Internet on the road

There are many different setups for using internet on the road. The setup we use:

• Mofi 5500 4g router
  • I work in small business computer networking and this just may be the most annoying router to manage in history. The interface is just bad, while it is improving, it still sucks.
  • Once the unit is setup, it seems to be fairly solid.
  • I’ve used this router with Verizon, ATT and Visible without any issues.
  • Repeating wifi seems overly complicated. The scenario I wanted to have work was to have the router use my home wifi when available and then the 4g network if my home wifi wasn’t available. It sort of works, I have to reboot the router for it to switch.
  • I have an old antenna from a previous we boost install that I use to help the signal out. It is mounted off of the van roof’s rack mounts.
• WeBoost Drive Reach OTR booster
  • Boosts cell signal in remote areas, overall it is helpful, but not exactly a must have. Essentially it works well in places just on the fringe of service. If there is no service, there is no service.
  • We have the desktop antenna in the front of the van and that seems to provide a wider range of signal than the stock antenna that comes with the OTR
  • The antenna is mounted to the van roof’s rack mount

Overall, I tend to think that a good mifi/hotspot would probably do pretty well too. It would be much simpler and the fact that it is more portable means it could be used in other places.

On a side note, we added a set of on/off switches that control the rear 12v outlets in the cabinet above the bed on the drivers side. Essentially allowing us to turn the Mofi and we boost on/off independently.