MiFiWhat is MiFi? MiFi is a portable broadband wireless device about the size of a credit card that combines functions of a modem, router and access point. The internal modem accesses a wireless signal and the internal router shares that connection among users and devices. Sometimes called a personal hotspot, MiFi was designed to simplify setting up a small local area network (LAN). The device supports five users and can also network Wi-Fi-capable devices including digital cameras, notebooks, MP3 players and gaming systems. A MiFi device could be used to set up an ad-hoc network with a shared Internet connection anywhere with cellular connectivity. MiFi stands for "my Wi-Fi" and is pronounced as "my-Fi." Here are some of MiFi's other features: - Storage capacity.
- The ability to host applications.
- Supports EV-DO or UMTS/HSDPA 3G technologies.
- Internal battery offers four hours active use, forty hours standby before it needs to be recharged.
- Can be configured for automatic email synching and virtual private network (VPN) connection.
- Supports remote management.
Novatel, who developed MiFi (and trademarked the name), call their associated product line "Intelligent Mobile Hotspots." Novatel will market the devices through carriers and operation will require a data plan subscription. The first version of MiFi is expected to be released in the first half of 2009 and to cost about $200 (US) before any carrier subsidies. Learn more:
> Novatel's press release offers more information about MiFi.
> On Endgadget, Ross Rubin reports that MiFi pushes 3G past the router limits.
> Lamont Wood posts about the mobile hotspots roaming CES.
> Lisa Phifer explains wireless personal area networks (WPANs).
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| Last updated on:
Jan 12, 2009 |
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