Community Forums

Latitude · 08-26-2007, 04:05 AM

What is the easiest way to get connected????
I know I need a lap top!!! but after that not sure!!!!

To get Wi-Fi do I need a router and or Ethernet card????

I know I need to be in a Cg that has Wi-Fi. But what is the range???

Thanx Rick

Latitude · 08-26-2007, 04:05 AM

What is the easiest way to get connected????
I know I need a lap top!!! but after that not sure!!!!

To get Wi-Fi do I need a router and or Ethernet card????

I know I need to be in a Cg that has Wi-Fi. But what is the range???

Thanx Rick

Route 66 · 08-26-2007, 04:19 AM

Most all newer laptops have the WiFi card built in.

If your's doesn't then you will need a card to use WiFi.

You do not need a router. A router is used on the other end.

However, WiFi is still hit and miss, and has limited range. You will find that you may have to go near the clubhouse, or wherever the antenna is to get it to work. Some campgrounds charge for use of the WiFi.

Much better than WiFi is an Air Card, which acts like a data only cell phone. It plugs into your laptop, and works quite well.

Much more reliable than WiFi, and works most everywhere there is cell phone service, but there is a monthly service fee. Many find this is the best way to go. I recommend Verizon.

The most expensive is satellite service. It works everywhere except when the rooftop dish is blocked by trees, etc.

If you want internet access frequently, and easily, I highly recommend the Air Card.

Ecker · 08-26-2007, 04:24 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by SoonTooBeRVer's:
What is the easiest way to get connected????
I know I need a lap top!!! but after that not sure!!!!

To get Wi-Fi do I need a router and or Ethernet card????

I know I need to be in a Cg that has Wi-Fi. But what is the range???

Thanx Rick </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

It all depends on your equipment. If your laptop has wi-fi enabled chips like the Centrino package -then you need nothing. If not, you can buy a network adapter card assuming your laptop has a PC card slot. There are other options as well.

Range is dependent upon how well CG deployed the signal. WiFi is an RF signal in 2.4 GHz and has a range of about 300 ft unabstucted. Many use a simple antenna mounted near office and signal is only good up close to office. Others have done a good job such as Yellowstone Edge CG where I just left in MT and they had 6 repeaters located throughout CG and one could get reception everywhere. You can buy some devices to improve reception but must be aware the stronger signal you broadcast the easier for a devious person to deploy "in the middle" surveilance gear.

Latitude · 08-26-2007, 04:44 AM

Thanks for the info fellas. I haven't even got a laptop yet so I'm sure the one we get will be Wi-fi capable.

Question concerning the Verizon: our cell phones are Bell Mobility. Do we need a Verizon cell package or such or just the Verizon air card to go in the laptop?

Rick

Route 66 · 08-26-2007, 05:00 AM

The Verizon Wireless PC Card (air card) is a separate service unrelated to your cell phone.

On the Verizon Wireless web site, they are offering a free card with a 2 year service contract. They probably have other cards that may be better.

Service is $60 a month.

Latitude · 08-26-2007, 07:43 AM

Dirk Do you know if Verizon is available in Canada????
Thanx Rick

FloridaAnn · 08-26-2007, 08:13 AM

I have been pleased with Verizon air card, and now express card. For $59 a month I get access almost everywhere I travel, and in the non covered places, my laptop wireless gets me connected to campground service, the free sites in towns, etc. The verizon 800# has been efficient and offer assistance on installation, etc. I have the $59 express card and with the $50 rebate, only $9 cost.