Home     Contact Us    
Main Board Job Seeker's Board Job Wanted Board Resume Bank Company Board Word Help Medquist New MTs Classifieds Offshore Concerns VR/Speech Recognition Tech Help Coding/Medical Billing
Gab Board Politics Comedy Stop Health Issues
ADVERTISEMENT




Serving Over 20,000 US Medical Transcriptionists

UPS or broadband air card maybe ?

Posted By: me on 2009-05-12
In Reply to: using computer with generator for power outage ?? - me

Thanks to the posters below. After more investigation it sounds like I could get a fairly good UPS battery backup for the money a generator would cost. Of course it would not last as long time wise. I just wish I knew for sure that our cable high-speed internet would still work w/o power. The customer service guy put me on hold, then came back and said yes, but I am leery. I guess I could test that by buying a battery backup...charging..hooking it up and cutting the power via the main switch and see if the cable works but that would only test if MY house is without power not if the power were cut to the area. Been thinking about cutting the cable internet and going with an "air card" (broadband off cell towers?) Then, with a laptop, I could take my work with me too ?? I am Soooooo low tech it is agonizing !!!


Complete Discussion Below: marks the location of current message within thread

The messages you are viewing are archived/old.
To view latest messages and participate in discussions, select the boards given in left menu


Other related messages found in our database

verizon has broadband internet card
for laptops..  it is about 15 dollars/wk but you can write it off.. i do lots of stuff in the car and verizon works everywhere..
Anybody have any experience with Verizon Broadband Wireless (air card)...
Hello, I'm looking into buying as USB720 from Verizon Wireless.  It is for wireless broadband access and simply is a modem with an antenna that plugs right into your USB port which I could use with my PC.  It is $99.99 after a $50.00 mail-in rebate.  The service itself is $59.99 a month with a 2-year commitment.  I live out in the boonies with only satellite internet and dialup available to me.  Also, I believe that it is compatible with a VPN.  This certainly would be a nice alternative to pokey diaup and satellite.  It is cheaper than satellite (the initial cost anyway) and it is faster with speeds up to 700 kbps.  According to the map at Verizon, it is not yet available to me in the Las Cruces/El Paso area.  But according to two reps at Verizon, it is available.  I get a strong signal here at my house and there is a 30-day trial period.  Is there anybody in this region that has been able to get this service with success?  Also, any experience at all with the Verizon air card would be welcomed.  Thanks in advance!  Shelley
Oddly enough, if I don't use my bank card as a credit card in the billing cycle, I get charged fo
x
Debit card. They've got the credit card logo on them, so they
can be used anywhere a credit card can be used.
I used to send a card and gift card to my direct supervisor, but that's it. sm
She was the only one who knew me as more than an employee number, and the only one I had any respect for.
I use wireless because it's the only broadband I can get...sm

I  have a router on my main computer, which also speeds up the connection. Downloads .wav files in a flash. The router also allows The Boy to play his Xbox live in the basement.


I also have wireless broadband s/m

I don't have it because of the price ($55 a month), but because I cannot get DSL or cable.  I looked into satellite, but after explaining to them the work that I do, they said that I would easily exceed their limits in probably about three weeks, leaving me with week four totally down (they don't have an overage that you can buy).  I actually spent the time tallying one weeks' worth of voice files to give them an average of what my week looks like.


The weather doesn't really affect my wireless, I have had my satellite go out during bad weather, but my wireless is still up and going.


I would be interested in the cards mentioned, but I live in an area where cell phone reception is hit or miss, so that won't work for me either.


I use two different FTPs and also a WebTop platform for my hospital account.


I also have wireless broadband s/m

I don't have it because of the price ($55 a month), but because I cannot get DSL or cable.  I looked into satellite, but after explaining to them the work that I do, they said that I would easily exceed their limits in probably about three weeks, leaving me with week four totally down (they don't have an overage that you can buy).  I actually spent the time tallying one weeks' worth of voice files to give them an average of what my week looks like.


The weather doesn't really affect my wireless, I have had my satellite go out during bad weather, but my wireless is still up and going.


I would be interested in the cards mentioned, but I live in an area where cell phone reception is hit or miss, so that won't work for me either.


I use two different FTPs and also a WebTop platform for my hospital account.


Has anyone disconnected the internal sound card and replace with another sound card?

I am having problems with my sound on one of my computers.  Several different ExText program have been on it so I don't think it is the program and the sound is just now as clear as on my other computer.  Has anyone switched (disconnected the internal sound care and replaced) to a new sound card?  Did it make a difference. 


Everyone on this board is so knowledgeable, I really appreciate you.  You have helped me many times. 


Broadband/Internet Phone - sm
Hi - I've been using USA DATANET (it's available in my area) without any problems on a Lanier and DVI (Like C-Phone). Mine is $24.95/mo for unlimited long distance. I can turn my Internet modem off at night, and therefore, can't use the phone if that is off. Otherise, no problems. Hope this helps.
i love my satellite/broadband!
I too do not have DSL/cable available in the boondocks where I live...but a small local broadband company started up a year and half ago at good rates and I jumped on board. I love it! I have never in 18 months or so had an outage other than when we had severe weather with power outages. I have a neighbor who had satellite with one of the big companies (Hughes, I think) and said the service was fine but too expensive. I have been using satellite for at least three different accounts with no problems...the only problem is when a company doesn't "allow" satellite.
Wireless Broadband/Sprint, etc.

Hi to everyone!


 


Is anyone out there using the wireless broadband, like Sprint or Verizon (not so unlimited)?  I am currently using Verizon and have now found out the unlimited is not so.  I have ordered Sprint and the USB modem will be here in a few days, but am now paranoid about 0ver-Use on that!


 


I just moved to a house in the country, with no DSL, no cable and am unsure about Wild Blue for satellite because of the start up cost and then not being satisfied.


 


Any country living transcriptionists out there with advice?  I am in northern CA.


 


Thanks for any help!


I just got fixed wireless broadband
And I love it! No lag like satellites. I thought I'd never get broadband since I'm a mile from the nearest house but this is a very nice connection.
Sprint Mobile Broadband sm
I have been using this service for the last 3 months or so and would never go back to dial-up. However, be aware that there is a 5GB limit per month with any of the $60/month data plans offered by Sprint (starting next month), AT&T, and Verizon. I have been checking my usage, and even with downloading a ton of songs for my son's MP3 player, work, and occasional youtube type stuff, I am averaging about 3.5GB for the month. Also, check what service has the best coverage for your area. I went with Sprint because of the unlimited package they had at the time, but since that is going away, there is no difference to me in carriers except their coverage area. If you have any questions, please feel free to e-mail me, and I can give you the website where I purchased my equipment. They have incredible customer service and even helped me get my modem switched out when it broke (my fault but I had the total protection plan on it, only $7 per month and well worth it).
Anybody use verizon mobile broadband?
Can you tell me anything about it? My dad is thinking about getting it and I wondered if I could use it at the campground they go to, but wasn't sure how it worked. Is there a limit to how much you can be online? Any info is greatly appreciated! TIA!
Satellite/WiFi/Broadband
I am going to return to working at home soon.  My husband has retired and we are going to be spending a portion of our time in Scotland in a private residence with a wireless connection.  In looking at the requirements of several of the company websites I have found, they apparently do not allow satellite or WiFi connections.  Do any of you travel and use your laptop for work?  If so, what sort of connection do you use?  When I was working for Medquist I worked from Scotland with a wireless connection, password protected, in two separate private homes, no direct computer to modem connection, and had no problems with this at all.  This was a couple years ago.  I am currently employed at a local hospital, so I cannot ask my current employer about this.  Many thanks to anyone who has an answer.
Broadband/Internet Telephone Service
Does anyone use a broadband/internet telephone service for transcription, such as Vonage, Covad, Lingo, SpeakEasy? I have a local long distance account and am looking into this type of service for a monthly flat fee for unlimited minute usage. Otherwise, the long distance fees would eat me alive. Any info on any company, good or bad, would help me tremendously in making my decision. I am researching several via the internet, but once again, any info would help.

Have a save and sane 4th of July!
Lillian
Have you looked into Verizon wireless broadband. sm
It might be available in your area.

Don't worry about the ESLs - just takes getting used to their voices, and practice makes perfect. I had a hard time at first, but over a few weeks, the clarity came as I got used to it. Ask your supervisor for samples, too. Samples really help - and they will help you master the voice, too.

SuddenLink broadband service good ?
Would appreciate any input anyone can give me with this. Considering switching from phone line to cable broadband. Thanks.
I'm using a fixed wireless broadband connection
And so far, so good. The tower is just across the cow field, though. I haven't had any cutting in and out and I feel like a kid with a new toy since I'm able to watch You Tube, etc. now. My provider (SEIdata) came and did a site survey before installing it first and told me I had an excellent signal. They put a small box on my roof and ran cable to my office. I plug into an Ethernet modem and I can WIFI it with a router if I want to, too.

I've heard mixed reviews on the "cards," but I would recommend fixed wireless if you have a provider that does a site survey and installation.


Mobile broadband 5GB limit with ALL carriers
I signed up with Sprint last year when it was unlimited, and starting in July 2008, they put a cap of 5GB, which is what all the other carriers had done also. That said, if you are using the connection mainly for work, the cap should not be a problem. I downloaded a program that keeps track of my usage as well as use the Sprint site to check it occasionally. You can't be downloading tons of MP3s or watching a lot of youtube or other video things during each month, but it doesn't have to be completely avoided either.
I pay $40 a month unlimited wireless broadband...
And I work on Bayscribe for two different MTSOs. I never have a problem and have no limit to 5GB or anything. It's through a company called Cricket if there are any in your area. I also have dial-up as backup just in case weather conditions interfere with my wi-fi connection (Bayscribe works great with dial-up, too, BTW!).

I, too, can't at this time afford satellite or cable, so I'm making do with wi-fi and dial-up and saving myself about $25 a month. It doesn't sound like a lot but in this economy, every little bit I can put back in my pocket helps.

Good luck!!!
Questions - Working with Mobile Broadband Access

Hi ..


I need to set up to work away from home and am considering mobile broadband wireless. 


I would appreciate any information ya'll could give me - I know nothing about it, other than most service is 60.00/month ... specifically, what carriers and how much time does it get you? 


Thanks so much!  I have verified the major carriers provide coverage in the area I will need to be in. 


Merry Christmas!


Anybody seen how Time Warner is going to start charging "heavy broadband users?" sm
http://www.news-record.com/content/2009/04/02/article/time_warner_cable_will_track_charge_by_internet_usage
No credit card is a good credit card.
Just kidding. I'd suggest not using credit cards to pay debts. It'll only dig you in deeper. Look into a signature loan or putting a lien against a vehicle or house. Lower interest rate, pay off sooner.
I use Verizon mobile and the rule of thumb with mobile broadband is...
Basically, it will work whereever your cell phone will work.  If your too remote, it may not work, but I do know a lot of campgrounds like KOA offer Wifi, which means you should be able to pick up that signal too. You can always call ahead to the campground etc. I use mine going down the road for the most part but every great while going through the mountains I lose reception.  
card
Riversongs and angelrays are the best...but they are free.
2,000 debit card
When your boss gives you your paycheck, do they ask what are you going to do with that money?  Didnt think so.  Same thing for the people of the gulf coast.  They lost their jobs, their homes.  The money they will be given will be in lieu of a paycheck till they can find another job and home.  Its a paycheck from the govt.
Ethernet card
If your connection to the internet is through a cable connection, then you have an Ethernet card. If it is dial up, you may not have one. Look at the back of your PC, and if you have a plug for a cable connection (it is slightly bigger than a phone plug), then you have an ethernet card. Hope this helps. You can also go into MY Computer and check there too.
find a new card....
or, as long as your payments have been on time, call them and let them know you will move your business, and most of the time, they will lower it. Check your FICO score...if it's good, you can call the shots if they want your business. All have that little clause now that says even if you are even 1 day late on ANY other bills, i.e, utilities, dept store, anything, they can charge up to 36% interest on your remaining paymnents. Read the very small print.
Nothing but a card in the mail...sm
Do ya think it would have broke the company to have slipped a little something into that card? McDonald's $5.00 gift certificate; anything to show a little appreciation.

I've been thinking about it because there's not a lot of suits to pay; 1 owner. Now that I think about it some more, I'm thinking the owner might be Jewish, and not celebrate Christmas. But then why even send the card? And why not call it "appreciation during the holidays" instead of a Christmas gift? I duuno. The supervisors actually are MTs; I would have thought they would have brought it up during their weekly huddle. "what are we going to do for the MTs for the holidays?"

I thought about it some more and maybe only being with the company for 2-1/2 months might have something to do with not getting even a token. Oh well.
YES. We had an IBM selectric with mag card
and we thought it was great! HAHAHAHA
wireless card
thanks for the info. When I call today, I will mention what you said. Maybe I will just go to one of the local Super stores and see if they can set me up with a inout deal, if not i really am going to move if it does not work-eeks
Credit card? I'm not sure either.
NM
does anyone have a prescription card that
isn't through their insurance company? like rxdrugcard, pharamacistrxcard, etc.  i was considering getting one to cover the meds that insurance doesn't cover or pays very little on.  any info is greatly appreciated
Debit card use
I know the credit card companies charge the place of business a fee or percentage when you use your credit card but does anyone know if it costs them every time you use a debit card, does the business pay a fee?   Our apartment complex just offered the option of automatic checking account deduction because they said it costs them less than credit/debit.
debit card
Usually my purchases show up right away, unless its a holiday weekend and I use the debit card like a credit card instead; then its usually the next business day before those purchases show up. However, if I use it like a regular debit card, holiday or not the purchases show right away.
And if you got a $10 card you'd gripe, too. It's all you know
*
Anyone use a PC card for their work

I use a wireless card from Sprint and I am not that close to a tower.  I checked with Verizon and their coverage does not seem to be as broad as Spint.  I have no problems with downloading work, but do have  a bit of a time lag when uploading work.


I would definitely suggest checking though with your IT department if you work for a national. I occasionally work for another service, and I when I download reports for them, I have to rely on dial up.


Hope this helps


 


 


I use a Verizon card
when traveling. I have the Nationwide package, $60 a month unlimited. In heavily populated areas, it is almost as quick as my DSL at home, but even in low population areas it is still better than dial-up. I've traveled from coast to coast (mostly along I-80) and only lost signal in the usual remote places (certain stretches of Wyoming or in heavy tree coverage). You might want to buy a card from whoever has the best cell signals in your area.
Rx drug card
I have one that's only $4.95 a month, and it's fabulous!! When I first applied for it online, I had 3 prescriptions waiting for me that were close to $60, but I paid less than $20 for them because the card was active within an hour after I ordered it!!
If you have a sound card..(sm)

you should have excellent quality.  If the sound card is within your computer, you should hook the ear phones directly up to the computer.  If not, you can install an external sound card and plug your ear phones into that.  I have the external and have absolutely wonderful sound quality.  On my lap tap I have an internal sound card and, again, have wonderful sound quality.  I have speakers, but don't use them.  If I unplug my ear phones, the speakers work, but I honestly can't say the last time I did that.  I always use my ear phones.


My cat just stepped on my keyboard...Now I have two of them sitting right in front of me.  Lovely, I guess they want my attention.


My daughter made it to the state tournament for softball All-Stars and we are headed up to the high country in the cool 80s.  We will be out of this 115 degree weather for a week.  Yippeee!  That is something I love about Arizona.  You just have a couple-hour drive and you are up in the cool mountain air.


Hope everyone has a great Sunday! 


calling card
I used mine when I was out of town, and my minutes started as soon as I was connected to the dictation system. I diconnected in between reports when I proofread. It was cumbersome to do that, but saved some of my minutes.
Verizon air card
More info please.  My husband and I are planning to do a lot of traveling and have been questioning the same things.  I know we can leach off a signal if we are close enough to a wireless place such as a hotel, but what if we are up in the mountains or on a beach in the middle of nowhere?  
sound card
Thanks so much - great ideas!
Did anyone ever have a video card go bad and what does it cause when this happens. nm
:
wireless card
Well there are a LOT of factors - you may be a ways down the road from the nearest cell tower, which is one of the reasons that you only get one bar on your cell phone. I mentioned the "new wireless card" as a POSSIBLE alternative to those MTs who live in a rural area and cannot get a DSL or cable connection or satellite is not a viable option and are also utilizing a desktop computer. Until recently, the wireless cards were only feasible if you had a laptop computer, so I was just informing people that this might be another option. Sorry you have such bad cell phone service -- this is not an option for everyone but as I mentioned a POSSIBLE option with possible being the keyword
air card usage
Great that Sprint offers that.  I do know on my account with Verizon there is unlimited usage, unlimited area.  So I guess as well it goes to show that different companies offer different packages and most likely for different areas, depending on competition.  Hope you find one that suits you, but make sure that you get the name, ID# , etc. of every person you talk to.  Makes it a lot easier if you have to go back for whatever reason to them.  Also, Verizon offers an antenna that you can hook to a window with suction cups, etc., so be sure to ask whoever you talk to if they offer any accessories at the time of sign up and if they can throw those in for free. 
I don't know if you mean WiFi or the air card.

The air card lets you connect to the internet provided there is service available in the area.  Just like cell service if there is no service it doesn't work.


WiFi works in the same way, if there is a network available within range you can connect to it, but unless it is an open hotspot you have to have a password to connect to it.   Most computers now come WiFi compatible.  If you have an older computer you can get a WiFi card that slides into a slot on your laptop.  They range in price from about $40 up to $100+ and can be found at any computer store, or a store like Best Buy or Circuit City. 


air card Sprint or AT&T?
i looked at verizon and don't think i want that one.  I was going to go through Sprint/Nextel, but then noticed that AT&T has a network as well.  any advice? 
Would never cut my card list sm
I look forward to my cards and read them again at the end of the season. I hang them across a door on a string and down the sides. If someone cuts me off their list, especially if I know they can afford it, I think it's very insulting. I also love a little message as to how things are going but hate those "newsletter" type notices at how "well" they are doing, enough of that aleady - just a card and a little handwritten note to add that extra pizazz to lighten up your life. I understand some may have no choice, then a phone call would be nice explaining how they cut out cards this year but didn't want to forget us at Christmas, that I would completely understand. IMHO