Satellite Internet Vs. Mobile Broadband Cards
Mobile broadband cards are offered by Sprint, AT&T, Verizon and others. These wireless companies offer you a small, light device ò€“ the card ò€“ that you plug into your laptopò€™s USB port. It allows you to use the internet wherever you can receive the companyò€™s cellular signal. Mobile broadband cards are very easy to use and require practically no installation. Expect to pay anywhere from 30 to 60 dollars monthly and to sign a contract of up to two years. Most companies provide a 3G connection, which offers speeds of anywhere from three times that of dial-up to almost broadband ò€“ varying heavily depending on the strength of the signal.Given that these cards were designed for people to be able to use their laptop on the go, they might not be the best option for someoneò€™s home connection. Since they utilize a wireless network, there is always the chance of running into a dead spot. Thus, there lies the possibility that you may not even receive a good signal in your home. Take into consideration that if you live in a rural or remote area that does not have high-speed internet access, there is a good chance that your area may not be covered too well by wireless networks either.
With that said, satellite internet may be your best choice. All you need is to have a satellite dish installed somewhere along the perimeter of your home. The technology works practically the same way as satellite television. Satellites orbiting the Earth at low altitudes transmit and receive signals to and from your satellite dish. Since it is a broadband signal being transmitted, browsing and downloading are performed at fast speeds ò€“ somewhere between 30 and 50 times those of dial-up connections.
One great advantage that satellite offers over mobile broadband cards is that you donò€™t have to worry about dead spots, given that satellites cover nearly every crevice of the globe. Your satellite broadband connection should remain constant most of the time. Although, you do have to worry about heavy rain or snow, which could cause signal interruption similar to that of satellite TV. Another advantage is that satellite is usually cheaper. Monthly fees run from around 25 to 50 dollars.
Your decision on which connection to have installed should be carefully thought out. Both services will more than likely require you to sign a contract. So, be sure to ask around to friends and family who may have used either service. Keep in mind that if you are going with a mobile card, you want to verify that you will receive a good signal in your home. Whether you choose satellite internet or a cellular companyò€™s mobile card, you will be glad that you no longer have to waste your time on that dial-up connection.