Verizon Wireless has this new Novatel gizmo called the "MiFi 2200" that is no bigger than a pack of cards and that makes -- or actually is -- a portable WiFi hotspot.
How cool is that?
From a business-user point of view the MiFi 2200 really makes wireless ("cellphone") broadband into a practical business tool. It starts with the basic understanding that to be useful and economically practical it may be necessary to share the G3 connection.
Consider the small business that routinely sends out 2 or three people to sales meetings. With the MiFi 2200 up to 5 WiFi devices can use the same connection. Of course if you're expecting to spin a lot of traffic over that connection then you're going to want to watch out for "overage charges". But for a small group checking emails... this is great!
Another terrific application is as a backup broadband service. I came across the MiFi 2200 looking for a backup solution for a two-person business that is rurally-based where the cable goes out every 8 to 12 weeks, taking internet access with it. No internet = no business and dial-up is barely better than no internet. They were spending $40/month to have two bindable dial-up accounts on standby, so going another $20 to have the Verizon Wireless 3G service is not a big jump.
With the MiFi 2200 setup they have only to turn it on to start sharing the connection in their office. When they travel, they just drop the MiFi 2200 into a computer bag or purse or even a pocket (joking!) and they're all set for portable broadband on the train or wherever.
[Seriously: not in your pocket, people. Either because your wave-soaking flesh will screw up reception or because that's just too much radiation to have next to your favorite parts.]
It will run for 2 hours (they say) on batteries but it can also be plugged into the USB port on your computer to power it and recharge the battery. (Nice.) You can also connect to it through the USB connection for non-WiFi situations.
It looks like the other wireless networks will be offering the device for their G3 or EvDO systems too. Great. This little box really just makes a bunch of sense.
Pros:
- -- Portable: about the size of a pack of cards, runs on internal battery.
- -- Personal: WAP or WEP security so only you use your G3 bandwidth.
- -- WiFi hotspot -- up to 5 devices.
- -- Reasonable price: $149.99 (after rebate) on two year contract.
- -- Reasonable access rate: $59.99 / mo if you're also a VZW voice customer. $79.99 if not.
Cons:
- -- If you've got a need for a sharable &/or emergency broadband access then there are no cons that I can see.
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