We have up to three computers of our own, plus the Ipad, and occasional visitors all of which need an Internet connection. But there is a single 3G USB device, which makes sharing difficult. We now have a simple answer.
It is called a CradlePoint wireless 4G/3G router. Ours is model MBR95 – they make a variety – and the broadband USB mobile modem plugs into the back. Establishing a wireless network was easy, including naming the network and creating a password. And we didn’t need to call any members of the younger generation to assist.
We use a Virgin broadband modem and it appears t o have a much more stable connection working through this router than was the case before connected directly to the computer.
We ordered through Amazon and the cost was US$107.
Posted by Steve Dashew (June 22, 2011)
June 22nd, 2011 at 7:32 pm
Glad it all came together…BUT…. for even more flexibility and world wide usage a MiFi Router such as from Novatel http://www.novatelwireless.com/ would simply allow you to purchase a pre paid sim from any 3G provider world wide (purchase the multi band MiFi unit). Usually up to 5 device can be connected at once to these devices (they appear in a similar way to your Cradle Point as a wireless router). They are pocket sized and run on the battery or plugged into power. 3G/4G is not as fast as a good broadband connection, but works fine for basic stuff. (performance varies according to network load and service provider configs)
I will be bold and say that USA 3G/4G (early days for 4G) services are poor compared to Australia and particularly Europe and some parts of Asia.
They work quite simply. Insert the SIM and turn on. Configure security via your web browser and “Bob’s your Uncle”. 🙂
June 22nd, 2011 at 7:39 pm
I will add a bit more. You use iMACs? I would use a MAC Time Capsule (also provides auto backup of the MAC using Time Machine) or Airport Extreme routers. Plug your Virgin Broadband gear into these devices and Instant Boat Wide Wireless Network.
June 24th, 2011 at 10:19 am
Depending on the model of Cradle Point you can get up to 64 users connected. That, along with the built in 4 port switch (MBR1200), provides a lot of flexibility. Also, you can use a USB extension cable to the USB modem of your choice for optimum signal reception.
June 27th, 2011 at 10:34 am
We use an Ericcson W35 mobile broadband 2G/3G router on Avatar. I believe that its external antenna connection together with a low loss cable up the mast to a good antenna is important for performance in remote areas So far has worked great in New Caledonia and Fiji, and we are very happy Connectivity was typically good (but not continuous) when cruising coastal waters. Even in isolated bays surrounded by mountains we would sometimes have a good signal. Looking around, we might see a cell tower on a distant mountaintop.
The deciding issue was that we needed GSM with Quad band coverage so could use local sim cards from countries we visit.
It also claims tri-band WCDMA but not CDMA. It should work with USA GSM like ATT, but I suspect this doesn’t work with USA CDMA networks (like Verizon and Sprint). Perhaps someone could clarify this.
Even though it has wired ethernet and USB 2.0 ports, we have only been using it as a Wi-Fi wireless access point for the boat computers, laptops, iPhones, iPads, etc.
Transmit power is also important for remote boat use and seems to be about a watt (varying by mode and band).
Around the USA, I carry a Novatel MiFi2200 battery operated wireless access point in my laptop case. It has made me popular at meetings on occasion when I was the only one with internet connectivity 🙂 It should work on a boat too, especially in port.
I don’t think that 4G will be an important factor to me in boats for several years, at least where I am sailing. I want to see it in Tucson first. Verizon has announced 4G by the end of 2011, and ATT by 2013. When it finally shows up, it may be very cool.
June 27th, 2011 at 3:32 pm
Thanks Mike:
If anyone else has experience with these systems please share. What we are after as end users is the ability to work with SIM cards, USB modems, and external wifi high gain antenna, in a simple, easily connected system.
July 1st, 2011 at 12:48 pm
I’m using a Kindle with 3G to write this sat in Grand Large Mons Belgium. Kindle bought in UK. For a one payment this has to be the bargain of the century. I’ve used for just about everything – banking emails news sort shopping etc etc. Sensitivity is impressive and better than my BlackBerry.
July 2nd, 2011 at 5:38 am
Greetings
I have devoted a little time and effort to this. The result is here http://db.tt/SlctgwM . This is a link to a PDF file on my DropBox account. Mike Parker has made a good choice and I use his gear selection, as well as others, as a choice in this article.
Enjoy and hope it helps. Happy to assist. Feel free to drop me some email.
Paul