Loading data bundle on pre-paid

[atomcrusher]

Here's the situation ...

*I am 'mobile-data-technical' a total incompetent.
*I currently have an HTC Hero :erm: with a voice contract (MTN) through Nashua Mobile
*I use the above contract phone for occasional access to the web, using the phone as a modem
*The data charges when used as above can be high!

Question 1:
How do I go about loading a pre-paid data bundle on my current on-contract SIM? Is this possible without going via Nashua Mobile

Question 2:
If I buy a separate pre-paid SIM, can I just put this in the phone in place of the contract SIM, and buy airtime, and convert this to a data bundle?
If answer to above is yes, then how do I convert the airtime to a data bundle ... I've heard rumours of USSD codes

For this prepaid SIM I would opt for a SP other than MTN, e.g. Voda or CellC, because the MTN reception where I live is terrible.

Question 3: Or should I just bite the bullet and buy (not on contract) a USB 3G-type modem and install a permanent pre-paid SIM in it, and use that for data?

If this is the best solution, which USB modem is recommended (let's assume I would like to get 7.2mbps DL capability)

Question 4: And once again, how would I load a data bundle on it without entering into a contract?

Baby-step answers appreciated!

 

[Shake&Bake]

USSD code for prepaid MTN data is *141*6#. On my way to work, will check back to see if anyone else has helped out with the rest.

Sent from my GT-I9000 using MyBroadband Android App

 

[NeonNinja]

Yeah. Or dial 141. You can buy a modem. What's/how's the reception in your area? Futile buying 7.2, if you're only gonna get 2.5. You can purchase another sim, insert it on your phone and buy data. Alternatively you can purchase it via MDMA, with the sim in the modem with the stated USSD code.