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"A review of the actual MIFI product, not other factors" on by simtiaz
Pros: Fast download/upload speads for a mobile device. Portable, easy to configure and use. Does exactly what it is designed to do.
Cons: Battery life could be slightly better, but still not bad considering that it can support multiple devices. Would be nice if this could be used internationally.
Summary: I've read multiple reviews about this product and I found it interesting that many of the complaints were not about the product itself, but rather, about Verizon's data caps which are static accross the board for ANY mobile broadband device (assuming the user does not have a grandfathered unlimited data account). The other main source of user complaints seems to be due to a lack of understanding of how the product works. For example, some users complained about the device shutting itself down - this is due to the power settings which CAN be modified. Others complained about having to remember to bring it along - really? Kinda like one has to remember to bring his/her wallet/purse, keys, cell phone? Wow.
Ok, now for the actual product review: I upgraded to the MIFI 2200 frrom a USB Card and I can honestly say there is a world of difference.
For starter's the setup was a breeze - I got home and plugged it in and it automatically installed VZ Access Manager and activated itself. Once actviation was done, I unplugged it and started using it in Wifi mode - no need for VZ Access Manager from this point on (unless I want to use the device in USB/non-sharing mode)...
Next, the ease of use is godsent: If other's want to use my data connection, they no longer need to worry about first downloading VZ Access Manager - they simply find my SSID (which can be customized) in their wireless profiles manager and type in the password (also customizable). The MIFI device assignes them an IP and they're online !!
The speed is pretty good too, but will obviously degrade as more users are added. WIth two users connected, I clocked 1.75 mbps download and 668 kbps upload. Another advantage is that unlike most aircards, the throughput stays steady when on the move (in a car/train).
As far as configurability, I already mentioned that the SSID, password, and power setting can be customized but you can also experiment with MAC filtering, port forwarding, port restrictions, SSID broadcast, and much much more.
This device, like all other Verizon Wireless devices, comes with a 30-day guarantee so you really don't have much to lose. If you are looking for a portable/mobile broadband solution, this is a great option. -
"As good as it gets. You won't be disappointed." on by matt6405--2008
Pros: Lightweight and compact design. Speed throughput is quick and efficient, haven't had any glitches. $99.00 plus a $50 Visa-Card...got it for $49.00 bucks w/ 2-year agreement. User replaceable battery.
Cons: 5GB limit. My first, an ExpressCard has the Unlimited version of the mobile broadband plan. I know 5GB is a lot, but up to 5 people can be connected at once, all "eating" off the same 5GB...I can see it going quickly.
Summary: I travel quite a bit, always going here and there. And like most people nowadays, I'm chained to the Internet. I love the video tip, CNET did showing how you can use this modem in conjunction with the iPhone. I don't know if I'm ready yet to lose my iPhone 3GS (32GB) data plan...but it's nice to know I could save some money if I go that route. In any case I added this second mobile broadband line to my account due to the sharing of my primary line's ExpressCard. Basically got tired of hunting down who had the card last. The MiFi is a great concept and so far it lives up to everything it is advertised to do. I don't know how well the battery performs, but to be honest...I don't care. If I'm in a pinch I can plug it into my laptop's USB, or if it really becomes a problem I can buy an additional battery, considering that the batter is user replaceable! Yay!
The "router's" configuration page was pleasantly easy to navigate, so I could rename the SSID and add my own WPA passphrase. Because as you know, it's all about personalizing your tech hardware right? Right.
I'm connected as we speak via my MiFi and the connection is plenty fast. Set-up was a breeze on Vista, no problems, just a couple of restarts...too easy. I also dialed up Netflix's website and pointed my browser over to the "Watch Now" section. Before I could blink a few times, my test movie, "Quarantine", started to play.
I popped on my iPhone's WiFi and it found my MiFi, typed in my passphrase and vola, my iPhone was now connected to "WiFi"...great for all those iPhone Apps that say they'll only work over a WiFi connection.
Lastly, I will say this, Verizon has a 30-Day money back guarantee, so what do you have to lose. Buy it, try it, and if you don't like it...take it back and pay nothing. You can't lose! Trust me, and happy mobile computing.
-Matthew -
"Some current users are exempt from limits" on by slammersworldx
Pros: If you are a current subscriber with unlimited plan this is a great device
Cons: If you are not grandfathered in, I would recommend another company other than Verizon
Summary: Ordered one today.....I am grandfathered into Unlimited Service, so limits don't apply to me........Been using USB720 and internet sharing on my Mac to connect multi-devices....this will simplify things for me....and with my discount I got it for 49.95 + 23.00 for 12volt car adapter...couldn't be happier!!
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"Perfect for business on the go" on by whiteston
Pros: - small
- connects automatically
- works like you would expect it to
- One of the few gadgets that truly does make life easierCons: - Stays on while charging even if you try to turn it off
- You will want to have a grandfathered unlimited plan for all the band widthSummary: this is a perfect piece of equipment for the person that travels with their family. We often have multiple laptops on as we travel down the road and this thing is perfect. I can also take it into lunch meetings with me and everyone can have wifi access.
'Slick' does not even begin to describe it.
I will never go back to a USB broadband modem. -
"Can't install - detect device with Windows 7 or AppleOS" on by IleyP
Pros: I can force finding the device and managed to get it activated; when it is working, it is FAST
Cons: I can't do anything with it, such as change the SSID or code. VZAccess Manager is WORTHLESS since it can't find the device, tethered or wireless.
Summary: For the actual money they want, it is a worthless item. For people who are getting it to install without any issues, unreal, since my 3 friends have had the same problem. If 4 of us can't install the produce, then it is WORTHLESS.
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