Mark DiGiovanni

EvDO

• Reviewed: Verizon Wireless VZAccess Manager with the PC 5220 Card

  Back in April I posted this review: Reviewed: Verizon Wireless Broadband Access with the AirPrime PC 5220 card.  This review has gotten a lot of feedback over that last few months.  Now is a good time to consolidate some of the feedback and evaluate the VZAccess Manager. This manager is essentially a dashboard that allows you to select which wireless networks you wish to logon to.  You can logon to Verizon Wireless’ NationalAccess and BroadbandAccess networks as well as other 802.11 type wireless connections.  This is about all I use it for.  I never really cared for apps that try to tie together email, internet, etc.  They just never seem to get it right. The two main benefits of using the VZAccess Manager are: -The Venturi Client.  This compression system has boosted my bandwidth significantly.  The FAQ’s state 30-40% better performance than the standard compression.  I think it is a pretty accurate statement. -The increased signal strength.  My signal strength has more than doubled since I began using this manager.  I’m not exactly sure how this works, but I am able to verify it by closing the VZAccess Manager and opening up the Mobile Connection Manager that comes with the card.  It is a noticeable difference. I highly recommend switching to the VZAccess Manager.  It is free and can be downloaded either from the corporate site (requires you to enter your phone #), or from here under the Critical Software Updates section. Do not uninstall the Mobile Connection Manager!  The drivers are required for the VZAccess Manager to operate your card. PCI PCMICA for the desktop I also use my card with my tower at home.  I use the Koutech PCI to PCMCIA Controller Card that I purchased from www.newegg.com.  The 5220 card requires 3.3 volts to run.  This controller runs at either 3.3 or 5 volts and works great. Antennas: Here are the two parts that I have purchased (in delivery) to boost my signal strength: Adapter Cable: http://www.yourwirelesssource.com/PhoneAccessoryDetail.asp?SKU=421575&Phone=VERIZON+PC5220 The Multi Whip CellAntenna Magnetic Mount: http://cellantenna.com/Antennas/magneticmount.htm I will review both of these when they arrive. Ping times: Low ping times are important.  I average about 350 ms.  Verizon Wireless tech support has stated an average ping time of 234 ms.  I would consider anything under a 400-500 ms ok for VPN connections, gaming, etc.  I have yet to try Battle Field 1942 out over this connection, but I soon will.  Paul won’t stop hounding me to play. *The frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page that I put together can be found here:* http://codebetter.com/blogs/mark.digiovanni/archive/2005/01/29.aspx --Mark Posted Aug 10 2004, 12:02 PM by mdigiovanni with 38 comment(s) Filed under: EvDO

• Reviewed: Verizon Wireless Broadband Access with the AirPrime PC 5220 card

  I've recently moved to a county in Virginia where cable and DSL service is not available.  I did some research into Direcway and Starband satellite services.  On the recommendation of two co-workers and my own research, I passed on the satellite option, citing its dial-up like service, latency, and the high cost of the hardware and the monthly service fee. I must say, at this point I was a little down and out until I came across Verizon's Broadband Access.  Although the new network is only available in DC and San Diego, I am pretty satisfied with the slower National Access service.  See the service availability map for details.  I've clocked my speed on the National Access network at 79k down and 74K up with average file download speeds of 24k.  This sure beats dial up.  The card I use is the AirPrime PC 5220, capable of accessing both networks. On my way to Newport News yesterday evening, I browsed the Internet and streamed Sean Hannity's show from 770 WABC out of New York.  I never lost the connection the entire 50 minute drive, even when I had a very weak signal.  I even had an IM conversation with my good friend Brendan Tompkins. Verizon says in their April 14th press release, they will begin rolling out their new Broadband Access Network beginning sometime in May.  When this happens, speeds will be 300-500k up and down with bursts to 2mb. Verizon's wireless Internet service reaches my house where other services do not.  Verizon's Broadband and National Access networks allow me to take my Internet connection anywhere there service reaches.  The speed is good, cheaper than satellite, and only thirty or so dollars more than DSL or cable.  For those of us who live in the boonies, this is a great option. Additional Info: http://codebetter.com/blogs/mark.digiovanni/archive/2004/08/10/21628.aspx.   *The frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page that I put together can be found here:* http://codebetter.com/blogs/mark.digiovanni/archive/2005/01/29.aspx --Mark Posted Apr 29 2004, 11:51 AM by mdigiovanni with 7 comment(s) Filed under: EvDO