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USB Mobile Broadband
This page contains information on how to use a USB modem for Internet access on a laptop. We're using 3's ZTE USB Modem
Mobile Internet USB Modems?
If you want to get mobile Internet access from your laptop while on the move, you'll want to consider getting yourself a Mobile Broadband modem. These are small, pocket-sized dongles that plug into a spare USB slot on your laptop. They use the mobile phone data network to get fast Internet access without needing to be plugged into a landline.
Most of the UK network operators now offer USB modems and high-speed data access. Typically you'll be looking to pay upwards of £10 a month for the service, although a pay-as-you-go option is also available with some UK network operators.
ZTE USB Modem Review
Network operator 3 is well known for its data network, and they offer a decent Mobile Internet offering. Here's a quick review of their flagship USB modem, the ZTE MF622 USB Modem.
The ZTE USB modem offers speeds of up to 2.8 Mbps, and is compatible with Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows Vista and Mac OS.
You can get on contract for £10 a month (3gig a month download allowance) and get the modem for free, or buy the modem outright for £69, and go contract-free, surfing on a pay-as-you-go topup basis. More at 3's Mobile Internet site.
The ZTE MF622 USB Modem
Using the ZTE is pretty straightforward. Out of the box, you need to insert the supplied SIM card, then use the supplied USB cable to connect the modem to your laptop.
When we opened our ZTE box, we expected to find a software CD included, but there wasn't - it's more clever than that. The modem has some onboard storage, and when you first connect it to a PC, plug-and-play kicks in and an Autorun program starts up and installs the modem driver and connection program.
Once installed, you'll find a 3 Internet application waiting for you - opening this program gives you a screen (pictured below) that shows your signal strength and let's you make a connection.
3's connectivity application
Getting up and running was surprisingly simple, and as we were in coverage of 3's HSDPA high speed data network, we got a decent connection speed with minimal fuss. All in all, we're very happy with the results.
Something we've not covered? Get in touch and we'll try to help.
ZTE USB Modem Availability
Available on 3 Broadband to Go. This ZTE USB dongle is available on three different packages - with monthly download limits of 1GB, 3GB or 7GB. |
3's ZTE USB Modem package
ZTE USB Modem - Common questions:
- Got a question on the ZTE USB modem, or mobile Internet access in general? Get in touch and we'll try to help.
Other USB Modem providers:
T-Mobile Web 'n' Walk - Their Web 'n' Walk Plus tariff provides high speed mobile Internet access using a USB modem. The USB modem is sent for next-day delivery. Price is £15 a month (there's a monthly "fair usage" limit of 3Gigs a month). There's also a Pay-As-You-Go option.
More at www.t-mobile.co.uk
Vodafone Half Price Mobile Broadband - Speeds of up to 7.2Meg, Vodafone's Mobile Broadband is now Half Price for Life - at £15 a month for 3gig per month. Available with a USB modem or a Pebble modem. More details at www.vodafone.co.uk.
Useful Links:
- Mobile Internet - Mobile access on laptops, mobile phones and PDAs
- 3G in the UK - More information about 3G data networks in the UK
- 3's website: www.three.co.uk
- Mobile phone connectivity - Help with getting your mobile phone online for mobile surfing.
Is this page correct? Something wrong or missing on this page? Report a site problem If you're looking for help, please don't use this option - instead use our forum |
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