staying connected on the go

Travis Bonfiglio

Wi-fi NowTo obtain a wi-fi connection in today’s world

you must:Be in a wi-fi hot spot (Starbucks, etc.)

Hotels/airports often charge a fee per hourHard to find when necessary or in unfamiliar

locationsIphone/Blackberries allow access but with

limited abilities

Several Unique Ways to Gain Access to the WebTethering3G/4G USB cardsMobile Hotspot

TetheringMobile device, Smartphone or PDA, used as

modem

Done with USB or through Bluetooth

Advantages of TetheringLow cost

Any smartphone, such as a Blackberry can be used for minimal fee/data plan

Free software available to allow free tethering for small amount of usage

Anytime, AnywhereWith tethering, all you need is a signal from

your cell phone to allow you to connectAlways have your phone

Disadvantages of TetheringSpeeds

400kbps to 700kbps Expensive

If not paired with unlimited data planCharged by amount used

3G/4G cardsOffered by many retailers: Sprint, Verizon,

etc.

USB plug in

Advantages of 3G/4G cardsAnywhere, Anytime

Much like tethering, these cards allow internet access without being in a wifi hotspot

Speed Data rates vary per network

Sprint offering 3G and soon to be 4G coverage Use mobile broadband network of carrier

Easy to Use

Disadvantages of 3G/4G cardExpensive

Pay for card plus 2-year activation fee Verizon = $129.00 Sprint = $250.00 before rebates/discounts

One more thing to carry aroundSmall as a jump drive

Mobile HotspotsNewly arrived device from Sprint and Verizon

Connects to internet through wireless network of carrier

Advantages of Mobile HotspotsUltra light and portable

3.5" (H) x 2.3" (W) x 0.4" (D) (Verizon)3.14" x 3.14" x .61  (Sprint)

Each weigh 2-4 ounces

4 Hour rechargeable battery life

High data speeds600kbps-1.7Mbps (faster speeds if used on Sprints 4G

network)

AdvantagesCan connect up to 5 wifi-enabled devices

Ipods, video game consoles, other computers

No software to install or activateTurn it on and use

Disadvantages of Mobile HotspotsExpensive

Retail price Sprint = $350 Verizon = $270

Plus 2/yr contract

One more item to pack on trips