Here are the ways I get online in the barrio in descending order of usability:
1. Nokia 6233 with a Globe prepaid sim — internet speed is 460.8 kbps. Data usage rate of Globe is 5 pesos/15 mins. The other good thing is that, the Nokia cellphone has a separate port for the charger and USB cable. So I can get online for hours without running out of battery. As long as the sim has enough load.
2. Motorola RAZR V3x with Smart postpaid sim — internet speed is 260.4 kbps. Data usage rate of Smart is 10 pesos/30 mins. While I have been using this system for almost two years now, I have always complained of running out of battery because there is only one port for the charger and the USB cable. Also, if I don’t watch it my phone bill can reach sky high.
3. Globe Visibility prepaid — I bought this unit 2 months ago for 2,500 pesos. I was told by Globe that it will work on GPRS. Yes it worked alright, but the internet speed is only 3 kbps.
So there. If #s 1 and 2 fail, then I have to take the jeepney to the city to go to an internet cafe. Broadband remains a dream in my area. I guess looking for a Tennessee auto insurance is so much easier. 