The term “air card” is a different way to describe a wireless internet card or a Wi-Fi adapter that will typically connect to a notebook computer but is also compatible with desktop machines. For the purpose of this article, you should know the difference between these 2 devices. Wi-Fi cards are typically used to connect to a wireless network. This will not necessarily provide you with an internet connection unless a shared connection is available on the network (think wireless hotspots).



Wireless internet cards (which are also commonly referred to as 3G cards or air cards for laptops) are able to connect to a cellular network provider that offers 3G services. This will provide you with an “on the go” internet connection that can be accessed from anywhere. As most people consider air cards to be 3G cards, we will go into some detail on them.

Today, 3G is the most common method for connecting to the internet without having to plug in any cables. The first commercial introduction of hardware that was able to use this technology in conjunction with laptops began in 2006, by Vodafone UK. Mobile phones use 3G in order to connect to the internet, so it makes sense to use this same technology with portable computers. All you have to do is basically insert your SIM card into your air card device, and you are then ready to access the internet or send and receive SMS’s directly on your PC. With the advent of HSDPA technologies, wireless speeds in excess of 10mbps are now possible. This is of course dependent on the network operator you decide to use and your country of residence.

One of the disadvantages regarding air cards is they are (in most cases) carrier specific. This means that you won’t be able to access another cellular carrier via an air card that is provided to you by another network. In other words, a Verizon card will not work with Vodafone’s network. There are ofcourse ways around this, which involves “unlocking” the air card. You will find unlocked devices online on sites like eBay. For your convenience, some popular air cards have been outlined below.

AT&T USBConnect Lightning Laptop Stick
• Slim USB stick that supports high speed 3G downloads
• Plug & Play compatible, designed to work in universal USB 2.0 ports
• Works in 150 countries worldwide

Verizon UMW190 Global USB Modem
• Access to the internet from almost anywhere in the world
• Support for multiple international technology brands
• USB compatible and supports text messaging

Sierra Wireless 598U USB Modem
• On The Go Internet for a great price
• Supports EV-DO Rev. A technology which means fast transmission speeds
• Can be used to surf the internet and check e-mail from anywhere

An air card is usually provided to you when you take out a data plan with a service provider. In the case of purchasing a device that is not network locked, you are free to choose any provider. Cellphone carriers offer different data packages with different bandwidth and speeds which will be accessible from air cards for laptops. You should choose a plan that meets your requirements. For example, if you intend to use 3G internet for corporate reasons, you may not require as much data as someone who plans to do heavy downloading. In this case you will find plans with less monthly data for a cheaper price.

Finally, if you are still making up your mind about wireless 3G internet, some additional points have been highlighted below

Advantages of air cards:
• Easy to use and setup
• Broadband internet connection on the go
• Not limited to a certain range

Disadvantages of air cards:
• There is no guarantee of receiving full download speed (depending on the signal strength)
• 3G is still considered to be one of the more expensive options