Thinking about Mifi

gprimr1 · #1 (**permalink**) 09-01-2009, 10:36 PM

I'm thinking about getting a MiFi instead of a regular aircard.

My question is can I still do a USB connection with the mifi, or is it wireless only. I say that because it would be great if my family goes on vacation, they tend to pick hotels without wireless.

But if I'm by myself, I might want a strait USB.

**Unknown Zone** · #2 (**permalink**) 09-02-2009, 12:16 AM

from the looks of it, I dont think you can hook up straight usb....the only connection is for the battery to charge.

Edit: I also d/l the manual from the sprint www and nothing about usb..etc.

gprimr1 · #3 (**permalink**) 09-02-2009, 09:12 PM

Anyone have any experience with it? I have about 3 days to decide.

techguru · #4 (**permalink**) 09-02-2009, 09:51 PM

I was given one to test with a free one month account when they first came out. You can use it with USB instead of just wireless. Interestingly though, when connected to a computer by USB, it only serves that computer, the WiFi turns off, so if you are using it with multiple devices, you will need to carry a charger too since you will lose the wireless connections if you plug it into your laptop to charge.

If you are willing to pay for an air card anyway, the MiFi is a cool alternative. I decided not to activate mine after my test account ran out because I don't travel quite enough to need it and they don't currently support the "day pass" option for it.

edit: Just noticed you are with Sprint. My experience is with VZW, but the devices are the same. Only difference is that with the Sprint one, and their software, you can also use it as a USB GPS, which is a feature that Verizon, in their infinite wisdom, disabled...).

Alan

**jbearamus** · #5 (**permalink**) 09-02-2009, 09:56 PM

the guys from novatel also say the sprint version will allow you to limit the number of computers that can connect to it at a time, although that can be managed with a passcode.
and as far as charging/usb i know it can connect via usb but i would assume it is the same where you can usb it but it kills the wifi

gprimr1 · #6 (**permalink**) 09-19-2009, 09:20 PM

The Sprint store people told me it can't be connected via USB but I connected it and it works fine.

I actually really like it. Where the old card would drop down to 1x after about 20 minutes, this one has remained EVDO all night.