laptops
- Thread starter moulineuxgorilla
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Sorry, can't advise on choice of laptop because it depends on whether you want a full-spec PC to do word processing etc, or a smller one just for surfing and emails.
For dongles - I have the Vodafone one. I only have the need for occasional use, so it is ideal as unused units do not expire at the end of 30 days (they are everlasting). You do, however, need to use it at least once every 6 months to keep the connection from being cancelled.
For dongles - I have the Vodafone one. I only have the need for occasional use, so it is ideal as unused units do not expire at the end of 30 days (they are everlasting). You do, however, need to use it at least once every 6 months to keep the connection from being cancelled.
As WC has said it wholly depends what you want it for.
If its targeted at use for keeping in touch with people and info when caravanning then the simplest, lightest and cheapest that you can ergonomically use is what I would recommend. If graphic intensive gaming is what it must do then you need much more computing power.
But if its communicating then get something cheap and make sure you keep it uncluttered of programs you don't need so it starts and operates without much delay. That way you can get the task done and enjoy your caravanning.
If you do not spend much then obsolescences is not an issue.
If its targeted at use for keeping in touch with people and info when caravanning then the simplest, lightest and cheapest that you can ergonomically use is what I would recommend. If graphic intensive gaming is what it must do then you need much more computing power.
But if its communicating then get something cheap and make sure you keep it uncluttered of programs you don't need so it starts and operates without much delay. That way you can get the task done and enjoy your caravanning.
If you do not spend much then obsolescences is not an issue.
Hi Simon,As WC has said it wholly depends what you want it for.
If its targeted at use for keeping in touch with people and info when caravanning then the simplest, lightest and cheapest that you can ergonomically use is what I would recommend. If graphic intensive gaming is what it must do then you need much more computing power.
But if its communicating then get something cheap and make sure you keep it uncluttered of programs you don't need so it starts and operates without much delay. That way you can get the task done and enjoy your caravanning.
If you do not spend much then obsolescences is not an issue.
It's worth checking out all the mobile operator's and mobile phone shops for what offers they have on. I think there's one that offers a free laptop if you sign up. Obviously depends what spec laptop you need and how much usage you need.
God, I hate the comment buttons!
Hi Simon,
It's worth checking out all the mobile operator's and mobile phone shops for what offers they have on. I think there's one that offers a free laptop if you sign up. Obviously depends what spec laptop you need and how much usage you need.
Hi Simon,
It's worth checking out all the mobile operator's and mobile phone shops for what offers they have on. I think there's one that offers a free laptop if you sign up. Obviously depends what spec laptop you need and how much usage you need.
Wot I have dun!
Look for a mobile that allows you to download/check emails.... I have a Sony Ericsson K310i it's a couple of years old now but only cost about
Look for a mobile that allows you to download/check emails.... I have a Sony Ericsson K310i it's a couple of years old now but only cost about
There is a much simpler answer than any of the above - and its FREE!!
Get a laptop that suits your needs but make sure it has built-in wi-fi, then go sit outside any McDonalds and surf till your heart's content.
Forget about using it on a site. Unless that site is in a major urban area you are unliekly to get 3G, and surfing/mail on GPRS (the alternative) is the ultimate b**l-ache!
Simples.
Get a laptop that suits your needs but make sure it has built-in wi-fi, then go sit outside any McDonalds and surf till your heart's content.
Forget about using it on a site. Unless that site is in a major urban area you are unliekly to get 3G, and surfing/mail on GPRS (the alternative) is the ultimate b**l-ache!
Simples.
This is the first trip away in the van with my laptop and an new Vodafone dongle.
Contry to Woodys comments im quite happy with the speed of the internet connection. Ive only got logged on via GPRS not 3G but if your not expecting to get the same speed at home you will be ok. If you want the same speed as at home forget it on GPRS, for what I want its fine. If this is GPRS cant wait to see what 3G will do
Kevin
Contry to Woodys comments im quite happy with the speed of the internet connection. Ive only got logged on via GPRS not 3G but if your not expecting to get the same speed at home you will be ok. If you want the same speed as at home forget it on GPRS, for what I want its fine. If this is GPRS cant wait to see what 3G will do
Kevin
Hi,
I have just checked Vodafone Web Site, who now show USB modem sticks ( is that the same as a dongle?) lasting only 30 days. Also they do not appear suitable for Windows 7. Perhaps I am looking in the wrong place.
I have just checked Vodafone Web Site, who now show USB modem sticks ( is that the same as a dongle?) lasting only 30 days. Also they do not appear suitable for Windows 7. Perhaps I am looking in the wrong place.
An option if you don't use a mobile phone much for calling/texting is the following :
Take out a 3 Sim Zero contract and add the
Take out a 3 Sim Zero contract and add the
Peter
You are right about the Vodafone website not showing the everlasting dongle, but Argos are still selling them. See:
http://www.argos.co.uk/static/Product/partNumber/5490464/Trail/searchtext>MOBILE BROADBAND.htm
Other shops may have them as well.
Regards
You are right about the Vodafone website not showing the everlasting dongle, but Argos are still selling them. See:
http://www.argos.co.uk/static/Product/partNumber/5490464/Trail/searchtext>MOBILE BROADBAND.htm
Other shops may have them as well.
Regards
The other difference I notice between the "30-day expiry" dongles is that they allow 3Gb data forPeter
You are right about the Vodafone website not showing the everlasting dongle, but Argos are still selling them. See:
http://www.argos.co.uk/static/Product/partNumber/5490464/Trail/searchtext>MOBILE BROADBAND.htm
Other shops may have them as well.
Regards
3 will insist on you having a 3G enabled phone for one very good reason - their entire network is 3G only.
Maybe the name gives it away?
Maybe the name gives it away?
G
Guest
Just use a 3g smart phone with unlimited data use. Nokia suite FOC software download or the like to your laptop will let you connect to the net for no extra cost the same as a dongle.
Why buy a dongle when a phone will do the job free within the plan.
Using P series Vaio now, brilliant compact piece of kit with built in wireless broadband if you want.
Why buy a dongle when a phone will do the job free within the plan.
Using P series Vaio now, brilliant compact piece of kit with built in wireless broadband if you want.
Hi Woody,
Yes 3 do insist you use a 3G phone. But unless something has happened in the last few weeks that I am unaware of, they have a back up arrangement with Orange to give 2G coverage in areas where they have no 3G reception. That arrangement doesn't cost the users anything. I have read reports of peple still being able to access the internet whilst on the orange backup.
Yes 3 do insist you use a 3G phone. But unless something has happened in the last few weeks that I am unaware of, they have a back up arrangement with Orange to give 2G coverage in areas where they have no 3G reception. That arrangement doesn't cost the users anything. I have read reports of peple still being able to access the internet whilst on the orange backup.
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