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| The EVDO standard was developed in 1999 by Qualcomm as the next step in the evolution of CDMA (Code-Division Multiple Access) technology, attempting to hit a target wireless data transfer rate of 2 Mbps (megabits per second). It's been widely adopted overseas, and is now being implemented in the United States by a few major communications companies. EVDO is a Mobile Broadband technology that ordinarily offers data transfer speeds between 300 Kbps (kilobits per second) and 512 Kbps. You can get up to a 2-Mbps (megabits per second) transfer rate in areas with a strong signal and low interference. |
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| Note: Even with an optimal connection, EVDO hasn't caught up to DSL (digital subscriber line) yet, which is approximately 2.4 Mbps (megabits per second). However, EVDO rates are ordinarily 10 times faster than traditional dial-up modem connections. |
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| HSDPA is based on the GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications) standard that is used throughout the world for cellular communications. HSDPA Mobile Broadband technology provides a higher quality signal than EVDO but is not as widely deployed. |
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| Note: Both Mobile Broadband standards carry data over the same cell towers used for voice communications, on its own radio frequency to avoid crossover. |
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| You're probably quite familiar with Wi-Fi (wireless fidelity) technology and are wondering how it differs from EVDO or HSDPA. The main differences are: |
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| • | EVDO and HSDPA don't require an internet hotspot. |
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| • | Standard Wi-Fi has a much shorter range, generally 250 to 300 feet. EVDO and HSDPA -- Mobile Broadband connections -- have the same range as a cell phone signal. |
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| Of the relatively few major players in the Mobile Broadband game, Verizon uses EVDO technology and AT&T uses HSDPA technology. Each company has a fairly wide coverage area and similar rate plans, so the decision comes down to which provider covers your area with mobile internet access: |
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| • | Verizon: Offers Mobile Broadband Access in over 180 U.S. metropolitan areas. |
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| • | AT&T: Offers BroadbandConnect service in over 165 major U.S. metropolitan areas and over 120 countries with AT&T roaming partners. |
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| Note: As of this writing, both providers offer unlimited data plans ranging in cost from $60 to $80 per month. |
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Mobile internet access with EVDO and HSDPA | |
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