How many here use their Cell phone as a modem?

I'm wondering how many here have used their Cell phone as a modem?
I do using T-Mobile's 8320 Curve and is it convenient... as you don't always have cable or dial-up access everywhere and with this you can be online anywhere! I like that!
It's a lot faster than modem, but not nearly as fast as cable. Very acceptable, especially when you want or need to be be online and no cable or dial-ups in sight at some places.
T-Mobile's Curve and XPS m1530 makes for a great setup!


Let's see yours!

 

I'm not taking a picture of it, but yes I use my 3G Blackjack as a modem. 3G is surprisingly fast if you use the USB cable. Using bluetooth it's slower but more convenient.

 

I use my 8100 as a modem quite often. It's convenient when needed.

Sorry, no pix though.

 

love the matching scheme

out of curiousity, how is this done?

do you need a usb cable? or can it be done via BT?

 

I use a USB cable, it chareges the 8100 while it's being used as a modem.

 

A usb cable... Pretty simple to setup with T-Mobile & BB 8320.
After purchacing T-Mobile's Data plan for $20, (needed to use BB as a modem) All I had to do was hook up the 8320 via USB, then turn on the Desktop manager, In control panel double click phone & modem options then Modem/properties/advance/ then click change settings, then click Advance, then enter the string +cgdcont=1,"IP","wap.voicestream.com" in the "Extra intialization commands" box and apply. then type in *99# as the phone number in Dial-up modem connection, then VIOLA, good to go!

 

Wow, nice. do u need to prescribe internet for your cell phone as part of your mohtly payment in order to do that?

 

10 Mbps cable connection/wireless v. 28-200 Kbps phone.

Now if there were an easier decision, I'd like to see it.

 

In my case I had to sign up for T-Mobile's Data plan for $20 a month.

 

I'm not sure exactly what your referring to, but if I couldn't get a cable/wireless/modem connection, I sure as heck wouldn't mind the slower speed to be able to log on anywhere. The BB connection is a LOT faster than dial-up anyway. I bet this works on Jets too. Just tuck the phone under a blanket or notebook case and have a blast online.

Why is it they don't want you to use cell phones in the air anyway? I see people sneak peeking their email or texting all the time on the planes anyway.
To answer my own question
In 1991, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) banned passengers from using their cell phones while on board an airplane that is in flight. The ban was instituted because the FCC suspected that the radio frequency emitted by cell phones could malfunction an airplane's equipment systems. In complying with this rule, different airlines have instituted different policies about when phones can be turned on and off. In 2005, the FCC announced that it might consider lifting the ban on the use of cell phones on airplanes, with certain restrictions.

The FCC regulates the use of all electronic devices, including cell phones, on airplanes under the assumption that they may affect the communication systems on board. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) agrees with the FCC that cell phones may cause substantial interference with aircraft systems and supports the ban for all commercially operated airplanes. The use of cell phones on private or charter planes is not regulated, however, and many private flights permit passengers to use cell phones while in flight.

Lots of debate has surrounded the use of cell phones on airplanes. The primary concern is that cell phones may interfere with the navigation and communication systems of the plane, potentially resulting in devastating failure. Numerous airlines have reported disruptions in cabin pressure, compass function, and wireless navigation systems associated with the use of cell phones on board. The FCC, it seems, erred on the side of caution when it enforced an outright ban on the use of radio frequency emitting devices which could potentially cause an aircraft to crash.

There have also been some reports that the use of cell phones on planes may cause disruptions in ground communications because of interference. Others claim that the airlines and the FCC would simply prefer that consumers use the telecommunications systems mounted on most seat backs in commercial airplanes, because these phones are said to be highly profitable. Newer cell phones are capable of operating on very low power settings, which may not interfere with the aircraft as much. The FCC is attempting to establish an acceptable threshold of radio frequency emissions, so that cell phones could be used on airplanes without any fear of the navigation system failing or service on the ground being disrupted.

 

ppc 6800 + SERO + wmwifirouter = FTW!

ive since decided to get a internal aircard becaue i reflash my phone with no unstable roms it would no tbe reliable. My aircard ALWAYS works when i need it. Because I use it for work now I can rationalize it

 

Very useful post! I have 8320 as well and never thought of this.

 

That T-Mobile 8320 is quite a phone isn't it!


Quite the combo, the XPS & BB

 

Europe just allowed cell phones on planes. Figuring how regulatory the EU is I cant help but wonder if the FCC is being too cautious.

 

I've been using a cell phone as a modem at various times for at least 5-6 years. Did this in situations when I had no other access. Initially I used a cable but switched to bluetooth when I got a phone that had it. Not much use for it now but it did come in handy during a large storm-related power outage last year. Lots of issues around this topic that are best addressed in other forums. For those with almost any kind of cell phone questions, I've found howardforums.com to be a great place to find answers.

 

I like using this setup when I'm at the bookstore/coffee shops. Beats paying that hourly fee they charge.

 

Jack53, I have 8700 series BB. I attached it to my laptop; turned on Desktop Manager. However, when I went to Phone and Modem setup under Control Panels. I don't know which one is the one for the 8700. Did you have to add that to the list of Modem? I tried and nothing showed up. I must have done something wrong. Please advice.

Thanks

 

The 8700 may have a different string than my 8320 does if it is through a different carrier than T-Mobile.
Did you turn on the Desktop manager before trying. I forgot to once and it wouldn't work.

Not sure. Here is what I did again: (you have to follow it exactly for VISTA)

A usb cable... Pretty simple to setup with T-Mobile & BB 8320.
After purchacing T-Mobile's Data plan for $20, (needed to use BB as a modem) All I had to do was hook up the 8320 via USB, then turn on the Desktop manager, In control panel double click phone & modem options then Modem/properties/advance/ then click change settings, then click Advance, then enter the string +cgdcont=1,"IP","wap.voicestream.com" in the "Extra intialization commands" box and apply. then type in *99# as the phone number in Dial-up modem connection, then VIOLA, good to go!

Remember, this is for the T-Mobile 8320 Curve, other carriers will be different.

T-MOBILE USA Users
+cgdcont=1,"IP","wap.voicestream.com"

Rogers Users
+cgdcont=1,"IP","internet.com"

Cingular Blue/AT&T Users
+cgdcont=1,"IP","proxy"

Cingular Orange Users
+cgdcont=1,"IP","ISP.CINGULAR"

UK Vodafone Users
+cgdcont=1,"IP","internet"

Verizon Users - Keep blank

Sprint/Bell Mobility CDMA Users (untested) - Keep blank

 

I love the phone as modem option. Where I live, I typically connect between 300k and 800+k. Considering I had only the 768k package from verizon before I left them, I can definitely live with these connection speeds. I don't need a blazing fast connection, just something a few times faster than dialup.
EDIT: Just for kicks, see what connection speed you get. Linky.

 

I have the 8700 with T-Mobile. It has unlimited data.

I am using XP (my work laptop). When you go to Phone/Modem, what shows up under the list the modems?

 

anybody how to use a sprint razor v3m as a modem

 

I use my T-Mobile MDA with Windows Mobile 6.1 as a modem all the time

It is exactly the "internet anywhere" reason as it is important for my business. Also, since T-Mobile makes it so cheap ($20/m for Cell+Laptop (Via Cell)+Hotspots) it is a why not!

I need it to access my exchange account with push mail on my cell anyways...

I started out doing it over USB, but have since switched to BT when I got my i1520 since it is a lot more convenient (no need to lug around and hook up a USB cable while out).

 

@digi111, whether you use bluetooth, or tether with USB cable, you don't need the sprint pcs connection software. Just create a new dialup connection in windows, but have the dialed number as #777 (make sure to include the pound sign!). If you have the PAM plan, it will connect. Assuming you have the USB drivers, or your bluetooth already paired.

 

What connection speeds does anyone get with their mobile phones? Try this link. I'm curious what others are getting. I think it definitely depends on the network conditions, cause I connect anywhere from 300k to over 800k download.
This time I got 422k/128k.

 

Talin29 I have the sprint unlimted data plan. Will it still work?

 

has anyone tried it with an iphone?

 

Try this with XP

1. Go to Start > Settings > Control Panel.
2. Double-click Phone and Modem Options.
3. In the Phone and Modem Options window, click the Modems tab.
4. Select Standard Modem and click Properties.
5. In the Standard Modem Properties window, Click the Advanced Tab.
6. In the Extra initialization commands field, type the following: +cgdcont=1,"IP","wap.voicestream.com"1,1


set up dial up connection manually using standard modem
leave username and password blank

dial *99#

 

Best thing to do is call customer service (* 2) and ask. There's two different data plans. The sprint pcs vision, which is unlimited web, email, picture mail, etc etc, on the phone. You want the sprint pcs vision unlimited PAM plan (phone as modem).

 

What does the BT cost? Links... I'm getting tired of using that usb all the time.

 

You'll connect way faster by using USB though. When using BT, I never connected faster than ~333kb.

 

I guess I'll stick with usb then as BT is usually pretty spendy.

 

I have Unlimitted personal from AT&T and use my Tilt with BT PAN to connect. They removed the shortcut from the start menu but they didnt delete the app called internet sharing. Its the best way to connect. Its supposed to allow calls, phone Internet and laptop connect. Of course contracts say you can't do it and I rarely need to but there it is anyway.

 

Stupid typo.

 

What is the speed difference between a USB cable and a BT wireless 2.0 usb adapter? I'm tired of the usb cord. I just bought a IOGEAR Enhanced Data Rate Bluetooth USB Adapter GBU221P Network adapter
http://www.pcuniverse.com/product.asp?pid=4120431

 

I'll try this tomorrow with my cable / clearwire / BB usb cable / BT wireless and compare and post.

 

Not sure about USB speed but I learned this in my network engineering class today.

Standars: Bluetooth(802.15) / GSM, GPRS, CDMA, 2.5-3G

Speed: < 1mbps / 10-384kbps

Range: short / long

Application: peer to peer / PDA & mobile devices


From this data it seems that cell phones bandwidth is far from reaching bluetooth transfer rate, I hope this helps. BTW nice C3 it seems like we've similar test in notebook, phone, and car(I have a C5Z) save the wave! lol.



EDIT Jack, do I need to install blackberry desktop manager on my laptop in order to use it as a modem?

 

Yes you have to install the desktop manager to get it to work.

Thanks for the info. I'm anxious to try out the BT tomorrow.

C5 Z06 huh? Those are fast and drive like a caddy.
Mine is just fast. 750hp worth. Website here:
http://corvettec3.com/1977.htm

You have a website on yours?

 

Mines no where near that only got LG pro longtubes, B&B exhaust, Halltech intake, C6Z06 clutch, and mild cam dyno'd 420ish at the wheels. I guess yours is in the 500ish off the bottle? Got myspace only in my profile.

 

USB 2.0, 480 Mbit/s
Universal Serial Bus - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

BT v1.2, 1 Mbit/s
BT v2.0 + EDR, 3Mbit/s
Bluetooth - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

According to the two links above, USB gets up to 480Mbit/s & Bluetooth gets 53 - 480 Mbit/s so its about the same. Why are some saying USB is faster?

Who has used both usb cable and bluetooth? What do you prefer to use?

 

Well as I said, I used both BT and USB, and for some reason I could only connect about 330kb on BT. My laptop has a 2.0+EDR module, and phone is new. So I have no idea why, I read online too that many others have experienced the same thing. Guess an advantage to tethering is it keeps the phone charged while plugged in.

 

Well, from what I'm reading here and on the Blackberry forums, USB cable is the way to go for media & using as a modem. So I think I'm wasting my money on this. I haven't open the BT package yet, so I'm thinking of taking it back. It looks like BT is overhyped.

I forgot about the BB being charged while plugged in with the usb cable. That is a plus for sure!

 

In case any of you are interested in changing your BB faceplate, here is my guide for that:
http://corvettec3.com/Blackberryfaceplate.htm

Here are a couple good photo's of finished red faceplate install