Netsim For Village

[dthomasss]

Bought a netbook for stepdaughter just starting high school but there is no phoneline for internet.

Looking for suggestions on the best netsim packages under 500 a month (AIS, DTAC?)Will I also need to install software on the netbook like nokia pc suite etc for her to use phone as a modem. She has an unbranded phone now so not sure how it would connect. Maybe best to buy a second-hand phone with dedicated netsim. I want the msot simple way for her to connect.

Also, with windows 7 is it simple for her to switch between Thai and English?

[sulasno]

consider using an aircard

[dthomasss]

consider using an aircard

I have heard the aircards are actually a waste of money and much slower.

[Digitalbanana]

>and much slower.

That's probably related to the current state of Thailand's wireless access in countryside regions. The air card itself is the same tech as a phone and simpler for a school kid to plug and play rather than tether a phone to the PC.

[barryw52]

Agree Air card every time he phone ways is messy.

[NanLaew]

^ Meaning....?

Going the OP's route using a second hand Android phone with a netSIM. Then she can tether the netbook to the phones hot-spot. That will be a one button operation on the phone and an automatic connection on the laptop (if set up correctly) which beats the faffing around with installing modem drivers and Nokia's arcane PC Suite.

She will soon have all the geek boys chasing after her with that little set up!

[dthomasss]

^ Meaning....?

Going the OP's route using a second hand Android phone with a netSIM. Then she can tether the netbook to the phones hot-spot. That will be a one button operation on the phone and an automatic connection on the laptop (if set up correctly) which beats the faffing around with installing modem drivers and Nokia's arcane PC Suite.

She will soon have all the geek boys chasing after her with that little set up!

I would like to know how to do an automatic connection on the netbook without having to install and use nokia pc suite every time.

She is already being chased. Life can be dull in the village for a teenager!

[NanLaew]

^ Meaning....?

Going the OP's route using a second hand Android phone with a netSIM. Then she can tether the netbook to the phones hot-spot. That will be a one button operation on the phone and an automatic connection on the laptop (if set up correctly) which beats the faffing around with installing modem drivers and Nokia's arcane PC Suite.

She will soon have all the geek boys chasing after her with that little set up!

I would like to know how to do an automatic connection on the netbook without having to install and use nokia pc suite every time.

She is already being chased. Life can be dull in the village for a teenager!

If you are stuck with a Nokia, once you load the phone drivers, you don't have to use the PC Suite s/w but can configure a regular dialup in Windows that will do it. Takes about the same time to fire up and connect, just without the fancy Nokia GUI which is all it is really.

But, for TOTAL ease of connection without any dicking about with drivers and truly one-touch operation, get an android-based phone that is running the latest version. This has hot-spot and tethering. Then configure a wi-fi connection on the netbook to automatically connect with it. Then you have one-touch on the phone to turn on the tether and the laptop will automatically connect as soon as it sees the hot-spot. Way, way faster than PC Suite and Windows dialup and less prone to drop outs and disconnects.

[Jiu-Jitsu]

I too would go with an aircard, It's a cheaper and more reliable solution. In addition, she can keep her calls and Internet usage separate.

A decent USB modem, the Huawei E160 is 1500 baht and will still be of use when full 3G is introduced.

Waste of time and money buying an Android mobile in order to get wireless EDGE access.

[dthomasss]

I too would go with an aircard, It's a cheaper and more reliable solution. In addition, she can keep her calls and Internet usage separate.

A decent USB modem, the Huawei E160 is 1500 baht and will still be of use when full 3G is introduced.

Waste of time and money buying an Android mobile in order to get wireless EDGE access.

A bit confused.. so I buy an aircard and a netsim that goes into the card or into a phone?

How is the connection made and how do I recharge the sim every month?

This sim will only be used for internet, not for phone calls.

[Digitalbanana]

Yes, you put the SIM car din aircard and there is no phone involved. To refill, just read instructions on refill pack depending on service. Usually have to send sms message with top up number, which can be done via aircard software on PC.

Of course this will only be EDGE in most cases, so very slow unless - for higher speeds consider CDMA USB modems if the signal covers your area.

[NanLaew]

I too would go with an aircard, It's a cheaper and more reliable solution. In addition, she can keep her calls and Internet usage separate.

A decent USB modem, the Huawei E160 is 1500 baht and will still be of use when full 3G is introduced.

Waste of time and money buying an Android mobile in order to get wireless EDGE access.

I gave the OP an option since he seemed familiar with using a cellphone for internet connectivity. The android phone connects where and when 3G is available.... just like a the waste of time and money (IMHO) USB air card that will probably chug along at EDGE-like throughput on the prevailing 2G networks.

Don't get me wrong, USB air cards and Nokia PC Suite was my choice for a long time... then I discovered android.

We have an OP who is apparently challenged in the IT department so... laptop + USB aircard + phone versus for separate voice/sms and data or laptop + phone for all-in-one ease that still handily keeps voice/sms & data usage separate on the same SIM?

As the young wife said the other night, 'Up to you.'

[dthomasss]

I too would go with an aircard, It's a cheaper and more reliable solution. In addition, she can keep her calls and Internet usage separate.

A decent USB modem, the Huawei E160 is 1500 baht and will still be of use when full 3G is introduced.

Waste of time and money buying an Android mobile in order to get wireless EDGE access.

I gave the OP an option since he seemed familiar with using a cellphone for internet connectivity. The android phone connects where and when 3G is available.... just like a the waste of time and money (IMHO) USB air card that will probably chug along at EDGE-like throughput on the prevailing 2G networks.

Don't get me wrong, USB air cards and Nokia PC Suite was my choice for a long time... then I discovered android.

We have an OP who is apparently challenged in the IT department so... laptop + USB aircard + phone versus for separate voice/sms and data or laptop + phone for all-in-one ease that still handily keeps voice/sms & data usage separate on the same SIM?

As the young wife said the other night, 'Up to you.'

This is for use in the village where 3G will never be present. She has a knockoff cheap phone already. It seems that my choices are to buy a used Nokia for use as a modem, or invest in a android phone to use as a modem, or buy an aircard. I will want to pay for the monthly netsim fee from Bangkok so she doesnt have to worry about it.

What I am asking for is the easiest way for her to connect the netbook to the internet. I realize the connection will be slow no matter which way we go.

[Jiu-Jitsu]

I too would go with an aircard, It's a cheaper and more reliable solution. In addition, she can keep her calls and Internet usage separate.

A decent USB modem, the Huawei E160 is 1500 baht and will still be of use when full 3G is introduced.

Waste of time and money buying an Android mobile in order to get wireless EDGE access.

I gave the OP an option since he seemed familiar with using a cellphone for internet connectivity. The android phone connects where and when 3G is available.... just like a the waste of time and money (IMHO) USB air card that will probably chug along at EDGE-like throughput on the prevailing 2G networks.

Don't get me wrong, USB air cards and Nokia PC Suite was my choice for a long time... then I discovered android.

We have an OP who is apparently challenged in the IT department so... laptop + USB aircard + phone versus for separate voice/sms and data or laptop + phone for all-in-one ease that still handily keeps voice/sms & data usage separate on the same SIM?

As the young wife said the other night, 'Up to you.'

Your post is almost purely nonsense.

You are suggesting to the OP that the Android phone will connect to 3G where and when available whereas the Aircard can only connect via EDGE. Your suggestion is just pure nonsense.

If, the Android mobile has the capability to communicate at via HSDPA at the frequencies of 850, 900 and 2100 MHz, then and only then, dependent on the SIM card used and your location, will it be able to connect to all of the 3G networks currently in existence in Thailand.

The Aircard/USB modem for 1500 baht to which I have linked has this capability. Almost dumbfounded at your suggestion that an Aircard is limited to 2G. That is just....ignorance.

Can you show me a comparable Android mobile at anything close to that price? Please link to an Android mobile that at least has the minimum specification of triband UMTS at the relevant frequencies, together with the hotspot capability.

Then and only then can we discuss the pros and cons.

[Jiu-Jitsu]

I too would go with an aircard, It's a cheaper and more reliable solution. In addition, she can keep her calls and Internet usage separate.

A decent USB modem, the Huawei E160 is 1500 baht and will still be of use when full 3G is introduced.

Waste of time and money buying an Android mobile in order to get wireless EDGE access.

I gave the OP an option since he seemed familiar with using a cellphone for internet connectivity. The android phone connects where and when 3G is available.... just like a the waste of time and money (IMHO) USB air card that will probably chug along at EDGE-like throughput on the prevailing 2G networks.

Don't get me wrong, USB air cards and Nokia PC Suite was my choice for a long time... then I discovered android.

We have an OP who is apparently challenged in the IT department so... laptop + USB aircard + phone versus for separate voice/sms and data or laptop + phone for all-in-one ease that still handily keeps voice/sms & data usage separate on the same SIM?

As the young wife said the other night, 'Up to you.'

This is for use in the village where 3G will never be present. She has a knockoff cheap phone already. It seems that my choices are to buy a used Nokia for use as a modem, or invest in a android phone to use as a modem, or buy an aircard. I will want to pay for the monthly netsim fee from Bangkok so she doesnt have to worry about it.

What I am asking for is the easiest way for her to connect the netbook to the internet. I realize the connection will be slow no matter which way we go.

My suggest is to buy the aircard/USB modem. It is just the simplest opton. If she has DTAC/HAPPY coverage, start with a 69 baht HAPPY Internet SIM. You get 5 hours of Internet usage with this SIM upon activation. After that Internet is charge at 1 baht for every four minutes. If service is satisfactory, you can decide if you wish to upgrade the package.

Second choice would be AIS. Depends who has the best signal in her location.

If she ever moves to a location that has 3G, she can purchase the correct SIM, enter the new settings and surf via the 3G network.

In addition, the aircard is powered by the laptop/netbook. Using a phone as a modem would entail another power source for the phone.

Sometimes people don't think the problem through....

[Jiu-Jitsu]

There will be no need for you to install any extra software. The USB modem will automatically install the connection software and a call to DTAC will get you the correct details to enter into the connection software.

You need to enter the details only once. After that it's very simple to use. Plug in and click Connect. You can also enter the settings for different network's SIMs. That way, she need only change the SIM, choose the new network as the Default and surf away.

As for changing the language in windows 7....can not. Only in Windows 7 Ultimate. You probably have Windows 7 Starter on a Netbook. It possibly can be done, but it takes a bit of fiddling. Will likely be beyond her capability.

If you want to try.... Vistalizator

[NanLaew]

Your post is almost purely nonsense.

You are suggesting to the OP that the Android phone will connect to 3G where and when available whereas the Aircard can only connect via EDGE. Your suggestion is just pure nonsense.

If, the Android mobile has the capability to communicate at via HSDPA at the frequencies of 850, 900 and 2100 MHz, then and only then, dependent on the SIM card used and your location, will it be able to connect to all of the 3G networks currently in existence in Thailand.

The Aircard/USB modem for 1500 baht to which I have linked has this capability. Almost dumbfounded at your suggestion that an Aircard is limited to 2G. That is just....ignorance.

Can you show me a comparable Android mobile at anything close to that price? Please link to an Android mobile that at least has the minimum specification of triband UMTS at the relevant frequencies, together with the hotspot capability.

Then and only then can we discuss the pros and cons.

J-J, I will defer to your superior, albeit rather rude knowledge on mobile connectivity. Yes, I confirm my android has those capabilities and does connect sporadically with the odd '3G patch' when I am roaming in Thailand but mostly poking along at EDGE-like rates like most normal users. What was your point again? You have suggested a working option that will work for the OP which I accept. I have also suggested a working option for the OP (that works for me in Bangkok, Nakhon Nowhere and the rest of the networked planet) that you rudely dismiss with your manipulation and misinterpretation of what I suggested.

My saying "EDGE-like throughput on the prevailing 2G networks" is NOT the same as saying "can only connect by EDGE". Either stop speed reading or take off the 'Thailand has 3G' goggles and quit making up this 'nonsense' that I didn't say. I even underlined the key modifier prevailing in my comment about 2G (which is rolled out nationwide btw) but you missed it. This time, I have also emboldened it but I seriously doubt your comprehension levels. Wasn't a strong school subject eh?

So 3G is available in your kitchen, the hallway and sometimes in the back bedroom... on a Wednesday night. Well done.

You call them "3G networks currently in existence in Thailand"... others, like myself don't have any illusions.

Second hand android phones are two-a-penny round the traps... even cheaper if you get someone to bargain for you.

But, to the OP. Please do exactly what J-J recommends so that he will <deleted>.

PS. I have a bag full of totally redundant USB aircards if you are interested.

[dthomasss]

Your post is almost purely nonsense.

You are suggesting to the OP that the Android phone will connect to 3G where and when available whereas the Aircard can only connect via EDGE. Your suggestion is just pure nonsense.

If, the Android mobile has the capability to communicate at via HSDPA at the frequencies of 850, 900 and 2100 MHz, then and only then, dependent on the SIM card used and your location, will it be able to connect to all of the 3G networks currently in existence in Thailand.

The Aircard/USB modem for 1500 baht to which I have linked has this capability. Almost dumbfounded at your suggestion that an Aircard is limited to 2G. That is just....ignorance.

Can you show me a comparable Android mobile at anything close to that price? Please link to an Android mobile that at least has the minimum specification of triband UMTS at the relevant frequencies, together with the hotspot capability.

Then and only then can we discuss the pros and cons.

J-J, I will defer to your superior, albeit rather rude knowledge on mobile connectivity. Yes, I confirm my android has those capabilities and does connect sporadically with the odd '3G patch' when I am roaming in Thailand but mostly poking along at EDGE-like rates like most normal users. What was your point again? You have suggested a working option that will work for the OP which I accept. I have also suggested a working option for the OP (that works for me in Bangkok, Nakhon Nowhere and the rest of the networked planet) that you rudely dismiss with your manipulation and misinterpretation of what I suggested.

My saying "EDGE-like throughput on the prevailing 2G networks" is NOT the same as saying "can only connect by EDGE". Either stop speed reading or take off the 'Thailand has 3G' goggles and quit making up this 'nonsense' that I didn't say. I even underlined the key modifier prevailing in my comment about 2G (which is rolled out nationwide btw) but you missed it. This time, I have also emboldened it but I seriously doubt your comprehension levels. Wasn't a strong school subject eh?

So 3G is available in your kitchen, the hallway and sometimes in the back bedroom... on a Wednesday night. Well done.

You call them "3G networks currently in existence in Thailand"... others, like myself don't have any illusions.

Second hand android phones are two-a-penny round the traps... even cheaper if you get someone to bargain for you.

But, to the OP. Please do exactly what J-J recommends so that he will <deleted>.

PS. I have a bag full of totally redundant USB aircards if you are interested.

I sent you private message about your aircards.

[Jiu-Jitsu]

Your post is almost purely nonsense.

You are suggesting to the OP that the Android phone will connect to 3G where and when available whereas the Aircard can only connect via EDGE. Your suggestion is just pure nonsense.

If, the Android mobile has the capability to communicate at via HSDPA at the frequencies of 850, 900 and 2100 MHz, then and only then, dependent on the SIM card used and your location, will it be able to connect to all of the 3G networks currently in existence in Thailand.

The Aircard/USB modem for 1500 baht to which I have linked has this capability. Almost dumbfounded at your suggestion that an Aircard is limited to 2G. That is just....ignorance.

Can you show me a comparable Android mobile at anything close to that price? Please link to an Android mobile that at least has the minimum specification of triband UMTS at the relevant frequencies, together with the hotspot capability.

Then and only then can we discuss the pros and cons.

J-J, I will defer to your superior, albeit rather rude knowledge on mobile connectivity. Yes, I confirm my android has those capabilities and does connect sporadically with the odd '3G patch' when I am roaming in Thailand but mostly poking along at EDGE-like rates like most normal users. What was your point again? You have suggested a working option that will work for the OP which I accept. I have also suggested a working option for the OP (that works for me in Bangkok, Nakhon Nowhere and the rest of the networked planet) that you rudely dismiss with your manipulation and misinterpretation of what I suggested.

My saying "EDGE-like throughput on the prevailing 2G networks" is NOT the same as saying "can only connect by EDGE". Either stop speed reading or take off the 'Thailand has 3G' goggles and quit making up this 'nonsense' that I didn't say. I even underlined the key modifier prevailing in my comment about 2G (which is rolled out nationwide btw) but you missed it. This time, I have also emboldened it but I seriously doubt your comprehension levels. Wasn't a strong school subject eh?

So 3G is available in your kitchen, the hallway and sometimes in the back bedroom... on a Wednesday night. Well done.

You call them "3G networks currently in existence in Thailand"... others, like myself don't have any illusions.

Second hand android phones are two-a-penny round the traps... even cheaper if you get someone to bargain for you.

But, to the OP. Please do exactly what J-J recommends so that he will <deleted>.

PS. I have a bag full of totally redundant USB aircards if you are interested.

Sorry, I read it your post, but didn't note any any useful information within, other than perhaps you may have a suitable aircard for the OP. Now that is useful.

Thank goodness you redeemed yourself at the last minute, as obviously you were unable to recommend an Android mobile for a suitable price despite your insistent rambling.

Only you know why you would insist that the OP should purchase such an expensive item when even you infer that 3G access is sporadic. So why spend so much just to get access to EDGE.

You say that your Android phone "has those capabilities". Which capabilities would that be? Perhaps you can link to the model and specification and also the price.

Your access to 3G will depend on the SIM card that you are using.

As to your suggestion that I have misquoted you.... let's take a look at what you wrote:

The android phone connects where and when 3G is available.... just like a the waste of time and money (IMHO) USB air card that will probably chug along at EDGE-like throughput on the prevailing 2G networks.

So let us understand what you were writing.... is it that you are saying that the Android phone will work in precisely the same way as a USB modem, but is just much more expensive??

Please, elaborate.

Yours was and is a silly recommendation, but I understand that some people take on the concept of 'face saving' once they have resided in Thailand for an extended time.

I would have let it pass were it not for someone potentially wasting their money.

[dthomasss]

Your post is almost purely nonsense.

You are suggesting to the OP that the Android phone will connect to 3G where and when available whereas the Aircard can only connect via EDGE. Your suggestion is just pure nonsense.

If, the Android mobile has the capability to communicate at via HSDPA at the frequencies of 850, 900 and 2100 MHz, then and only then, dependent on the SIM card used and your location, will it be able to connect to all of the 3G networks currently in existence in Thailand.

The Aircard/USB modem for 1500 baht to which I have linked has this capability. Almost dumbfounded at your suggestion that an Aircard is limited to 2G. That is just....ignorance.

Can you show me a comparable Android mobile at anything close to that price? Please link to an Android mobile that at least has the minimum specification of triband UMTS at the relevant frequencies, together with the hotspot capability.

Then and only then can we discuss the pros and cons.

J-J, I will defer to your superior, albeit rather rude knowledge on mobile connectivity. Yes, I confirm my android has those capabilities and does connect sporadically with the odd '3G patch' when I am roaming in Thailand but mostly poking along at EDGE-like rates like most normal users. What was your point again? You have suggested a working option that will work for the OP which I accept. I have also suggested a working option for the OP (that works for me in Bangkok, Nakhon Nowhere and the rest of the networked planet) that you rudely dismiss with your manipulation and misinterpretation of what I suggested.

My saying "EDGE-like throughput on the prevailing 2G networks" is NOT the same as saying "can only connect by EDGE". Either stop speed reading or take off the 'Thailand has 3G' goggles and quit making up this 'nonsense' that I didn't say. I even underlined the key modifier prevailing in my comment about 2G (which is rolled out nationwide btw) but you missed it. This time, I have also emboldened it but I seriously doubt your comprehension levels. Wasn't a strong school subject eh?

So 3G is available in your kitchen, the hallway and sometimes in the back bedroom... on a Wednesday night. Well done.

You call them "3G networks currently in existence in Thailand"... others, like myself don't have any illusions.

Second hand android phones are two-a-penny round the traps... even cheaper if you get someone to bargain for you.

But, to the OP. Please do exactly what J-J recommends so that he will <deleted>.

PS. I have a bag full of totally redundant USB aircards if you are interested.

Sorry, I read it your post, but didn't note any any useful information within, other than perhaps you may have a suitable aircard for the OP. Now that is useful.

Thank goodness you redeemed yourself at the last minute, as obviously you were unable to recommend an Android mobile for a suitable price despite your insistent rambling.

Only you know why you would insist that the OP should purchase such an expensive item when even you infer that 3G access is sporadic. So why spend so much just to get access to EDGE.

You say that your Android phone "has those capabilities". Which capabilities would that be? Perhaps you can link to the model and specification and also the price.

Your access to 3G will depend on the SIM card that you are using.

As to your suggestion that I have misquoted you.... let's take a look at what you wrote:

The android phone connects where and when 3G is available.... just like a the waste of time and money (IMHO) USB air card that will probably chug along at EDGE-like throughput on the prevailing 2G networks.

So let us understand what you were writing.... is it that you are saying that the Android phone will work in precisely the same way as a USB modem, but is just much more expensive??

Please, elaborate.

Yours was and is a silly recommendation, but I understand that some people take on the concept of 'face saving' once they have resided in Thailand for an extended time.

I would have let it pass were it not for someone potentially wasting their money.

I am sorry this turned into a private war. I was simply trying to get some advice. I will purchase an Aircard (nothing fancy as it will only be Edge in the village) and then look for a plan that gets around 200 hours a month.

[gkinbkk]

Having used both the AIS and DTAC services through Issan out as far as Phra Vihear I can tell you that the AIS service is a waste of time and you will be far better off going with DTAC. AIS you will rarely get more than a few kbps of download bandwidth and you can forget about it when it rains. I was surprised at how well the DTAC edge worked out there, more than enough bandwidth for browsing and streaming both audio and video.

[sarahsbloke]

You should check if CAT CDMA works in your village.

If it does you could get either a dongle or a personal hotspot for the netbook.

It works very well in my vifes village in the darkest depths of Petchabun, It worked in Trang, and the beaches to the south.

It even worked during most of the journey from ChiangMai to Petchabun on the bus!

I was gobsmacked that I could get wireless broadband in so many out of the way places.

[Jiu-Jitsu]

Your post is almost purely nonsense.

You are suggesting to the OP that the Android phone will connect to 3G where and when available whereas the Aircard can only connect via EDGE. Your suggestion is just pure nonsense.

If, the Android mobile has the capability to communicate at via HSDPA at the frequencies of 850, 900 and 2100 MHz, then and only then, dependent on the SIM card used and your location, will it be able to connect to all of the 3G networks currently in existence in Thailand.

The Aircard/USB modem for 1500 baht to which I have linked has this capability. Almost dumbfounded at your suggestion that an Aircard is limited to 2G. That is just....ignorance.

Can you show me a comparable Android mobile at anything close to that price? Please link to an Android mobile that at least has the minimum specification of triband UMTS at the relevant frequencies, together with the hotspot capability.

Then and only then can we discuss the pros and cons.

J-J, I will defer to your superior, albeit rather rude knowledge on mobile connectivity. Yes, I confirm my android has those capabilities and does connect sporadically with the odd '3G patch' when I am roaming in Thailand but mostly poking along at EDGE-like rates like most normal users. What was your point again? You have suggested a working option that will work for the OP which I accept. I have also suggested a working option for the OP (that works for me in Bangkok, Nakhon Nowhere and the rest of the networked planet) that you rudely dismiss with your manipulation and misinterpretation of what I suggested.

My saying "EDGE-like throughput on the prevailing 2G networks" is NOT the same as saying "can only connect by EDGE". Either stop speed reading or take off the 'Thailand has 3G' goggles and quit making up this 'nonsense' that I didn't say. I even underlined the key modifier prevailing in my comment about 2G (which is rolled out nationwide btw) but you missed it. This time, I have also emboldened it but I seriously doubt your comprehension levels. Wasn't a strong school subject eh?

So 3G is available in your kitchen, the hallway and sometimes in the back bedroom... on a Wednesday night. Well done.

You call them "3G networks currently in existence in Thailand"... others, like myself don't have any illusions.

Second hand android phones are two-a-penny round the traps... even cheaper if you get someone to bargain for you.

But, to the OP. Please do exactly what J-J recommends so that he will <deleted>.

PS. I have a bag full of totally redundant USB aircards if you are interested.

Sorry, I read it your post, but didn't note any any useful information within, other than perhaps you may have a suitable aircard for the OP. Now that is useful.

Thank goodness you redeemed yourself at the last minute, as obviously you were unable to recommend an Android mobile for a suitable price despite your insistent rambling.

Only you know why you would insist that the OP should purchase such an expensive item when even you infer that 3G access is sporadic. So why spend so much just to get access to EDGE.

You say that your Android phone "has those capabilities". Which capabilities would that be? Perhaps you can link to the model and specification and also the price.

Your access to 3G will depend on the SIM card that you are using.

As to your suggestion that I have misquoted you.... let's take a look at what you wrote:

The android phone connects where and when 3G is available.... just like a the waste of time and money (IMHO) USB air card that will probably chug along at EDGE-like throughput on the prevailing 2G networks.

So let us understand what you were writing.... is it that you are saying that the Android phone will work in precisely the same way as a USB modem, but is just much more expensive??

Please, elaborate.

Yours was and is a silly recommendation, but I understand that some people take on the concept of 'face saving' once they have resided in Thailand for an extended time.

I would have let it pass were it not for someone potentially wasting their money.

I am sorry this turned into a private war. I was simply trying to get some advice. I will purchase an Aircard (nothing fancy as it will only be Edge in the village) and then look for a plan that gets around 200 hours a month.

No war. It goes as far as this thread.

Don't waste your money on an EDGE only aircard/USB Modem. Try to get the model that I suggested in post #9 for 1500 baht. There is a link therein. Telephone 085 335 4898 for info at Total Aircard.

Current HAPPY DTAC packages are here. But get her to test the service first with the 69 baht Internet SIM as advised earlier.

If good, then you can buy a standard SIMPLE SIM for 49 baht and then apply your chosen package. The 3GB plan will be more than enough.

[Jiu-Jitsu]

In addition you have been advised to go with DTAC/HAPPY for a Net SIM, unless HAPPY DTAC have no coverage in her area. You should take note of the advice that you have been given.

[dthomasss]

In addition you have been advised to go with DTAC/HAPPY for a Net SIM, unless HAPPY DTAC have no coverage in her area. You should take note of the advice that you have been given.

In her village she has AIS for her phone. I use DTAC and when I was there I could almost never get a signal from her house.

When she calls me in Bangkok she sometimes has to move around in the house to find a signal, but perhaps AIS might be better. I guess I will buy one of each as a starter and let her try them out.

By the way... Telephone 085 335 4898 for info at Total Aircard is a dead number!

[Jiu-Jitsu]

In addition you have been advised to go with DTAC/HAPPY for a Net SIM, unless HAPPY DTAC have no coverage in her area. You should take note of the advice that you have been given.

In her village she has AIS for her phone. I use DTAC and when I was there I could almost never get a signal from her house.

When she calls me in Bangkok she sometimes has to move around in the house to find a signal, but perhaps AIS might be better. I guess I will buy one of each as a starter and let her try them out.

By the way... Telephone 085 335 4898 for info at Total Aircard is a dead number!

It's a shame that you are so limited. Let me see if I can find another number for Total Aircard. Here's the one on their front page now: 085-489-8335 Total Aircard

[NanLaew]

I too would go with an aircard, It's a cheaper and more reliable solution. In addition, she can keep her calls and Internet usage separate.

A decent USB modem, the Huawei E160 is 1500 baht and will still be of use when full 3G is introduced.

Waste of time and money buying an Android mobile in order to get wireless EDGE access.

Will that Huawei dongle work with any carriers SIM including overseas? I mean it doesn't come bundled with any particular service providers branded installation and configuration software?

Huawei do make good kit.

[Jiu-Jitsu]

I too would go with an aircard, It's a cheaper and more reliable solution. In addition, she can keep her calls and Internet usage separate.

A decent USB modem, the Huawei E160 is 1500 baht and will still be of use when full 3G is introduced.

Waste of time and money buying an Android mobile in order to get wireless EDGE access.

Will that Huawei dongle work with any carriers SIM including overseas? I mean it doesn't come bundled with any particular service providers branded installation and configuration software?

Huawei do make good kit.

Yes, it should be unlocked and be supplied with generic Mobile Partner connection software. Easy enough to do yourself even if it wasn't.

Make sure you get the variant that pertains to your likely usage. The E160 is Triband UMTS(850(TrueMove), 1900, 2100MHz(TOT & MVNOs)) and Quadband GSM(850, 900, 1800, 1900MHz).

The E160E/X is Dualband UMTS(900(AIS), 2100MHz(TOT & MVNOs) and Quadband GSM.

2100MHZ is the recognised standard frequency for UMTS, though not everyone adheres to it.