Greetings from 3Gstore! - RV-Dreams Community Forum

3Gstore_Matt · RV-Dreams Family Member

Greetings from 3Gstore!

Sailbad · RV-Dreams Community Member

Oh Good!

Now I'll have a contact when I seriously start looking at a SOHO system. So far in my wanderings I've been able to get by with a Wilson trucker's antenna hooked to my Mercury air card. But I know the day will come........

3Gstore_Matt · RV-Dreams Family Member

If you'd like, we can configure a shopping cart with a customized link when you get ready to get your SOHO system. That way you can be sure that you'll have all the equipment necessary to get everything connected.

I'm sure if you continue RVing, you'll eventually get further into the country and eventually the amplifier will be really beneficial to you. Glad to hear that your Trucker Antenna is working well for you so far!

Were you looking at the SOHO because you want to do both voice and data? If you just want data service it would be more cost efficient to get our EVDO Direct Connect Amplifier instead. That would directly connect between your external antenna and wireless modem. Of course if you go this route, you won't be able to increase your cellular reception too.

Kathryn · RV-Dreams Family Member

So as a complete beginner with anything outside of my sticks & bricks house, I need to know where to begin. I don't even have my RV yet, but will soon - a smaller Class C. What I need is as fast and constant internet speed as possible (doesn't everybody ...). I work from my home, and will soon be working in my RV. I really don't want to get into anything too complicated or expensive though, like a satelite system. I assume my best option is an air card? Does this provide the cellular broadband I hear about? Do I then need an antenna and amplifier in addition? What kind? I will need to use my cell phone at the same time as my internet connection as well. I would really appreciate having it broken down very simply to begin with. Like you need 1., 2. and 3. Can Matt or anybody help? This is very important in my day-to-day life, and I want to have it completely right and installed before moving in. Thanks in advance!

Ckerr · RV-Dreams Family Member

Our SOHO system was delivered today. Guess I have my weekend project lined up. Good to know you're here if we run into problems!

jagco · RV-Dreams Family Member

Excellent! Glad you are here Matt!! It's nice to know there is help right here when the time comes to ask for it.

3Gstore_Matt · RV-Dreams Family Member

Kathryn wrote:

So as a complete beginner with anything outside of my sticks & bricks house, I need to know where to begin. I don't even have my RV yet, but will soon - a smaller Class C. What I need is as fast and constant internet speed as possible (doesn't everybody ...). I work from my home, and will soon be working in my RV. I really don't want to get into anything too complicated or expensive though, like a satelite system. I assume my best option is an air card? Does this provide the cellular broadband I hear about? Do I then need an antenna and amplifier in addition? What kind? I will need to use my cell phone at the same time as my internet connection as well. I would really appreciate having it broken down very simply to begin with. Like you need 1., 2. and 3. Can Matt or anybody help? This is very important in my day-to-day life, and I want to have it completely right and installed before moving in. Thanks in advance!

Yes, "Aircards" are wireless modems that providers like Verizon, Sprint and CLEAR offer.

For travel users, I'm more inclined to recommend Verizon service as they have the most complete 3G network. You can use our maps to compare coverage - www.3gstore.com/coverage

If you notice that Sprint offers 3G in the areas you'll be RVing, you may actually be better off to get one of their hybrid 3G/4G data devices as their 4G network continues to expand - www.4ginfo.com/wimaxmarkets

It sounds like you're more interested in a full on repeater setup because you want to also increase your cellular reception. We have a variety of repeater kits and build your own kits available.

What type of coverage range are you looking to acheive with the repeater? We have systems that will boost coverage from a few feet to a complete floor of a home/RV. Please note - that with more powerful systems you'll need to have at least 20' of seperation from the internal antenna (Repeater antenna) to the external antenna (send/receive). If they're to close together, they'll create oscillation which will detune the amplifier and reduce the effective range.

If you have an idea of the size of the RV you'll be purchasing we can narrow the system down for you.

Also, how many computers would you like to have internet access for? If you want more than one, a Cradlepoint router is an excellent option to create a wireless network around your RV.

If you could answer some of these questions I can post or email you direct links to everything you'll need to get and stay connected!

-- Edited by 3Gstore_Matt on Thursday 7th of October 2010 02:56:25 PM

Kathryn · RV-Dreams Family Member

Hello Matt. Thanks so much for your assistance. Here's the answers to your questions best I know:

I plan to get a 24 foot class C motorhome. I won't know for sure until I have it, but this is the size I'm interested in and most likely will get. Not much off of this, at any rate. So not very big. There will be only one computer (laptop), so no need for networking. I want to be able to have internet connection anywhere in the motorhome preferably.

The maps were a little difficult to figure out. I don't know where I'll be. I can tell you I will avoid big cities like the plague, and don't imagine I'd be in the midwest much. I envision the north, especially the northwest and places like Wyoming, Utah, Idaho (think beautiful and nature). I would like to make a trek up to Canada on the West and East coasts. I may spend some time South in the winter. I know that's pretty vague. I guess I'll have wi-fi at my disposal whenever it's available, or can seek it out worst case. I am really hoping though to have a fast and reliable connection in as many places as I go as possible.

In my home, I have a large-company cable service for my internet, TV and phone, as is pretty typical. Best I can tell, this is not typical with satellite systems like DirectTV.

Thanks again for your help.

AlanB · RV-Dreams Family Member

OK, I'll bite. What is a SOHO system?

Thanks

alexsian · RV-Dreams Family Member

AlanB wrote:
OK, I'll bite. What is a SOHO system?

SoHo = Small Office/Home Office

The Wilson Electronics SoHo is a building-class wireless cellular repeater that captures signal using an externally mounted antenna and brings signal via hard-wire to a cellular signal amplifier mounted indoors. A re-transmitting antenna mounted indoors is also hardwired to the amp and rebroadcasts amplified cellular signal to a fairly large area inside the home/office.

A SoHo system _can_ be setup for use in an RV but its not what it was designed for... so there are some physical installation considerations. I've had many customers find success with the SoHo system in 40ft or longer Class A coaches.

Folks who own smaller RV's like trailers and 5th wheels will typically find better usefulness from a vehicle-class wireless repeater.

Sometimes David · RV-Dreams Community Member

Hey Matt,

I don't recall if I spoke to you before purchasing my Wilson Trucker antenna, Cradlepoint MBR900 router and Verizon USB 760 broadband modem, but perhaps you can help me understand why my Verizon signal strength does not change when I plug the antenna into the modem or even if I elevate it six feet above the roof of the motorhome (a Winnebago Brave 34D). We had two bars using the modem without the antenna, and that did not change when I plugged in the antenna, nor did it improve when I raised the antenna. The antenna is mounted to a telescoping aluminum painter's pole, and that is clamped to the aluminum ladder in back. Could grounding be an issue with this aluminum mount? The Wilson Trucker antenna said nothing about grounding.

Thanks!

David

3Gstore_Matt · RV-Dreams Family Member

Sorry for the delayed response Kathryn:

It looks like Verizon would be your best choice for traveling throughout the country. We'd recommend looking around locally when you get into Canada as roaming rates will add up really fast!

We can set you up with a new 2/yr contract here - Verizon 2/yr devices

The USB760 is a pretty popular choice although since you're interested in a full repeater system the MiFi 2200 might be an option too. We typically don't recommend the MiFi 2200 to RV customers because it doesn't have an external antena jack but will work well with a repeater. This device will only give you about a 20 foot radius for WiFi access through.

If you go the USB760 route, we'd recommend adding a Cradlepoint router to create that network to allow you to move freely throughout your RV and even outside! The CTR500 is a popular RV choice as it's small and compact and will provide a wireless range of roughly 30-80 feet.

If size isn't a huge concern the MBR900 is more powerful but larger. This router gives you access to more Ethernet ports and has a wireless range of 100-150 feet. The nice thing about this router is if you'd like to leave your RV and go outside you'll still be able to pull in a strong WiFi signal.

That will take care of your wireless modem and router. The next thing is the wireless repeater for increasing your cellular and data connections.

As others have mentioned, our SOHO All in one system is a very powerful setup. This would easily cover the RV size that you're looking into. It includes a 3 watt amplifier (the maximum allowed by the FCC). If you were willing to sacrafice some signal range our SignalBoost DT system will allow you to get a typical coverage range of 6-15 feet. We'd recommend adding the optional Omni antenna for this setup though. The included panel antenna is semi directional and not ideal for an RV application unless you want to aim it at each location you stop at. With the Omni, it will receive in a 360 degree pattern and no aiming is required.

3Gstore_Matt · RV-Dreams Family Member

Sorry for the delayed response Kathryn:

It looks like Verizon would be your best choice for traveling throughout the country. We'd recommend looking around locally when you get into Canada as roaming rates will add up really fast!

We can set you up with a new 2/yr contract here - Verizon 2/yr devices

The USB760 is a pretty popular choice although since you're interested in a full repeater system the MiFi 2200 might be an option too. We typically don't recommend the MiFi 2200 to RV customers because it doesn't have an external antena jack but will work well with a repeater. This device will only give you about a 20 foot radius for WiFi access through.

If you go the USB760 route, we'd recommend adding a Cradlepoint router to create that network to allow you to move freely throughout your RV and even outside! The CTR500 is a popular RV choice as it's small and compact and will provide a wireless range of roughly 30-80 feet.

If size isn't a huge concern the MBR900 is more powerful but larger. This router gives you access to more Ethernet ports and has a wireless range of 100-150 feet. The nice thing about this router is if you'd like to leave your RV and go outside you'll still be able to pull in a strong WiFi signal.

That will take care of your wireless modem and router. The next thing is the wireless repeater for increasing your cellular and data connections.

As others have mentioned, our SOHO All in one system is a very powerful setup. This would easily cover the RV size that you're looking into. It includes a 3 watt amplifier (the maximum allowed by the FCC). If you were willing to sacrafice some signal range our SignalBoost DT system will allow you to get a typical coverage range of 6-15 feet. We'd recommend adding the optional Omni antenna for this setup though. The included panel antenna is semi directional and not ideal for an RV application unless you want to aim it at each location you stop at. With the Omni, it will receive in a 360 degree pattern and no aiming is required.

3Gstore_Matt · RV-Dreams Family Member

Sometimes David wrote:

Hey Matt,

I don't recall if I spoke to you before purchasing my Wilson Trucker antenna, Cradlepoint MBR900 router and Verizon USB 760 broadband modem, but perhaps you can help me understand why my Verizon signal strength does not change when I plug the antenna into the modem or even if I elevate it six feet above the roof of the motorhome (a Winnebago Brave 34D). We had two bars using the modem without the antenna, and that did not change when I plugged in the antenna, nor did it improve when I raised the antenna. The antenna is mounted to a telescoping aluminum painter's pole, and that is clamped to the aluminum ladder in back. Could grounding be an issue with this aluminum mount? The Wilson Trucker antenna said nothing about grounding.

Thanks!

David

David,

On the Trucker antenna did you screw in the metal poles at the top of the antenna? Those must be inserted as they are what direct the signal into the antenna. Also, is the antenna installed completely vertical? If it's at anytype of an angle that can affect the polarization of the antenna. This antenna does not require any type of ground plane.

There will be some locations where the performance of an antenna will be neglible alone. If the signal is no better outside within the surrounding area than inside the antenna by itself won't produce much gain. You must remeber that it's just a passive antenna and is desgined to pull that signal in from outside.

When you add amplification with our Direct Connect 3 Watt amplifier, you're providing up to 3 watts of power to the antenna to boost both the send/receive. Antenna's alone can be helpful assuming it's structual interference or the signal is better outside. When it's not much different, that's when amplifiers get introduced into the equation.

LuvSun · RV-Dreams Family Member

Matt,

I have a similair situation as Kathryn - I will be working on the road as well. I couldnt find a satellite with internet either. My RV is 40 ft and I have a wireless printer that I will be haulin with me as well as a laptop and a tower. I looked into the Verizon MiWi 2200 and was going that route until I saw this post. What would you recommand for my situation? and what would the cost be for the equipment? How is installation handled? I am currently in southern CA. thanks!

Paul and Jo · RV-Dreams Family Member

LuvSun wrote:
Matt,
I have a similair situation as Kathryn - I will be working on the road as well. I couldnt find a satellite with internet either. My RV is 40 ft and I have a wireless printer that I will be haulin with me as well as a laptop and a tower. I looked into the Verizon MiWi 2200 and was going that route until I saw this post. What would you recommand for my situation? and what would the cost be for the equipment? How is installation handled? I am currently in southern CA. thanks!

I'm anxiously awaiting a response to LuvSun's post.

I have a 38 ft Keystone Montana 3455SA and currently have a Verizon USB760 attached to a cradlepoint CTR500 that is centrally located in the rig on the desk. One desktop PC is directly wired to the cradlepoint using an ethernet connection and my laptop connects to the cradlepoint using its built-in wireless receiver. I'm not quite sure what the rating on that receiver is but, it's less than a year old and supports WLAN,WWAN, UWB and Bluetooth. I also have a wireless printer that sits on the desk and seems to be operating fine. The cradlepoint usually shows 3 out of 4 bars but sometimes drops to 2, or even 1 for no apparant reason. Maybe it's the barometric pressure. :) This is while we're sitting in one spot in a campground and sometimes, while travelling on the road, the signal from the aircard just dissapears. That's usually in desolate or very rural areas so I can understand that loss.

Anyway, I'm interested in boosting signal strength and have been looking at systems from 3Gstore.com and, using Alexsian's blog recommendation, from WPSantennas.com.

To be frank, I'm a little lost with all the available technology and range of intrumentation. It seems that I could spend anything from $100 to $900 for a system consisting of a suitable inline signal booster, and exterior RV antenna and an adapter cable to connect to the air card. That does not even include whatever I would need to do to install it in my RV without damaging it or having unsightly wires hanging from the ceiling or around the windows.

So, bottom line and like LuvSun, what would be the minimum that I could get away with in a system and what would be the best way to install such a system in my rig?

Paul

alexsian · RV-Dreams Family Member

Paul and Jo wrote:
I have a 38 ft Keystone Montana 3455SA and currently have a Verizon USB760 attached to a cradlepoint CTR500 that is centrally located in the rig on the desk. One desktop PC is directly wired to the cradlepoint using an ethernet connection and my laptop connects to the cradlepoint using its built-in wireless receiver.
Anyway, I'm interested in boosting signal strength and have been looking at systems from 3Gstore.com and, using Alexsian's blog recommendation, from WPSantennas.com.
Paul

Paul, is the CTR500 currently located near a slideout or window? if so, i'd suggest a wilson 12" magmount antenna and 3watt direct connect amp. The antenna's cable is thin enough to get past the seal on either a slide or a window. The cable attaches to one side of the direct connect amp, and a cable that comes with the amp attaches to an adapter cable that ultimately attaches to rf/antenna jack on your USB760. WPSantennas has everything you need. oh. except, you'll need an 8" diameter/square piece of metal glued on roof to mount the magmount antenna to.

alexsian · RV-Dreams Family Member

LuvSun wrote:
I have a similair situation as Kathryn - I will be working on the road as well. I couldnt find a satellite with internet either. My RV is 40 ft and I have a wireless printer that I will be haulin with me as well as a laptop and a tower. I looked into the Verizon MiWi 2200 and was going that route until I saw this post. What would you recommand for my situation? and what would the cost be for the equipment? How is installation handled? I am currently in southern CA. thanks!

Is your 40ft RV a class A with bedroom at rear? or 5th wheel with bedroom up front?
Does it have a ladder on back?

alexsian · RV-Dreams Family Member

Kathryn wrote:
So as a complete beginner with anything outside of my sticks & bricks house, I need to know where to begin. I don't even have my RV yet, but will soon - a smaller Class C. What I need is as fast and constant internet speed as possible (doesn't everybody ...). I work from my home, and will soon be working in my RV. I really don't want to get into anything too complicated or expensive though, like a satelite system. I assume my best option is an air card? Does this provide the cellular broadband I hear about? Do I then need an antenna and amplifier in addition? What kind? I will need to use my cell phone at the same time as my internet connection as well. I would really appreciate having it broken down very simply to begin with. Like you need 1., 2. and 3. Can Matt or anybody help? This is very important in my day-to-day life, and I want to have it completely right and installed before moving in. Thanks in advance!

Kathryn, Just FYI -- there are antenna separation requirements that will make the popular Wilson SoHo repeater setup a bad choice for a shorter Class C RV.

Are you closer to buying the RV yet? knowing its length and floorplan can make a difference for equipment recommendations.

Paul and Jo · RV-Dreams Family Member

alexsian wrote:

Paul and Jo wrote:
I have a 38 ft Keystone Montana 3455SA and currently have a Verizon USB760 attached to a cradlepoint CTR500 that is centrally located in the rig on the desk. One desktop PC is directly wired to the cradlepoint using an ethernet connection and my laptop connects to the cradlepoint using its built-in wireless receiver.
Anyway, I'm interested in boosting signal strength and have been looking at systems from 3Gstore.com and, using Alexsian's blog recommendation, from WPSantennas.com.
Paul
Paul, is the CTR500 currently located near a slideout or window? if so, i'd suggest a wilson 12" magmount antenna and 3watt direct connect amp. The antenna's cable is thin enough to get past the seal on either a slide or a window. The cable attaches to one side of the direct connect amp, and a cable that comes with the amp attaches to an adapter cable that ultimately attaches to rf/antenna jack on your USB760. WPSantennas has everything you need. oh. except, you'll need an 8" diameter/square piece of metal glued on roof to mount the magmount antenna to.

In our Montana 3455SA, the CTR500 is in the center of the rig on a built-in desk opposite the entrance door on one side of the rig, and next to a kitchen slideout on the other side of the rig. Therefore, following your suggestion, I could thread the antenna cable through the kitchen slide. However, an 8" square piece of metal seems awfully big and I'm not sure how I'd attach that to the rubber roof, unless I attach it to the top or side of a Maxxair Fan/Mate roof vent cover that is over the Fan-Tastic ceiling fan/vent that is located right above the desk.

To make things really simple for me, what would be the part numbers for the Wilson 12" magmount antenna and the 3 watt direct connect amp? I'd also need the part number for the adapter cable to attach to the USB760.

Paul

alexsian · RV-Dreams Family Member

Paul and Jo wrote:
In our Montana 3455SA, the CTR500 is in the center of the rig on a built-in desk opposite the entrance door on one side of the rig, and next to a kitchen slideout on the other side of the rig. Therefore, following your suggestion, I could thread the antenna cable through the kitchen slide. However, an 8" square piece of metal seems awfully big and I'm not sure how I'd attach that to the rubber roof, unless I attach it to the top or side of a Maxxair Fan/Mate roof vent cover that is over the Fan-Tastic ceiling fan/vent that is located right above the desk.
To make things really simple for me, what would be the part numbers for the Wilson 12" magmount antenna and the 3 watt direct connect amp? I'd also need the part number for the adapter cable to attach to the USB760. Paul

The direct connect amp is Wilson 811201, the magmount is Wilson, 301103 and the WPS part number for adapter cable is WA-1065.

Most people just get some zinc-plated flashing from Home Depot and Dicor it to their roof in a convenient location right above wherever the cable exits the side of RV.

LuvSun · RV-Dreams Family Member

Paul -
My bedroom in the Open Range is located in the front, which is probably where I will store the printer, and it is a 5'er with the living room in the rear where the laptop/computer will be setup on a desk.

thanks,
pamela

alexsian · RV-Dreams Family Member

LuvSun wrote:
My bedroom in the Open Range is located in the front, which is probably where I will store the printer, and it is a 5'er with the living room in the rear where the laptop/computer will be setup on a desk. thanks, pamela

The MiFi should work well for you so long as your all your computers have WiFi.
If you want to improve cellular signal to the MiFi, I'd suggest the wilson sleek.

3Gstore_Matt · RV-Dreams Family Member

LuvSun wrote:

Matt,

I have a similair situation as Kathryn - I will be working on the road as well. I couldnt find a satellite with internet either. My RV is 40 ft and I have a wireless printer that I will be haulin with me as well as a laptop and a tower. I looked into the Verizon MiWi 2200 and was going that route until I saw this post. What would you recommand for my situation? and what would the cost be for the equipment? How is installation handled? I am currently in southern CA. thanks!

I don't think you'd be happy with the MiFi 2200 as it's only going to offer you a 20-30 foot range max. Our entry level CTR350 currently priced at $74.99 is very compact (not much larger than a deck of cards) and will give you a wireless range of 30-80ft. This could be used with the MiFi 2200 or the USB760 which is cheaper than the MiFi but doesn't have the WiFi built in.

If you wanted a larger range and space wasn't a priority, we'd recommend the MBR900. This will give you a range of 100-150' through walls allowing you to get outside the RV and still have internet access.

If you plan to leave the device in your RV, the USB760 would be the most cost effective choice. If you want to take the device with you on little excursions and still share the connection, the MiFi 2200 as a portable hotspot would be a better choice.

3Gstore_Matt · RV-Dreams Family Member

LuvSun wrote:

"Matt,

I have a similair situation as Kathryn - I will be working on the road as well. I couldnt find a satellite with internet either. My RV is 40 ft and I have a wireless printer that I will be haulin with me as well as a laptop and a tower. I looked into the Verizon MiWi 2200 and was going that route until I saw this post. What would you recommand for my situation? and what would the cost be for the equipment? How is installation handled? I am currently in southern CA. thanks!"

I don't think you'd be happy with the MiFi 2200 as it's only going to offer you a 20-30 foot range max. Our entry level CTR350 currently priced at $74.99 is very compact (not much larger than a deck of cards) and will give you a wireless range of 30-80ft. This could be used with the MiFi 2200 or the USB760 which is cheaper than the MiFi but doesn't have the WiFi built in.

If you wanted a larger range and space wasn't a priority, we'd recommend the MBR900. This will give you a range of 100-150' through walls allowing you to get outside the RV and still have internet access.

If you plan to leave the device in your RV, the USB760 would be the most cost effective choice. If you want to take the device with you on little excursions and still share the connection, the MiFi 2200 as a portable hotspot would be a better choice.

Paul and Jo · RV-Dreams Family Member

3Gstore_Matt wrote:
Our entry level CTR350 currently priced at $74.99 is very compact (not much larger than a deck of cards) and will give you a wireless range of 30-80ft. This could be used with the MiFi 2200 or the USB760 which is cheaper than the MiFi but doesn't have the WiFi built in.

Matt: What would you recommend for our situation? Would you go for what alexsian posted in response for us or, would you go for something else?

As before, installation details, model numbers, need for adapter cables, etc. are always important to me. I can figure out the costing issues :)

Paul

Kathryn · RV-Dreams Family Member

alexsian wrote:
Kathryn, Just FYI -- there are antenna separation requirements that will make the popular Wilson SoHo repeater setup a bad choice for a shorter Class C RV.

Are you closer to buying the RV yet? knowing its length and floorplan can make a difference for equipment recommendations.

Thanks, Alexsian. Let's assume I'll have a 23 or 24 foot Class C. As I have determined for sure what I am purchasing at this point, with no plans to change my mind. It will be the floorplan with fixed bed (and bath) in back. i.e., a View 23 or 24J. Good to know the Wilson SoHo won't work for me. What would you recommend?

alexsian · RV-Dreams Family Member

Kathryn wrote:
Let's assume I'll have a 23 or 24 foot Class C. As I have determined for sure what I am purchasing at this point, with no plans to change my mind. It will be the floorplan with fixed bed (and bath) in back. i.e., a View 23 or 24J. Good to know the Wilson SoHo won't work for me. What would you recommend?

If your sig is right, i'd actually suggest you wait until a month or so beofre you buy your RV... Things will be different between now and then, especially with verizon rolling out 4g gear.
If you were to buy today, i'd suggest the verizon mifi, and waiting to see if your lifestyle warrants a signal amp of any kind.

Kathryn · RV-Dreams Family Member

Good to know. Do you know when Verizon's anticipated roll-out date for the 4G gear is? Also, what do you mean by what my lifestyle warrants, specifically? Do you mean how much I need the internet? Or where I plan to travel? Thanks.

alexsian · RV-Dreams Family Member

Kathryn wrote:

Good to know. Do you know when Verizon's anticipated roll-out date for the 4G gear is? Also, what do you mean by what my lifestyle warrants, specifically? Do you mean how much I need the internet? Or where I plan to travel? Thanks.

verizon has said they will launch their 4g service in 38 cities by end of this year.
I meant your travel plans... Antennas and amps are needed more by folks who get off the beaten path more often than not.

LuvSun · RV-Dreams Family Member

3Gstore_Matt wrote:

LuvSun wrote:

"Matt,

I have a similair situation as Kathryn - I will be working on the road as well. I couldnt find a satellite with internet either. My RV is 40 ft and I have a wireless printer that I will be haulin with me as well as a laptop and a tower. I looked into the Verizon MiWi 2200 and was going that route until I saw this post. What would you recommand for my situation? and what would the cost be for the equipment? How is installation handled? I am currently in southern CA. thanks!"

I don't think you'd be happy with the MiFi 2200 as it's only going to offer you a 20-30 foot range max. Our entry level CTR350 currently priced at $74.99 is very compact (not much larger than a deck of cards) and will give you a wireless range of 30-80ft. This could be used with the MiFi 2200 or the USB760 which is cheaper than the MiFi but doesn't have the WiFi built in.

If you wanted a larger range and space wasn't a priority, we'd recommend the MBR900. This will give you a range of 100-150' through walls allowing you to get outside the RV and still have internet access.

If you plan to leave the device in your RV, the USB760 would be the most cost effective choice. If you want to take the device with you on little excursions and still share the connection, the MiFi 2200 as a portable hotspot would be a better choice.

Hey Matt,
I gotr the MiFi on craigslist for $50 and I dont think I will need much more than a 50 ft radius, by my estimate that would cover the RV if the MiFi centrally located correct? And I wont be wondering far outside of the RV. How about something that would boost a wifi signal from an RV park or camp spot?

alexsian · RV-Dreams Family Member

LuvSun wrote:
How about something that would boost a wifi signal from an RV park or camp spot?

you should take a good look at the pepwave surf.

Paul and Jo · RV-Dreams Family Member

alexsian wrote:
The direct connect amp is Wilson 811201, the magmount is Wilson, 301103 and the WPS part number for adapter cable is WA-1065.

Most people just get some zinc-plated flashing from Home Depot and Dicor it to their roof in a convenient location right above wherever the cable exits the side of RV.

I was wondering if 3Gstore_Matt would agree with this. Is there a similar system from 3Gstore?

Paul

alexsian · RV-Dreams Family Member

Paul and Jo wrote:
Is there a similar system from 3Gstore?

they do sell the same wilson gear.

Ckerr · RV-Dreams Family Member

We got the SOHO All-in-One Wireless Repeater Kit for RV from the 3G Store after talking to Matt, several fulltime RVers and reading Alex's blogs. It's not cheap, but consistent service is non-negotiable for us.

It has the Wilson OMNI RV antenna with spring base (301133). The nice thing about this antenna is that it has a clamp mount you can attach to the RV ladder or mirror arm. No need to get on the roof and glue a metal plate down.

It also includes an amp -- Wilson In-Building Wireless Dual-Band SOHO Repeater (801245) and inside antenna -- Wilson Directional Dual-Band Panel Antenna (301135).

Now we just need to add a Cradlepoint router to the set up and we should be good.

This set up has improved our cell phone and air card signal in the RV and the area around it without those devices being tied to a wire.

Right now we're in rural Arkansas and this has made the difference in being able to connect to the internet or not and being able to complete a call or not.

BTW, we have a 40 ft 5th wheel.

-- Edited by Ckerr on Wednesday 27th of October 2010 10:50:12 PM

alexsian · RV-Dreams Family Member

Ckerr wrote:
We got the SOHO All-in-One Wireless Repeater Kit for RV from the 3G Store after talking to Matt, several fulltime RVers and reading Alex's blogs. It's not cheap, but consistent service is non-negotiable for us. It has the Wilson OMNI RV antenna with spring base (301133). The nice thing about this antenna is that it has a clamp mount you can attach to the RV ladder or mirror arm. No need to get on the roof and glue a metal plate down.
It also includes an amp -- Wilson In-Building Wireless Dual-Band SOHO Repeater (801245) and inside antenna -- Wilson Directional Dual-Band Panel Antenna (301135).
BTW, we have a 40 ft 5th wheel.

For the benefit of others who will end up reading this thread, would you mind detailing your installation? Where did you mount your external antenna? (front or rear of RV) Where did you mount the amp? the internal panel antenna faces which direction? how much of your RV benefits from improved cellular signal?

and lastly, if someone had a smaller RV... say under 28ft... would you see them benefitting from the SoHo as well as you do?

thanks in advance.

Ckerr · RV-Dreams Family Member

Our outside antenna is mounted on the rear ladder of the 5er. The amp is about midship and the inside antenna is mounted near the ceiling just in front of the front bedroom wall facing the curbside of the 5er. We have improved cell signal throughout the RV except at the very rear. (for us that is the garage portion so not an issue.)

The thing to be careful of with this set up is that you need to keep 20 ft between the 2 antennas. If you have a smaller RV --- Say 24 foot, you would need to mount 1 antenna at each end of the RV.

Since we are planning to switch to a MH in the next year we just ran wires in through the window and along the top of slides using those 3M removable wire clips. Not the prettiest, but we didn't want to drill holes since we're planning to change RVs and move the set up to the new one.

Hope that helps.

-- Edited by Ckerr on Thursday 28th of October 2010 06:13:29 AM

alexsian · RV-Dreams Family Member

Ckerr wrote:
The thing to be careful of with this set up is that you need to keep 20 ft between the 2 antennas. If you have a smaller RV --- Say 24 foot, you would need to mount 1 antenna at each end of the RV.

if you mean mount the panel antenna on one end facing back towards the RV and the other antenna... that won't work. the panel must always be facing away from receiving antenna to avoid oscillation. that's why i don't advise the SoHo for smaller RV's.

Ckerr · RV-Dreams Family Member

alexsian wrote:

Ckerr wrote:
The thing to be careful of with this set up is that you need to keep 20 ft between the 2 antennas. If you have a smaller RV --- Say 24 foot, you would need to mount 1 antenna at each end of the RV.
if you mean mount the panel antenna on one end facing back towards the RV and the other antenna... that won't work. the panel must always be facing away from receiving antenna to avoid oscillation. that's why i don't advise the SoHo for smaller RV's.

No, that is not what I meant. The outside antenna is not directional so it doesn't "point" in any direction. The panel antenna is mounted on the same side wall of the RV as where the outside antenna is located. The amplifier has an indicator when it is oscillating. When I first set it up the 2 antennas were a little too close to each other resulting in oscillation. Moving the inside panel antenna another foot toward the front of the RV solved the problem and it works fine now. So based on MY experience, so long as you get the required distance between the 2 antennas it should not be a problem. HOWEVER, this could be difficult to accomplish in a smaller RV.

I would say if you are considering the SOHO solution in your smaller RV, measure carefully and error on the side of 25 foot of seperation between antennas just to make sure you are able to avoid oscillation.

Kathryn · RV-Dreams Family Member

25 feet could be a little difficult in a 23 or 24 foot MH. :-} Maybe this is just not a solution I should attempt. Not sure what other equivalent options there are. I will definitely wait though for the 4G, since my plans are not immediate.

Ckerr · RV-Dreams Family Member

Technically the seperation requirement is 20 feet. I mentioned 25 feet just to be sure you don't order something and then have to pay restocking fees if you don't have enough distance.

If I were you, I would call the 3G Store. It's a lot easier to sort things out talking to someone than writing back and forth. And they don't expect to make a sale on the first call. I must've talked to them 4 times before I bought anything. They tried really hard to help me find a cheaper solution. But as we talked it became apparent we would eventually end up here. So rather than spending $200 today and them some more later and some more later, we just decided to go with what we would ultimately need up front.

Then I called them when I was setting things up when I had questions. I can't say enough good things about their pre and post sale support.

3Gstore_Matt · RV-Dreams Family Member

Paul and Jo wrote:

LuvSun wrote:
Matt,
I have a similair situation as Kathryn - I will be working on the road as well. I couldnt find a satellite with internet either. My RV is 40 ft and I have a wireless printer that I will be haulin with me as well as a laptop and a tower. I looked into the Verizon MiWi 2200 and was going that route until I saw this post. What would you recommand for my situation? and what would the cost be for the equipment? How is installation handled? I am currently in southern CA. thanks!
I'm anxiously awaiting a response to LuvSun's post.

I have a 38 ft Keystone Montana 3455SA and currently have a Verizon USB760 attached to a cradlepoint CTR500 that is centrally located in the rig on the desk. One desktop PC is directly wired to the cradlepoint using an ethernet connection and my laptop connects to the cradlepoint using its built-in wireless receiver. I'm not quite sure what the rating on that receiver is but, it's less than a year old and supports WLAN,WWAN, UWB and Bluetooth. I also have a wireless printer that sits on the desk and seems to be operating fine. The cradlepoint usually shows 3 out of 4 bars but sometimes drops to 2, or even 1 for no apparant reason. Maybe it's the barometric pressure. :) This is while we're sitting in one spot in a campground and sometimes, while travelling on the road, the signal from the aircard just dissapears. That's usually in desolate or very rural areas so I can understand that loss.

Anyway, I'm interested in boosting signal strength and have been looking at systems from 3Gstore.com and, using Alexsian's blog recommendation, from WPSantennas.com.

To be frank, I'm a little lost with all the available technology and range of intrumentation. It seems that I could spend anything from $100 to $900 for a system consisting of a suitable inline signal booster, and exterior RV antenna and an adapter cable to connect to the air card. That does not even include whatever I would need to do to install it in my RV without damaging it or having unsightly wires hanging from the ceiling or around the windows.

So, bottom line and like LuvSun, what would be the minimum that I could get away with in a system and what would be the best way to install such a system in my rig?

Paul

You're in a different situation than "LuvSun" because you already have the USB760 and CTR500. Depending on your needs an antenna alone would work if you don't plan on getting really off the beaten path. This could be a Wilson Omni Trucker antenna or a 21" Shorty RV through roof. Both offer the same gain levels and it's just a matter of how you'd like to install it.

The Wilson Sleek that Alex mentioned is also a popular option. The big difference is the Sleek has a 1.82watt amplifier built into it, which can provide better results than a passive antenna alone. However, a stand alone antenna with our Direct Connect amp would be even more powerful. 3 Watt amplifier vs the 1.82 Watt amplifier in the Sleek.

I guess the question is how far off the beaten path are you going to go ;)

If it's not to far, either of the antenna options I listed would work well. The Sleek would also be a good option which would also increase your cellular reception too! You can even add one of the larger antenna's if the Mini Magnetic Mount antenna it comes with isn't long enough. You just couldn't use the more powerful amplifier with the Wilson Sleek.

3Gstore_Matt · RV-Dreams Family Member

Paul and Jo wrote:

LuvSun wrote:
Matt,
I have a similair situation as Kathryn - I will be working on the road as well. I couldnt find a satellite with internet either. My RV is 40 ft and I have a wireless printer that I will be haulin with me as well as a laptop and a tower. I looked into the Verizon MiWi 2200 and was going that route until I saw this post. What would you recommand for my situation? and what would the cost be for the equipment? How is installation handled? I am currently in southern CA. thanks!
I'm anxiously awaiting a response to LuvSun's post.

I have a 38 ft Keystone Montana 3455SA and currently have a Verizon USB760 attached to a cradlepoint CTR500 that is centrally located in the rig on the desk. One desktop PC is directly wired to the cradlepoint using an ethernet connection and my laptop connects to the cradlepoint using its built-in wireless receiver. I'm not quite sure what the rating on that receiver is but, it's less than a year old and supports WLAN,WWAN, UWB and Bluetooth. I also have a wireless printer that sits on the desk and seems to be operating fine. The cradlepoint usually shows 3 out of 4 bars but sometimes drops to 2, or even 1 for no apparant reason. Maybe it's the barometric pressure. :) This is while we're sitting in one spot in a campground and sometimes, while travelling on the road, the signal from the aircard just dissapears. That's usually in desolate or very rural areas so I can understand that loss.

Anyway, I'm interested in boosting signal strength and have been looking at systems from 3Gstore.com and, using Alexsian's blog recommendation, from WPSantennas.com.

To be frank, I'm a little lost with all the available technology and range of intrumentation. It seems that I could spend anything from $100 to $900 for a system consisting of a suitable inline signal booster, and exterior RV antenna and an adapter cable to connect to the air card. That does not even include whatever I would need to do to install it in my RV without damaging it or having unsightly wires hanging from the ceiling or around the windows.

So, bottom line and like LuvSun, what would be the minimum that I could get away with in a system and what would be the best way to install such a system in my rig?

Paul

You're in a different situation than "LuvSun" because you already have the USB760 and CTR500. Depending on your needs an antenna alone would work if you don't plan on getting really off the beaten path. This could be a Wilson Omni Trucker antenna or a 21" Shorty RV through roof. Both offer the same gain levels and it's just a matter of how you'd like to install it.

The Wilson Sleek that Alex mentioned is also a popular option. The big difference is the Sleek has a 1.82watt amplifier built into it, which can provide better results than a passive antenna alone. However, a stand alone antenna with our Direct Connect amp would be even more powerful. 3 Watt amplifier vs the 1.82 Watt amplifier in the Sleek.

I guess the question is how far off the beaten path are you going to go ;)

If it's not to far, either of the antenna options I listed would work well. The Sleek would also be a good option which would also increase your cellular reception too! You can even add one of the larger antenna's if the Mini Magnetic Mount antenna it comes with isn't long enough. You just couldn't use the more powerful amplifier with the Wilson Sleek.

3Gstore_Matt · RV-Dreams Family Member

Paul and Jo wrote:

LuvSun wrote:Matt,
I have a similair situation as Kathryn - I will be working on the road as well. I couldnt find a satellite with internet either. My RV is 40 ft and I have a wireless printer that I will be haulin with me as well as a laptop and a tower. I looked into the Verizon MiWi 2200 and was going that route until I saw this post. What would you recommand for my situation? and what would the cost be for the equipment? How is installation handled? I am currently in southern CA. thanks!

I'm anxiously awaiting a response to LuvSun's post.

I have a 38 ft Keystone Montana 3455SA and currently have a Verizon USB760 attached to a cradlepoint CTR500 that is centrally located in the rig on the desk. One desktop PC is directly wired to the cradlepoint using an ethernet connection and my laptop connects to the cradlepoint using its built-in wireless receiver. I'm not quite sure what the rating on that receiver is but, it's less than a year old and supports WLAN,WWAN, UWB and Bluetooth. I also have a wireless printer that sits on the desk and seems to be operating fine. The cradlepoint usually shows 3 out of 4 bars but sometimes drops to 2, or even 1 for no apparant reason. Maybe it's the barometric pressure. :) This is while we're sitting in one spot in a campground and sometimes, while travelling on the road, the signal from the aircard just dissapears. That's usually in desolate or very rural areas so I can understand that loss.

Anyway, I'm interested in boosting signal strength and have been looking at systems from 3Gstore.com and, using Alexsian's blog recommendation, from WPSantennas.com.

To be frank, I'm a little lost with all the available technology and range of intrumentation. It seems that I could spend anything from $100 to $900 for a system consisting of a suitable inline signal booster, and exterior RV antenna and an adapter cable to connect to the air card. That does not even include whatever I would need to do to install it in my RV without damaging it or having unsightly wires hanging from the ceiling or around the windows.

So, bottom line and like LuvSun, what would be the minimum that I could get away with in a system and what would be the best way to install such a system in my rig?

Paul

You're in a different situation than "LuvSun" because you already have the USB760 and CTR500. Depending on your needs an antenna alone would work if you don't plan on getting really off the beaten path. This could be a Wilson Omni Trucker antenna or a 21" Shorty RV through roof. Both offer the same gain levels and it's just a matter of how you'd like to install it.

The Wilson Sleek that Alex mentioned is also a popular option. The big difference is the Sleek has a 1.82watt amplifier built into it, which can provide better results than a passive antenna alone. However, a stand alone antenna with our Direct Connect amp would be even more powerful. 3 Watt amplifier vs the 1.82 Watt amplifier in the Sleek.

I guess the question is how far off the beaten path are you going to go ;)

If it's not to far, either of the antenna options I listed would work well. The Sleek would also be a good option which would also increase your cellular reception too! You can even add one of the larger antenna's if the Mini Magnetic Mount antenna it comes with isn't long enough. You just couldn't use the more powerful amplifier with the Wilson Sleek.

-- Edited by 3Gstore_Matt on Thursday 28th of October 2010 10:33:56 AM

3Gstore_Matt · RV-Dreams Family Member

Hey Matt,
I gotr the MiFi on craigslist for $50 and I dont think I will need much more than a 50 ft radius, by my estimate that would cover the RV if the MiFi centrally located correct? And I wont be wondering far outside of the RV. How about something that would boost a wifi signal from an RV park or camp spot?

For that small of an area the CTR350 would be a great low cost option to expand your wireless range and network your wireless printer.

The other option would be a Pepwave Surf Mini which will give you a larger wireless range and also allow you to connect to hotspots at various campgrounds.