Using a mobile as a modem

[Simon]

Just thinking about how I could use something like a Samsung NC-10, and as I have no wi-fi access at work, I would need to somehow use my phone, in conjunction with Bluetooth, to get a netbook online.  Has anyone done this, and how is it achieved?

[Steve]

I have done it a while ago, as long as the phone and PC are paired and the phones modem drivers are installed on the PC ,its a matter of initiating a dial up connection to your service provider. The connection details are the same as you use when using the internet on the phone. This act is called " tethering" and I think violates most service agreements and unless you've got a 3G signal performance is poor.I find a 3G dongle much more convenient.

[Rik]

What Steve said, Simon. Personally, I generally go down the USB cable route if possible, but it does work, albeit slowly. Orange are a bit better than most for this purpose. A 3G dongle is definitely the better option.

[Simon]

OK, thanks.  The 3G dongle would presumably involve more cost, though, and as I'm already paying for unlimited data access with my phone contract, it would appear to be an uneconomical route to take.

[Rik]

It would. It's worth trying the phone and see what you think, then go for the netbook if it looks viable.

[Simon]

Ah, but without the netbook, I have nothing to try the phone with. 

[Rik]

Your laptop?

[Simon]

Don't you just hate people who always think of everything?   

[Rik]

 

[Steve]

As I said early tethering is normally outside your providers service agreement. They'll only find out presumably if your usage becomes excessive which is a risk due to the extra content downloaded for  PC web use compared to mobile phone web use. I note that tethering is no longer free with the new iphone look at the fees http://shop.o2.co.uk/update/internet.html

[Rik]

Orange seem happy with it, Steve.

[Sebby]

Some laptops come with a slot for a SIM card, Simon, and so you wouldn't even need a USB dongle.

[Simon]

Thanks for the info, guys. 

[Steve]

Below is an extract from the O2 terms and conditions

The Web Bolt On allows you unlimited use of Telefónica O2 UK Limited's Edge/GPRS/ 3G networks (as applicable to your handset), for personal internet use via your mobile phone. All usage must be for your private, personal and non-commercial purposes. You may not use your SIM Card:
in, or connected to, any other device including modems;
to allow the continuous streaming of any audio / video content, enable Voice over Internet (Voip), P2P or file sharing; or
in such a way that adversely impacts the service to other O2 customers.
If O2 reasonably suspects you are not acting in accordance with this policy O2 reserves the right to impose further charges, impose network protection controls which may reduce your speed of transmission, remove the Web Bolt On from your account or disconnect your tariff at any time, having attempted to contact you first.


Any opinions whether tethering with O2 is allowed or not??

[Rik]

I'd have said yes, Steve, the limit seems to be on streaming. If the phone has a modem, then I would say using it as such complied with those terms.