Whether you're on the go or expanding your home network system, cost comes into play when considering mobile computing options.
From laptop computers to PDAs, cell phones and even digital cameras, you may be looking at a wide range of wireless Internet service providers as well as accessories to make your connections smoother and faster. The fact is that fees vary widely among brands and products, as well as in the service sector.
Both personal and business users are able to take advantage of all the latest technologies to keep mobile devices up and running in thousands of locations. Mobility means you can go around the globe or enjoy your laptop poolside. You can enjoy a cup of coffee at the local shop or head to the beach with your PDA.
Mobile computing makes it easy to stay connected no matter where you are. It's more than that: Gamers enjoy peer-to-peer interaction, photographers can send immediate downloads and employees can telecommute from different time zones.
WiFi and broadband connections are the standard for mobile computing. Home networks are becoming easier to set up, which makes it simple to take mobile devices on the road. Before you make decisions on the cost of mobile computing, however, you should decide how you want to take advantage of the varying devices.
Will you mainly be checking e-mail or do you just need to stay organized? If so, a cell phone may be the answer. Will you require extensive access to the Internet or need to download sizable attachments? If so, a laptop will provide better service.
The list of mobile computing devices includes:
Each of these devices has a varied price range, depending on power, features and portability. In addition, you may need accessories to make connections. Service provide fees will also come into play, adding to the cost of mobile computing. This is why it's important to know why and where you'll be staying in touch.
Laptops and subnotebooks are at the top of the mobile computing chain. They can cost from around $600 to $3,000 or more. The latest models incorporate technologies for mobile connections. Older models, however, require a few accessories to become travel-ready.
You can choose a WiFi, or WLAN (wireless local area network) setup that will require an adapter card or USB device. Gearing up to go wireless is relatively inexpensive, and you can access the Internet for free in many places.
Limitations include overloading in some hotspots, poor signal strength inside buildings and no access outside the AP (access point) range. You can also select WWAN (wireless wide area network), which requires more costly accessorizing. The advantages, however, include access within the range of any cellular service.
For WiFi access you may need any of the following to enhance the experience:
WWAN accessories may include a modem (card-sized) that will cost $200 to $400, plus the service plan cost.
Cellular and smart phones, along with PDAs, offer a range of benefits from voice and e-mail transmittal to fully-scaled Internet access. Prices start as low as $100, with higher-end systems costing around $500 or more. The latest models are also equipped for wireless mobility and some include walkie-talkie options. Pagers on the lower end are economical, but do require a wireless access plan.
WiFi mobile computing is free in some spots, but most likely, you will need to sign up for a subscription plan. Cell phone companies offer many options to fit everyone's needs.
Generally, you can choose access by the hour, the day or the month. Yearly plans will offer discounts. Hourly plans can start at under $5, and all-day plans are usually under $10. Monthly rates may be as low as $20, but can go up to $100 for unlimited access.
Broadband usage varies also. When traveling within the United States, rates can range from free access to 24-hour fees of approximately $12 to $25. You can also purchase personal or corporate plans on monthly and yearly contracts.
If you're planning overseas travel, you can purchase passes in some countries. These are sometimes more cost effective.
Rates for smaller mobile devices are also just as varied. Monthly plans may range from $20 to $100 with varying allowances for online usage. Also, your cellular carrier may offer non-contractual wireless fees that apply to laptops for traveling.
PDA rates are priced for connected usage. Limited plans can start at $20, but will cost around $50 for unlimited transfer plus messaging benefits.
If you don't plan to be connected for long periods of time, look into pay-as-you-go or prepaid wireless service options. Rates can be based on kilobyte usage or on a per-minute basis, which will be approximately 20 cents per minute. Roaming charges are even higher, at about 50 cents per minute.
Remember also that some mobile computing costs and discounts depend on a product purchase and a long-term service contract.