Question
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Topic
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internet on the road
LockedHello,
My tech experience spans a dumbphone and a few desktops (one of which I built 12 years ago). Never owned a laptop, tablet or smartphone. Just didn’t want to deal with them. Now, I’m contemplating a project that might need more advanced connectivity.
I’m planning a high-stakes solo road trip and since my destination will be determined by the weather, I will need access to updated weather forecasts and extensive maps.
I think I should buy a mobile device with on-the-road internet access. I want to keep costs around $300 to $400 (if possible) and avoid buying expensive gizmos that I won’t want later. But, my dumbphone – with its cheap cellular plan and small screen – won’t work well by itself, or even as a hotspot for another device.
I’m considering buying an inexpensive laptop with its own internet connection through a cellular network.
My current idea:
– refurbished laptop, something a couple of years old
windows 10 is OK
preferably can accept a cellular SIM card
– if no SIM support, then add a plug-in USB modem that accepts a SIM card
– prepaid plan connected to the SIM card from a reputable carrier
I guess at least 20GB of high-speed data before throttling would be nice
don’t expect to need the plan for more than a month
– I won’t be sending sensitive info. I can handle business with my phone
– download some maps ahead of time with Microsoft’s Maps app, saving data
– GPS optional; I can navigate with a decent mapI was hoping for some advice about the following concerns:
– compatibility issues between an older laptop, USB modem, SIM card and data plan
what specs should I focus on for compatibility?
where should I get this equipment?
– what SIM card and provider would be good?
– what am I missing?
– are there better ideas I should consider?Thanks for any direction you can offer me.