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Turn Your Wireless Modem Into a Wi-Fi Access Point

October 2nd, 2007 @ 2:12 pm

4 Comments

Categories: Gizmos and Gadgets, Travel Tips

Tags: Gizmo, Wi-Fi Access Point, Wi-Fi, Modem, Access Point, CradlePoint, Modems, Wireless, Hardware, Components

cradlepoint-router.jpgRight now I’m totally digging the Sierra Wireless U595 USB modem, which plugs into my notebook to provide high-speed Internet access just about anywhere. The only thing that would make it better is if I could share the wireless love with my co-workers. CradlePoint’s CTR-350 Cellular Travel Router makes it possible, turning the modem (or a tethered cell phone) into a secure 802.11b/g access point.

About the size of a pack of cigarettes, the CTR-350 works with about a dozen modems and handsets from Sprint and Verizon Wireless (see the product page for a compatibility list). All you do is plug in the modem and presto, instant hotspot. It also includes an Ethernet port for wired connectivity and a built-in firewall for added security. The gizmo sells for $149.

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  •  
    1

    kevinkpierce

    10/03/07 | Reported as spam

    Wi-Fi Access without the Router

    If you have a Mac with Wi-Fi access in addition to your wireless modem, you can make it a hot spot without any additional equipment required. Just share your connection: go to system preferences/sharing/internet and activate the Airport checkbox. You can choose 40 or 128 security, set up passwords, etc.

  •  
    2

    craig@...

    10/19/07 | Report as spam

    Sounds expensive to me!

    Sounds expensive to me! I have a modem with router (LAN and WLAN) that cost alot less than that. The only difference is, of course, that my system is fixed, not portable.

    Craig Hesser

  •  
    3

    zorbee

    12/03/07 | Report as spam

    RE: Turn Your Wireless Modem Into a Wi-Fi Access Point

    there is a better alternative - popular science's choice pick is the Meraki Mini - about $50 only.

  •  
    4

    audrieau@...

    12/21/07 | Report as spam

    MAc OSX Airport

    Kevin,
    Are you an expert on Airport?
    I have my Mac OSX Intel, and I am trying to set up airport as both the router and to play wifi music in the lounge. It seems happy to do one or the other but not both at once. I'm thinking it is only a setting somewhere I am missing. What do you think?

    Regards
    Audrie

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