I have been researching for some time the best way to handle our Internet access. There are lots of options and I must say it took me some time to sort through them. I found the best source of information that discusses all the possibilities on the Geeks On Tour website. Jim and Chris Guld travel all over the country giving seminars for RVers. We attended several of their classes last year at the FMCA rally in Bowling Green Ohio. In addition, to their classes they have a website that is an "online classroom" It is packed full of information. There are some great videos that show you just how to create a blog, use Picasa, for uploading and storing your digital photographs, computer safety, and extensive information about Internet access. Here is a link to their computer tip blog http://wifisavvy.com/
I have been using the WYFI provided at the two campgrounds where we have stayed. since we began full timing It is a great option and usually free, however, it is very slow. And, at certain peak times cit an be very frustrating. For example, my signal would be dropped, a page would take forever to load up etc. I added a booster antennae and it did help some but I still wan not very pleased.
Originally, I considered the Verizon Air Card. I did not like the two year commitment and the 5GB limit. John and I oftentimes like to watch a missed episode of a TV program on the computer. Watching one missed episode of Lost can almost take up your monthly GB limit. Watching an episode on "WYFI is impossible. The connection is just too slow.
Jim and Chris recommended the new Droid phone. They had been very pleased with theirs and found it to be very easy to use. I already had a Verizon phone and it was time to upgrade. The Droid Incredible is one of those fancy phones that does everything. It has an excellent camera, camcorder, clock, appointment calendar, GPS, Internet access provider, and oh yes it's a phone. I had a basic phone plan and it now costs me an additional $30 a month for this package. So now I have a phone and computer all in one. There is a way to tether (connect) this phone to your lap top. An easy program is uploaded ($18.95) and with two clicks (click on the tether in the phone and click on the connection on your lap top) and I've got a great Internet connection. The signal is strong and the connection is very fast. This is an unlimited plan without a GB limit (at least for now).
The phone cost $200 after the rebate (initially $300) and I did have to wait three weeks for it to be delivered. Here is the link from the Geeks on Tour site that gives step by step instructions. . I did receive my rebate within 10 days in the form of a debit card. I've used the phone/computer for two weeks now and I've been very pleased. From what I've read the Verizon network has the best coverage across the country. I'm not sure how much I will use all the other "bells and whistles" but just having a good computer connection makes me a very happy camper.
There are two Droid phones. The newest one is the Incredible. I decided to buy this one due to the faster processor and the excellent camera. I usually have my phone with me, but don't always have my camera. This way I'll never miss a picture as we go down the road.
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