defocus·blog

Verizon MiFi Firmware Update (on a Mac)

There's a firmware update available for the MiFi 2200, but Verizon makes it difficult for Mac users. I work around the problem.

The Verizon MiFi in Rural Areas, and Final Conclusions

This is the final installment of my long-term review of the Verizon MiFi 2200, which began back in May.

Interstate Exit Guide Winner

Well, I think we can close the book on the Interstate exit guide comparison: there just isn't any comparison. In real-world use, Exit Now: Interstate Exit Directory is the hands-down winner, beating The Next Exit in every way. It's not even close; I have already stopped using The Next Exit. The formatting, better print quality, and spiral-bound packaging of Exit Now are much easier to use, and the information has held up. There is exactly no reason to buy The Next Exit. See my original post for descriptions of each book, then go buy Exit Now.

The Vegas WiFi Conspiracy

Vegas hotels overcharge for internet service and, just possibly, interfere with cellular data signals to force you to pay. The MiFi comes to the rescue!

Verizon MiFi Update

When I posted my initial review of Verizon's MiFi 2200, I promised updates based on my ongoing experience. Here are my latest observations. First, I have something quite remarkable to report: with a good signal, I am seeing first-hop latency in the neighborhood of 120ms.

The Verizon MiFi 2200

Verizon's MiFi 2200 gives you portable Internet access on the road, creating a WiFi hotspot for up to 5 simultaneous users. Here's the beginning of my review.

Interstate Exit Guide Deathmatch!

When I'm on the road, one thing that I always keep handy is The Next Exit. This is a big book listing everything that is at every Interstate exit in the country. In case you were unaware that such a thing existed, yes, it is as useful as it sounds. If you're hungry, why settle for a lame Subway if there is an Applebee's a few miles down the road? There are few things you'll find more valuable on a trip. I still had the 2007 edition, so I went to Amazon to pick up the latest version, and made...