BSIBC

INTERNET ACCESS WHILE CRUISING

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DIAL-UP - This is the old standby access method requiring a land line (telephone wire). This connection method is only possible if the boat is in a slip with an available telephone line. Telephone connections are capable of speeds of up to 56K.

CELL PHONE - Cell Phones can be used for access but existing technology is still very slow at aproximately 19K. New compression technologies are being developed to increase speeds to 56K. Typically, the cell phone is connected to a computer (laptop) with a proprietary cable connecting to the RS232 or USB port.

CABLE - Cable offers a high speed broadband connection but like the dial-up connection above it requires a hard cable connection to the boat. This can only be possible in at the home dock or a marina. There are no known marinas that offer this capability.

WIFI - Marinas around the globe are embracing wireless access technology to provide a convenient connecton for boaters in their marina or mooring field.

WiFi hardware is available from retail outlets (Best Buy, Circuit City) and may cost $50 to $100 for a USB or PCMCIA card to interface with your computer.

For more detailed information about adding WiFi to your computer click here: WiFi

SATTELITE - Sattelite internet access is a proven technology with a very limited number of suppliers for recreational boaters. Cost is typically high for recreational boaters but is a proven technology. KVH of Rhode Island is the leading supplier. Hopefully, as the need expands and the technology evolves, other more cost effective supplers will emerge.

Questions / comments..... jeffnilsson@comcast.net

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