Look Ma! No Wires!
Written: Oct 13 '01
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Product Rating:
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Pros: easy to install; excellent documentation; truly wireless internet access
Cons: limited to 19.2 kbps
The Bottom Line: For anyone with a cell phone and laptop who wants wireless internet access, and doesn't mind a slow connection.
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| bub78's Full Review: Ositech King of Clubs (RP14552-MOT1) |
As someone who does a fair amount of traveling I have done quite a bit of research into wireless internet options. Most of the available products offer reduced functionality at a high cost, so instead of purchasing a handheld wireless internet device I opted to extend the capabilities of what I already own i.e. my laptop and cell phone.
The Ositech King of Clubs
The King of Clubs is a modem that can be connected to a cellular phone to enable a wireless data connection. Additionally Ositech has developed a technology called "CellFlex" that enables the modem to use either digital or analog cell phone connections, making an internet connection available from almost anywhere cellular reception can be had. Unfortunately today's cellular networks have a maximum speed of 19.2 kbps, which is about 2-3 times slower than a regular 56k dial up modem, and glacial compared to broadband offerings. The modem is compatible with 40+ different models of Nokia and Motorola phones, however, Nokia and Motorola phones require different cables to connect the phone to the modem, making it important to order the correct modem kit.
What's In The Box
The King of Clubs is a PC Card modem, and ships with a data cable to plug into the phone, installation CD, and product manual. The manual provides excellent documentation on how to install the modem and get it working with your brand of cell phone. The included software contains very informative diagnostic and configuration utilities.
Considerations
Although I find the King of Clubs to be a useful product it is limited by modern day cellular networks. The overall sluggishness of a 19.2 kbps connection means that it takes longer to download webpages (especially without disabling picture downloads), which in turn can use up large chunks of cell phone minutes. The connection speed is also dependent on the strength of the cellular signal, and some ISP's may not be compatable with slow speeds or cellular data connections (although I have found both AT&T WorldNet and AOL have no problems). Many cell phones can only transmit data while in analog mode, which severely shortens battery life as compared to digital tranmissions. In spite of these limiting factors, I have found the King of Clubs to be a worthwhile product for the mobile internet user.
Conclusions
Overall the benefits of the King of Clubs outweigh the technical limits it has to operate within. This product is definitely suitable for anyone who spends a large amount of time away from conventional landlines and networks, and who doesn't mind the sometimes frustrating limitations of todays cellular technology.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 150
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Epinions.com ID:
bub78
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Location: Maine
Reviews written: 26
Trusted by: 4 members
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