Totally Mobile Internet Access via Verizon

[Dave Beatty]

Here is a Verizon EVDO update for the Everette/Seattle/Tacoma/Olympia
area.

Last Thursday, I was invited to the rollout of Verizon Wireless EVDO.
Verizon made the presentation at Mariners Baseball game. Verizon gave
the 200 or so attendees a free V620 PCMCIA Cards (normal cost $49
after rebates) and a free month of Unlimited Intenet Service
(normally retails for $80 per month).

I immediately installed the card in my notebook and headed out with
notebook powered up and connected to Verizon EVDO to the 2nd PNW Bird
Retreat to Pacific Beach RV Park which is on the Washington Coast
beyond Aberdeen, Washington. With the Pacific Ocean in view I got
reliable internet access with 100kb up and 100kb down. When I
returned to Federal Way (near Tacoma), I got 128kb up and 1000kb+
down. At home I was able share the internet connection with 4 other
PCs in my home via my existing home network with good performance.

I have not invested in the External Antenna yet since I may upgrade
to the AudiVox xv6600 Windows Palm Style PC to have the portable
internet with me at all times plus the option to tether it to my
Notebook for full internet access when needed.

Prior to this Verizon test I was considering a DataStorm Satellite
Dish, but not now. Verizon EVDO/NationalAccess maybe my best option
considering ...

1) It is totally mobile with good performance everywhere I have
traveled so far.

2) The Connection is quick and very reliable so far.

3) The $80 per month cost is reasonable since I am able to replace my
home internet which cost $60 per month.

I have 25 more days to do more testing before turning off my Comcast
Service. I also need to checkout the AudioVox Xv6600 (or the just
released Samsung i720 ?).. I really hate to give up my Treo 600 on
Tmobile but Verizon has superior coverage and service. I guess I can
sell the Treo 600 on Ebay or http://www.craigslist.com for $250....

I give all updates as my 30 day of testing the Verizon EVDO Service
continues.

__________________
Dave Beatty
83 FC35SB (BirdCage)
Federal Way, Washington State