Most cell cards now come as USB dongles.
With the Internet becoming more data-intensive, users in rural areas find themselves in a pinch. Most rural areas don't have the population density to support a wired broadband network such as the cable or DSL systems used in cities. Phone lines and dialup connections don't offer enough speed to watch videos or download large files. Satellite Internet and cell cards (mobile broadband) offer two solutions, and each has advantages and disadvantages.
What is Satellite Internet?
Satellite Internet connections use a two-way satellite dish to send and receive data directly to and from a satellite orbiting the Earth. That satellite is connected to the broader internet, allowing the owner of the dish access to data from anywhere that has a line of sight to the satellite. A satellite connection can be as fast or faster than DSL or cable.
What is a Cell Card?
A cell card (often known as an "internet stick" or just as "mobile broadband") is a card that fits into an expansion slot, PCI slot, or USB port on your computer and connects to the local cellular network. Once connected, it sends and receives data on that network, allowing you to get online wherever there is cellular coverage.
Coverage
Satellite Internet has a wider coverage range. As long as you can find a spot for the dish that has a view of the southern sky (most satellites orbit the equator) you can use it in even the most remote spot. Cell cards, by contrast, depend on the presence of a cellular tower nearby.
Price
Satellite connections are more expensive. The dish itself can cost between several hundred and several thousand dollars. On top of the equipment cost, data fees are substantial, especially if they are based on usage. Mobile broadband connections are more widely used and generally cheaper. Always check to ensure that an "unlimited" plan doesn't have hidden caps beyond which usage charges accumulate.
Connection Speed
Mobile broadband and satellite connections have comparable connection speeds. The speed of your cell card will depend on whether the local cell provider has upgraded the network to the latest standard. If so, it may be possible to get mobile broadband at speeds much quicker than satellite connections can offer.
Reliability
Both types of connection suffer from reliability issues. Like any cellular phone, cell cards can drop their connection when the network is overloaded. Satellite connections can be disrupted by rain, and even thick clouds can cause problems.
Mobility
Cellular cards are usually small USB devices that can be carried in a pocket and plugged into a laptop whenever you need to use it online. Portable satellite systems are much less portable, as they involve unfolding a small dish or large antenna. They also cost a great deal of money.
Tags: Satellite Internet, mobile broadband, cell card, cell cards, connections more, connections offer
