sundance-communications.com/forum Forums Computers & Programming Computers, Software, Accessories Netbook modem question

I just added an HP netbook mini to my Verizon Wireless account. I couldn't argue with the insanely low cost of it (under $30), even though there is an additional line fee and a two-year contract for it.

My question is this: Since the netbook has a phone number associated with it, is it possible to use it to dial into phone system modems for remote programming? Right now, I'm just using my cell phone and a Bluetooth connection for this function with the netbook. I can also do the same thing with my USB cable to the phone. Both work well, but I'm hoping that there's a better way.

This phone number cannot be called, so I believe it is just there for billing purposes. I am under the impression that the phone line really doesn't exist, at least as a resource within the netbook.

There is some mention of an internal modem in the netbook, but I am not sure what they mean by the word "modem". Is this just a device that is used to access VZW's broadband service or is it really a dial-up modem?

Like any new electronic device these days, there's no manual that came with the netbook. All documentation is on-line and I can't find a thing. Part of this is probably due to the fact that CGs and phone men use different terminology for the same things.

Any ideas? Am I asking for too much? I don't mind sticking with using my cell phone as the dial-up modem, but I hope I'm just missing something.

The term modem means something else. You have a 3G wireless built in with simm card. Technically it's a modem!

Ed -

I've got a Kindle. It comes with a built in Modem, but it's a 3G one and I can use it to access Amazon's store to order books. I can access the web (but only sort-of). Yes it's a modem and no, you can't do squat with it - except what it was specifically designed to do.

Sam

Hi Ed - my next door neighbor just got the same deal on an HP netbook from Verizon. It's a really nice unit and XP is rock solid. I took the Norton Security trial copy off and loaded AVG free for her. When downloading, it reached speeds of 400kbps on Verizon's network. It's fine for web cruising, but if you are downloading a big file, you must be somewhat patient.

I love the Kindle that my wife has. The books are reasonably priced and it's ideal for travel. Have you tried your connection anywhere outside of the USA? I know it's supposed to have world coverage on the "Whisper-net" of theirs, but haven't been out of country to test it yet.

Tony -

The coverage is only in the US (on my model - the K2). There is a K2 set up for International use, but not mine. When I was out of the country the only way I could get books was to order them from the Amazon site on a computer and then transfer them with the USB cable. It really was no big deal and was actually quite easy.

And yes it is ideal for travel. When I had to run overseas with 2 hours notice last winter I downloaded 10 books in about 15 minutes and had more then enough to read - even with 3 hour check ins and 12 hour flights.

And yes again - I really, really like my Kindle. It's perfect for reading on the subway, the couch, wherever.

Sam

Update:

Oh yes it does allow me to dial up using the internal modem! I accidentally selected it in Hyperterminal and it dialed away. Full AT command set and everything. I'm in heaven now.

Excellent! And for $30 - Quite the deal!

Sam

thats awsom

No kidding. This is exactly what I was hoping to gain in "stealing" this thing from Verizon. The only thing I haven't figured out yet is how they bill the dial-up calls.

Do they charge against the MB usage allotment on the data package or do they charge against the bucket of voice minutes associated with my "Family Share" plan?

I can't get a straight answer from their people because they say that it can't be done (what a surprise). I suppose I can just place some well-documented dial-up modem calls and check the bill next month.

Let me tell you.....Regardless, this thing is a true telephone man's tool.