Internet Access on the Go

[Million Mile Man]

In recent weeks, I have seen a couple of satellite systems that I first wrote about in 2001 on private cars -- I really liked the technology -- but I've been unable to find any company currently selling these systems.

Price really jump up when talking mobile satellite internet. I found some of those and prices were 15 000$ - 19 000$ system to connect satellite and 300$ - 3000$/month for connection. It really isn't cheap system, but I still like to know more about it.

If you have that system on your car's roof, how fast is it possible go? Does it stay on your roof if you drive normal highway speed or should you drive much slower?

[Mark Sedenquist]

OK, there are a few options for using satellite connections for internet access -- but they pale in comparison, (when you factor in cost), with just getting a SIM card for your phone. But if you want to dream a bit, here's the best selection I've found....

I think you were hoping to find a hand-held satellite phone that you could use to connect to the web while driving along.... but it's a problem of antenna and bandwidth and while these phones work great in certain locations, but they may not be exactly what you were looking for...

But if cost is not a hindering factor, as you've alluded to above... Then you might consider the Iridium 9555 Command Center "This Command Center kit comes with the complete Iridium 9555 Satellite Phone kit plus an extra Iridium Rechargeable Battery, Iridium Docking Station, DPL Handset, Coax Cable and an Iridium Fixed Mast Antenna." For about $5000 you can probably get everything you need -- equipment, air-time costs, etc.

There are a number of firms that provide rentals...

Happy hunting and if you do use such a device, PLEASE come back and tell us what you thought of this option!

Mark

[Mark Sedenquist]

If you have that system on your car's roof, how fast is it possible go? Does it stay on your roof if you drive normal highway speed or should you drive much slower?

The HughesNet systems can't normally be mounted on any car roof and certainly not a rental. They were designed for larger footprint mounting spaces -- There is a product designed for cars -- alluded to above, but I've not found that information.-- However some of the devices in post #42 above would work in rental car.

[Mark Sedenquist]

I've been using the Verizon Jetpack (mobile hot spot) for a couple of months. It works flawlessly switching from 3G to 4G and works deep within hotels as well as on the road...(where a signal exists). One JetPack easily provides fast connections for two laptops and 3-4 other devices all at the same time.

I purchased it before I got my latest Droid -- Razr Max -- which also functions as a mobile hot spot.

Mark

[Quebec Gen]

I've also been using the Verizon Jetpack for some time and it seems to be working fairly well in upstate NY, VT and NH. I am considering spending a few weeks in central NV in the Fall and I was wondering if you knew anything about Verizon's coverage in the Austin area? When I look at their coverage map, Austin doesn't seem to be covered, but I've been to some off-coverage locations in New England and I had no trouble connecting to the Internet. Thanks!

[Mark Sedenquist]

I've not tried the Jetpack in Austin, but I'd guess it would be poor or non-existent most of the time. Verizon rarely extends more than 2-3 miles from major highways in Nevada.

Mark

[Mark Sedenquist]

Clearly, this is a tongue-in-cheek post... But can you imagine having such a device?

Pricing for this device starts at USD $687,775, so probably not going to be most of our yards any time soon!

Mark