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Recommendations for communication?

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itzik at infra

Jun 16, 2012, 2:13 PM

Post #1 of 21 (168 views)
Permalink

Recommendations for communication?

Hi,

I looking for recommendations for SIM cards to use during Wikimania &
to Nevada & California area (I'm staying a month).

Until now, the best that I found is AT&T Pay As You Go plans - need to
purchase a cheap device (didn't found option just to purchase sim card) for
about 25$, monthly plan will cost another 25$ and Data plan for 25$ (1GB,
and I'm sure I'll need a much more :). What make the story quite expensive.

Any others option that the local guys can recommend?

Thanks,
Itzik

i at blue

Jun 16, 2012, 2:52 PM

Post #2 of 21 (162 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

I know that there's a T-mobile plan: unlimited data service, unlimited
international SMS, unlimited local calls. I bought this card in China and
cost 555RMB a month, I do not know how much it costs in USD.
On Jun 17, 2012 5:13 AM, "Itzik Edri" <itzik [at] infra> wrote:

> Hi,
>
> I looking for recommendations for SIM cards to use during Wikimania &
> to Nevada & California area (I'm staying a month).
>
> Until now, the best that I found is AT&T Pay As You Go plans - need to
> purchase a cheap device (didn't found option just to purchase sim card) for
> about 25$, monthly plan will cost another 25$ and Data plan for 25$ (1GB,
> and I'm sure I'll need a much more :). What make the story quite expensive.
>
> Any others option that the local guys can recommend?
>
>
> Thanks,
> Itzik
>
> _______________________________________________
> Wikimania-l mailing list
> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>
>

Birgitte_sb at yahoo

Jun 16, 2012, 5:10 PM

Post #3 of 21 (159 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

I am not local to DC, but in the US. The only true "no contract" Nationwide "pay as you go" option I am aware of is NetZero. Virgin used to have a pay as you go option, but it is now only maintained for grandfathered devices. Net10 does sell SIM cards alone. I use them for voice and text, but not data. The only issue I have had is intermittently not receiving texts from two contacts with Android phone with T-Mobile as their carrier. The texts I do receive from these contacts always state they are "picture texts" when they are really just text. I don't know if this problem is on Net10's end or my contact's end, but such things at the wrong moment can turn into a big deal. I otherwise am happy with Net10 and there are not many no contract options here. You might want to use them, but tell everyone that you will confirm all texts while you are traveling, and if they don't get a confirmation then they should assume you never received the text.

There may other local only options in DC (or East Coast regional options), but you will likely need someone with Nationwide coverage for your whole trip. It is possible, but unlikely, some carrier covers DC and Nevada/CA, without being a Nationwide carrier. There have been some odd mergers.

http://www.net10.com/

BirgitteSB

On Jun 16, 2012, at 4:13 PM, Itzik Edri <itzik [at] infra> wrote:

> Hi,
>
> I looking for recommendations for SIM cards to use during Wikimania & to Nevada & California area (I'm staying a month).
>
> Until now, the best that I found is AT&T Pay As You Go plans - need to purchase a cheap device (didn't found option just to purchase sim card) for about 25$, monthly plan will cost another 25$ and Data plan for 25$ (1GB, and I'm sure I'll need a much more :). What make the story quite expensive.
>
> Any others option that the local guys can recommend?
>
>
> Thanks,
> Itzik
> _______________________________________________
> Wikimania-l mailing list
> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l

_______________________________________________
Wikimania-l mailing list
Wikimania-l [at] lists
https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l

raidarmax at gmail

Jun 16, 2012, 5:14 PM

Post #4 of 21 (159 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

Guys,

Whatever you do keep away from T-Mobile, the data connection sucks,
everywhere you go in the US. Was there a few weeks ago, visited 6 states
and did not once get a 3G connection.

David.
On Jun 17, 2012 3:10 AM, <Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo> wrote:

> I am not local to DC, but in the US. The only true "no contract"
> Nationwide "pay as you go" option I am aware of is NetZero. Virgin used to
> have a pay as you go option, but it is now only maintained for
> grandfathered devices. Net10 does sell SIM cards alone. I use them for
> voice and text, but not data. The only issue I have had is intermittently
> not receiving texts from two contacts with Android phone with T-Mobile as
> their carrier. The texts I do receive from these contacts always state they
> are "picture texts" when they are really just text. I don't know if this
> problem is on Net10's end or my contact's end, but such things at the wrong
> moment can turn into a big deal. I otherwise am happy with Net10 and there
> are not many no contract options here. You might want to use them, but
> tell everyone that you will confirm all texts while you are traveling, and
> if they don't get a confirmation then they should assume you never received
> the text.
>
> There may other local only options in DC (or East Coast regional options),
> but you will likely need someone with Nationwide coverage for your whole
> trip. It is possible, but unlikely, some carrier covers DC and Nevada/CA,
> without being a Nationwide carrier. There have been some odd mergers.
>
> http://www.net10.com/
>
> BirgitteSB
>
>
> On Jun 16, 2012, at 4:13 PM, Itzik Edri <itzik [at] infra> wrote:
>
> > Hi,
> >
> > I looking for recommendations for SIM cards to use during Wikimania & to
> Nevada & California area (I'm staying a month).
> >
> > Until now, the best that I found is AT&T Pay As You Go plans - need to
> purchase a cheap device (didn't found option just to purchase sim card) for
> about 25$, monthly plan will cost another 25$ and Data plan for 25$ (1GB,
> and I'm sure I'll need a much more :). What make the story quite expensive.
> >
> > Any others option that the local guys can recommend?
> >
> >
> > Thanks,
> > Itzik
> > _______________________________________________
> > Wikimania-l mailing list
> > Wikimania-l [at] lists
> > https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>
> _______________________________________________
> Wikimania-l mailing list
> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>

nicholasbashour at gmail

Jun 16, 2012, 5:14 PM

Post #5 of 21 (157 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

Although I don't use it, I know there's also BoostMobile that has
pay-as-you-go options, and daily and monthly unlimited rates.
www.boostmobile.com

2012/6/16 <Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo>

> I am not local to DC, but in the US. The only true "no contract"
> Nationwide "pay as you go" option I am aware of is NetZero. Virgin used to
> have a pay as you go option, but it is now only maintained for
> grandfathered devices. Net10 does sell SIM cards alone. I use them for
> voice and text, but not data. The only issue I have had is intermittently
> not receiving texts from two contacts with Android phone with T-Mobile as
> their carrier. The texts I do receive from these contacts always state they
> are "picture texts" when they are really just text. I don't know if this
> problem is on Net10's end or my contact's end, but such things at the wrong
> moment can turn into a big deal. I otherwise am happy with Net10 and there
> are not many no contract options here. You might want to use them, but
> tell everyone that you will confirm all texts while you are traveling, and
> if they don't get a confirmation then they should assume you never received
> the text.
>
> There may other local only options in DC (or East Coast regional options),
> but you will likely need someone with Nationwide coverage for your whole
> trip. It is possible, but unlikely, some carrier covers DC and Nevada/CA,
> without being a Nationwide carrier. There have been some odd mergers.
>
> http://www.net10.com/
>
> BirgitteSB
>
>
> On Jun 16, 2012, at 4:13 PM, Itzik Edri <itzik [at] infra> wrote:
>
> > Hi,
> >
> > I looking for recommendations for SIM cards to use during Wikimania & to
> Nevada & California area (I'm staying a month).
> >
> > Until now, the best that I found is AT&T Pay As You Go plans - need to
> purchase a cheap device (didn't found option just to purchase sim card) for
> about 25$, monthly plan will cost another 25$ and Data plan for 25$ (1GB,
> and I'm sure I'll need a much more :). What make the story quite expensive.
> >
> > Any others option that the local guys can recommend?
> >
> >
> > Thanks,
> > Itzik
> > _______________________________________________
> > Wikimania-l mailing list
> > Wikimania-l [at] lists
> > https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>
> _______________________________________________
> Wikimania-l mailing list
> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>

Birgitte_sb at yahoo

Jun 16, 2012, 5:28 PM

Post #6 of 21 (157 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

Looking at Net10 a little more.

#1 You must have an unlocked GSM phone for the SIM card only option.

#2 Be sure you check the coverage map against your plans as Nevada coverage is spotty outside of Reno and Vegas. No "Nationwide" coverage is actually 100% in the US. I don't know if that is the normal expectation elsewhere or not. Some places just don't have cell service at any price, some only have one carrier with any cell towers in the area. But if you are sticking to major cities, you *should* find anything labeled "Nationwide" as suitable.

http://www.net10sim.com/coverage.php

BirgitteSB

On Jun 16, 2012, at 7:10 PM, Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo wrote:

> I am not local to DC, but in the US. The only true "no contract" Nationwide "pay as you go" option I am aware of is NetZero. Virgin used to have a pay as you go option, but it is now only maintained for grandfathered devices. Net10 does sell SIM cards alone. I use them for voice and text, but not data. The only issue I have had is intermittently not receiving texts from two contacts with Android phone with T-Mobile as their carrier. The texts I do receive from these contacts always state they are "picture texts" when they are really just text. I don't know if this problem is on Net10's end or my contact's end, but such things at the wrong moment can turn into a big deal. I otherwise am happy with Net10 and there are not many no contract options here. You might want to use them, but tell everyone that you will confirm all texts while you are traveling, and if they don't get a confirmation then they should assume you never received the text.
>
> There may other local only options in DC (or East Coast regional options), but you will likely need someone with Nationwide coverage for your whole trip. It is possible, but unlikely, some carrier covers DC and Nevada/CA, without being a Nationwide carrier. There have been some odd mergers.
>
> http://www.net10.com/
>
> BirgitteSB
>
>
> On Jun 16, 2012, at 4:13 PM, Itzik Edri <itzik [at] infra> wrote:
>
>> Hi,
>>
>> I looking for recommendations for SIM cards to use during Wikimania & to Nevada & California area (I'm staying a month).
>>
>> Until now, the best that I found is AT&T Pay As You Go plans - need to purchase a cheap device (didn't found option just to purchase sim card) for about 25$, monthly plan will cost another 25$ and Data plan for 25$ (1GB, and I'm sure I'll need a much more :). What make the story quite expensive.
>>
>> Any others option that the local guys can recommend?
>>
>>
>> Thanks,
>> Itzik
>> _______________________________________________
>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l

_______________________________________________
Wikimania-l mailing list
Wikimania-l [at] lists
https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l

messedrocker at gmail

Jun 16, 2012, 5:35 PM

Post #7 of 21 (160 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

It ultimately depends on where you're going. Some parts of the country
are absolutely hopeless for wireless coverage. Pretty much every city,
though, has some kind of wireless coverage, as do most minor towns
outside the cities.

James

On Sat, Jun 16, 2012 at 8:28 PM, <Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo> wrote:
>
>
> Looking at Net10 a little more.
>
> #1 You must have an unlocked GSM phone for the SIM card only option.
>
> #2 Be sure you check the coverage map against your plans as Nevada coverage is spotty outside of Reno and Vegas. No "Nationwide" coverage is actually 100% in the US. I don't know if that is the normal expectation elsewhere or not. Some places just don't have cell service at any price, some only have one carrier with any cell towers in the area. But if you are sticking to major cities, you *should* find anything labeled "Nationwide" as suitable.
>
> http://www.net10sim.com/coverage.php
>
> BirgitteSB
>
> On Jun 16, 2012, at 7:10 PM, Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo wrote:
>
>> I am not local to DC, but in the US. The only true "no contract" Nationwide "pay as you go" option I am aware of is NetZero. Virgin used to have a pay as you go option, but it is now only maintained for grandfathered devices. Net10 does sell SIM cards alone. I use them for voice and text, but not data. The only issue I have had is intermittently not receiving texts from two contacts with Android phone with T-Mobile as their carrier. The texts I do receive from these contacts always state they are "picture texts" when they are really just text. I don't know if this problem is on Net10's end or my contact's end, but such things at the wrong moment can turn into a big deal. I otherwise am happy with Net10 and there are not many no contract options here. You might want to use them, but tell everyone that you will confirm all texts while you are traveling, and if they don't get a confirmation then they should assume you never received the text.
>>
>> There may other local only options in DC (or East Coast regional options), but you will likely need someone with Nationwide coverage for your whole trip. It is possible, but unlikely, some carrier covers DC and Nevada/CA, without being a Nationwide carrier. There have been some odd mergers.
>>
>> http://www.net10.com/
>>
>> BirgitteSB
>>
>>
>> On Jun 16, 2012, at 4:13 PM, Itzik Edri <itzik [at] infra> wrote:
>>
>>> Hi,
>>>
>>> I looking for recommendations for SIM cards to use during Wikimania & to Nevada & California area (I'm staying a month).
>>>
>>> Until now, the best that I found is AT&T Pay As You Go plans - need to purchase a cheap device (didn't found option just to purchase sim card) for about 25$, monthly plan will cost another 25$ and Data plan for 25$ (1GB, and I'm sure I'll need a much more :). What make the story quite expensive.
>>>
>>> Any others option that the local guys can recommend?
>>>
>>>
>>> Thanks,
>>> Itzik
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>
> _______________________________________________
> Wikimania-l mailing list
> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l

_______________________________________________
Wikimania-l mailing list
Wikimania-l [at] lists
https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l

josephfoxwiki at gmail

Jun 16, 2012, 9:29 PM

Post #8 of 21 (157 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

I'm also looking for options for phones to take to Wikimania. So far the best option I've heard is to take my iPhone and simply go into a T-Mobile/AT&T shop and have them set it up for me with a new MicroSim. I guess there are shops in JFK that let you buy prepaid mobiles too?

JF

On 17 Jun 2012, at 08:35, James Hare wrote:

> It ultimately depends on where you're going. Some parts of the country
> are absolutely hopeless for wireless coverage. Pretty much every city,
> though, has some kind of wireless coverage, as do most minor towns
> outside the cities.
>
> James
>
> On Sat, Jun 16, 2012 at 8:28 PM, <Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo> wrote:
>>
>>
>> Looking at Net10 a little more.
>>
>> #1 You must have an unlocked GSM phone for the SIM card only option.
>>
>> #2 Be sure you check the coverage map against your plans as Nevada coverage is spotty outside of Reno and Vegas. No "Nationwide" coverage is actually 100% in the US. I don't know if that is the normal expectation elsewhere or not. Some places just don't have cell service at any price, some only have one carrier with any cell towers in the area. But if you are sticking to major cities, you *should* find anything labeled "Nationwide" as suitable.
>>
>> http://www.net10sim.com/coverage.php
>>
>> BirgitteSB
>>
>> On Jun 16, 2012, at 7:10 PM, Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo wrote:
>>
>>> I am not local to DC, but in the US. The only true "no contract" Nationwide "pay as you go" option I am aware of is NetZero. Virgin used to have a pay as you go option, but it is now only maintained for grandfathered devices. Net10 does sell SIM cards alone. I use them for voice and text, but not data. The only issue I have had is intermittently not receiving texts from two contacts with Android phone with T-Mobile as their carrier. The texts I do receive from these contacts always state they are "picture texts" when they are really just text. I don't know if this problem is on Net10's end or my contact's end, but such things at the wrong moment can turn into a big deal. I otherwise am happy with Net10 and there are not many no contract options here. You might want to use them, but tell everyone that you will confirm all texts while you are traveling, and if they don't get a confirmation then they should assume you never received the text.
>>>
>>> There may other local only options in DC (or East Coast regional options), but you will likely need someone with Nationwide coverage for your whole trip. It is possible, but unlikely, some carrier covers DC and Nevada/CA, without being a Nationwide carrier. There have been some odd mergers.
>>>
>>> http://www.net10.com/
>>>
>>> BirgitteSB
>>>
>>>
>>> On Jun 16, 2012, at 4:13 PM, Itzik Edri <itzik [at] infra> wrote:
>>>
>>>> Hi,
>>>>
>>>> I looking for recommendations for SIM cards to use during Wikimania & to Nevada & California area (I'm staying a month).
>>>>
>>>> Until now, the best that I found is AT&T Pay As You Go plans - need to purchase a cheap device (didn't found option just to purchase sim card) for about 25$, monthly plan will cost another 25$ and Data plan for 25$ (1GB, and I'm sure I'll need a much more :). What make the story quite expensive.
>>>>
>>>> Any others option that the local guys can recommend?
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Thanks,
>>>> Itzik
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>>>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>>>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>
> _______________________________________________
> Wikimania-l mailing list
> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l

_______________________________________________
Wikimania-l mailing list
Wikimania-l [at] lists
https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l

evanbejin at gmail

Jun 16, 2012, 9:45 PM

Post #9 of 21 (157 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

If I want to buy a SIM card, where can I go to get it? Are there
communication shops near the venue or the hostel?

Evangeline

On Sun, Jun 17, 2012 at 2:29 PM, Joseph Fox <josephfoxwiki [at] gmail> wrote:

> I'm also looking for options for phones to take to Wikimania. So far the
> best option I've heard is to take my iPhone and simply go into a
> T-Mobile/AT&T shop and have them set it up for me with a new MicroSim. I
> guess there are shops in JFK that let you buy prepaid mobiles too?
>
> JF
>
> On 17 Jun 2012, at 08:35, James Hare wrote:
>
> > It ultimately depends on where you're going. Some parts of the country
> > are absolutely hopeless for wireless coverage. Pretty much every city,
> > though, has some kind of wireless coverage, as do most minor towns
> > outside the cities.
> >
> > James
> >
> > On Sat, Jun 16, 2012 at 8:28 PM, <Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo> wrote:
> >>
> >>
> >> Looking at Net10 a little more.
> >>
> >> #1 You must have an unlocked GSM phone for the SIM card only option.
> >>
> >> #2 Be sure you check the coverage map against your plans as Nevada
> coverage is spotty outside of Reno and Vegas. No "Nationwide" coverage is
> actually 100% in the US. I don't know if that is the normal expectation
> elsewhere or not. Some places just don't have cell service at any price,
> some only have one carrier with any cell towers in the area. But if you
> are sticking to major cities, you *should* find anything labeled
> "Nationwide" as suitable.
> >>
> >> http://www.net10sim.com/coverage.php
> >>
> >> BirgitteSB
> >>
> >> On Jun 16, 2012, at 7:10 PM, Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo wrote:
> >>
> >>> I am not local to DC, but in the US. The only true "no contract"
> Nationwide "pay as you go" option I am aware of is NetZero. Virgin used to
> have a pay as you go option, but it is now only maintained for
> grandfathered devices. Net10 does sell SIM cards alone. I use them for
> voice and text, but not data. The only issue I have had is intermittently
> not receiving texts from two contacts with Android phone with T-Mobile as
> their carrier. The texts I do receive from these contacts always state they
> are "picture texts" when they are really just text. I don't know if this
> problem is on Net10's end or my contact's end, but such things at the wrong
> moment can turn into a big deal. I otherwise am happy with Net10 and there
> are not many no contract options here. You might want to use them, but
> tell everyone that you will confirm all texts while you are traveling, and
> if they don't get a confirmation then they should assume you never received
> the text.
> >>>
> >>> There may other local only options in DC (or East Coast regional
> options), but you will likely need someone with Nationwide coverage for
> your whole trip. It is possible, but unlikely, some carrier covers DC and
> Nevada/CA, without being a Nationwide carrier. There have been some odd
> mergers.
> >>>
> >>> http://www.net10.com/
> >>>
> >>> BirgitteSB
> >>>
> >>>
> >>> On Jun 16, 2012, at 4:13 PM, Itzik Edri <itzik [at] infra> wrote:
> >>>
> >>>> Hi,
> >>>>
> >>>> I looking for recommendations for SIM cards to use during Wikimania &
> to Nevada & California area (I'm staying a month).
> >>>>
> >>>> Until now, the best that I found is AT&T Pay As You Go plans - need
> to purchase a cheap device (didn't found option just to purchase sim card)
> for about 25$, monthly plan will cost another 25$ and Data plan for 25$
> (1GB, and I'm sure I'll need a much more :). What make the story quite
> expensive.
> >>>>
> >>>> Any others option that the local guys can recommend?
> >>>>
> >>>>
> >>>> Thanks,
> >>>> Itzik
> >>>> _______________________________________________
> >>>> Wikimania-l mailing list
> >>>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> >>>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
> >>
> >> _______________________________________________
> >> Wikimania-l mailing list
> >> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> >> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
> >
> > _______________________________________________
> > Wikimania-l mailing list
> > Wikimania-l [at] lists
> > https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Wikimania-l mailing list
> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>

josephfoxwiki at gmail

Jun 16, 2012, 9:49 PM

Post #10 of 21 (157 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

The hostel in DC is right in the middle of town so I can't imagine for a second there aren't. :)

Here's a map of the "phone shops" (I can't think of a better word!) near the hostel: http://goo.gl/maps/AYZ3

Joe

On 17 Jun 2012, at 12:45, Evangeline Han wrote:

> If I want to buy a SIM card, where can I go to get it? Are there communication shops near the venue or the hostel?
>
> Evangeline
>
> On Sun, Jun 17, 2012 at 2:29 PM, Joseph Fox <josephfoxwiki [at] gmail> wrote:
> I'm also looking for options for phones to take to Wikimania. So far the best option I've heard is to take my iPhone and simply go into a T-Mobile/AT&T shop and have them set it up for me with a new MicroSim. I guess there are shops in JFK that let you buy prepaid mobiles too?
>
> JF
>
> On 17 Jun 2012, at 08:35, James Hare wrote:
>
> > It ultimately depends on where you're going. Some parts of the country
> > are absolutely hopeless for wireless coverage. Pretty much every city,
> > though, has some kind of wireless coverage, as do most minor towns
> > outside the cities.
> >
> > James
> >
> > On Sat, Jun 16, 2012 at 8:28 PM, <Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo> wrote:
> >>
> >>
> >> Looking at Net10 a little more.
> >>
> >> #1 You must have an unlocked GSM phone for the SIM card only option.
> >>
> >> #2 Be sure you check the coverage map against your plans as Nevada coverage is spotty outside of Reno and Vegas. No "Nationwide" coverage is actually 100% in the US. I don't know if that is the normal expectation elsewhere or not. Some places just don't have cell service at any price, some only have one carrier with any cell towers in the area. But if you are sticking to major cities, you *should* find anything labeled "Nationwide" as suitable.
> >>
> >> http://www.net10sim.com/coverage.php
> >>
> >> BirgitteSB
> >>
> >> On Jun 16, 2012, at 7:10 PM, Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo wrote:
> >>
> >>> I am not local to DC, but in the US. The only true "no contract" Nationwide "pay as you go" option I am aware of is NetZero. Virgin used to have a pay as you go option, but it is now only maintained for grandfathered devices. Net10 does sell SIM cards alone. I use them for voice and text, but not data. The only issue I have had is intermittently not receiving texts from two contacts with Android phone with T-Mobile as their carrier. The texts I do receive from these contacts always state they are "picture texts" when they are really just text. I don't know if this problem is on Net10's end or my contact's end, but such things at the wrong moment can turn into a big deal. I otherwise am happy with Net10 and there are not many no contract options here. You might want to use them, but tell everyone that you will confirm all texts while you are traveling, and if they don't get a confirmation then they should assume you never received the text.
> >>>
> >>> There may other local only options in DC (or East Coast regional options), but you will likely need someone with Nationwide coverage for your whole trip. It is possible, but unlikely, some carrier covers DC and Nevada/CA, without being a Nationwide carrier. There have been some odd mergers.
> >>>
> >>> http://www.net10.com/
> >>>
> >>> BirgitteSB
> >>>
> >>>
> >>> On Jun 16, 2012, at 4:13 PM, Itzik Edri <itzik [at] infra> wrote:
> >>>
> >>>> Hi,
> >>>>
> >>>> I looking for recommendations for SIM cards to use during Wikimania & to Nevada & California area (I'm staying a month).
> >>>>
> >>>> Until now, the best that I found is AT&T Pay As You Go plans - need to purchase a cheap device (didn't found option just to purchase sim card) for about 25$, monthly plan will cost another 25$ and Data plan for 25$ (1GB, and I'm sure I'll need a much more :). What make the story quite expensive.
> >>>>
> >>>> Any others option that the local guys can recommend?
> >>>>
> >>>>
> >>>> Thanks,
> >>>> Itzik
> >>>> _______________________________________________
> >>>> Wikimania-l mailing list
> >>>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> >>>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
> >>
> >> _______________________________________________
> >> Wikimania-l mailing list
> >> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> >> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
> >
> > _______________________________________________
> > Wikimania-l mailing list
> > Wikimania-l [at] lists
> > https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Wikimania-l mailing list
> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>
> _______________________________________________
> Wikimania-l mailing list
> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l

josephfoxwiki at gmail

Jun 16, 2012, 9:52 PM

Post #11 of 21 (162 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

Sorry, just did after I gave you that link. It also has the correct location of the hostel...

http://goo.gl/maps/xLBk

Hope this helps.

Joe

On 17 Jun 2012, at 12:45, Evangeline Han wrote:

> If I want to buy a SIM card, where can I go to get it? Are there communication shops near the venue or the hostel?
>
> Evangeline
>
> On Sun, Jun 17, 2012 at 2:29 PM, Joseph Fox <josephfoxwiki [at] gmail> wrote:
> I'm also looking for options for phones to take to Wikimania. So far the best option I've heard is to take my iPhone and simply go into a T-Mobile/AT&T shop and have them set it up for me with a new MicroSim. I guess there are shops in JFK that let you buy prepaid mobiles too?
>
> JF
>
> On 17 Jun 2012, at 08:35, James Hare wrote:
>
> > It ultimately depends on where you're going. Some parts of the country
> > are absolutely hopeless for wireless coverage. Pretty much every city,
> > though, has some kind of wireless coverage, as do most minor towns
> > outside the cities.
> >
> > James
> >
> > On Sat, Jun 16, 2012 at 8:28 PM, <Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo> wrote:
> >>
> >>
> >> Looking at Net10 a little more.
> >>
> >> #1 You must have an unlocked GSM phone for the SIM card only option.
> >>
> >> #2 Be sure you check the coverage map against your plans as Nevada coverage is spotty outside of Reno and Vegas. No "Nationwide" coverage is actually 100% in the US. I don't know if that is the normal expectation elsewhere or not. Some places just don't have cell service at any price, some only have one carrier with any cell towers in the area. But if you are sticking to major cities, you *should* find anything labeled "Nationwide" as suitable.
> >>
> >> http://www.net10sim.com/coverage.php
> >>
> >> BirgitteSB
> >>
> >> On Jun 16, 2012, at 7:10 PM, Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo wrote:
> >>
> >>> I am not local to DC, but in the US. The only true "no contract" Nationwide "pay as you go" option I am aware of is NetZero. Virgin used to have a pay as you go option, but it is now only maintained for grandfathered devices. Net10 does sell SIM cards alone. I use them for voice and text, but not data. The only issue I have had is intermittently not receiving texts from two contacts with Android phone with T-Mobile as their carrier. The texts I do receive from these contacts always state they are "picture texts" when they are really just text. I don't know if this problem is on Net10's end or my contact's end, but such things at the wrong moment can turn into a big deal. I otherwise am happy with Net10 and there are not many no contract options here. You might want to use them, but tell everyone that you will confirm all texts while you are traveling, and if they don't get a confirmation then they should assume you never received the text.
> >>>
> >>> There may other local only options in DC (or East Coast regional options), but you will likely need someone with Nationwide coverage for your whole trip. It is possible, but unlikely, some carrier covers DC and Nevada/CA, without being a Nationwide carrier. There have been some odd mergers.
> >>>
> >>> http://www.net10.com/
> >>>
> >>> BirgitteSB
> >>>
> >>>
> >>> On Jun 16, 2012, at 4:13 PM, Itzik Edri <itzik [at] infra> wrote:
> >>>
> >>>> Hi,
> >>>>
> >>>> I looking for recommendations for SIM cards to use during Wikimania & to Nevada & California area (I'm staying a month).
> >>>>
> >>>> Until now, the best that I found is AT&T Pay As You Go plans - need to purchase a cheap device (didn't found option just to purchase sim card) for about 25$, monthly plan will cost another 25$ and Data plan for 25$ (1GB, and I'm sure I'll need a much more :). What make the story quite expensive.
> >>>>
> >>>> Any others option that the local guys can recommend?
> >>>>
> >>>>
> >>>> Thanks,
> >>>> Itzik
> >>>> _______________________________________________
> >>>> Wikimania-l mailing list
> >>>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> >>>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
> >>
> >> _______________________________________________
> >> Wikimania-l mailing list
> >> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> >> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
> >
> > _______________________________________________
> > Wikimania-l mailing list
> > Wikimania-l [at] lists
> > https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Wikimania-l mailing list
> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>
> _______________________________________________
> Wikimania-l mailing list
> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l

lodewijk at effeietsanders

Jun 17, 2012, 12:54 AM

Post #12 of 21 (160 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

Maybe I;m the only one that needs this - but if you just want a simple SIM
card for a simple gsm for calling and sms only - prepaid only? What would
be the best option? I'm planning to stick in the area between DC, New York
and New England with maybe short trips outside.

Lodewijk

2012/6/17 Joseph Fox <josephfoxwiki [at] gmail>

> Sorry, just did after I gave you that link. It also has the correct
> location of the hostel...
>
> http://goo.gl/maps/xLBk
>
> Hope this helps.
>
> Joe
>
> On 17 Jun 2012, at 12:45, Evangeline Han wrote:
>
> If I want to buy a SIM card, where can I go to get it? Are there
> communication shops near the venue or the hostel?
>
> Evangeline
>
> On Sun, Jun 17, 2012 at 2:29 PM, Joseph Fox <josephfoxwiki [at] gmail>wrote:
>
>> I'm also looking for options for phones to take to Wikimania. So far the
>> best option I've heard is to take my iPhone and simply go into a
>> T-Mobile/AT&T shop and have them set it up for me with a new MicroSim. I
>> guess there are shops in JFK that let you buy prepaid mobiles too?
>>
>> JF
>>
>> On 17 Jun 2012, at 08:35, James Hare wrote:
>>
>> > It ultimately depends on where you're going. Some parts of the country
>> > are absolutely hopeless for wireless coverage. Pretty much every city,
>> > though, has some kind of wireless coverage, as do most minor towns
>> > outside the cities.
>> >
>> > James
>> >
>> > On Sat, Jun 16, 2012 at 8:28 PM, <Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo> wrote:
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> Looking at Net10 a little more.
>> >>
>> >> #1 You must have an unlocked GSM phone for the SIM card only option.
>> >>
>> >> #2 Be sure you check the coverage map against your plans as Nevada
>> coverage is spotty outside of Reno and Vegas. No "Nationwide" coverage is
>> actually 100% in the US. I don't know if that is the normal expectation
>> elsewhere or not. Some places just don't have cell service at any price,
>> some only have one carrier with any cell towers in the area. But if you
>> are sticking to major cities, you *should* find anything labeled
>> "Nationwide" as suitable.
>> >>
>> >> http://www.net10sim.com/coverage.php
>> >>
>> >> BirgitteSB
>> >>
>> >> On Jun 16, 2012, at 7:10 PM, Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo wrote:
>> >>
>> >>> I am not local to DC, but in the US. The only true "no contract"
>> Nationwide "pay as you go" option I am aware of is NetZero. Virgin used to
>> have a pay as you go option, but it is now only maintained for
>> grandfathered devices. Net10 does sell SIM cards alone. I use them for
>> voice and text, but not data. The only issue I have had is intermittently
>> not receiving texts from two contacts with Android phone with T-Mobile as
>> their carrier. The texts I do receive from these contacts always state they
>> are "picture texts" when they are really just text. I don't know if this
>> problem is on Net10's end or my contact's end, but such things at the wrong
>> moment can turn into a big deal. I otherwise am happy with Net10 and there
>> are not many no contract options here. You might want to use them, but
>> tell everyone that you will confirm all texts while you are traveling, and
>> if they don't get a confirmation then they should assume you never received
>> the text.
>> >>>
>> >>> There may other local only options in DC (or East Coast regional
>> options), but you will likely need someone with Nationwide coverage for
>> your whole trip. It is possible, but unlikely, some carrier covers DC and
>> Nevada/CA, without being a Nationwide carrier. There have been some odd
>> mergers.
>> >>>
>> >>> http://www.net10.com/
>> >>>
>> >>> BirgitteSB
>> >>>
>> >>>
>> >>> On Jun 16, 2012, at 4:13 PM, Itzik Edri <itzik [at] infra> wrote:
>> >>>
>> >>>> Hi,
>> >>>>
>> >>>> I looking for recommendations for SIM cards to use during Wikimania
>> & to Nevada & California area (I'm staying a month).
>> >>>>
>> >>>> Until now, the best that I found is AT&T Pay As You Go plans - need
>> to purchase a cheap device (didn't found option just to purchase sim card)
>> for about 25$, monthly plan will cost another 25$ and Data plan for 25$
>> (1GB, and I'm sure I'll need a much more :). What make the story quite
>> expensive.
>> >>>>
>> >>>> Any others option that the local guys can recommend?
>> >>>>
>> >>>>
>> >>>> Thanks,
>> >>>> Itzik
>> >>>> _______________________________________________
>> >>>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>> >>>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>> >>>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>> >>
>> >> _______________________________________________
>> >> Wikimania-l mailing list
>> >> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>> >> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>> >
>> > _______________________________________________
>> > Wikimania-l mailing list
>> > Wikimania-l [at] lists
>> > https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Wikimania-l mailing list
> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Wikimania-l mailing list
> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>
>

josephfoxwiki at gmail

Jun 17, 2012, 12:59 AM

Post #13 of 21 (156 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

That's what I want as well. I'm hearing that prepaid as it exists in Europe and Australia doesn't really exist in the USA. I would need confirmation of this though.

Joe

On 17 Jun 2012, at 15:54, Lodewijk wrote:

> Maybe I;m the only one that needs this - but if you just want a simple SIM card for a simple gsm for calling and sms only - prepaid only? What would be the best option? I'm planning to stick in the area between DC, New York and New England with maybe short trips outside.
>
> Lodewijk
>
> 2012/6/17 Joseph Fox <josephfoxwiki [at] gmail>
> Sorry, just did after I gave you that link. It also has the correct location of the hostel...
>
> http://goo.gl/maps/xLBk
>
> Hope this helps.
>
> Joe
>
> On 17 Jun 2012, at 12:45, Evangeline Han wrote:
>
>> If I want to buy a SIM card, where can I go to get it? Are there communication shops near the venue or the hostel?
>>
>> Evangeline
>>
>> On Sun, Jun 17, 2012 at 2:29 PM, Joseph Fox <josephfoxwiki [at] gmail> wrote:
>> I'm also looking for options for phones to take to Wikimania. So far the best option I've heard is to take my iPhone and simply go into a T-Mobile/AT&T shop and have them set it up for me with a new MicroSim. I guess there are shops in JFK that let you buy prepaid mobiles too?
>>
>> JF
>>
>> On 17 Jun 2012, at 08:35, James Hare wrote:
>>
>> > It ultimately depends on where you're going. Some parts of the country
>> > are absolutely hopeless for wireless coverage. Pretty much every city,
>> > though, has some kind of wireless coverage, as do most minor towns
>> > outside the cities.
>> >
>> > James
>> >
>> > On Sat, Jun 16, 2012 at 8:28 PM, <Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo> wrote:
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> Looking at Net10 a little more.
>> >>
>> >> #1 You must have an unlocked GSM phone for the SIM card only option.
>> >>
>> >> #2 Be sure you check the coverage map against your plans as Nevada coverage is spotty outside of Reno and Vegas. No "Nationwide" coverage is actually 100% in the US. I don't know if that is the normal expectation elsewhere or not. Some places just don't have cell service at any price, some only have one carrier with any cell towers in the area. But if you are sticking to major cities, you *should* find anything labeled "Nationwide" as suitable.
>> >>
>> >> http://www.net10sim.com/coverage.php
>> >>
>> >> BirgitteSB
>> >>
>> >> On Jun 16, 2012, at 7:10 PM, Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo wrote:
>> >>
>> >>> I am not local to DC, but in the US. The only true "no contract" Nationwide "pay as you go" option I am aware of is NetZero. Virgin used to have a pay as you go option, but it is now only maintained for grandfathered devices. Net10 does sell SIM cards alone. I use them for voice and text, but not data. The only issue I have had is intermittently not receiving texts from two contacts with Android phone with T-Mobile as their carrier. The texts I do receive from these contacts always state they are "picture texts" when they are really just text. I don't know if this problem is on Net10's end or my contact's end, but such things at the wrong moment can turn into a big deal. I otherwise am happy with Net10 and there are not many no contract options here. You might want to use them, but tell everyone that you will confirm all texts while you are traveling, and if they don't get a confirmation then they should assume you never received the text.
>> >>>
>> >>> There may other local only options in DC (or East Coast regional options), but you will likely need someone with Nationwide coverage for your whole trip. It is possible, but unlikely, some carrier covers DC and Nevada/CA, without being a Nationwide carrier. There have been some odd mergers.
>> >>>
>> >>> http://www.net10.com/
>> >>>
>> >>> BirgitteSB
>> >>>
>> >>>
>> >>> On Jun 16, 2012, at 4:13 PM, Itzik Edri <itzik [at] infra> wrote:
>> >>>
>> >>>> Hi,
>> >>>>
>> >>>> I looking for recommendations for SIM cards to use during Wikimania & to Nevada & California area (I'm staying a month).
>> >>>>
>> >>>> Until now, the best that I found is AT&T Pay As You Go plans - need to purchase a cheap device (didn't found option just to purchase sim card) for about 25$, monthly plan will cost another 25$ and Data plan for 25$ (1GB, and I'm sure I'll need a much more :). What make the story quite expensive.
>> >>>>
>> >>>> Any others option that the local guys can recommend?
>> >>>>
>> >>>>
>> >>>> Thanks,
>> >>>> Itzik
>> >>>> _______________________________________________
>> >>>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>> >>>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>> >>>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>> >>
>> >> _______________________________________________
>> >> Wikimania-l mailing list
>> >> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>> >> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>> >
>> > _______________________________________________
>> > Wikimania-l mailing list
>> > Wikimania-l [at] lists
>> > https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Wikimania-l mailing list
> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Wikimania-l mailing list
> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l

alancylai at wikimedia

Jun 17, 2012, 1:10 AM

Post #14 of 21 (158 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

For most people with Eurasian versions of smartphones, you only choice for full 3G is using AT&T because of the frequency issue. Only AT&T uses the same frequencies at 1800MHz and 2100MHz spectra for WCDMA. The reason why many can't attain 3G speed on T-mobile USA is that they use 1700MHz and 1900MHz frequencies for WCDMA which is not supported by phones outside US. Hence your iPhone would only see 2100MHz for GSM and attain EDGE speed at maximum.

Luckily I got a T-Mobile USA version of Nexus S, so I can be different and use USD3 a day unlimited phone + data at HSPA+ speeds for the first 200MB.

In response to the following email:

http://lists.wikimedia.org/pipermail/wikimania-l/attachments/20120617/056a4b4a/attachment.html

Best regards,
Alan Lai
Sent on the road
_______________________________________________
Wikimania-l mailing list
Wikimania-l [at] lists
https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l

josephfoxwiki at gmail

Jun 17, 2012, 1:13 AM

Post #15 of 21 (159 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

That's all well and good, but if you just want (for example) something to call someone with as soon as you land..? What then?

Joe

On 17 Jun 2012, at 16:10, Alan C Y Lai (Wikimedia) wrote:

> For most people with Eurasian versions of smartphones, you only choice for full 3G is using AT&T because of the frequency issue. Only AT&T uses the same frequencies at 1800MHz and 2100MHz spectra for WCDMA. The reason why many can't attain 3G speed on T-mobile USA is that they use 1700MHz and 1900MHz frequencies for WCDMA which is not supported by phones outside US. Hence your iPhone would only see 2100MHz for GSM and attain EDGE speed at maximum.
>
> Luckily I got a T-Mobile USA version of Nexus S, so I can be different and use USD3 a day unlimited phone + data at HSPA+ speeds for the first 200MB.
>
> In response to the following email:
>
> http://lists.wikimedia.org/pipermail/wikimania-l/attachments/20120617/056a4b4a/attachment.html
>
> Best regards,
> Alan Lai
> Sent on the road
> _______________________________________________
> Wikimania-l mailing list
> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l

_______________________________________________
Wikimania-l mailing list
Wikimania-l [at] lists
https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l

josephfoxwiki at gmail

Jun 17, 2012, 1:14 AM

Post #16 of 21 (158 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

Also, that's all Greek to me, frankly.

Joe

On 17 Jun 2012, at 16:10, Alan C Y Lai (Wikimedia) wrote:

> For most people with Eurasian versions of smartphones, you only choice for full 3G is using AT&T because of the frequency issue. Only AT&T uses the same frequencies at 1800MHz and 2100MHz spectra for WCDMA. The reason why many can't attain 3G speed on T-mobile USA is that they use 1700MHz and 1900MHz frequencies for WCDMA which is not supported by phones outside US. Hence your iPhone would only see 2100MHz for GSM and attain EDGE speed at maximum.
>
> Luckily I got a T-Mobile USA version of Nexus S, so I can be different and use USD3 a day unlimited phone + data at HSPA+ speeds for the first 200MB.
>
> In response to the following email:
>
> http://lists.wikimedia.org/pipermail/wikimania-l/attachments/20120617/056a4b4a/attachment.html
>
> Best regards,
> Alan Lai
> Sent on the road
> _______________________________________________
> Wikimania-l mailing list
> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l

_______________________________________________
Wikimania-l mailing list
Wikimania-l [at] lists
https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l

jamesjoshualim at yahoo

Jun 17, 2012, 1:41 AM

Post #17 of 21 (157 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

Not attending Wikimania this year, but I did some research on the topic before I headed to New York City in February, and I can suggest this: Simple Mobile. They're an MVNO which runs on the T-Mobile network, and they have unlimited phone calls and texts for two weeks for only $25. They also have a promotion for free international texts.

More information on http://www.mysimplemobile.com/. :)

Josh

On Jun 17, 2012, at 9:54 AM, Lodewijk wrote:

> Maybe I;m the only one that needs this - but if you just want a simple SIM card for a simple gsm for calling and sms only - prepaid only? What would be the best option? I'm planning to stick in the area between DC, New York and New England with maybe short trips outside.
>
> Lodewijk
>
> 2012/6/17 Joseph Fox <josephfoxwiki [at] gmail>
> Sorry, just did after I gave you that link. It also has the correct location of the hostel...
>
> http://goo.gl/maps/xLBk
>
> Hope this helps.
>
> Joe
>
> On 17 Jun 2012, at 12:45, Evangeline Han wrote:
>
>> If I want to buy a SIM card, where can I go to get it? Are there communication shops near the venue or the hostel?
>>
>> Evangeline
>>
>> On Sun, Jun 17, 2012 at 2:29 PM, Joseph Fox <josephfoxwiki [at] gmail> wrote:
>> I'm also looking for options for phones to take to Wikimania. So far the best option I've heard is to take my iPhone and simply go into a T-Mobile/AT&T shop and have them set it up for me with a new MicroSim. I guess there are shops in JFK that let you buy prepaid mobiles too?
>>
>> JF
>>
>> On 17 Jun 2012, at 08:35, James Hare wrote:
>>
>> > It ultimately depends on where you're going. Some parts of the country
>> > are absolutely hopeless for wireless coverage. Pretty much every city,
>> > though, has some kind of wireless coverage, as do most minor towns
>> > outside the cities.
>> >
>> > James
>> >
>> > On Sat, Jun 16, 2012 at 8:28 PM, <Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo> wrote:
>> >>
>> >>
>> >> Looking at Net10 a little more.
>> >>
>> >> #1 You must have an unlocked GSM phone for the SIM card only option.
>> >>
>> >> #2 Be sure you check the coverage map against your plans as Nevada coverage is spotty outside of Reno and Vegas. No "Nationwide" coverage is actually 100% in the US. I don't know if that is the normal expectation elsewhere or not. Some places just don't have cell service at any price, some only have one carrier with any cell towers in the area. But if you are sticking to major cities, you *should* find anything labeled "Nationwide" as suitable.
>> >>
>> >> http://www.net10sim.com/coverage.php
>> >>
>> >> BirgitteSB
>> >>
>> >> On Jun 16, 2012, at 7:10 PM, Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo wrote:
>> >>
>> >>> I am not local to DC, but in the US. The only true "no contract" Nationwide "pay as you go" option I am aware of is NetZero. Virgin used to have a pay as you go option, but it is now only maintained for grandfathered devices. Net10 does sell SIM cards alone. I use them for voice and text, but not data. The only issue I have had is intermittently not receiving texts from two contacts with Android phone with T-Mobile as their carrier. The texts I do receive from these contacts always state they are "picture texts" when they are really just text. I don't know if this problem is on Net10's end or my contact's end, but such things at the wrong moment can turn into a big deal. I otherwise am happy with Net10 and there are not many no contract options here. You might want to use them, but tell everyone that you will confirm all texts while you are traveling, and if they don't get a confirmation then they should assume you never received the text.
>> >>>
>> >>> There may other local only options in DC (or East Coast regional options), but you will likely need someone with Nationwide coverage for your whole trip. It is possible, but unlikely, some carrier covers DC and Nevada/CA, without being a Nationwide carrier. There have been some odd mergers.
>> >>>
>> >>> http://www.net10.com/
>> >>>
>> >>> BirgitteSB
>> >>>
>> >>>
>> >>> On Jun 16, 2012, at 4:13 PM, Itzik Edri <itzik [at] infra> wrote:
>> >>>
>> >>>> Hi,
>> >>>>
>> >>>> I looking for recommendations for SIM cards to use during Wikimania & to Nevada & California area (I'm staying a month).
>> >>>>
>> >>>> Until now, the best that I found is AT&T Pay As You Go plans - need to purchase a cheap device (didn't found option just to purchase sim card) for about 25$, monthly plan will cost another 25$ and Data plan for 25$ (1GB, and I'm sure I'll need a much more :). What make the story quite expensive.
>> >>>>
>> >>>> Any others option that the local guys can recommend?
>> >>>>
>> >>>>
>> >>>> Thanks,
>> >>>> Itzik
>> >>>> _______________________________________________
>> >>>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>> >>>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>> >>>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>> >>
>> >> _______________________________________________
>> >> Wikimania-l mailing list
>> >> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>> >> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>> >
>> > _______________________________________________
>> > Wikimania-l mailing list
>> > Wikimania-l [at] lists
>> > https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
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>
>
> _______________________________________________
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JAMES JOSHUA G. LIM
Block I1, AB Political Science
Major in Global Politics, Minor in Chinese Studies
Class of 2013, Ateneo de Manila University
Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines

Trustee (2010-2013), Wikimedia Philippines
Member, Ateneo Debate Society
Member, The Assembly
Member, Ateneo Lingua Ars Cultura

jamesjoshualim [at] yahoo | +63 (927) 531-8301
Friendster/Facebook/Twitter: akiestar | Wikimedia: Sky Harbor
http://akira123323.livejournal.com

josephfoxwiki at gmail

Jun 17, 2012, 1:43 AM

Post #18 of 21 (157 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

Oh, that would be perfect. Thanks, Josh. :)
Joe

On 17 Jun 2012, at 16:41, Josh Lim wrote:

> Not attending Wikimania this year, but I did some research on the topic before I headed to New York City in February, and I can suggest this: Simple Mobile. They're an MVNO which runs on the T-Mobile network, and they have unlimited phone calls and texts for two weeks for only $25. They also have a promotion for free international texts.
>
> More information on http://www.mysimplemobile.com/. :)
>
> Josh
>
> On Jun 17, 2012, at 9:54 AM, Lodewijk wrote:
>
>> Maybe I;m the only one that needs this - but if you just want a simple SIM card for a simple gsm for calling and sms only - prepaid only? What would be the best option? I'm planning to stick in the area between DC, New York and New England with maybe short trips outside.
>>
>> Lodewijk
>>
>> 2012/6/17 Joseph Fox <josephfoxwiki [at] gmail>
>> Sorry, just did after I gave you that link. It also has the correct location of the hostel...
>>
>> http://goo.gl/maps/xLBk
>>
>> Hope this helps.
>>
>> Joe
>>
>> On 17 Jun 2012, at 12:45, Evangeline Han wrote:
>>
>>> If I want to buy a SIM card, where can I go to get it? Are there communication shops near the venue or the hostel?
>>>
>>> Evangeline
>>>
>>> On Sun, Jun 17, 2012 at 2:29 PM, Joseph Fox <josephfoxwiki [at] gmail> wrote:
>>> I'm also looking for options for phones to take to Wikimania. So far the best option I've heard is to take my iPhone and simply go into a T-Mobile/AT&T shop and have them set it up for me with a new MicroSim. I guess there are shops in JFK that let you buy prepaid mobiles too?
>>>
>>> JF
>>>
>>> On 17 Jun 2012, at 08:35, James Hare wrote:
>>>
>>> > It ultimately depends on where you're going. Some parts of the country
>>> > are absolutely hopeless for wireless coverage. Pretty much every city,
>>> > though, has some kind of wireless coverage, as do most minor towns
>>> > outside the cities.
>>> >
>>> > James
>>> >
>>> > On Sat, Jun 16, 2012 at 8:28 PM, <Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo> wrote:
>>> >>
>>> >>
>>> >> Looking at Net10 a little more.
>>> >>
>>> >> #1 You must have an unlocked GSM phone for the SIM card only option.
>>> >>
>>> >> #2 Be sure you check the coverage map against your plans as Nevada coverage is spotty outside of Reno and Vegas. No "Nationwide" coverage is actually 100% in the US. I don't know if that is the normal expectation elsewhere or not. Some places just don't have cell service at any price, some only have one carrier with any cell towers in the area. But if you are sticking to major cities, you *should* find anything labeled "Nationwide" as suitable.
>>> >>
>>> >> http://www.net10sim.com/coverage.php
>>> >>
>>> >> BirgitteSB
>>> >>
>>> >> On Jun 16, 2012, at 7:10 PM, Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo wrote:
>>> >>
>>> >>> I am not local to DC, but in the US. The only true "no contract" Nationwide "pay as you go" option I am aware of is NetZero. Virgin used to have a pay as you go option, but it is now only maintained for grandfathered devices. Net10 does sell SIM cards alone. I use them for voice and text, but not data. The only issue I have had is intermittently not receiving texts from two contacts with Android phone with T-Mobile as their carrier. The texts I do receive from these contacts always state they are "picture texts" when they are really just text. I don't know if this problem is on Net10's end or my contact's end, but such things at the wrong moment can turn into a big deal. I otherwise am happy with Net10 and there are not many no contract options here. You might want to use them, but tell everyone that you will confirm all texts while you are traveling, and if they don't get a confirmation then they should assume you never received the text.
>>> >>>
>>> >>> There may other local only options in DC (or East Coast regional options), but you will likely need someone with Nationwide coverage for your whole trip. It is possible, but unlikely, some carrier covers DC and Nevada/CA, without being a Nationwide carrier. There have been some odd mergers.
>>> >>>
>>> >>> http://www.net10.com/
>>> >>>
>>> >>> BirgitteSB
>>> >>>
>>> >>>
>>> >>> On Jun 16, 2012, at 4:13 PM, Itzik Edri <itzik [at] infra> wrote:
>>> >>>
>>> >>>> Hi,
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>> I looking for recommendations for SIM cards to use during Wikimania & to Nevada & California area (I'm staying a month).
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>> Until now, the best that I found is AT&T Pay As You Go plans - need to purchase a cheap device (didn't found option just to purchase sim card) for about 25$, monthly plan will cost another 25$ and Data plan for 25$ (1GB, and I'm sure I'll need a much more :). What make the story quite expensive.
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>> Any others option that the local guys can recommend?
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>>
>>> >>>> Thanks,
>>> >>>> Itzik
>>> >>>> _______________________________________________
>>> >>>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>>> >>>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>>> >>>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>>> >>
>>> >> _______________________________________________
>>> >> Wikimania-l mailing list
>>> >> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>>> >> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>>> >
>>> > _______________________________________________
>>> > Wikimania-l mailing list
>>> > Wikimania-l [at] lists
>>> > https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>>>
>>>
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>>>
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>
> JAMES JOSHUA G. LIM
> Block I1, AB Political Science
> Major in Global Politics, Minor in Chinese Studies
> Class of 2013, Ateneo de Manila University
> Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines
>
> Trustee (2010-2013), Wikimedia Philippines
> Member, Ateneo Debate Society
> Member, The Assembly
> Member, Ateneo Lingua Ars Cultura
>
> jamesjoshualim [at] yahoo | +63 (927) 531-8301
> Friendster/Facebook/Twitter: akiestar | Wikimedia: Sky Harbor
> http://akira123323.livejournal.com
>
> _______________________________________________
> Wikimania-l mailing list
> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l

alancylai at wikimedia

Jun 17, 2012, 6:06 AM

Post #19 of 21 (157 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

Dear Joseph,

Basically, you should get AT&T from Airport for your data needs if your phone doesn't support T-mobile 3G network like most phones.

For phone needs, both AT&T and T-mobile support GSM, so all suggestions mentioned above are ok.

Best regards,
Alan
Sent on the road

> Date: Sun, 17 Jun 2012 16:14:44 +0800
> From: Joseph Fox <josephfoxwiki [at] gmail>
> To: "Wikimania general list $open subscription$"
> <wikimania-l [at] lists>
> Subject: Re: [Wikimania-l] Recommendations for communication?
> Message-ID: <7EEFFD68-2003-43DC-85E4-EB960429338C [at] gmail>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii
>
> Also, that's all Greek to me, frankly.
>
> Joe
>
> On 17 Jun 2012, at 16:10, Alan C Y Lai (Wikimedia) wrote:
>
>> For most people with Eurasian versions of smartphones, you only choice for full 3G is using AT&T because of the frequency issue. Only AT&T uses the same frequencies at 1800MHz and 2100MHz spectra for WCDMA. The reason why many can't attain 3G speed on T-mobile USA is that they use 1700MHz and 1900MHz frequencies for WCDMA which is not supported by phones outside US. Hence your iPhone would only see 2100MHz for GSM and attain EDGE speed at maximum.
>>
>> Luckily I got a T-Mobile USA version of Nexus S, so I can be different and use USD3 a day unlimited phone + data at HSPA+ speeds for the first 200MB.
>>
>> In response to the following email:
>>
>> http://lists.wikimedia.org/pipermail/wikimania-l/attachments/20120617/056a4b4a/attachment.html
>>
>> Best regards,
>> Alan Lai
>> Sent on the road
>> _______________________________________________
>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------
>

Dear Josh,

Your suggestion is very good for phone calls and texts! Thanks!

Best regards,
Alan
Sent on the road

> Date: Sun, 17 Jun 2012 10:41:09 +0200
> From: Josh Lim <jamesjoshualim [at] yahoo>
> To: "Wikimania general list $open subscription$"
> <wikimania-l [at] lists>
> Subject: Re: [Wikimania-l] Recommendations for communication?
> Message-ID: <B2CC13E4-4CAD-4E22-B146-B090403B659C [at] yahoo>
> Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
>
> Not attending Wikimania this year, but I did some research on the topic before I headed to New York City in February, and I can suggest this: Simple Mobile. They're an MVNO which runs on the T-Mobile network, and they have unlimited phone calls and texts for two weeks for only $25. They also have a promotion for free international texts.
>
> More information on http://www.mysimplemobile.com/. :)
>
> Josh
>
> On Jun 17, 2012, at 9:54 AM, Lodewijk wrote:
>
>> Maybe I;m the only one that needs this - but if you just want a simple SIM card for a simple gsm for calling and sms only - prepaid only? What would be the best option? I'm planning to stick in the area between DC, New York and New England with maybe short trips outside.
>>
>> Lodewijk
>>
>> 2012/6/17 Joseph Fox <josephfoxwiki [at] gmail>
>> Sorry, just did after I gave you that link. It also has the correct location of the hostel...
>>
>> http://goo.gl/maps/xLBk
>>
>> Hope this helps.
>>
>> Joe
>>
>> On 17 Jun 2012, at 12:45, Evangeline Han wrote:
>>
>>> If I want to buy a SIM card, where can I go to get it? Are there communication shops near the venue or the hostel?
>>>
>>> Evangeline
>>>
>>> On Sun, Jun 17, 2012 at 2:29 PM, Joseph Fox <josephfoxwiki [at] gmail> wrote:
>>> I'm also looking for options for phones to take to Wikimania. So far the best option I've heard is to take my iPhone and simply go into a T-Mobile/AT&T shop and have them set it up for me with a new MicroSim. I guess there are shops in JFK that let you buy prepaid mobiles too?
>>>
>>> JF
>>>
>>> On 17 Jun 2012, at 08:35, James Hare wrote:
>>>
>>>> It ultimately depends on where you're going. Some parts of the country
>>>> are absolutely hopeless for wireless coverage. Pretty much every city,
>>>> though, has some kind of wireless coverage, as do most minor towns
>>>> outside the cities.
>>>>
>>>> James
>>>>
>>>> On Sat, Jun 16, 2012 at 8:28 PM, <Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo> wrote:
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> Looking at Net10 a little more.
>>>>>
>>>>> #1 You must have an unlocked GSM phone for the SIM card only option.
>>>>>
>>>>> #2 Be sure you check the coverage map against your plans as Nevada coverage is spotty outside of Reno and Vegas. No "Nationwide" coverage is actually 100% in the US. I don't know if that is the normal expectation elsewhere or not. Some places just don't have cell service at any price, some only have one carrier with any cell towers in the area. But if you are sticking to major cities, you *should* find anything labeled "Nationwide" as suitable.
>>>>>
>>>>> http://www.net10sim.com/coverage.php
>>>>>
>>>>> BirgitteSB
>>>>>
>>>>> On Jun 16, 2012, at 7:10 PM, Birgitte_sb [at] yahoo wrote:
>>>>>
>>>>>> I am not local to DC, but in the US. The only true "no contract" Nationwide "pay as you go" option I am aware of is NetZero. Virgin used to have a pay as you go option, but it is now only maintained for grandfathered devices. Net10 does sell SIM cards alone. I use them for voice and text, but not data. The only issue I have had is intermittently not receiving texts from two contacts with Android phone with T-Mobile as their carrier. The texts I do receive from these contacts always state they are "picture texts" when they are really just text. I don't know if this problem is on Net10's end or my contact's end, but such things at the wrong moment can turn into a big deal. I otherwise am happy with Net10 and there are not many no contract options here. You might want to use them, but tell everyone that you will confirm all texts while you are traveling, and if they don't get a confirmation then they should assume you never received the text.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> There may other local only options in DC (or East Coast regional options), but you will likely need someone with Nationwide coverage for your whole trip. It is possible, but unlikely, some carrier covers DC and Nevada/CA, without being a Nationwide carrier. There have been some odd mergers.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> http://www.net10.com/
>>>>>>
>>>>>> BirgitteSB
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>> On Jun 16, 2012, at 4:13 PM, Itzik Edri <itzik [at] infra> wrote:
>>>>>>
>>>>>>> Hi,
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> I looking for recommendations for SIM cards to use during Wikimania & to Nevada & California area (I'm staying a month).
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> Until now, the best that I found is AT&T Pay As You Go plans - need to purchase a cheap device (didn't found option just to purchase sim card) for about 25$, monthly plan will cost another 25$ and Data plan for 25$ (1GB, and I'm sure I'll need a much more :). What make the story quite expensive.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> Any others option that the local guys can recommend?
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> Thanks,
>>>>>>> Itzik
>>>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>>>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>>>>>>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>>>>>>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>>>>>
>>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>>>>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>>>>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>>>>
>>>> _______________________________________________
>>>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>>>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>>>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>>>
>>>
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>>>
>>> _______________________________________________
>>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>>
>>
>> _______________________________________________
>> Wikimania-l mailing list
>> Wikimania-l [at] lists
>> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>
> JAMES JOSHUA G. LIM
> Block I1, AB Political Science
> Major in Global Politics, Minor in Chinese Studies
> Class of 2013, Ateneo de Manila University
> Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines
>
> Trustee (2010-2013), Wikimedia Philippines
> Member, Ateneo Debate Society
> Member, The Assembly
> Member, Ateneo Lingua Ars Cultura
>
> jamesjoshualim [at] yahoo | +63 (927) 531-8301
> Friendster/Facebook/Twitter: akiestar | Wikimedia: Sky Harbor
> http://akira123323.livejournal.com
>
> -------------- next part --------------
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>
> ------------------------------
>
> _______________________________________________
> Wikimania-l mailing list
> Wikimania-l [at] lists
> https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikimania-l
>
>
> End of Wikimania-l Digest, Vol 75, Issue 10
> *******************************************

alancylai at wikimedia

Jun 17, 2012, 6:13 AM

Post #20 of 21 (160 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

andrew at andrewlih

Jun 17, 2012, 7:44 PM

Post #21 of 21 (159 views)
Permalink

Re: Recommendations for communication? [In reply to]

Sorry I'm late to this, but you've probably discovered by now:

For prepaid, the US basically stinks -- few options, expensive, US-only
standards, kill you on data/3G.

* So, to make things the easiest for those accustomed to Europe/Asia
systems: if you're used to SIM cards and 3G on an unlocked phone you're
bringing yourself, the easiest to deal with is AT&T. As Alan mentioned
above, they play on the right frequencies, and use WCDMA standard most
everyone else does. It won't be cheap, so we gotta make sure our Wikimania
folks give very good Wifi to use. :)

* Verizon and Sprint are a NO GO: they use the US-centric version of voice
and 3G, based on CDMA: no SIM cards, no GSM

* SimpleMobile, as mentioned before, is somewhat flawed. It seems like a
good deal if you're a GSM user for voice, text, 2G. However, they use the
T-Mobile 3G system on the 1700 Mhz band, which is unusual. (In short: no
iPhone will work on this using 3G, nor will most international 3G phones
like Samsung Galaxy S II, etc.).

* There may be other MVNO or 2nd tier operators for cheaper, but I wouldn't
bother unless you really know what you're doing. For most of the world,
prepaid is widely used by normal folks and travelers. In the US, it's
targeted towards low-income, risky phone users, so there's not a lot of
premium choices here.

* WARNING: US cell phone store workers are typically quite incompetent.
That you can bring a phone from overseas and pop in an AT&T SIM chip and
work is still quite mysterious and bizarre to them. I'm not kidding. Expect
to know a lot more about phones than they do. Most Americans have never
travelled abroad and have no idea how the rest of the world lives.

Anyone who wants to put this on the Wikimania wiki, feel free.

-Andrew

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