[Ham-Computers] RE: Wireless Travel Routers?

[Hsu, Aaron (NBC Universal)]

>>> Meir, WF2U wrote:
I'm measuring download speeds of 380-410 kbps, and around 90 kbps upload on the aircard. 


>>> My reply:
Let me add just a bit to this as it wasn't really touched apon previously.  The d/l speeds with WWAN networks are *highly* dependent on how saturated the tower (and network) is that you're connected to.  It is also dependent on the network type (GSM/EDGE/etc vs CDMA/EVDO/etc) and the brand/type of WWAN adapter you use.  You would think that metro areas would have higher speeds due to better coverage, but that typically isn't the case due to network saturation...speeds are often higher where there are *less* users connected.

Case in point:  At work, we have Verizon WWAN service for many clients.  While at my desk or home, d/l rates average 100kbps and u/l is about 60kbps.  This past weekend, I was out at a campsite in the local mountains.  Surprisingly, there was Verizon coverage and, though I didn't actually do any speed tests, the apparent d/l throughput was at least 2x what it is at work/home.  Work, home, and the campsite all had full EVDO access, not just 1xRTT or plain CDMA - EVDO availability at the campsite really surprised me!

As for the network types, in the U.S. you have a choice between GSM networks (AT&T/Cingular, T-Mobile, many others) and CDMA networks (Verizon, Sprint, couple others).  Two older network types, TDMA, and AMPS (analog) are being retired (TDMA replaced by GSM and AMPS is going bye-bye).

Verizon's CDMA network currently has the advantage when it comes to digital coverage and "broadband" speed (typical bursts of 500-700kbps with >1Mbps possible).  However, CDMA is only available in the U.S. (and maybe a couple overseas locations where they wish to cater to the U.S. tourist/visitor).

GSM is the de facto "global" standard and most (not all) countries with cellphone access use GSM.  But, GSM's "EDGE" broadband currently tops out around 200kbps.  GSM/GRPS/EDGE's successor, UMTS, is slowly being rolled-out, but in the U.S., it will take a while for it to catch up to Verizon's EVDO network.


So, what does this mean?  If you plan on traveling outside the U.S., then consider a GSM carrier.  If your travels will remain in the U.S., then Verizon is the better bet.


And thanks for pointing out some additional WWAN routers, Meir - it's not something I've really kept up with.


73,

  - Aaron Hsu, NN6O