Easiest way to start using 3G without contract

[Piesang]

Can anyone please help me with this.

I have a 3G enabled cellphone with a MTN contract. I don't have 3G coverage. Now I would like to use my phone with a Vodacom sim to use it as a 3G modem with my Notebook.

What is the easiest and cheapest way of using a prepaid sim?
What do I buy?

Please help.

Thanks.

 

[ajax]

Hello Piesang

As you may know, VC doesn't have prepaid data bundles yet, so on prepaid you can only go "out-of-bundle" i.e. R2 per MB.
You can get a simcard at Pick n Pay for R1.99 and buy airtime in denominations starting at R12. Get 3G activated by dialling *111# on your phone and request MMS settings (dunno why they call it that)

Otherwise, if you really need to use bundles, you can wait till 1 July when it will (allegedly) launch, or get a 4U contract now which doesn't cost you anything monthly except for your calls. See http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php?t=39732

 

[Prometheus]

Hi Piesang

I would suggest using a MTN prepaid bundle for this month on GPRS. The speeds are near the max of 10KB/s at 8KB/s most of the time on MTN. Maximum for 3G is 48KB/s. Doesn't compare too badly.

If you really need to use 3G on Vodacom now you will first have to enable data services which includes 3G data.

Dial *111*8# to get to the 3G services menu.
Which reminds me: vodacom3g! Selecting 2 for 3G Data gives an invalid option.
Now answer 1 and you will get the same menu again which should now work and you can now answer 1 for video calling and 2 for 3G data.
Dial *111*5# and follow the instructions to get the settings send to your phone.

Now sit back and wait as it can take up to 24hrs from activation of your SIM to activate 3G although normally it happens instantly.