Verizon MiFi 2200 Review- Mobile Broadband Done Right
The first I heard of the Novatel Wireless (NVTL) MiFi 3G modem/router, I realized how big an impact it could make with my mobile work. The only negative was that I am a longtime Verizon 3G customer and I needed a version from them. You can understand my excitement when I heard that Verizon would be releasing their branded version of the MiFi on May 17, and that excitement was increased when the good folks at Verizon asked if I wanted to get an early look at it. I’ve only had the Verizon MiFi 2200 Intelligent Mobile Hotspot for a day, but I can state emphatically it is everything I thought it would be and more. The MiFi is mobile broadband done right. Read on to see why I am definitely buying one of these.
I have been using Verizon 3G service for years. I started with a PC Card modem, migrated to an ExpressCard solution, and most recently I switched to a USB modem (USB727). These have all worked fine, but a little limiting for me given the multiple devices I use while mobile. These all require the Verizon Access Manager software to be installed on each laptop so the modem can be used. The process with a new device is to download and install the Access Manager, unless the software is already included on the device. In that case, you still need to install the software. This process installs all of the modem drivers for the given notebook. Once everything is installed, connections can be manually started as desired once the modem is inserted into the system. It’s not bad for a one-shot process, but it’s a pain given all the various notebooks and UMPCs I evaluate.
The Verizon MiFi is a combination 3G modem and Wi-Fi router that is battery-operated for full mobility. Once the MiFi has been activated (more on that later) the device connects to the Verizon Mobile Broadband network (renamed from BroadbandAccess) simply by pushing the power button. In just a few seconds, the MiFi is connected to the 3G high-speed network and the Wi-Fi router takes over. The MiFi appears as a hotspot to any device with Wi-Fi capability, and making the Wi-Fi connection is as simple as entering the network security code which is printed on the back of the MiFi. That’s it: The notebook or other device is now connected to the Verizon network via Wi-Fi. The network code only has to be entered to make the first connection, after which it’s an automatic process. That’s the beauty of the MiFi method: Push the power button and the laptop/UMPC/phone is connected to 3G.
Taking a look at the specs of the MiFi shows just how small yet full-featured this device is:
- Dimensions: 3.5″ x 2.3″ x 0.4″ (90 mm x 60 mm x 8.8 mm)
- Weight: 2.05 ounces (58 g)
- Battery: 1,150 mAh (user replaceable)
- Antennas: internal; 800/1,900 MHz, CDMA (EV-DO Rev. A)
- WiFi: 802.11 b/g
- Usage: four hours (one Wi-Fi client); 40 hours standby; charge time 2.5 hours charger, 7-8 hours USB cable
- LEDs: Power- 4 color; Status- one color
- Connectivity Features: auto connect; EVDO/1xRTT; VPN compatible; dial-up; NDIS support
- Text messaging: VZAccess manager in USB mode required; message received notification; delete/reply/forward
- Security: CDMA authentication; dynamic MIP key update; CHAP; Wi-Fi- WEP/WPA/WPA2-PSK, SPi firewall; MAC/ port filtering; NAPT/DHCP server enable; VPN pass-through
- OSes supported: Windows 2000, XP, Vista; Mac OS X 10.4 or higher
The MiFi is not much bigger than a credit card and can be easily carried around. Verizon is offering three ways to get the 3G data service:
- $39.99 month for 250 MB with $0.10 per MB overage
- $59.99 month for 5 GB with $0.05 per MB overage
- $15 per day with no contract
Those expecting to use the service more than a few days per month will likely want to consider one of the monthly options, but it’s nice to see the day option for those who don’t travel much. The MiFi will be available online and in Verizon stores on May 17 and will cost $99.99 after a $50 rebate. Those who want to go the daily rate route can pick up the MiFi from Verizon for full retail price: $269.99 without a contract.
Getting going with the MiFi
The MiFi ships from Verizon with the device, battery, USB cable, power adapter and cloth carrying pouch. The unit is glossy black, and the pouch can be used to clean fingerprint smudges from the surface. It’s a simple process to open the battery compartment and pop a battery into the MiFi. The next step to get going is to connect the MiFi to the either a Windows or Mac system via the short USB cable. Windows recognizes the MiFi as an EVDO modem and auto-installs all the drivers needed to use the modem via USB. The VZAccess Manager software must be run once to activate the modem and prepare it for use, and it auto-installs from the MiFi. The whole process takes just a few minutes, and the MiFi is ready to go.
The MiFi is designed to be used as a modem via Wi-Fi, and it shows up as a Verizon Secure hotspot to any device. It is encrypted, and the password is printed on the back of the MiFi for one-time entry: After that, the notebook or device will connect automatically like it does to any other Wi-Fi hotspot. It’s simple and hassle-free, which is the strength of the MiFi over traditional modems.
Since the MiFi works as a Wi-Fi router, the Verizon 3G network appears to all devices as a simple hotspot. This means the MiFi can be used with any notebook, netbook, UMPC or phone, with no software required. It is, thus, the only 3G modem solution that has both Wi-Fi and 3G integrated, so it can be used easily by any phone with Wi-Fi capability, and also with Linux-based netbooks, without worrying if drivers are needed. This makes the MiFi the most versatile 3G solution currently available — and why I say it is “mobile broadband done right.”
Up to five devices can share the MiFi connection simultaneously, although they share the single 3G pipe. I have connected three devices with no detectable lag, so I don’t think five would be too heavy a burden for the MiFi. Just remember that the monthly data cap (250 MB or 5 GB) will be tapped by the total throughput, so I wouldn’t have five devices running around the clock. I personally have the 5 GB option with my current Verizon plan, and I don’t see that being a problem with the MiFi.
The MiFi can be used with a USB connection should the battery run out during the day. This requires using the VZAccess Manager program to connect to the network, however, so it will need to be installed on whatever device it is connected to. Remember, this is done automatically when setting up the MiFi, so it’s not a big deal.
The status LED flashes green to indicate data transmit/receive during normal usage. The power button on the MiFi changes among four colors to indicate the following conditions:
- LED not lit — no power to modem
- LED Blue — modem is powered on and roaming
- LED Green solid — modem is powered on and fully charged
- LED Green glowing — modem is in hibernate
- LED Red blinking — modem battery is critically low
- LED Amber solid — modem battery is charging
- LED Amber blinking — modem error, see user manual
The MiFi can be used on Macs without the VZAccess Manager software, according to Verizon, but I did not try that since I had already activated using Windows. It’s a standard Wi-Fi hotspot after activation, so it will work on anything that can access hotspots.
Conclusion
The Verizon MiFi is a simple-to-use 3G method that allows up to five devices to access the 3G network at a time. It is a full-blown Wi-Fi router and can be controlled via a web browser interface the same as any other router. I am able to access the MiFi easily on any device within ~30 feet, farther than that and the signal strength drops dramatically, which is expected for such a small router.
I have been so impressed with the operation of the MiFi I intend to get one as soon as this evaluation unit goes back to Verizon. I feel it is worth the subsidized pricing, and the 5 GB plan is adequate for my needs. Bear in mind I am already paying the $60 per month, so in my case, I am simply going to switch from a USB stick modem to the MiFi. Your needs are likely different, and you need to weigh those needs with the various costs associated with the Verizon plans.
i had the opportunity to play with the mifi while at CTIA cellular show in vegas last april, and i also think its a cool device… but i will only recommend it to ’suburban soccer moms’ where cellular signal is not likely to be a concern.
for the serious roadwarriors whose mobile lifestyle takes them further into rural areas where cellular signal is sure to be weak on a regular basis, the mifi is not a great solution because it lacks a cellular rf/antenna jack.
i have other concerns as well, most of which would apply to any router that has an embedded radio/module:
– embedded 3G radio with no upgrade path. when 4G is available, must buy new.
– locked to one carrier. If you buy from verizon. Stuck with verizon.
– NO antenna jack. more expensive wireless amp needed when signal sucks.
– NO ethernet port. All connections via WiFi or USB to single computer
– limited range compared to any cradlepoint. Max of about 30ft.
– max # of users is five. (cradlepoint is 16, 32 or 64)
with the urgency by carriers to roll out 4G as soon as they can afford to, it makes little sense to buy a router that cannot take advantage of 4G devices that will become available.
the cradlepoint phs300 also has a rechargeable battery and there is already a version that supports the Clear 4G USB modem.
Soccer moms. Hardly. Many roadwarriors travel to large cities where 3G signal is prevalent, especially that of Verizon. I see this solution as good as any USB modem that is the norm today.
The cradlepoint is a nice system but the MiFi is self-contained and requires no other modem to be bought/ activated/ carried/ attached.
By way of disclosure Alex runs the 3G Store where competing products (like the Cradlepoint) are sold.
I’m looking to get one of these now.
I travel a lot and spend time in airports, etc–i.e. in cities. You know in many airports WiFi is not free. So, rather than paying $X a day at these airport hotspots, just get a Mifi and take it with you.
I can’t think of the last time I’ve been somewhere where I didn’t get a good EVDO signal on my BlackBerry–does this make me a “suburban soccer mom” just because I don’t often venture out into the middle of soybean fields?? Maybe we should call you the “country hick farmer”
Any word on real life battery life?
- on full surfing
- on but only updating emails etc ( ie umpc on inside pocket but connected )
I haven’t had it long enough to get a real picture but so far the quoted 4 hours for one WiFi client seems to be about accurate.
James – always enjoyed and learning lots from reading your website daily. I just bought Verizon MiFi due to reading your article (maybe you should get a commission!).
Questions – have you (or any of your reader) tried MiFi on US290 (Houston – Austin)? ATT does not have broadband there and I wonder if Sprint or Verizon has broadband established on US 290. I am deciding between Sprint or Verizon MiFi. Your advice will be greatly appreciated. TIA
yes, i do work for 3gstore, and the bulk of our business is sales of high-gain 3G antennas and amps to RVers and truckers who frequently find themselves in challenging signal areas.
without the ability to directly attach an antenna to the MiFi, these folks are forced to buy more expensive wireless signal amplifiers, which is why i consider the MiFi handicapped when compared to other USB modem solutions that have an rf/antenna jack.
i completely agree with you that (so long as signal is not an issue), the MiFi is every bit as capable as USB modem offerings, and its compact size and built in WiFi router gives it a clear advantage. i’m sure i’ll have a MiFi in my bag since i hardly ever get out of DFW proper.
but once a MiFi user ventures away from metropolitan areas and into more rural coverage where signal can suck… they are very likely to wish they has some easy/cheap way to improve cellular signal to their MiFi.
EVDOAlex,
Your assertion that most true road warriors venture into rural areas is absurd. Just because your personal experience skews to RVers and truckers does not mean that only they are “serious road warriors”; the term is not meant to be taken literally as “those that drive on the road”. It means people that travel a lot, usually for business via air.
Most road warriors don’t venture to rural areas, but rather to urban or suburban areas where 3G signals are prevalent. Instead of trashing the product as only being fit for soccer moms, try to frame your comments in a way that raises concerns for that limited market that you are writing about without painting them as representative of frequent travelers as a whole.
Julio
You should really cut Alex some slack,he did state that it was not a bad product for those of us that do not travel into these more rural areas.Some of us DO travel into these areas and our concerns are just and legitimate as your own.Please relax!
I DO find myself in these situations quite regularly.I am very interested in Alex’s input.My thanks to him!
My business takes me to these places and having a dependable internet connection makes my job much easier and so much more productive.In essence this allows me to do my part to assist many people that contribute greatly to the economy that,also,depend on my services.
There are many people who live and work in rural,out of the way places that keep those of you in urban settings supplied,fed and working.It is far past time that our wireless needs are recognized,appreciated and met.
The attraction of this device is the size and convenience, slip it in your pocket and you’ve 4 hours of 3g access for any wifi enabled device you have on you.
The cradlepoint solutions are bulkier with poorer battery life.
The truckers etc. shall buy a solution that works for them. The rest of us will get a MiFi.
@julio,
i said “for the serious roadwarriors whose mobile lifestyle takes them further into rural areas”
i did not mean to imply that _only_ those who travel rurally, were “true roadwarriors”
your definition of a roadwarrior is just as valid, and the MiFi would most certainly be suited to them.
whatever you would call those whose lifestyle takes them rurally more often than not, would find the MiFi to occasionally be signal challenged, just as any cellular device — and at that point, they’ll likely wish their cellular device had an antenna jack.
I do a lot of travaling in remote areas (Colorado mountains, Utah, Wyoming) and frequently find that I can get an data signal even when I can’t get a voice signal. I also used to use a USB727, but got tired of constantly switching it from my laptop to my netbook. I wish it had an antenna conection, but has not been a problem so far. i also wish it could be pluged into the USB port of one computer and work wireless with the other at the same time, then the battery would never discharge, but I have adapted. Overall I it far superior to the USB stick.
Battery life? One of my chief complaints about the Cradlepoint (user, I don’t sell or profit from them) is that the battery is user replaceable – but not without a screwdriver. That and the fact it tends to heat up over time.
It’s quoted at 4 hours with one client on WiFi. I haven’t tapped it out but that’s about right from what I’ve seen so far. The battery is easily replaceable as I showed in the video yesterday, no screwdriver needed. I’ve felt no heat during my usage either.
Can it charge via USB? If so, that’s a really big draw for me (I am seriously considering limiting all future device purchases, not counting PCs, to USB-charging only). If not, missed opportunity.
Yes, it charges via USB. In fact, the power adapter plugs into the mini-USB port too.
When charging via USB, can it still serve as a wifi hotspot? From your (James Kendrick’s) text one can conclude that when you plug it into USB, only the USB connection is available. Is this true?
It seems like a good first generation device but I would prefer to see ‘n’ wireless and greater than 4 hours battery life.
What is the data transfer rate? How does the speed compare to USB or PC-Card 3G modems?
Nomo.
N would suck up more battery, plus it’s certainly not needed for current 3G speeds. 5GHz N is great for home use where you can benefit from the lack of interference with other 2.4GHz devices but on the road I don’t see any benefit. Were you thinking of any advantage I’ve missed?
N wireless is also meaningless when the EVDO throughput is a fraction of the available speed. G is already something like 10x faster then what EVDO Rev A can support at present.
Thanks for the comments. Sounds like 3G is the constraint. Would be nice to see quantitative specs on data transfer rate with this device compared to other options.
Can you run it indefinitely with the USB power adapter? I wouldn’t want to have to keep it tethered to a laptop when I needed an all day internet connection.
Certainly looks like it ha it’s uses, but I see them as somewhat limited.
With regard to Cradlepoint routers – I own both a PHS300 and a CTR500. They are both fantastic devices. I will be buying a MiFi the second I can get my hands on one.
While the point about an external antenna is valid, I think it’s a different market then those interested in the MiFi. I want portability and am normally in good coverage. If I were in an RV, size and battery life would be less important.
The ability to Charge via USB and the extremely compact size of the MiFi make it a winner for me.
Being able to use 4G devices is also a non issue. The MiFi is $100… in 2 years you can replace it via Verizon’s upgrade program with the “next” MiFi that will support 4G. If you were using a USB device and a cradlepoint you would still have to replace that USB device with a 4G one.
The single advantage the PHS300 has over the MiFi for a user in decent coverage is that it will let me tap into my blackberry’s data plan – which is unlimited for the $15 a month “tethering” fee Verizon charges. For that reason, I will keep my Cradlepoint routers around in the event I find myself going over 5gb often enough to warrant switching back.
Good point – there’s really no reason in putting off the purchase of a device that has an immediate benefit for you just because you ‘might’ want upgrade in ‘possibly’ two years or more for a service that ‘may’ be available!.
Just unboxing one of these babies myself. Can’t believe they’ve managed to make it so small!
i dont have an RV but if i did i would rather enjoy nature and the outdoors rather then worry about getting online but anyhoo…i have the cradle point PHS300 and think this is better solution because its smaller and apparantly has twice the battery life of the cradlepoint. the cradlepoint also doesn’t function as a usb modem when connected via usb which is something i would do if the battery runs out. jk, I would like to see if 4hrs is correct.
also it charges via usb.
the only thing the cradlepoint has over the mifi is its not carrier locked. if im not mistaken i can use an hsdpa usb modem or an evdo. wish the mifi came out a year and a half ago.
Can’t wait for an unlocked EDGE/HSPA version
Quick question James – that security string printed on the device, will it wear off over time or during handling? I know I can write down a copy and keep it in a safe place for backup, but if someone stole the device I might WANT that thing removed.
It might wear off, it’s printed on paper. If someone steals the device the problem is accessing your 3G network, not the router part. A simple call to Verizon would stop the function of that.
The security string is also printed on another sticker attached to one of the pieces of paper in the box. Plus, I believe I read you can change the SSID and password via the web interface setup screens, but haven’t tried it myself.
I assume that there’s only coverage in the US and no provision for international travel?
That’s correct, the Verizon data network is US only.
I’ve got the Pantech USB stick from Verizon myself – do you know if they’re allowing you to just switch over w/o “terminating” a contract on the stick? I assume the $99 is regardless of contract length or previous stick contract? (Easier to ask you these questions than to pry them out of Verizon or their website
)
That price is quoted for “new” contracts only so if you don’t qualify for an upgrade you may be looking at full price.
When it is plugged in via USB, can you still use it as a WiFi access point or does it revert to modem/charge mode? i.e., if I have it plugged into my laptop, can my iPhone still connect to the MiFi WiFi network? or if I didn’t want to install the Verizon software on the laptop I’m traveling with and my battery is low on the MiFi, can I plug it into charge but still use it as a WiFi access point?
The documentation says you can do that but my tests show the WiFi hotspot does not show up when plugged in. It could just be the unit I have.
my MiFi also does not do WiFi while tethered.
and while tethered, i cannot get to web admin.
baffling.
Try uninstalling the VZN Manager software and the drivers – I bet you it’ll just charge and allow WiFi then.
You cannot use it as a WIFI access point when plugged in via USB and this is a major limitation of the device. To explain:
I have used Verizon WWAN for a number of years, with a modem in my Lenovo laptop. Very good. The difficulty was sharing the signal.
The MIFI seemed like a good option, but it is seeming less and less now that I have used it for awhile. First, I have to remember to take it with me with my laptop, or I obviously have no signal. It’s easy to forget and looks to be very easy to inadvertently leave behind somewhere.
Second, because the MIFI doesn’t charge off the USB while still sending a WIFI signal, you can’t use the USB charger and still share the signal. Stupid, since with your laptop, you would ideally like to keep it charged this way and still share it. One wonders why.
My new Lenovo has a small WIFI embedded in it that allows me to share an Internet signal. In retrospect, I wish I had ordered this laptop with an embedded Verizon modem, then shared via the laptop’s WIFI, rather than using this card.
sorry if this is a duplicate/similar post but it sounds like if I use this new MiFi with my iPod touch (and istall Skype/plug in a microphone)…I would basically have an iPhone??? Kind of a duct tape and bubble gum approach until verizon gets an iPhone but unless I am missing something that should work right?
It would work just fine.
Do the software allow you to monitor your data usage?
If you hook it up via USB and connect with the VZAccess Manager software you can track your data usage.
So, the mifi doesn’t track data usage?
Or you can’t access the VZAccess manager and monitor data usage shown in its settings page, via wifi?
It would seem silly that you need to be tethered to it via USB to track usage, which would only be 1 system/device.
You can track usage through the Verizon web site from any browser independent of the MiFi.
Will this MiFi work with an IPhone? It would be nice to get Verizon 3G coverage in areas where AT&T is only providing Edge. An information would be appreciated!
It is a WiFi router so works with anything.
$39.99 monthly access for 250 MB monthly allowance and 10 cents per megabyte overage
$59.99 monthly access for 5 GB monthly allowance and 5 cents per megabyte overage
Customers can also use the MiFi 2200 with Verizon Wireless’ Mobile Broadband DayPass for $15 for 24-hour access when the device is purchased at full retail price without a monthly service plan.
Hmm, thanks but no thanks.
Please disregard my question about connectivity when on USB, I see your replies in the thread.
This is what I’ve found to overcome this inconvenience:
http://www.bixnet.com/5v7libapa.html
You can charge this battery pack either via a wall charger or directly from your laptop via USB. Then you can power up your mifi from it for quite a long time. I’ve already purchased a battery from this vendor some time ago and was not disappointed.
Alexander
I just got a Mifi. One annoyance: it’s not a standard mini-usb connector (like the 100’s of other devices I have). It looks like mini-usb, but it’s not; it’s flatter.
No idea why they would not use a standard mini-usb!
I believe it’s a micro-usb. It’s the same used by my headset and several phones, too.
James is correct, it is micro usb. And that is actually more “standard” than mini usb, as it is becoming the universal standard for cell phone charging cords now.
sorry that last sentence should have read “micro-usb”
I don’t see how you can call the new micro-usb “more standard” than mini usb. Mini usb has been out for years, I have a ton of devices that use it (my blackberry, all my cameras, my gps(s), my car chargers, etc). I must have two dozen mini usb cables but not one micro-usb.
As far as I can tell, a mini-usb would have fit just fine in a mifi.
So now with my mifi, I have to remember to pack an extra cable and charger.
Just cause the mini-usb is new doesn’t make it better.
This thing rocks. This is the perfect solution for someone who wants to be able to use / share a 3G internet connection on any WIFI device. It is totally self contained.
my only gripe is the activation process. I hate the VZ manager software.
Do you know how many skype calling minutes the 5gb data plan would be equivalent to?
From Skype’s website…
****
How much bandwidth does Skype use while I’m in a call?
Skype automatically selects the best codec depending on the connection between yourself and the person you are calling. On average, Skype uses between 3-16.5 kilobytes/sec depending on bandwidth available for other party, network conditions in between, callers CPU performance, etc.
****
I did modify that paragraph above by adding 0.5 kb to the 16 kb figure, since they say in another faq that there is 0 to 0.5 kb data usage per second even in standby.
Between 180-990 kb/min.
If I’m doing the math correctly, that would allow between 5050 minutes (5,000,000/990) and 27,777 minutes (5,000,000/160) on a 5gb data plan if you were using it only for Skype.
Can you help me understand the 250 MB vs 5GB – is this per day?? Can I watch streaming video – for example could I watch at 10MB video on the $39.99 plan??
$39.99 month for 250 MB with $0.10 per MB overage
$59.99 month for 5 GB with $0.05 per MB overage
These caps are monthly caps. Streaming video will start approaching the cap quicker and you should get the 5 GB cap for sure.
JK – THANKS for the quick response…
Your article was VERY helpful!!
Any idea on Sprint’s release date for this? I have an ipod touch and would much rather just carry that and this whilst using skype.
If it’s too far in the future, I might just go with Verizon. I’m really bummed by the palm pres mandatory plans and I don’t think i can stomach another windows mobile phone (even HTC touch pro 2)
The Sprint MiFi is now available. I’ve just posted our review of it at EVDOinfo.com
There is quite a bit of difference between the two.
http://www.evdoinfo.com/content/view/2799/179/
I am having setup problems. When I plug in the device to my PC, I get a message “Unrecognized USB device”. No auto install, I can’t even see the drive to run the autorun.exe. Any ideas?
I’m a heavy data user. This would be my primary connection, as I’m unable to get any other connection where I’m living at the moment. I would be using the device, as well as my girlfriend, on her laptop. So, I have two questions
1) Are you able to connect to computers to the device anyways?
2) Is the 5gb cap per month the highest plan there is? Is there one with a higher cap?
1) Yes, up to 5 devices can connect wirelessly.
2) Yes. No.
verizon mifi 2200 – have 4 computers and having problem connecting my toshia laptop with vista operating system 32 bit – have called support and they are telling me I have to have a 64 bit operating system to support connecting to the mifi. all others are ok but not mine… they cannot give me a alternative .
That’s bunk, at least as far as connecting over WiFi. The MiFi doesn’t know or care what is connecting to it. It’s almost certainly a WiFi configuration difference on the affected laptop. Compare it with one of the other 4.
Great review and messages.
Shall we assume that the $15 day rate has the 5gb monthly cap as well?
is there a per day data cap at all for this “plan”?
It’s a 24 hour day so no cap.
Dear James Kendrick,
Thanks for the very helpful article!
I’m a new MIFI user on an Intel Macintosh laptop, and am having trouble checking my data usage through the installed Verizon Access Manager. I would really love to be able to monitor my data usage.
This is what I experience: In the tool bar of the VZ Access Manager, the third icon from the left is Usage, but when I click on it, I get the message “Cannot retrieve your Account usage data… This option is only available when you are connected to the NationalAccess – BroadbandAccess network. Please click Connect and then try again.”
This is really confusing because first of all, I AM connected to the internet. Second of all, while connected to the internet, the “Connect WWAN” button in the lower right-hand corner of the main window of VZAccess Manager is not highlighted, so I’m not able to click on it. Can you advise on how it would be possible for me to check my usage data, if it’s indeed not possible through the VZAccess Manager?
Best,
Gabriela
The MiFi, just like most phones, has an internal data counter. It is accessed through the router setup page (default 192.168.1.1). You can also use the setup page to access router and security settings.
I believe you can check usage if tethered via USB. Otherwise, you will need to check it on your account online.
> The MiFi is not much bigger than a credit card
Not sure how big YOUR credit cards are… but the measurements look several TIMES bigger than any credit card I’ve ever seen.
Try thinking a “stack of 10 credit cards”.
{Not sure how big YOUR credit cards are… but the measurements look several TIMES bigger than any credit card I’ve ever seen.
Try thinking a “stack of 10 credit cards”.}
I’m not sure how big YOUR credit cards are either!!! You made an over the top effort to discredit his size comparison, and it turns out that the truth is somewhere right near the middle of his claim and yours. If it is right in the middle, does THAT make YOUR claim AS outlandish AS his? Sorry, I just had TOO much fun communicating with you in your own CAPS language, went overboard A BIT. DIDN’T MEAN TO shout.
As you can see if you check the pix in the link, the edges of five credit cards are above the top edge of the MiFi, and the edges of the other five credit cards are below the top edge of the MiFi. A little quick math, but I think that puts it right smack dab in the middle of his supposedly outlandish statement and your allegedly logical claim.
Granted, I did skew it intentionally by stacking the credit cards all the same way, rather than alternating them right side up, upside down, right side up… etc, in order to make a smaller stack by evening out the thicker areas with the numbers. Then again, that is the way they are generally stacked in our wallets. Now that I think about it though, I think I will start alternating mine in my wallet to make it thinner. See, something good did come of this.
Sorry, I thought the website would be displayed by me filling it in on the website field, but I guess not…
http://gallery.me.com/bcojoe/100008
Is there a “free time” period with the 5GB plan? I know satellite internet providers give you unlimited free time like 2 hours or so very early in the morning that doesn’t count against your usage. This is so you can do Windows updates or downloads that are large and such.
While this seems great, you can actually get all this for free on AT&T. Buy any unlocked Nokia N/E Series smartphone and you can turn it into a WiFi hotspot. When I tested this, I got slower speeds on Verizon than I did using my smartphone on AT&T. Oh, and since it’s an unlocked phone, AT&T can’t/doesn’t regulate what I do on their network.
Why pay for laptop connectivity when you can get it for free? Who knows…
I’m assuming that you mean that you pay only for the AT&T data plan on the Nokia phone, then use it via bluetooth or USB as a modem without them knowing or regulating it? You say free, but you mean by that that you are not paying extra (on top of a data plan) to tether, correct?
I have a MiFi 2200 on Verizon, and I’m happy with it. I also have 2 lines on AT&T though, one with an iPhone, and one with rotating unlocked phones. I am in a 3G Verizon area at home, whereas I’m not in a 3G AT&T area at home. So for now, I’m better off with what I’ve got. AT&T is supposed to bring 3G to my area (probably not out as far as I am though) this year, so my situation could change.
I realize now that it didn’t even sink in, or I wouldn’t have asked the question that I did… There is no tethering via bluetooth or USB, you did say that it creates a wifi hotspot.
I have an E51 that I bought from Amazon, and was ready to send it back. I think I will still send it back, but I think I have an E71 in my near future, especially now that I know this. Thanks!
Well, unlocked smartphones are practically unheard of in the United States.
But you are correct on both your comments. I can teather via USB, bluetooth, or create a WiFi hotspot.
I have the N95 8gb, e71 and N97. If you want to teather, make sure they are unlocked. The e71x sold/subsidized by AT&T does have limitations.
In Europe, Nokia was selling a USB dongle which fit a SIM card. All you do is take your SIM card with data plan (for unlimited access with no overages) and plug it into the USB dongle. Now you have (free) internet for your laptop.
I personally find it ridiculous to pay for something twice.
For example, you buy a smartphone from a company with a data plan. Then you realize that you also want to have your laptop with wireless data access. So then you have to pay another $50 for data for the laptop. If I’m paying for data for the phone, I am sure as heck going to use that data access for my computer.
Someone has to stick it to these cell companies. I’m glad I can contribute.
I’m from a very rural, heavily treed area at about 8000 feet in the Colorado Rockies. We just switched from our USB modem to the MiFi, and are getting MUCH better signal on the MiF than we did on the USB modem, and indeed, better than we do on our phones. This seems to dispute the argument that “road warriors” in rural areas would have difficulties with the service. No complaints here!
Will this work with a non-3G signal? I’ve been on at&t’s edge network where I live which is in north central and very rural Mississippi and that was only a little better than dial-up speeds. I don’t know the terminology Verizon uses so I’m unsure.
The VZAccess software that comes with the Mifi (and must be used to connect when the Mifi is connected to your computer via USB) has two selections: BroadbandAccess and VZAccess. Both selections have a graphic signal meter indicating presence/strength of signal.
BroadbandAccess is EVDO (3G). I believe the VZAccess selection is for 1xRTT (2G) for those areas where Verizon 3G service is not yet available. They used to call this NationalAccess, but I haven’t been in one of those areas that I’ve noticed since buying the Mifi.
That’s good to know. My next question then would be, what kind of bandwidth could I expect in terms of speed? I know it won’t be 3G but are we talking anywhere in the 100kbs range maybe? Thanks for the info.
I forgot to ask, with some mobile aircards, you can try it out for 30 days before committing to a contract. Can that be done with this through Verizon?
You have to commit to the contract up front, but you can try the device and service for 30 days. If you’re not happy with it, you can return it to cancel the contract without paying an Early Termination Fee. You will have to pay for any service time or data that you used, however.
Okay, that’s answers that. What about bandwidth? As I mentioned, I know it wont be 3G speed but anywhere near the range of 100kbps download?
I believe it peaks at 144kbps, but you’re likely to see it vary between 50 and 100kbps during everyday usage. It will depend on various factors, so probably best to try it.
I have been using the Verizon Mi-Fi for two days using the VZAccess Mode. The device is much faster and more reliable then my existing Wildblue sattelite system and Linksys setup. The one problem I have encountered is printing. I have a wireless HP printer which works well with the other setup. Verizon Support says the Mi-Fi does not support printers. Is this correct? I am looking at a Cradlepoint MBR1000 router to correct the printing problem but I am not sure whether the Mi-Fi will work with the MBR1000 or whether a regular Verizon air card would be a better choice. I have 30 days to make a decision. Any thoughts on this would be appreciated.
don’t have a wifi printer to try, but i do know that firmware 1.6 for MBR1000 added official support for the MiFi 2200: http://www.evdoinfo.com/content/view/2820/64/
I guess my scenario would be similar to yours, except I never had a broadband or satellite internet connection prior to using my mifi 2200. I was using a Verizon USB modem, and had just purchased a Netgear 3G USB modem router that I hadn’t hooked up yet. I also had a home wifi network set up with an Apple Time Capsule. That allowed me to print wirelessly with my HP wifi printer.
With the Netgear router, I would have been able to create a wifi hotspot and retain my wireless printing.
With the mifi 2200, it uses the wireless connection from my computer and I cannot print via wifi. I must connect to my home network via the Time Capsule (effectively disconnecting the mifi 2200 in the process) in order to print. I’m waiting for Netgear to support the mifi 2200, then I’ll probably go ahead and hook it up. I’m assuming that will give me a larger wifi hot spot, and the ability to be online and print at the same time. I haven’t checked in a couple weeks, Netgear may already be supporting the mifi 2200.
Just to clarify… Maybe my previous Verizon modem would be considered broadband. When I said that I didn’t have a broadband connection, what I meant was that I never had any internet connection that I could run through a router and set up a home network. I don’t know how long the Cradlepoint and Netgear solutions had been available for 3G modems to accomplish this feat, but I had just discovered them shortly before I also stumbled onto (and quickly purchased) the MiFi 2200.
I have had MiFi 2200 for about 6 days now. It loaded up so easy on my new Wndows Vista laptop, I was amazed.
However, on my Dell Windows XP when I loaded it I did not get the option to go without the USB use. It works fine with the USB cable. But if I plug the MiFi into the hall 15 ft away I don’t get a signal. I can go down the hall and open my laptop and there it is ready to go. What have I done wrong?
Haven’t been able to recieve any help so far from where I bought it or from the Verizon site. Thanks for any help you can give me.
The obvious first question is… You do have a wireless card in the desktop computer, yes?
If not, then you will need to install one or plug one in via USB before you will be able to use the MiFi 2200 wirelessly with the computer.
I have installed the MiFi 2200 on my hp laptop and using this with wifi, connects just fine. Using the vzaccess manager to connect, I type in the ‘password-wep key’ and it won’t recognize it. Tech support says to uninstall and try again, did that, same thing. Do I really need the vzaccess manager to connect-store personal tells me I cannot connect with out going through the vzaccess manager? Also, If I take the card down the street to visit the neighbor, can they hookup to the wifi signal or do they need to go thru the usb hookup/download vz first? I assume that the signal from the MiFi should be all they need.
Thanks
If you are connecting via the wifi hot spot created by the MiFi 2200, you (or the neighbor down the street) should only need to enter the password from the back of the modem in order to establish the connection. And no, you don’t need to use the vzaccess manager for that.
my daughter is fixing to take online classes and i was wondering if the 5GB is enough space? also, is it fast enough for this type of use. i’m not familiar with this type of stuff.
Speed should be fine as long as you are in a 3G area with a fair signal strength. I’m not familiar enough with it to comment on how much data will be downloaded monthly in this type of use. I guess I’m assuming a bit in order to even comment on the speed. I did have a friend who used my connection to go online for her classes, and she never commented if it was too slow. Hopefully if I am giving you bad info, it will cause someone to correct me who otherwise might not have come forward to help you.
thanks to all that responded, especially joe!
I travel in my RV. Is there a wireless signal booster that I can plug into the wall and boost the cell signal? Does the one Verizon work?
Also. Can I run this thing just plugged into the wall charger?
check out this article showing 3 ways to boost signal to the MiFi -> http://bit.ly/boostmifi
For an RV, you’re best bet is the third one on the list.
And yes, you can just leave the MiFi plugged into wall charger. I do that now.
My new MiFi 2200 works fine with my desktop and laptop. As good as the satellite it is replacing. Actually better as it works on very cloudy rainy days and the satellite did not.
My question is, how do I keep it from automatically logging onto the net when I boot up? There are times I just want to do non-net things and it keeps logging me on. I have to watch it constantly. I went into options on the VZManager and unclicked the ‘automatically log on’ area, that didn’t seem to make a difference. Any help is appreciated…I’m not too savvy. Thanks
I already own the mifi 2200 to use for home and travel use (laptops) now if I buy a new phone (requires a data plan) do I have to buy an additional data plan or can I use the mifi plan I am already paying for. I am guessing tht I am gong to have to pay for both-they gotta get thier money one way or another.
Thanks
If the phone has Wi-Fi you can just use the MiFi with the phone and pay for just the MiFi.
Celesta, if your smartphone carrier requires a data plan for the new phone (a very likely scenario unless you purchase an unlocked device for more $), then you will indeed have to pay for two plans = one for the MiFi and one for the phone. James’s strategy of using the MiFi with the phone’s WiFi will only work if you can buy the smartphone without a data plan unfortunately.
Thank you, thats what I figured but I wanted to make sure before I purchased anything.
Great information-greatly apperciated.
i would like to state, that after having this device for a few mo’s now. i have never gotten it to charge completely over “usb.” just last night i had it plugged into a belkin (BZ103050-TVL) all night long (at least 8 hours) via usb… and when i woke up it was still flashing red. i have always had to go back to the supplied wall charger to revive the device. i ask anyone here to drain their battery then try to revive it with usb on laptop/desktop/wall and post otherwise. perhaps the 1.05amps on the supplied wall charger is the reason for this. if the battery isn’t dead… im sure the laptop (etc) usb port does trickle charge it a little. but in my experience … not enough. i still like the product… and it does seem to work tethered when “dead.” but you apparently might lose your wifi capability.
I have one of these without a contract. If you are willing to pay full retail, you are still able to get the 5 gig a month deal, I have the 5 gig no contract i just pay at the start of every month instead of the end. Plus I can cancel any time.
For a whole months use, that comes out to be around $450 correct? ($15 X 30 days = $450)
I just bought one and tried to get it going on my 2 laptops (XP and Vista) it seems it will not accept the given Password. it says failure and askes for me to re-enter it. it continues to fail.
Take it back to a Verizon store and swap it. I haven’t seen that on two different units.
can i use mifi to play online like ps3?
i have used it to play 360 in the car from houston to san antonio… spotty on long trips of course… but doable.
I have a Toshiba with Vista and just got a wifi capable hp printer. I was thinking about getting a rounter then today I got a free up grade notice for the Mifi 2200 to replace my pantec stick. Will I be able to print wirerless using the mifi
Bare with me, I am very new at this and I don’t know very much about these things. We are going traveling in a travel trailer and was wondering if this mifi will work doing this. Also, we have the At&T plan. Will the mifi work on that? Thanks.
Jill – My family used MiFi (Verizon) on US 290 (Houston – Austin) and it worked fine. You may want to check the Verizon coverage map to see if your route has coverage.
No, ATT does not support MiFi. I recently cancelled the ATT broadband plan.
There are MiFis for Verizon or Sprint only. I have a friend who regularly uses his MiFi while in the car and it works fine.
Hi,
I have been using this and it works very nice. I either connect via powercord or battery. I don’t use USB because of the wifi limitation and I share the mifi connection with colleagues. This article is good in showing how to fix the wifi & USB part.
http://cnettv.cnet.com/8301-13415_53-10386916-11.html