Notspots Revealed in 3g Coverage Maps

Thinking about getting a broadband dongle for internet access on the move? In theory they sound great, but the service does depend on network coverage which varies by network and by region.

Ofcom has today released their maps of 3g coverage across the UK which gives an at a glance view of the service across the country for 3, Vodafone, Orange, O2 and T-Mobile.

The map itself doesn't allow for any detail by magnification but it can at least act as some kind of guide when evalutating which dongle is best for you.

See the 3g coverage maps here

Areas which don't have broadband speed internet are labelled, notspots. Back in May, the BBC released figures on the broadband notspots where fast internet couldn't be achieved over ADSL or cable lines.

Free Skype Calls from 3 with the 3Skypephone

Mobile operator 3 has teamed up with Skype to launch the first truly integrated Skype-compatible phone. The 3Skypephone has Skype software built in and using the high speed datanetwork of 3, you can make free phone calls over the internet to any other 3SkypePhone or any other Skype user - absolutely free of charge.

The 3Skypephone comes in three different color schemes, has a 2mp camera and takes MicroSD memory cards. The handset is available on PAYG or Pay Monthly deals.

Find out more at the 3 official Site.

3 Launch Mobile Internet with USB Dongle

We've blogged before about T-Mobile's mobile broadband service, and now 3 have a high speed offering too. Actually, there service is slightly quicker because it works at 3.5g using HSDPA.

Like T-Mobile, you get a small, simple USB dongle that you plug into your laptop or PC. Before you know it, you have blistering broadband without the need for a fixed telephone line.

3 have decided not to offer unlimited access but have three different packages at cheaper prices: Broadband Lite (1gb), Broadband Plus (3gb) and Broadband Max (7gb).

Prices vary depending on the package and the duration of the contract - visit 3's site for full tariff details or to sign up.

Create a portable internet hotspot

Thanks to 3g technology and the ingenuity of a company called Draytek, it is now possible to create a totally portable internet hotspot.

Draytek have long been the professional's choice for ADSL modem routers. Their 2800 range always had a USB port which was originally intended for use as a print server, but thanks to a new firmware update, you can now plug in a 3g internet dongle and share your internet connection between users connected by ethernet or by wifi connection (on the 2800G).

That means you can instantly setup an internet hotspot wherever you are, providing you have a power source for the router. This is a perfect solution if you're setting up a hotspot at an event, such a conference or fair, or if you are on the move such as on a coach.

Another way to use this is as the internet connection for an office. Many businesses can run fine without landline phones, but you need to get a landline installed to get broadband, which means 12 month contracts at least. This solution gives you internet at work and the freedom to take your dongle when you leave the office.

Things you'll need
1) 3g USB Dongle and Internet access plan (from £29 a month at T-Mobile)
2) Draytek 2800 or 2910 Router