? WLAN or WWAN for new user

Question

Can someone tell me if I made the wrong choice please ? ..I just received a new Inspiron 1520 and had WLAN installed ..now I fear I need WWAN .I need to connect to the internet in multiple and sometimes remote locations so I assume the choice of WLAN was wrong and need to do what now ..?   help please ..sorry if this is a silly question but as this is my first laptop I need to learn a lot...obviously.

volcano11 · Answer

I am assuming you ordered the computer with the standard WiFi wireless network adapter.   You seem to be saying that you need a wireless broadband card.  Note these require a subscription from a service like Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, etc. and each company uses a proprietary adapter.  Some can be installed internally on your machine, others require an Express Card adapter that fits into the Express Card slot on the side of your computer.   Be careful here - your computer does not have the older technology PC Card slot, so don't let someone talk you into buying a PC Card.   Steve

ejn63 · Answer

Bear in mind the cost of a WWAN plan - it's over $100 a month when combined with your voice plan, so it's not insignificant.

If you want the internal card, you'll have to get it from Dell. If you can use an external USB or want an Express Card, you can get those - generally for free after rebates - directly from Verizon.

volcano11 · Answer

The 3945 is WiFi.  It will connect to WiFi routers if you have one at home connected to the cable modem and will also connect to WiFi routers if you are within range of a hotspot.   The broadband wireless you want through Verizon requires a proprietary adapter that can be supplied by Verizon, if they have Express Cards.  Alternatively you could replace the 3945 card with an internal card from Dell that would be specifically designed to work with Verizon's wireless broadband.   Steve

jussme · Answer

Thank you Steve for the timely response ... I will try to clearly add what I have on my machine that pertains to this issue.   I took notice of your warning ..thank you   I have the Intel 3945 WLAN Mini Card with integrated network card and modem , so I am uncertain if I have Wifi ? ..sorry :smileysad:   I do have Verizon cell service and would of course use them for the 'Broadband' needs. I imagine my quandry is : May I just go to my Verizon store and get what I need from them or do I need to have something else installed properly first on the laptop ?   I have a PC @ home and it's hard wired to a cable modem .I don't want to just be limited to remaining within range of home to stay connected..I would rather pay dole out for a plan that will afford me the mobility of my traveling needs...I'm thinking that WLAN limits me.   again apologies for seeming a bit ignorant

Locked Topics – Laptops General

? WLAN or WWAN for new user

Was this post helpful?