The built-in 3G wireless connectivity on the WiFi + 3G model iPad is a boon for convenience and mobility. It makes for a compact, fully-portable and self-contained computing device. But if you’re like me, you may be tired of paying for yet another wireless subscription. Currently, I pay AT&T for an unlimited data plan for my iPhone and Verizon Wireless for an “unlimited” 3G data plan that I use with a USB dongle and my MacBook or netbook.
I really don’t want to pay AT&T for more of their shabby service.
So, even though I’m going to purchase a WiFi + 3G model iPad (Just in case. Consider it future-proofing.) I’m not going to activate the 3G service. I’m going to use an Aluratek CDM530AM.
The device turns your USB 3G dongle into a WiFi hotspot that connects your devices to the internets using the 3G wireless connectivity you already pay for. The experience is similar to what you get using a MiFi from Novatel Wireless which is available from Verizon or Sprint in the U.S. The major difference is that you can use it with any USB dongle running on any network.
It supports secure 802.11 b/g/n on the WiFi side, along with 64/128 bit WEP, WPA/WPA2, and WPS encryption. Most importantly, you can simply restrict access with a password so that you’re not providing WiFi to everyone in the general vicinity. It even has an ethernet port, in case you want to connect it to an ethernet switch for use with desktop computers or other devices without WiFi. The built-in battery recharges using the included power adapter and is good for up to 4 hours of continuous use.
The Aluratek CDM530AM costs $74.99 + shipping, but if you have a USB modem and are already paying for 3G wireless broadband, it would basically pay for itself in a little more than two months (vs. signing up for AT&T’s iPad data plan at $29.95/mo).
Find More 3g and 4G Wireless Options for your iPad in The Magical Store.
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