Usb modems 4g for internet which is better. Which vendors offer notebooks with built-in mobile broadband? Which modem to buy

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A USB modem is an external device that allows you to access the Internet. Nowadays USB modems are gaining more and more popularity. First of all, this is due to the ease of use and the absence of the need for special knowledge from the user. Also, a significant advantage of this device is its mobility - use in the car, office, at home, on the street.

Most modern USB modems are equipped with an additional slot for a microSD memory card. Thus, they can perform the function of a storage device.

Which operator's USB modem is better to choose

Attention! Comparisons are given for the Moscow region.

Today, the main telecom operators in Russia - Beeline, MTS and Megafon provide Internet access services via USB-modems of the 3G and 4G generation. In order to choose a device of a certain telecom operator, study the offers of all companies and choose the most suitable one for you.

USB-modem Beeline

The cost of a set consisting of a modem and a tariff plan is 1685 rubles.

It is possible to purchase individual devices with a starting cost of 500 rubles.

There are tariff plans with payment for traffic - 1 Mb. for 3.30 rubles. and with included traffic - 350 rubles. for 3 GB. and 495 rubles. for 5 GB. in 3G and 4G networks.

USB-modem MTS

Available for sale ready-made solutions- a set of "MTS - Connect" with 3G and 4G modems. The cost of the first solution starts from 750 rubles, the second from 1150 rubles. The Internet is available in 83 regions of Russia and 163 countries where GPRS-roaming from MTS operates.

The range of MTS tariffs for Internet access is in the range of 350 rubles. for 3 GB. up to 2000 rubles for 50 GB. included traffic without speed limit.

It is possible to connect to the "Unlimited for a day" tariff for 30 rubles per day with payment only for the days of use.

USB modem Megaphone

The starting cost of a USB modem operating in 3G and 4G networks is 1149 rubles.

Existing tariff plans without speed limit range from 390 rubles. for 3 GB. up to 1290 rubles. for 40 GB.

Note that the options unlimited tariffs without speed limit in the Megafon company is more than in the offers of other operators.

As we can see, the pricing policy for the provision of communication services via a USB modem at various companies about the same.

Modern laptops are never equipped with their own cellular modules (with rare exceptions). Therefore, access to the Internet from them is possible only with the help of special equipment. In urban areas, these are most often stationary Wi-Fi routers. But for mobile use, it is better to get a modem that allows you to connect to the cellular Internet network. What is the best modem for the Internet, laptop or stationary PC?

Let's consider what models of modems are, with which operators and communication standards they are compatible, as well as ways to improve communication.

External modems and their varieties

The first USB modems for cellular networks only supported EDGE, while they were quite large and plugged into, for example, a PC Card slot. Now they look like some kind of nightmare. Modern modems fall into two main categories:

USB modems

They, as the name implies, connect directly to the USB port. This solution has its merits:

USB modems are compact
Insensitive to interference between device and laptop
Works with models with a defective Wi-Fi module
May have additional functions (built-in microSD slot, external antenna output)
Do not need separate food
As a rule, much cheaper (one and a half to two times, or even 4-5)

However, these modems also have disadvantages:

Many of these modems were imported from countries where other communication standards are popular (for example, from the USA, Japan, China). Flashing them for operators can take time and cost money. Models from domestic operators are often locked and will not work in competitors' networks. However, this does not apply to all USB modems.

Wireless routers

Such devices do not need to be physically connected to a laptop. They work as an access point over the standard Wi-Fi protocol, accessing the Internet via a cellular network. Such devices look more modern, and, besides this, they have a number of other advantages:

You can connect several devices at once (laptops, tablets, phones, etc.)
No need to install special drivers
The risk of physical damage is minimal
More advanced functionality (often has its own display, traffic statistics, memory card slot, built-in storage and other additional functions)
Compatible with almost any operator and communication standard thanks to a standard SIM slot (if not deliberately locked)
Doesn't take up a USB port (important if you have an ultrabook or convertible with a small number of ports)
More modern and eye-catching design

With all these advantages, mobile Wi-Fi routers have disadvantages:

Need additional nutrition. It is advisable to connect them to an external charger during the session.
Sensitive to interference. For example, the speed can drop critically if a Bluetooth connection is established nearby.
Usually more expensive.
Useless if your laptop has a defective Wi-Fi module.

To choose a router or a modem for a laptop depends on your use case. However, routers

Operators and communication standards

One of key characteristics mobile modem or router - compatibility with operators. To do this, you need to match:

Communication standard
The frequencies on which this link is provided.

In the case of operator modems or routers, compatibility issues were initially resolved. The main operators in Russia - MTS, Megafon and Beeline - offer their own sets of modem / router and tariff plan. They also contain instructions on how to connect the Internet on a laptop via a modem, and the necessary codes for service.

If you buy a device from an external source, make sure it supports:

WCDMA / HSPA (GSM networks upgraded to the third generation). Unlike 3G networks based on CDMA, widespread abroad, Russian and most post-Soviet operators use this particular standard.
LTE. This is the generally accepted standard for fourth generation (4G) networks in 2018. Some models and routers use the 4G WiMAX module, but this standard did not stand up to competition and is practically not used today. Such devices can be bought only for the sake of working on 3G networks.

If you are interested in working in the LTE network, then clarify which bands the device supports, and check with the bands in which your operator's network operates.

Pay also attention to throughput devices for reception and distribution. The higher it is, the more comfortable the connection will be. To use the 3G network, a capacity of 15-30 megabits per second is sufficient. But the potential of 4G will be revealed only on routers capable of receiving at speeds up to 150 megabits per second. If the connection of the router with the cellular network depends primarily on the capabilities of the operator, then its connection with recipient devices (laptops, tablets, etc.) should be no less. Otherwise, it will become a "bottleneck" and limit the communication speed.

Assistive devices

To fully use your modem or router, you may need auxiliary devices that either make your work more comfortable or are absolutely necessary for it.

Charger or power bank. For a wireless router, this is a necessary accessory if you are using it away from power outlets. As a rule, routers are equipped with a standard power connector.
External antenna. Today there is a huge selection external antennas for different communication standards. Some router models have two antenna inputs - for 3G and 4G. Therefore, be careful when purchasing an external antenna.
Memory card. If the modem is equipped with a card slot, you can save the data downloaded from the Internet on it and, if necessary, use the same modem on another computer, without having to carry a laptop with you. It is best to install special software for synchronizing favorites on both computers.

Best laptop modems

In recent years, the Chinese company Huawei has become the leader in the production of user devices, which also produces telecommunications equipment for the telecom operators themselves. Often branded modems and routers from telecom operators are actually also produced by Huawei (although the MTS or Sprint logo on the case is more noticeable).

ZTE, another Chinese telecommunications giant, is not far behind. Their devices are almost as widespread as Huawei. There are chances to meet modems and routers from Samsung, Alcatel and other companies known for smartphones.

Specific manufacturers like Franklin, Sierra (no, it's not just tequila), Novatel and some others produce decent quality products. But, since their equipment is offered under the brands of foreign telecom operators and is being finalized for their conditions, complex actions are needed to use them in domestic conditions (flashing, prescribing a virtual SIM or RUIM card). Also, there may be problems with communication ranges. Therefore, all other things being equal, we recommend choosing more well-known manufacturers.

Nowadays, computers are ubiquitous, but to use all its capabilities, the Internet is needed. Therefore, the question of how to choose a modem is very acute for many people. Let's try to tell you the main nuances of choosing modems.

Types of modems

There are many types of modems. This includes both wired (as a rule, these are ordinary telephone modems for dial-up connections and ADSL), and wireless (working via satellite or cellular communication). So the question of which modem is better to choose should be decided based on your tasks and capabilities. So, if you have a stationary computer and you have a telephone line, then ADSL technology will probably be preferable. But, if you own a laptop and you actively move around with it (i.e. you need the Internet everywhere), then it is best to choose a 3g modem. How to choose it correctly, we will tell you below. This type of modem is also used in the absence of telephone lines or communications from Internet service providers, for example, in private homes. PowerLine-modems can be separately noted - they allow you to transfer data over the household power supply. This technology is used in small offices and home communications.

Wired Modems

These devices are used to use the capabilities of the Internet stationary, in apartments and offices. The market for these is represented by various manufacturers, and it is very easy to get confused in the devices. Which modem should you choose? As a rule, ordinary modems for dial-up connections are no longer used, they have given way to ADSL technology, which provides high speed and does not occupy the telephone line. Some of these modems can also act as a router, and if the Internet is planned to be used on several computers, then you should pay attention to just such models.

Wired modems can be both internal (most often connected via a PCI slot) and external - in the latter case, they can be connected via USB or LAN interfaces. External modems are useful if you often have to unplug and plug them in, but they require additional food and take up more space.

Wireless modems

Most often, these modems work over cellular communication, these include GPRS, EDGE, 3G and LTE modems. Most often, these modems are executed in the form of a USB stick. There are a lot of models of such modems, and it can be difficult to understand them, because their characteristics are poorly understood by ordinary users. Which to choose usb modem? The most main characteristic is the presence of a binding to the operator cellular communication... Those. the modem can be locked or not. So, if the modem is "locked", then you will not be able to use it with SIM cards from other operators. For example, a modem from Megafon will not work with a SIM card from MTS, and vice versa, with a modem from MTS, you will not be able to use Megafon. You can choose a modem linked to an operator, but you need to think about two important points in advance: the coverage of the cellular network in your apartment and the tariff plan. After all, if the network of competitors catches better or they have more favorable tariffs, then it will no longer be possible to use the purchase: you may have to purchase a new modem. Devices that are not tied to an operator are more versatile, but their cost is much higher. And, as a rule, modems from the operators are already preconfigured, and with universal 3g modems you will have to configure yourself.

We should also mention Wi-Fi modems. These devices, most often, combine the functions of a router and a modem - and the modem can be either ADSL, or 3G or LTE. Thus, if you want to use the Internet via wireless technology for multiple devices, then you can pay attention to the Wi-Fi modem. How to choose such a device? You must first figure out how the Internet will "come to the modem": ie. what technology will be used, cellular or wired. Then it is advisable to think over which devices will use the Wi-Fi connection, how many there will be. It is important to pay attention to the layout of the apartment and the thickness of the walls - after all, the signal level is very important for a comfortable work on the Internet.

In this article, we tried to highlight the main aspects of choosing such an important device. computer world like a modem. We have indicated their main types and types, explained the potential purpose of each of them. We hope that now you know not only their differences from each other, but also which modem is better to choose. This knowledge will allow you to make right choice when buying and use the capabilities of your computer or laptop one hundred percent. Happy travels in the world of the Internet!

USB modems came into our life very unexpectedly. 5-10 years ago, we could not even imagine what could be with us anywhere. These small devices do not take up much space and are quite easy to use.

Where did this name come from, why USB modem?

USB reads as u-es-bi, eng. Universal Serial Bus, which is translated as "universal serial bus" - is a serial data transfer interface for peripheral devices.

A computer, laptop or tablet usually has USB connectors (Fig. 1), at least one. Through the USB connector, as a rule, now to a computer, laptop, sometimes a keyboard, mouse, printer and other peripheral devices are connected to the tablet.

A USB modem is connected via a USB connector in a computer, laptop or tablet, just like a keyboard or mouse is connected.

Internet via USB modem

USB modems (Fig. 2) have a little trick: in each region, the modem of some cellular operator supports communication better, and that of some operator is worse or worse.

If you buy a USB-modem, then, most likely, in the salon of some mobile operator. There you will immediately be given both the modem itself and a SIM card for it. Without it, you will not be able to access the Internet, because it works only due to mobile communications.

One of the main advantages of modems sold by mobile operators is that they do not need to be configured. It is enough to insert the device into a computer or laptop, wait a little while the necessary software and that's all, you can surf the Internet.

But almost immediately the most a big problem is a connection. It would seem that there are a bunch of towers around us, the coverage area is huge, but no. Sometimes you almost climb a pole with a modem to get more than one strip. And this is in the city, but imagine how difficult it is to find a zone of good communication somewhere in the forest. Craftsmen advise to create something like an antenna.

As for the cost of communication, for all operators it is approximately the same - 4 GB of traffic will cost you about 400 rubles per month. It's not much, but there is one interesting thing- if you plan to use a USB modem all the time, then you will definitely not have enough traffic. No matter how many packages you buy yourself for 4 or 5 gigabytes and so on, they will still fly away in a matter of days, especially if you are a fan of not only checking your mail, but also watching videos.

3 nuances with USB connectors

1 If there are not enough USB connectors.

Then you can purchase a USB hub (Fig. 3).

Rice. 3 USB hub

2 USB ports are too close.

It so happens that there are enough USB connectors, but they are so close that it is no longer possible to use a USB modem.

In this case, you can purchase a USB extension cable (Fig. 4). This is a wire that is inserted at one end, for example, into a laptop, and at the other end you can attach a USB modem.

Rice. 4 USB extension cable

I connect via a USB extension cable, if necessary. It is almost impossible to connect the modem directly, that is, without a USB extension cable, to my laptop, more precisely, then you have to disconnect all other USB devices, which is inconvenient.

3 Oh, those numbers: USB 1, 2 or 3

In 1995, USB 1.0 connectors were released, in 2000 - USB 2.0 connectors, in 2008 - USB 3.0.

USB 2.0 connectors are compatible with USB 3.0. The difference between the two is in speed: USB 3 transfers data much faster than USB 2.

If you doubt the knowledge of the connectors of your computer, then the easiest way is to come with a laptop or tablet to the salon of a cellular operator and immediately try to connect a new USB-modem there. They will definitely help you there.

What if you use your smartphone as a Wi-Fi router?

A modem is, of course, good, but communication problems force you to look for other ways to access the Internet when you are far from your computer. Pay attention to your smartphone. One of the many functions is the ability to use a smartphone as a modem and a Wi-Fi router, for more details see.

In short, it is quite easy to enter your smartphone into router mode. There is a special menu item in the settings, just go into it and turn on the function of distributing the Internet via Wi-Fi. There you can also set up your network name and password. Then turn on the Internet on your phone and now you have your own router. Put it in your pocket and enjoy surfing the Internet with your tablet or laptop.

Rice. 5 Smartphone

Surprisingly, a smartphone (Fig. 5) gives a very good quality communication, even outside the city. All that remains is to choose a tariff (or option) with the Internet on your SIM card.

You can purchase SIM cards from different cellular operators and, depending on the reception or location in a particular region, insert one or another SIM card into the smartphone. True, now some SIM cards are valid for a limited time, for example, 45 days. And then, in the absence of any activity on the part of the user, the cellular operator disconnects the SIM card without warning and all the unused money disappears.

Let's add another minus to the minus box. While your smartphone works as a router, it uses up battery power, and quite quickly. In some cases, such an Internet may be defective; it may be suitable only for letters and information retrieval. But with the video there may be problems and limitations. Although, not a fact. Since a lot does not depend on the smartphone itself, but on the chosen tariff or tariff options of the cellular operator.

Making a choice

When choosing between a modem and a smartphone, you need to proceed from what you have. If you already have a smartphone, then you need to use it. Why buy a modem too, if a smartphone can perfectly perform this function ?!

Well, if there is no smartphone yet, then the choice can be made both in favor of a modem and in favor of a smartphone. There are certain competitive advantages at the smartphone in front of the modem. After all, a smartphone is also a "smart phone" with many other useful functions and applications, including

With them began a new era, communications and played a major role in the development of the Internet. It will be about modems.

Modem (modem)- (abbreviated from modulator-demodulator) - a device that, due to modulation and demodulation of signals, transmits digital data through analog channels - mainly telephone wires.

Thus, modem converts one signal type to another. With the help of modulation, one or several characteristics of an analog signal are changed: amplitude, frequency, phase. The demodulator implements inverse function... Currently modems associated with the Internet. They are used to communicate with the provider through various channels (telephone lines, Cable TV lines, base stations mobile operators). Those. the modem acts as a kind of bridge, tk. telephone lines only accept an analog signal, and the computer only accepts a digital signal.

History of modems.

The first digital modems began to be developed back in the 50s in North America in order to convert signals for air defense. Modems were used to transmit data over regular telephone networks. In 1962, the first commercial modem, was created by AT&T. It was a model Bell Dataphone 103... The data transfer rate over the telephone line was 300 bps.

Subsequently speed modems passed through values such as 1200, 2400, 4800 and 9600 bps. Modem speed increased to 14.4 kb / s only for 1991 year. In 1994 it reached 28.8 kb / s. The next speed threshold is 33.6 kb / s, which became the limit for the telephone network. V 1996 year 56K modem appears, invented by the company Dr. Brent townshend, which gave further development modems... But let's go back to 70th biennium V 1977 the first year was invented modem for a personal computer - 80-103A... It was a real success. Later there were a number of other models, this was Hayes Microcomputer Products.

V 1981 Hayes released modem legendary - Smartmodem 300 bps. A special command system was developed for him, which is used now. Then the real race for speeds and prices unfolds. modems... The leading place is taken by the company U.S. Robotics... She releases a whole series Courier modems: since 1986 with Courier HST - 9600 bps.

**Types and types modems.**

By design, modems are:

internal modems - located inside the device, they do not have their own power supply.
external modems - have their own case and power supply, are connected to a computer via a cable, have their own indicators;


Internal modems

By the principle of work:

hardware - all signal conversion operations are performed by himself modem;
software - all signal conversion operations are implemented in software and are performed by the central processor of the computer;

By connection type:

analog modems - work through a regular telephone network;
cable modems - use a regular TV cable or coaxial cable to connect to the Internet;

radio modems allow the user to work with the network over the air;
cellular modems- they work using cellular communication protocols - GPRS, EDGE, etc. Often they have a version in the form of a USB keyfob;
ADSL modems- a new generation of modems also work with the telephone network, however, unlike analog ones, they use their own range.

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