geoffinak3
Premium
join:2004-09-15
Big Lake, AK
 ·StarBand Communica..
| Sat is dead Cell is going to lead the way . All the satellite companies have the same problem greed.
Hughes is advertising like crazy, StarBand months behind the release of the Nova the 2nd generation, the 1st was a flop.
The up front equipment cost is just outrageous.
However Verizon is coming on strong and very serious about this market. The USB antennas draw more power from lap tops, but get better signal strength then the cards. I believe their are also options on how to boost reception in the weak areas. I have been with StarBand for 3 years and while speeds have been fair, the FAP is just not reasonable. See review.
Even not in EDO areas your going to get signal and usage on cell, at least Verizon. FAP is 5 Gigs for $58.00 but you can buy more Gigs on Verizons plan.
My 3 year StarBand outlay for equipment and monthly fees for 500 Kbs to 750 Kbs down has been $6,100.00 or more, that averaged out to 3.1 MBs a month usage. The equipment ROI is zero. To upgrade, I can get their starter plan but not the Star Band Nova 1500
I say work with the cell companies, much less upfront cost, Verizon has a test drive for 30 days, don't like it , turn it in and that's the end of the plan, how can you lose. I bet if your in an area, that is covered by Verizon, they will work with you and some research will reveal some way to get a stronger signal where your at. Just my impression of investigating Verizon, looks like I am getting cable, finally but if not. I would be with Verizon of the cell companies getting in, my research FWIW, shows their stronger then the others. Of course YMMV
I looked at their coverage map on the big color catalog, much better detail then the web map. East of Colo no problem AZ was thin in places, Nevada, really thin and in the Rockies about what you would expect, but better then I thought.
Satellite went to greed and sleep and here comes cell. Too bad the general idea is good, some more research needed but we sleep and the Cell Phone companies go for the business.
I understand the dilemma and pain of dial up and it's a national problem in education, kids can not do their home work in areas not served by HSI, which usually means small school districts also. So it's not just about games, it's a serious problem.
Good luck to you all
Enjoy !
Geoff
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