Going the 'dish-tance' with satellite communications

Going the 'dish-tance' with satellite communications

I plan to start a business, traveling across the U.S. in a motor home. I need to be able to access the Internet and communicate using my computer at all times, including while driving. What is the best way to accomplish this?

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Hopefully, you are not trying to access your e-mail and check the latest sports scores while navigating your land ship down a congested highway. Many states frown upon any kind of wireless activities and diversions that might interfere with the driving experience, and there are already laws and pending legislation aimed at wireless wanderers. But, if you are smart enough to pull off the road or into a nearby Wal-Mart parking lot before jumping on the Internet, then your best bet would be a satellite-based communications system that can uses a dish and satellite modem to plug you into the ether (-net, that is!).

Typically, a satellite dish can be mounted in the roof of your RV. It is connected to the satellite modem, which is in turn connected via a USB or FireWire port, to your PC. Basically, all you need to make it work is a single USB port for the satellite modem, the appropriate power connections (no big deal on today's SUVs that can probably provide power to all of Iraq, if necessary), and a satellite dish from one of many providers.

One source for such systems is Ground Control, located in San Luis Obispo, Calif. This company offers a complete mobile satellite system, called Data Storm, which can be used for mobile Internet access, voice over IP connections, and can even receive DirecTV broadcast signals. Service is based on a flat monthly rate, and you can receive signals and send and receive data even as you are rolling down the long and winding highway. Of course, we still suggest you pull over to get the full (and safe) wireless Internet experience.

This was first published in May 2004

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