Bullet Proof Wireless

[CZandbergen]

This has been discussed before in other threads I have looked at. But I am interested to hear from those that really can rely on their wireless connection. I am looking for redundancy and something that will really work when you need it. I currently have an ATT card by Sierra Wireless with a good high gain antenna (mag mount) but there are some areas where you are just not going to get coverage. West of Sedan KS is the perfect example, there is just nothing to be had and after my chase yesterday I am ready to take the plunge into something I can count on.

All that said it seems as though a dual homed system from someone like these guys http://www.cradlepoint.com/products/mbr1100-mobile-broadband-n-3g4g-router-vpn is the way to go. Maybe add a good antenna and an amp on both sides and we are getting closer. Just looking to hear from people that have gone down this road. What really works and what doesn't? Three times this year I have lost GR3 and internet at the worst possible time and I want to fix it post haste. Your opinions and ideas are welcome.

Thanks,

Casey

 

[Ben Holcomb]

The only way to have 'bullet proof wireless' is to have multiple providers, and even then I can bet there will be some dead spots.

Personally, I've used Verizon and had pretty good coverage except for NW Oklahoma.

 

[EricGermann]

One issue we run into here in Ohio is even multiple providers colo on the same tower. So, having two providers who happen to be on the same tower when they lose power or connectivity doesn't help much. I spent a lot of time on this for my day job.

Just $0.02 to throw in to the pot.

Eric

 

[Skip Talbot]

I definitely recommend the cradlepoint setup. It makes connecting and connection management a lot easier. I have a Verizon data card plugged into mine and my ATT phone plugged into it via USB as a backup. If the card loses signal it will automatically attempt to connect through the phone. This has come in handy in western OK and KS.

 

[Walt VanRheen]

Dont overlook an amp. We was out in IL and MO last week, I had 5 bars 90+% of the time. and in 5 days, only lost connection 2x for a total of 5 minutes combined.
UM175 on alltel, CyfreCA-819 amplifier with a mag mount antennia. I was amazed and so where some other chasers using WXWORKS at hot little I am paying compared to what they have/are paying. We even streamed video out and was able to get DirecTV via the slingbox at my house. Now I am adding a Cradlepoint CTR 350 router so others in the car can use the connection as well.

 

[Drew.Gardonia]

I have a Verizon Wireless USB 727 Card, and when out in Hutchinson, KS chasing with Steve Worthington, it worked perfectly the entire time, no issues, no loss of signal.

no antenna, no amp booster, just the usb card itself.

 

[Steve Worthington]

We use alltel and found it to work well in Western/Southern KS along with northern and western Okla.
If it drops, we move 10 feet and we are back on.

 

[Kyle Soldani]

I have a verizon UM175 modem with an antenna on the roof. Software that's included with this allows you to run the broadband AND wifi at the same time. I've been on some long trips thus far (not always chasing) and between western KS and central MO in the hills, I haven't lost signal yet.

I highly recommend getting an antenna for the roof though.