It is a USB network adapter. At the end of the USB cord is a 10db WiFi antenna, Works from inside the RV. I have been using mine for 4 years. Just install the software.
$23.07 at Amazon. Amazon Airlink AWLL5055.
2000 Sea Breeze F53 V10 - CR-V Toad
Some RV batteries live a long and useful life, some are murdered. Get a Digital Multimeter and Learn How to Use It
crcr wrote: I have a different option to consider. I find that even when staying in campgrounds or hotels, it is not uncommon that the Wifi doesn't work or drops off from time to time. If I have any problem with the Wifi where I am staying, this is what I always do. I also do this when staying in downtown LA hotels that charge $10 to $14 per day for WiFi.
I have had Android smartphones ever since they came out, about 4 years ago. My carrier is Verizon, which generally has the widest and most reliable coverage. I have several apps, any of which allow me to tether my laptop or netbook to my smartphone using a USB cable, and thereby get an internet connection on my laptop / netbook. Basically, I am using the smartphone as a router. The several apps I use range from free to $5 apps (one time payment). My Android smartphone (currently a Galaxy Nexus) is NOT "hacked" or "rooted". The connections prove to be quite fast and reliable, even more so now that I have a smartphone with Verizon's blazing fast 4G/LTE. FYI, tethering is not officially approved by any of the carriers, but I don't abuse it -- just use it as needed from time to time. It works, and Verizon has never complained to me.
This is what I do.
I don't even look for non-secure wifi anymore. Just hook up the phone.
Using pdanet using the cable that comes with the charger.
Jack Mayer has lots of useful tips to increase your wifi reception . He actually installs wifi systems in RV Parks . Just do a google search on him . He has a great web site with all sorts of useful information especially in the communications section.
I will echo the thought of the Alfa awsu036.. The only reason I replaced mine is that SIL borrowed it and he kept coming up with reasons to not give it back.
It is easy to stick it in a convenient window and very to set up. If you choose to stick it to a window, it can be used without requiring a cable penetration of the RV shell. Once you set it up, it is very well behaved and with several laptops (3 to date) it has been easier to use than the install Wifi device.
If you get stuck in a campground between the Prevost and a Newell, you can run a USB cable out a just cracked window and put it on the roof or on anything else to get out of the shadow. (I do put a plastic bag over it if it going to rain.)
The transmitter side is 10 to 20 times more than a typical device and the receiver is also a bag hotter. (If you can't hear him, you can't work him.)
Go to EB and look at them and the parts you can get to go with it. Make sure you get the holder, suction cup and clip. You will want those, but the higher gain antenna is of limited value unless you are trying to get free Wifi from a long distance. The directional antenna is good to deal with a campground that put all the access points on the same channel. You can use that to pick just one AP and make the traffic less confusing to the modem. It seems to have little other use.
I have a smart phone I can tether too, but I like to leave the phone clear when I don't need it for access.
Good luck
Matt
Matt & Mary Colie
A sailor, his bride and their black dog going to see some dry places that have Geocaches in a coach made the year we married.
crcr wrote: I have a different option to consider. I find that even when staying in campgrounds or hotels, it is not uncommon that the Wifi doesn't work or drops off from time to time. If I have any problem with the Wifi where I am staying, this is what I always do. I also do this when staying in downtown LA hotels that charge $10 to $14 per day for WiFi.
I have had Android smartphones ever since they came out, about 4 years ago. My carrier is Verizon, which generally has the widest and most reliable coverage. I have several apps, any of which allow me to tether my laptop or netbook to my smartphone using a USB cable, and thereby get an internet connection on my laptop / netbook. Basically, I am using the smartphone as a router. The several apps I use range from free to $5 apps (one time payment). My Android smartphone (currently a Galaxy Nexus) is NOT "hacked" or "rooted". The connections prove to be quite fast and reliable, even more so now that I have a smartphone with Verizon's blazing fast 4G/LTE. FYI, tethering is not officially approved by any of the carriers, but I don't abuse it -- just use it as needed from time to time. It works, and Verizon has never complained to me.
The new phones will tether via USB without the apps. Verizon has no problem with this. You can also wireless tether with Foxfi. Does not require root. You can also root and get wireless tether. I think this way works best for wireless tether, but Foxfi isnt that bad if you dont want to root.
Verizon will only throttle you if you are in the top 5% of usage. I have been over 10gigs many times on my phone without ever being throttled.
I use the WiFi Ranger with Boost. Works very well. Antenna is mounted on my bat wing antenna strut, and provides a LAN inside with the router. https://www.wifiranger.com/
Full timing since 2004
2007 Holiday Rambler Navigator
2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee