No hot spot? No problem: cellular connectivity for laptops

Updated February 22, 2006

When your travels take you beyond the reach of Wi-Fi, you can still connect to the Internet with a laptop that's equipped to tap into a cellular network. The Sony VAIO VGN-T670P, a follow-up to the VAIO VGN-T350P, offers an all-in-one solution, with a built-in cellular radio that accesses Cingular's EDGE network. The ThinkPad Z60t and the HP Compaq nc6140 also feature an integrated cellular radio, but they connect to Verizon's 3G EV-DO network. If you already have a laptop you love, try one of the PC Card modems below--just be sure the card you select is compatible with your carrier. For each of the products here, coverage can vary depending on your location, and you'll still have to pay a monthly fee for data access. But blazing through your to-do list from almost anywhere could be worth the price.

More resources

Ask the Editors: 3G networks explained  Editors' top notebooks

CNET's notebook buying guide  CNET's wireless network buying guide