Mi-Fi
When I upgraded my office laptop late this spring one thing that kind of disappointed me at first was the lack of ease for the inclusion of a built-in wireless carrier ‘modem’. I put that term in single quotes, because of course my issue with the fact they do no modulation/demodulation – being instead digital all the way through, but that is another blog for another day. When I got my last laptop I just added the option for the appropriate carrier. Today, it is a separate unit that I then have to add-on my own – not really a big deal, but it got me to thinking…
I really needed something that would let me also use not only the laptop, but iPad and any other devices (even a second laptop on occasion) I was using instead of the single device the wireless card existed in or was connected to. Some searching (and a little knowledge) lead me to look into the wireless devices like AT&T’s Mi-Fi. A small profile (compared to most cell phones) device that lets me connect to network via cell signals but also functions as a local wireless router for up to five devices. I went with the AT&T device since I already had a contract with them and especially since it is an old contract that still has the unlimited data plan.
What a good option! It works perfectly for the laptop on those occasions when work beckons and for whatever reason I am at a location without any other wireless connection available. It also makes it easy when I am in those dual model working situations to bring up the second device or even third. For a quick check on something, even while driving down the road, I can bring it up and the iPad. Combine the VPN clients and appropriate terminal software and such on the iPad and all but the most complex troubleshooting of issues at the office can be done while speeding down the road. as a passenger of course!
My only complaints are of course the speed that is involved. It is just a 3G device. I understand that I can get a 4G device, via AT&T and the cost would be near zero for the upgrade. However, it would involve resigning a contract. The salesman at AT&T assured me it would not changed the unlimited status on the contract, but I have my doubts. After all, that is AT&T and I have heard it all from them – including you can keep your number only to be told later I could not. Additionally, I am not sure how much I would utilize 4G at this point – given that I know in most areas around me outside of Lexington it not available as of yet. Of course AT&T will similar tell you that it is in the plan, for really soon!
Additionally, with it being AT&T, expect a little frustration when you get the very rare dropped connection. Generally a little recognition of the situation you find yourself involved will limit those. If you are either in the middle of really nowhere expect limited throughput or maybe a drop. Similarly, if you are in a crowded area with lots of cell users expect the same. In the later case, fortunately you can probably find an alternative method of connectivity.
Regardless of the slow speed if I hit it hard, it is a great option for multiple devices getting only in those times when you got to and other connection options are not available.
** – Image from AT&T advertising for the product.
