Basically, a device like a cell phone with hotspot capability creates a wifi signal from the 3G signal. Rather simplified explanation to be sure.
You can use a cellphone with a hotspot, or you can use a portable wifi device. Those are your only choices. So it becomes a matter of out of pocket expense and monthly fees. They often cost a hundred bucks or less depending on the carrier. Not sure what you can afford, so perhaps you can post your budget.
If using a phone as a hotspot, your iPad is set to use the signal your phone creates just like it does with any wifi signal. This is done through your wifi settings. Go to settings, wifi, and select the wifi network. This is how it works with hotspots, too.
Some carriers do not allow you to use your phone as a wifi hotspot. So read your TOS. There are apps that turn your phone into a hotspot but those generally require that your root your cellphone. Not every cellphone can be used as a portable wifi hotspot. Not because of some technical issues but because the cell carrier wants to sell additional services and it does affect the network.
My VM phone is not capable of creating a hotspot. According to VM, that is. But I am rooted and therefore, turning it into a hotspot is no more difficult than downloading a free app and pressing a button. Not allowed by VM, however.
So, when I combine my monthly bill for access, I pay $35.00. that includes all the net and email and calls I care to make and if I used my phone as a hotspot, the $35.00 includes that, too.
Most carriers offer a hotspot device. Virgin Mobile, for example does this. I think the cost is $99.00 and $40.00 per month for access. With VM, I can start and stop service at will and no early termination fees.
I use their mobile broadband USB device with my laptop when I know I will be where there is no wifi. Should I need wifi, I'll likely purchase a portable hotspot and use that.
--- In iPad@yahoogroups.com, "Kriss Spencer" <shayandkriss@...> wrote:
>
> I am still researching the best option for what I can afford, and am
> wondering if I mobile hotspot my phone, will be I be able to connect an iPad
> via wifi, or do I have to have 3G to connect to mobile hotspot? Probably a
> really dumb question, but I can't wrap my brain around what exactly is the
> difference when connecting other devices.?
>
> Clear as mud?
>
>
>
> Thanks
>
> Kriss
>
