Community Forums

IC2 · 10-16-2016, 08:09 AM

Before someone says jump to our smart phone and use cellular technology, I need to note that the Adirondack/Lake Champlain CG where we spend much of our summer has cell connectivity only if the stars line up correctly and it's the 30th of February - that is mostly none. The Adirondack Park Agency has made it tough for cell companies to install enough towers.

This CG does have a pretty good internet/wifi system most of the time but as others have said, it often depends on whether there is a cliff height tall 5er or 'A' parked next to their towers or someone streaming videos.

I've read with interest a few of the threads here and think that a simple usb antenna may be all we need for our usual internet wanders. There have been several suggested but would like a couple more ideas from actual RV users, not just from AMAZON reviews.

Thanks

docj · 10-16-2016, 08:46 AM

If all you have is a single computer then a USB-connected antenna may be all that you need. However, if you have multiple devices including iPads, Rokus, etc, that don't have USB jacks then you may be better served by getting a router/amplifier with WiFi as WAN capability.

Not only can a router serve your entire network, it makes connecting to a wifi much simpler since only the router gets connected--all the devices in your network remain connected to it. That way you only have to enter a password into one device and all of them are suddenly on the wifi.

Since I'm affiliated with one of the manufacturers of such routers, I'm not going to provide any suggestions other than to direct you to the Technomadia website. Its owners have established themselves in the RV community as unbiased "evaluators" and their blog is a good place to begin your quest to determine what will be best for you. No doubt others will jump into this thread to say that theirs is the "right" approach; I suggest you try to get some independent thought first before listening to advocates.

Here's a link to the relevant part of the Technomadia website: How We Keep Online: Illustrated Tour of our RV Mobile Internet Setup | Technomadia

**Lt Dan** · 10-16-2016, 08:59 AM

Here's another link to a setup for a wifi antenna and in-house router system. I set this up in my motor home and it works great if you have more than one device to hook into the park internet. You go into the antenna setup via wireless each time you change locations and set it up for the new park. The one antenna is all you have to change and all of your other devices stay on the home network.
Private RV Wi-Fi and Making a Better Park Connection for Under $100 | Outside Our Bubble

MrNiceGuy · 10-16-2016, 09:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IC2

Before someone says jump to our smart phone and use cellular technology, I need to note that the Adirondack/Lake Champlain CG where we spend much of our summer has cell connectivity only if the stars line up correctly and it's the 30th of February - that is mostly none. The Adirondack Park Agency has made it tough for cell companies to install enough towers.

This CG does have a pretty good internet/wifi system most of the time but as others have said, it often depends on whether there is a cliff height tall 5er or 'A' parked next to their towers or someone streaming videos.

I've read with interest a few of the threads here and think that a simple usb antenna may be all we need for our usual internet wanders. There have been several suggested but would like a couple more ideas from actual RV users, not just from AMAZON reviews.

Thanks

We are using a repeater and booster we purchased from TechnoRV. We are extremely pleased. The booster does an excellent job of doing exactly what it was meant to do, boost the signal. The repeater allows you to connect multiple devices. The cost was approximately $150.00 including a GoStik mount. Keep in mind this will boost a weak signal. It will not give a signal where none is present. It also will not increase bandwidth at a campground with limited bandwidth. It will help you from having to stand next to the Campbell's access point to get a connection. The equipment can be ordered from TechnoRV.com.

IC2 · 10-16-2016, 06:58 PM

It looks like I need to do a bit of self education since a quick look at the references you folks have given my have served to point out the fact that I don't have a clue

So, with that said, I'm about to jump in the deep end and see what I really need. Thanks for pointing me in at least a direction