Re: Small inverter Reply #25 – September 11, 2009, 09:30:30 am Yahoo Message Number: 105780Folks,I am already starting the file on CPAPs On The RV Road. So if you find anything more that will help, please send it on to me at .Thanks, Donna of WA State 26.5' RB
Re: Small inverter Reply #26 – September 11, 2009, 09:44:50 am Yahoo Message Number: 105781We sold our 2003 MB to someone who used a CPAP and planned a long trip from Washington state back East. They selected the RV option because it took so long to set their CPAP up in motels/hotels. Sleeping over the cab they could leave the CPAP pretty much setup as they traveled. This taught us yet another reason to be grateful for our good fortune.best, paul PS> In the above "back East" is not intended as Californiaions use it. In California when they say "back East" they often mean Reno )"Thriving not surviving" - Paul Schaye (at 2008 NYC Marathon)
Mi-Fi Reply #27 – September 12, 2009, 02:59:05 am Yahoo Message Number: 105807Has anyone used a MiFi (not WiFi) ? Not sure what it does but it seems like it takes the place of a usb dongle (that can break off a laptop) and can be placed by a window or different areas of a trailer to get the signal (what is the wireless internet service called?) then send out a WiFi signal to a laptop (5 of them). I wonder if it could be put on the end of a pole for better reception They (Sprint) so not seem to advertize all the features - they just tell about the 5 users Seems like a good option for LD use, almost like a wireless repeater If anyone is using this how much is the monthly cost? Do you have to sign a contract?thanks[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
Re: Mi-Fi Reply #28 – September 12, 2009, 07:40:26 am Yahoo Message Number: 105808MiFi is a cute little gadget. It incorporates the functions of a cellular modem (USB or "aircard" type) and a Wi-Fi router. In other words, it establishes a connection to the internet via your cellular carrier--Verizon, Sprint or whoever you have--and then translates that into a Wi-Fi signal that you can use locally from computers or other Wi-Fi-capable device such as an iPod touch. It's a small package that you can carry in your pocket, and it'll run on its internal rechargeable battery for about four hours. You can have your own mobile Wi-Fi hotspot... as long as you're in range of a cell phone tower, that is. (MiFi can also be used as a conventional USB cellular modem.) This device could be handy if two people both want to use a cellular internet connection, but don't want to pay for two separate accounts. To answer some of your question, Roger, it's not weatherproof, so you can't put it outside on a pole for better reception. It costs about $270 if you buy it un-activated, but the price drops to about $50 with a two-year commitment to a $60-a-month internet data plan from Verizon. (Sprint's pricing is probably similar, but all the RVers I know use Verizon because of its superior coverage.) Before buying a MiFi, however, it's worth considering Cradlepoint's CTR500 EVDO router, which has similar capabilities but offers a number of advantages. The major differences are that the Cradlepoint router 1) costs $100 less, 2) doesn't have built-in batteries, and 3) doesn't have a built-in cellular modem. Instead, you plug in your existing cell modem (either USB or aircard) or tether your phone to it (not all models supported). It runs on 12V or on 120VAC. Unlike MiFi, the Cradlepoint CTR500 router can connect to an external cellular antenna and/or amp, such as the popular Wilson products, to boost its cell signal range. (Even with its internal Wi-Fi antenna, the CTR500 has nearly twice the range of the MiFi, which runs at low power in order to stretch its limited battery life.) And you can plug in an external Wi-Fi antenna to boost the range of the local wireless network the CTR500 creates. The Cradlepoint unit is a bit larger than MiFi--about the size of a classic iPod--but still quite compact. Another advantage of the Cradlepoint CTR500: when wireless networks are upgraded to 4G, you can just plug in a different aircard. With MiFi, you'll need to replace your MiFi with a new model that incorporates the new technology. The Cradlepoint CTR500 router also includes an Ethernet port (as well as USB) for direct connection to other devices (either input or output), as well as a USB port. If you need a device that will covert a single cellular internet connection to a shareable Wi-Fi network, both MiFi and the Cradlepoint CTR500 will do it. If you require the ability to run on a built-in battery for shirt-pocket operation, MiFi is it. But otherwise, the Cradlepoint CTR500 is less expensive, more flexible and versatile, and has greater range on both the cellular and Wi-Fi sides. Since it runs nicely on 12VDC, it's probably a better choice for most RVers. I'm using a CTR500 to send this post. :-) More information on both devices is available at http://www.3gstore.com>.Andy Baird http://www.andybaird.com/travels/
Re: Mi-Fi Reply #29 – September 12, 2009, 08:20:11 am Yahoo Message Number: 105809Right on, Andy. Cradlepoint is what we use. Plus a signal amplifier.best, paul"Thriving not surviving" - Paul Schaye (at 2008 NYC Marathon)
Mi-Fi Reply #30 – September 12, 2009, 09:21:52 am Yahoo Message Number: 105810Roger,I'd recommend that you go to the InternetByDataCard Yahoo Group, which has had some discussions about MI-FI. I believe the monthly cost is the same as for the regular data plan - $59.95/month.http://tech.groups.yahoo.com/group/InternetByDataCard/As for the USB modems, mine (a 720 from Verizon) came with a short USB cable that can used to connect it to the laptop.An alternative approach to the mi-fi is a USB modem and a cellular router which sets up the wi-fi network. That's what I have done, and I use this setup both at home and on the road for our internet access.Ted H.'05 RB NE-12Charlton, MAHas anyone used a MiFi (not WiFi) ? Not sure what it does but it seems like it takes the place of a usb dongle (that can break off a laptop) and can be placed by a window or different areas of a trailer to get the signal (what is the wireless internet service called?) then send out a WiFi signal to a laptop (5 of them). I wonder if it could be put on the end of a pole for better reception Seems like a good option for LD use, almost like a wireless repeater If anyone is using this how much is the monthly cost? Do you have to sign a contract?thanks[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
Re: Mi-Fi Reply #31 – September 12, 2009, 10:50:43 am Yahoo Message Number: 105811QuoteUnlike MiFi, the Cradlepoint CTR500 router can connect to an external cellular antenna and/or amp, such as the popular Wilson products, to boost its cell signal range. IMO, this is the MiFi's main disadvantage...no way to connect an external antenna. I suppose if you're always in metropolitan areas that have a strong cell signal, you might not need an external antenna, but we're often in areas that, without our Wilson antenna...and our Wilson amplifier...we'd have no useable signal. Like Andy, we have a Cradlepoint router (the 1000) into which our Verizon USB modem is inserted. Both Earl and I can be on the Internet at the same time, and the USB modem has an antenna port so that we can connect the external antenna (and amplifier) if needed. There has been a lot of talk about the MiFi over on the Escapees Discussion Forum that you might be interested in reading (just do a search for MiFi), http://www.rvnetwork.com/.Linda Hylton http://map.datastormusers.com/user1.cfm?user=1167 http://earl-linda.blogspot.com/
Re: Mi-Fi Reply #32 – September 12, 2009, 09:50:36 pm Yahoo Message Number: 105825Andy,I'm a bit confused. Here http://www.cradlepoint.com/files/uploads/ds_CTR500_12-29-2008.pdfCradlepoint implies that the external antenna is a Wi-Fi antenna, not a cellular antenna. I presume to extend the size of the Wi-Fi hotspot it creates. And I see nothing about an external cellular antenna such as you mention, which would improve one's connection to the nearest cell tower. Please explain. Thanks.Terry2003 26.5'RB Gardnerville, NV
Re: Mi-Fi Reply #33 – September 12, 2009, 11:04:40 pm Yahoo Message Number: 105827"Cradlepoint implies that the external antenna is a Wi-Fi antenna, not a cellular antenna. I see nothing about an external cellular antenna such as you mention" Sorry, Terry, what I wrote was misleading. Unlike MiFi, the Cradlepoint routers don't contain a cellular modem, so of course they can't connect directly to an external cellular antenna. What I meant was that with a Cradlepoint setup, the cell modem--whether USB dongle, aircard, or tethered phone--is external to the router, so you can easily connect an external cell antenna and amp to the modem. By contrast, MiFi has an internal cell modem with no antenna jack. You could probably boost its signal with an antenna connected to a Wilson "Universal" adapter cable, which requires no electrical connection... but fundamentally, MiFi is designed to be operated mainly as a self-contained mode with no external connections. My reading is that it's mainly of interest to folks who want to carry a Wi-Fi hotspot on their pocket while riding on the subway or in a taxi. (Most of the reviewers who enthuse over the MiFi unit are city dwellers who describe this kind of scenario.) MiFi is very good in that limited niche, but there are better choices for RVers, in my humble opinion. Incidentally, Cradlepoint and Novatel (MiFi's maker) are not the only companies making cellular-to-Wi-Fi routers. Kyocera and Linksys are also in this market. However, Cradlepoint seems to get the best reviews, and the company has reportedly been very responsive to feature requests from users--they work hard at improving their products. I should also say that the CTR500 isn't Cradlepoint's only product. They also make, among others, a PHS300 model that runs on built-in batteries, and a deluxe MBR1000 model that has "all the bells and whistles." The CTR500 is a midlevel model that's less expensive than the 1000, but uses the same internal processor and offers most of the same features, plus one the MBR1000 doesn't have: the aforementioned Wi-Fi antenna jack. In short, the CTR500 appears to combine the best features of previous Cradlepoint models, and it's smaller and $100 less expensive than the top-of-the-line 1000 model... so for my purposes as a full-time RVer, it was the best deal on today's market. By the way, for those who've asked... I do still have my satellite internet dish. While I'd love to get rid of the bulky HughesNet setup and just go with the Verizon USB-720 cell modem, there are too many places I like to stay where I just can't get a cell signal--e.g., El Vado Lake, Navajo Lake, and Sugarite Canyon state parks in northern New Mexico. I require daily broadband internet access in order to keep up with my freelance clients, my friends, and of course this group. :-) So I use the cell modem where I can, and the satellite dish where I must.Andy Baird http://www.andybaird.com/travels/
Mi-Fi Reply #34 – September 12, 2009, 11:05:11 pm Yahoo Message Number: 105828Quote Cradlepoint implies that the external antenna is a Wi-Fi antenna, not a cellular antenna. I presume to extend the size of the Wi-Fi hotspot it creates. And I see nothing about an external cellular antenna such as you mention, which would improve one's connection to the nearest cell tower. Please explain. Thanks.Terry Not Andy. Well, I'm no expert, but I believe your usb devise plugs into the Cradlepoint, then your cellular antenna plugs into the cellular devise. Then the wifi antenna transmits to your computer.Tom Johnston, Whidbey Island WA, clear and 78 degrees
Mi-Fi Reply #35 – September 12, 2009, 11:09:00 pm Yahoo Message Number: 105829My question is this. If you use a mifi or Cradlepoint, instead of simply plugging your usb devise into your computer, doesn't that raise security issues you would not otherwise have?Tom Johnston
Re: Mi-Fi Reply #36 – September 13, 2009, 02:50:06 am Yahoo Message Number: 105830Potentially, if you do not password protect your wireless connection. As with any wireless router. I cannot speak to the functioning of mifibest, paul"Thriving not surviving" - Paul Schaye (at 2008 NYC Marathon)
Re: Mi-Fi Reply #37 – September 13, 2009, 07:56:36 am Yahoo Message Number: 105831One other difference Andy, is the MiFi device is limited to five simultaneous users. There is no limit on the number of users on the Cradlepoint. Users can add up. We typically travel with two Mac Book Pros on board, and two iPhones. Each MBP is running VMWare, therefore counts as at least two users each. Each iPhone counts as one. Therefore I would be out of ports (mac addresses) before I have everything turned on! Not to mention the Linux box that is always running behind the router. Yeah, I know, how common is it for a guy to be running around with eight computers
Re: Mi-Fi Reply #38 – September 13, 2009, 11:27:34 am Yahoo Message Number: 105833"If you use a mifi or Cradlepoint, instead of simply plugging your usb device into your computer, doesn't that raise security issues you would not otherwise have?" Any wireless connection (including the one that you probably don't think about: your USB or "aircard" cell modem itself) theoretically increases security risks. If you want to avoid that, stick to an old-fashioned dialup connection at 56.6 kbps--if you can stand the molasses-like speed. ;-) Of course, you're still not really safe even in that case, because you still have to worry about viruses, worms, Trojans, spyware, and burglars breaking into your rig and carrying off your laptop. Yes, with any wireless router you should use the highest level of protection available (generally WPA2). But let's face it: it's a lot easier for a criminal to sit at home and send out 100,000 phony Bank of America emails that say "There has been a problem with your account; please go to this web page and confirm your personal information" than it is for him to go hang around a campground with an expensive digital scanner and a computer, hoping to snag passwords out of the air from anybody who happens to be using Wi-Fi within a 50-foot radius. The risk that using a properly configured Wi-Fi router in a campground will result in your credit card numbers being stolen is probably a lot lower than the risk your information will be compromised by one of the 100,000+ examples of Windows malware (or the 10+ examples of Mac malware ;-) that are out there. When you put the various risk factors in perspective, using a Wi-Fi router is not something to lie awake at nights worrying about. :-)Andy Baird http://www.andybaird.com/travels/
Re: Mi-Fi Reply #39 – September 13, 2009, 12:36:11 pm Yahoo Message Number: 105836You have the option of a good old fashioned wired connection to a Cradlepoint. I use wire for my work station at home. (I move the Cradlepoint from Home to LD, as needed.) Once your info gets to the Internet, the NSA can and does read it, of course, except if it's encripted, and probably even if it is.....best, paul"Thriving not surviving" - Paul Schaye (at 2008 NYC Marathon)
Re: Mi-Fi Reply #40 – September 13, 2009, 12:49:02 pm Yahoo Message Number: 105837"I should also say that the CTR500 isn't Cradlepoint's only product. They also make, among others, a PHS300 model that runs on built-in batteries..."Here's a fairly balanced comparison of the MiFi and PHS300: http://www.evdoinfo.com/content/view/2802/179/Andrew
Re: Mi-Fi Reply #41 – September 13, 2009, 04:27:50 pm Yahoo Message Number: 105839Quote "If you use a mifi or Cradlepoint, instead of simply plugging your usb device into your > computer, doesn't that raise security issues you would not otherwise have?"Any wireless connection (including the one that you probably don't think about: your USB or "aircard" cell modem itself) theoretically increases security risks. Actually, the biggest risk is someone else finding your Wifi signal and using your subscription without your knowledge. The Cradlepoint router out of the box comes with encryption turned on. So if you follow the instructions, you should not have that particular problem. But it IS possible to turn all of that off and create a wide open network that anyone can get on.-Dave '06 MB, Indianapolis
Re: Mi-Fi Reply #42 – September 13, 2009, 04:34:31 pm Yahoo Message Number: 105840Quote "I should also say that the CTR500 isn't Cradlepoint's only product. They also make, among others, a PHS300 model that runs on built-in batteries..." Another difference is that most of the Cradlepoint products run on 5 volts provided by the proverbial wall wart, or a 12 volt adapter. BUT the MBR-1000 runs on 12 volts and can be hardwired into coach power with no adapter. Although a fuse is highly recommended.-Dave '06 MB, Indianapolis
Re: Mi-Fi and Andy's router Reply #43 – September 13, 2009, 10:31:12 pm Yahoo Message Number: 105847Quote "...In short, the CTR500 appears to combine the best features of previous Cradlepoint models, and it's smaller and $100 less expensive than the top-of-the-line 1000 model... so for my purposes as a full-time RVer, it was the best deal on today's market..."Andy Baird http://www.andybaird.com/travels/ Just curious, and showing lack of router knowledge, but I thought the primary purpose of a router was to allow two computers to be on the Internet at the same time, which you can actually accomplish without a router. As a solo traveler, Andy, how does your router serve your needs (if you care to share)? Chris (leaving Santa Fe for COE campground at Abiquiu reservoir tomorrow)
Re: Mi-Fi and Andy's router Reply #44 – September 13, 2009, 11:20:42 pm Yahoo Message Number: 105849Andy no doubt has his own reasons for using a router
Re: Mi-Fi Reply #45 – September 14, 2009, 11:59:42 am Yahoo Message Number: 105862"most of the Cradlepoint products run on 5 volts provided by the proverbial wall wart, or a 12 volt adapter. BUT the MBR-1000 runs on 12 volts..." And the CTR500 comes with a 12V adapter when you buy it from 3GStore.com.:-)Andy Baird http://www.andybaird.com/travels/
Re: Mi-Fi and Andy's router Reply #46 – September 14, 2009, 12:08:22 pm Yahoo Message Number: 105864"I thought the primary purpose of a router was to allow two computers to be on the Internet at the same time, which you can actually accomplish without a router. As a solo traveler, Andy, how does your router serve your needs?" As Dick pointed out, the emphasis here is on wireless capability. I have three Wi-Fi-capable devices: my 24" iMac desktop computer, my 12" PowerBook laptop, and my iPod touch. The iMac stays in one place, but the other two can be used anywhere within range of the router's signal, which is a useful thing. :-)Andy Baird http://www.andybaird.com/travels/
Re: Mi-Fi and Andy's router Reply #47 – September 14, 2009, 08:55:52 pm Yahoo Message Number: 105875QuoteJust curious, and showing lack of router knowledge, but I thought the primary purpose of a router was to allow two computers to be on the Internet at the same time, which you can actually accomplish without a router. Routers do that of course. Actually technically speaking, there is no limit to the number of devices that can be behind one. Although eventually performance will poop out. When I travel, I have a Linux computer (doing some Ham radio things), my Macintosh laptop, Which often runs both MacOS and Windows simultaneously. Although it doesn't have to, each OS is a separate connection to the router. Plus my wife and I both have iPhones, which = 2 more connections. If I bring along our second laptop we might have 8 to 10 connections all on the Internet, sharing the single IP address of the Verizon modem. The Verizon/Sprint Mifi limits that to five machines at a time. Too few for me. Routers are also firewalls, preventing Internet evildoers from access to your PC. VERY important to be hiding behind a firewall, particularly if you are running Windows.-Dave '06 MB, Indianapolis
Re: Mi-Fi and Andy's router Reply #48 – September 20, 2009, 07:17:42 pm Yahoo Message Number: 106028Quote Just curious, and showing lack of router knowledge, but I thought the primary purpose of a router was to allow two computers to be on the Internet at the same time, which you can actually accomplish without a router. Routers do that of course. Actually technically speaking, there is no limit to the number of devices that can be behind one. Although eventually performance will poop out. When I travel, I have a Linux computer (doing some Ham radio things), my Macintosh laptop, Which often runs both MacOS and Windows simultaneously. Although it doesn't have to, each OS is a separate connection to the router. Plus my wife and I both have iPhones, which = 2 more connections. If I bring along our second laptop we might have 8 to 10 connections all on the Internet, sharing the single IP address of the Verizon modem. The Verizon/Sprint Mifi limits that to five machines at a time. Too few for me. Routers are also firewalls, preventing Internet evildoers from access to your PC. VERY important to be hiding behind a firewall, particularly if you are running Windows.-Dave '06 MB, Indianapolis Thanks to all of you for your responses regarding router uses.Chris
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