Several people asked for additional information on Wireless Phone data
access options. Therefore I have updated our presentation to show a
comparison of "National" plans and the data service options. It is available
at http://www.portager.info and click on "Wireless Internet" or go directly
to http://www.portager.info/newEmail_files/v3_document.htm.

Note it works in both "Netscape" and "Explorer" now.

It appears that the only data option AT&T currently offers is their new
GSM/GPRS service, which isn't really a "National plan ($0.69/min roaming
throughout the US and Canada). The advantages of the GSM/GPRS service are
"always on" access and faster data rates (the claim up to 144 kbps, but you
can expect to get 44 kbps most of the time). The disadvantages are currently
very limited coverage (click on GSM/GPRS to see the coverage map) and the
confusing/difficult to compare pricing (pay by the MB as opposed to by the
minute).

Cingular, Sprint PCS and Verizon appear to have the best package with data.
Of these, I think Verizon has the best coverage. In addition Verzion
includes internet access so you don't need a separate ISP or need to search
for your ISP's local access numbers.

I'll add information on each carriers connection kits so you know what to
ask for as soon as I can.

Cheers;
Mike Schooley
Designing "Portager" a 36' trailerable trawler

Hal wrote, "I can't find seem to get to www.portager.info"

Please try it again. It worked for me. The server may have been temporarily
offline. If the problem continues please let me know.

"but I just started using Voicestream wireless GPRS service which is much
superior to what I was using
before, AT&T CDPD over their TDMA infrastructure.  Is AT&T not offering this
anymore?"

I am currently using AT&T CDPD service, but I can not find the CDPD service
on the web site anymore. Perhaps I overlooked it? I'll call and ask them.
The problem with GSM/GPRS is coverage. It isn't as good as TDMA and CDMA yet
IMHO.

Cheers;
Mike Schooley
Designing "Portager" a 36' trailerable trawler

A big thank you to Mike Schooley and all the others who have
helped me with info and guidance about internet access via cell
phone.  I just signed up for Verizon's America's
Choice plan with 400 anytime minutes and unlimited nights (after
9 PM) and weekends, plus 1000 verizon-mobile to verizon-mobile
minutes, for $40 a month.  I chose the Kyocera 2235 phone
(relatively simple) with the Mobile Office Kit, which allows me
to connect to the internet without any ISP but Verizon, no extra
charge.

I connected yesterday (holidays are also unlimited minutes) for
70 minutes and was able to surf a little, but had trouble
navigating from one web site to another.  I was also unable to go
anywhere requiring a password, like my Yahoo account or my
Fidelity Investments account.  Probably just need to spend more
time with the manuals and get the configurations right.

I'm presently using a friend's laptop, and am unfamiliar with
much
of his software.  When I buy my own laptop, it should go easier.
I'm looking for something used, hopefully under $400, maybe a
PIII chip.  It must have a USB port to connect to Mobile Office,
and a CD for downloading the software.  It must run Windows 98 or
newer.  I think a CD burner would be nice.  If anyone knows of a
good source for such used equipment, which you have dealt with
and had a good experience with, please e-mail me offline.

Thanks
Mark Richter, Winnie the Pooh,
Stuart, FL
(772)631-7408 after 9PM

Do you Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Mail Plus - Powerful. Affordable. Sign up now.
http://mailplus.yahoo.com