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Subject: TWL: Wireless Internet
From: Mike Schooley (schooley@XXX.XXX)
Date: Tue Apr 02 2002 - 00:56:40 EST
I have updated our "Email while Cruising" presentation from Trawler Fest at
Melbourne. The latest version is available on our web site at
www.portager.info click on "Wireless Internet" or go directly to
http://www.portager.info/newEmail_files/frame.htm.
I contacted AT&T and confirmed that they are no longer offering their CDPD
service for new accounts. They are only offering their new GSM/GPRS service.
The general packet radio service (GPRS) provides higher data rates (44
kbps), but coverage is currently very limited. Coverage should be good by
next year, but if you want to use it this year, you better check the
GSM/GPRS coverage area carefully. I provided a link to AT&T's GSM/GPRS
coverage map in the comparison table just click on the words "GSM/GPRS".
I've shown Verizon's "America's Choice 300" plan instead of their "National
SingleRate 150" plan because the latter has half the anytime minutes and no
evening and weekend minutes for the same price. The disadvantage is the
"America's Choice 300" has roaming charges in the areas shown in white on
their coverage map. The Verizon sale representative told me that when
"roaming" is flashing on the display you won't be charged roaming, but when
it is solid you will. I was told that customer service can configure your
phone to block roaming if you prefer.
Cingular, Sprint PCS and Verizon all have National plans starting as low as
$35. Verizon has 5 data services, but I think the one most people will
prefer is "Mobile Office". Verizon offers 5 data capable phones and a
"mobile office connection kit". The kit includes a serial cable to connect
the phone to the computer serial port and special software. One limitation
of this approach is you only get data service in digital coverage areas.
Verizon's frequently asked questions (FAQ) page recommends the Qualcom
QCP-860 phone and the Qualcom "Data to-Go" PC card modem. This combination
provides data access in both digital and analog coverage areas. Since
Verizon no longer sells the QCP-860, I provided a link to a site that
provides them refurbished.
Cheers;
Mike Schooley
Designing "Portager" a 36' trailerable trawler
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