Re: [PCTECH] Cheap PC and Cell modems

["John Ross" <jross-ml@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Here is what I know about the subject using version wireless and using StarTac 
and LG510
phones. I was able to buy a cable for both phones. The cable hooked to the 
phone and the
serial port on the PC. It used my minutes from my phone plan and I could call 
an ISP to
get to the Internet. That worked ok and was slow, and I usually waited until 
after 9 PM
to call (unlimited minutes). Then I went to a Sierra wireless card a little 
faster (it
was faster because I got wireless Internet at the same time) and at the same 
time I got
the unlimited Internet plan ($80.00 a month plus taxes etc). Their Internet 
plans are
based on bandwidth and they are your ISP.  What I liked about the card was I 
could use it
in a pocket PC (with a PCMCIA expansion sleeve) and check email and even use 
Mochasoft
(5250 is not something I would want to use a lot on that size screen) and move 
it to a
laptop when I needed a bigger screen. 

With one client I had to use VPN (did not run on the pocket PC) and even with 
the
wireless Internet it was slow.

I would have to wonder if you are using this mostly at home and your company has
telephone in the name and you live in the area they serve, why you would not 
get a second
line or at least call forwarding (forward your home phone to your cell phone).  
If you
need two lines at the same time.

As for PC?s I would look for something used and cheap. I have a several 
different brands
including a gateway and it run very hot. I now have an IBM and like it, but it 
does not
meet the cheap requirement.  

John Ross
IBM Certified Specialist AS/400 RPG IV Programmer

Wed, 26 May 2004 09:16:07 -0400
 
> Looking for recommendations on best "cheap" PC.  Would be used mostly for
> internet,email and work access (CA or Mocha Soft). Prefer small footprint as
> desk at home not very large.
>  
> Also, anyone had any luck with cellular modems.  My phone is a Nokia from
> Cingular.  Speed not real important would be used for net/work access
> probably less than 20 hrs month.  Also, cheap ISP?