set up a homegroup in Windows and am able to surf the internet on both computers at the same time. Setting up a homegroup is very easy. Click start, control panel, network and internet and click on homegroup. Just follow the directions. Works well for me.
OFBG said
04:38 PM May 25, 2010
In reading replies to other posts I came across this link: http://connectify.me/. I downloaded it and it is amazingly easy to set up. Had 2 computers connected to the internet in less than 5 minutes. Quicker and easier to set up than a homegroup. The computer you install this software on has to be running windows 7. Other computers that will connect just need wifi capabilities.
Dreamers said
03:12 PM Jun 3, 2010
Thanks for everyone's input here. I have decided that Verizon is the way to go. I'm not sure whether Cradlepoint or MiFi and will probably be in contact with several of you privately as the time to make this decision nears.
Judy & Bob
Paul and Jo said
09:38 AM Jul 29, 2010
So. Dreamers ... which way did you go? Cradlepoint or MiFi?
We are on the verge of purchasing our RV and are also addressing this question. We currently have one laptop (Vista) and one (compact) desktop (Windows 7) that would be used in two separate areas. Our home systems use Linksys wireless connectivity and the original signal comes from cable.
Not being a techno-geek, what (in very simple language without acronyms and things that are only spelled with initials) would be the very basic setup we would need for an RV?
Paul
Racerguy said
09:54 AM Jul 29, 2010
In my opinion a USB air card and a Cradlepoint router is a setup that closely mirrors the Linksys setup you have now.
Dreamers said
10:55 AM Jul 29, 2010
O.K. everyone, we went with the Verizon Mi-Fi. Currently we have one laptop and one desktop connecting to internet thru it. Installation was the easiest thing we ever did and it is working great. Plan to add a netbook and a wireless printer in the very near future.
A full time neighbor of ours here in the park where we have our RV sitting, has the Mi-Fi and he showed us his complete setup. I was also undecided at the time - Mi-Fi or Cradlepoint. He also informed me and showed me his setup that you can have an antenna and amplifer/booster for a mi-fi system. Wilson makes a trucker's amplifier that connects to the bottom of the mifi with a velcro strip and gives you additional distance & signal strength. Of course, you use an outside antenna that hooks to the Wilson amplifier. Since we have good coverage at the moment and our on the road departure date is still in limbo, we have not added this feature yet.
LIke you, Paul & Joe, we had a wireless system in our home with cable internet service. Only, we had the D-link equipment instead of the Linksys. Setting that up was the hardest thing we ever did. It took 3 days of screaming, crying, cussing and calling in sick to work a day to ever get it working properly. Of course, once we did, it worked great. This mi-fi was a piece of cake comparitively.
Hope I have helped! I think most people are unaware of this Wilson Amplifier/booster that works with the mi-fi because it seems that most everyone says you can't connect one to the Verizon mi-fi but I have seen it in use so I know you can.
Judy
-- Edited by Dreamers on Thursday 29th of July 2010 10:57:57 AM
Paul and Jo said
11:12 AM Jul 29, 2010
Dreamers wrote:... setup that you can have an antenna and amplifer/booster for a mi-fi system. Wilson makes a trucker's amplifier that connects to the bottom of the mifi with a velcro strip and gives you additional distance & signal strength. Of course, you use an outside antenna that hooks to the Wilson amplifier.
Thanks for the input.
So ... I'm assuming the Verizon MiFi was the current $59 a month system that they are advertising? Also, is there really a neccessity for the amplifier and antenna ... either OR both? Do you have part numbers?
Wouldn't do that at first, though, since Verizon should have the coverage that we would initially need.
Yesterday, I visited our local AT&T store to inquire about Internet Air Cards. Well, I wasn't met with any encouragement at all.
First the CR told me that if I was going to do anything besides just check my e-mail, like surf or download music, it wouldn't work. I told him we probably wouldn't be downloading music but we would be doing some surfing. I was told that they have a 5 something limit and we would be go over that so they wouldn't work. He told me the only thing I could do is use Wi-Fi.
I then asked about satelite service and he told me that AT&T didn't offer it. So, I asked who did offer satelite internet service and he told me the only provider was Hughes Net.
I was also told that you couldn't use the air card in a wireless modem so two computers could be on the internet at the same time. He said there wasn't enough allowed time in a month to do that. You could only be on with one computer at a time as the alloted air time was too small.
Now, I know I have seen other discussions on this web site about this. And, from these discussions I come to the conclusion that an air card would be the way for us to go. We will not be operating a business and it will only be personal use. I really hate to spend the money right now for a satellite system. Of course we would be taking advantage of free wi-fi when available.
So, please help! Input please.
Thanks, Judy and Bob
I will be contacting the Verizon store sometime this week to see what they tell me. Hope it works. As for the 5 Gigs, I don't think we will each be on the internet 5 hours a day - in fact, most of the time very much less and only occassionaly might we reach 5 hours. At the present time, we only have the one laptop and then a desktop but before we start fulltiming there will be two laptops and we still don't know about the desktop.
When we have access to free Wi-Fi will try to do most of our surfing and save ours for banking, and other personal business, etc.
By the way, what does Verizon charge?
Thanks, Judy & Bob
P.S Just waiting for the house to sale.
-- Edited by Dreamers on Sunday 16th of May 2010 06:44:47 PM
I would hope so
I work in the wireless industry.... for now. 
Verizon, as all other providers charge $59.99 a month for their cellular data cards for 5 Gigabytes of data per month.
3G Store just announced a cheaper alternative to the 2 year contract, it's a month to month service for $49.99 (It's Verizon). Check with them for details, it's technically still Verizon, but it's through what we in the biz call an MVNO. As long as the MVNO stays in business, you're golden, if they fold.... then there are problems. Yes, they fold a lot! I'm sure 3G Store can give you the straight info on what exactly this is.
Judy
The "trouble" comes when the MVNO folds and the end user has to either 1. Find another provider. 2. Sign on with the master provider (in this case, Verizon) this process NEVER goes smoothly. If I was a betting man, I would envision that through this program the card you get will only work with this particular MVNO, so that means if they go under, you're going to have shell out for another card and start service as a new customer with Verizon.... there's another sticky point, you're really not a new customer, you were just being lumped in a group. This creates problems when you want to start new service, it's not insurmountable, just a general PITA.
As George pointed out 3Store does a good job with customers, I'm sure they'll steer you in the right direction. BTW, 3G Store is offering this deal, but they aren't the MVNO, they're going through somebody else to offer this.
A USB aircard and a wireless router like the Cradlepoint mentioned is outdated technology if one wishes to connect more than one computer. A fairly new device called a MI-FI card provides simultaneous connect for up to five computers. You can even connect to a desktop by plugging in a Wireless G USB Adapter to it. I have a MI-FI card sitting on the desk here with two desktops and one laptop wirelessly connected.
Here is a website that may be helpful.
http://www.verizonwireless.com/b2c/mobilebroadband/?page=products_mifi
Thanks to you all who know so much more than I do for helping me try to figure this all out. And thanks to Dreamers for asking the question.
Sherry
If I went with Sprint/Clear 4G/3G I need to use USB and my Cradlepoint router will work with it, that is not outdated technology.
Edit: Fixed typo
-- Edited by bjoyce on Tuesday 18th of May 2010 09:13:13 AM
-- Edited by bshart on Tuesday 18th of May 2010 07:34:18 PM
Judy
The MiFi has many pluses, it is all in one, it is very small, it runs on batteries (there are a couple Cradlepoint routers that also run on batteries but they are physically larger than the MiFi), and you can often get it for free. For many it works well. There is no speed advantage to the MiFi, it is EVDO RevA just like most all of the aircards from the last three years or so.
I also tell people not to take advantage of the "new every two years" offers for aircards if they already have a working EVDO RevA one like the UM150 or USB720 since the new aircard will not be any faster.
Once the carriers move to 4G (LTE for Verizon, AT&T and probably T-Mobile and WiMax for Sprint which exists today) there will probably not be external antenna jacks on any of the cards since the frequencies are not in the same range as cell phones. The Sprint/Clearwire 301 is out and has no external antenna jack. I suspect companies like Cyfre and Wilson will have wireless amplifiers and antennas that will help these cards and phones, but they do not have them today.
Buy today what works today. The offerings are changing fast.
Satellite internet is still around for those who travel into Canada and Mexico (or Canadians who travel into the US), into the boonies where cell phone internet is slow or nonexistent, or where you need more than 5GB per month. We use both satellite internet and a Verizon aircard and kept satellite for all of the reasons I stated (we travel into Canada, we stay places like Long Beach, WA and Bullhead City, AZ where Verizon has terrible speeds, and we use more than 5GB some months).
That is what the Cradlepoint router does, provide wifi from the aircard and most models also can provide Ethernet ports for desktop computers. The Mifi is a combination aircard/router that provides wifi for up to 5 devices or can hook via USB for one computer, which you need to do every once in a while to update your tower information. (You also need to update the tower info for USB aircards but those made by Novatel can be done while in a Cradlepoint router).
Perhaps I am confused here because I have kind of gotten out of the technology business (I used to manage a Radio Shack store), but if you have the Verizon MiFi, it doesn't necessarily need a router. We have a MiFi and both our desktop and our laptop can be connecting to the MiFi with just the internal wireless capability.
Plus, while there is a "socket" in the MiFi, it is for tethering directly to the computer or as an input for a power source to charge the internal battery. I don't recall seeing any other "socket", so I would assume that if one does use a Cradlepoint with the MiFi, it would have to be able to charge the MiFi as well as connect for signal purposes. Or, am I confused as well?
Terry
-- Edited by Ken & Sarah on Thursday 20th of May 2010 01:05:28 PM
Does anyone have any experience with using Windows 7 as a wi-fi hotspot? I tried to get Connectify.me to work, but I get a "no internet found" message. Any ideas? We have US Cellular as our cell phone carrier and tether to our laptop. We just bought the second laptop with Windows 7 and were hoping to us it as wi-fi. US Cellular doesn't have mi-fi. The 3G store said we could try using the Sprint router and it might work. If not, we have to pay for return shipping. It sure would be easier to use the Windows 7. Any help or advice would be very much appreciated.
Dreamers,
With regard to your last question, you DO NOT need both a Mi-Fi AND a Cradlepoint.
Mi-Fi
As mentioned, the Mi-Fi is a combination "aircard"/router and has several benefits. It's one piece of equipment instead of two. The "aircard" part brings in the cell signal and the "router" part allows you to connect multiple devices to that signal.
But the "aircard" part of it is no better than other aircards on the market. It's drawback is that it doesn't have that external antenna port to attach an antenna or booster to expand your coverage.
Often that extra coverage is not needed, but if you park in places where several of us do, you could be without internet or have very slow internet. That's why many full-timers don't use the Mi-Fi but rather go with the other option.
Aircard with Cradlepoint Router
Another option is to go with an "aircard" that has an external antenna port to which you can connect an antenna and booster for greater coverage (i.e. you can draw in a cellular signal that might be just outside the range of the aircard alone).
With the aircard that has the external antenna port, you can then attach the aircard to a Cradlepoint router and have your own Wi-Fi hotspot to which any number of computers can connect wirelessly. And some of the Cradlepoint routers have ports where you can connect by ethernet cable (i.e. desktop if you prefer to connect that way).
The bottom line difference between the two is the ability to expand the coverage to pick up a signal in more remote locations.
We have satellite internet, but we use the latter option as our back-up. Actually, we have a phone that acts like an aircard. Same premise, so I won't confuse the discussion.
Yes, call 3gstore and have them walk you through it. Though Alex left in February, there are other knowledgeable folks there.
There was some really good information on this thread in April which seems to be gone now. How can I find it? I tried searching for the particular post I was looking for and can't find it. Is there a forum archieve? Today's new topics says there were 40 posts on this topic
thanks
Sherry
From reading everyone's comments, it appears that this is a convenience issue and has a cost factor to consider. Both systems provide wireless reception and distribution for mulitple computers. If one needs the extended range and external antenna feature then Cradlepoint would be the logical choice. The Cradlepoint is only about 3 x 5 inches so is portable. The Mi-Fi is even thinner and smaller than that. Very handy for a shirt pocket. The cost in purchasing a Cradlepoint and a USB air device may be more than just a stand alone Mi-Fi card ( I only paid $25 for it). Then there is an extra expense for a booster. But when you really need it for remote locations then the expense is justified.
We are on the verge of purchasing our RV and are also addressing this question. We currently have one laptop (Vista) and one (compact) desktop (Windows 7) that would be used in two separate areas. Our home systems use Linksys wireless connectivity and the original signal comes from cable.
Not being a techno-geek, what (in very simple language without acronyms and things that are only spelled with initials) would be the very basic setup we would need for an RV?
Paul
A full time neighbor of ours here in the park where we have our RV sitting, has the Mi-Fi and he showed us his complete setup. I was also undecided at the time - Mi-Fi or Cradlepoint. He also informed me and showed me his setup that you can have an antenna and amplifer/booster for a mi-fi system. Wilson makes a trucker's amplifier that connects to the bottom of the mifi with a velcro strip and gives you additional distance & signal strength. Of course, you use an outside antenna that hooks to the Wilson amplifier. Since we have good coverage at the moment and our on the road departure date is still in limbo, we have not added this feature yet.
LIke you, Paul & Joe, we had a wireless system in our home with cable internet service. Only, we had the D-link equipment instead of the Linksys. Setting that up was the hardest thing we ever did. It took 3 days of screaming, crying, cussing and calling in sick to work a day to ever get it working properly. Of course, once we did, it worked great. This mi-fi was a piece of cake comparitively.
Hope I have helped! I think most people are unaware of this Wilson Amplifier/booster that works with the mi-fi because it seems that most everyone says you can't connect one to the Verizon mi-fi but I have seen it in use so I know you can.
Judy
-- Edited by Dreamers on Thursday 29th of July 2010 10:57:57 AM
So ... I'm assuming the Verizon MiFi was the current $59 a month system that they are advertising? Also, is there really a neccessity for the amplifier and antenna ... either OR both? Do you have part numbers?
Wouldn't do that at first, though, since Verizon should have the coverage that we would initially need.
Paul