So, i want to get an entry level modem from 8ta to go along with a month to month contract, but there are 2 options for R400: the e173 and e303 iirc. which one is better? can you only get one on say a 24 month contract? I think the e173 is the older one? TIA!
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modem: e173 vs e303
- Thread starter HeftyCrab
- Start date
If chosing between very old model (E173) with Qualcomm chipset and a new design with Balong chipset (Huawei own brand), I would take E303 (assuming I get it for around R250). There are user reports on similiar model E303C, it gives good stable connection. Huawei says, it has Type 3i receivers, this is an advanced feature, seen in more expensive products.
Keep in mind that both devices do not support UMTS 900MHz, so if you start screaming on 8ta, you will have one more reason, as you can't use it with Cell C. There is no socket for external antenna connector.
As R400 is too high in my opinion, I would look for HSPA+ modem as a minimum, the slowest ones are sold as 14,4Mbps.
Keep in mind that both devices do not support UMTS 900MHz, so if you start screaming on 8ta, you will have one more reason, as you can't use it with Cell C. There is no socket for external antenna connector.
As R400 is too high in my opinion, I would look for HSPA+ modem as a minimum, the slowest ones are sold as 14,4Mbps.
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Kloofvreter
Honorary Master
Huawei E367 is the best modem I ever owned. 
Wow, thanks for the informative post! what modems that arent too expensive would you recommend that would also support cell c?there are so many modems out i dont know where to start. ive tried vodacom branded modems but theyre not getting picked up by vista (thats a whole other thread ive already started), so im afraid that a cell c branded modem could do the same. im aware that its illegal to lock modems to a network in SA.
Vodafone do locking in the software. Autostart installs drivers and application. Drivers might be not compatible with Vista, I don't know, but you need drivers. If drivers are working, software will be able to recognise modem. Your next step is to open options menu and disable autostart and also select option to unload from systray on exit. After doing above and closing dashboard you can use any dashboard you like, or even Windows dialup icon (created by Vodafone) and dial any network.
If E303 is Hi-Link version, it doesn't need drivers (according to Huawei), or at least it don't install a dashboard on the computer. I works from internal Web page, establishing connection is made by clicking a button on the Web page. I can't say about Vodafone implementation.
If E303 is Hi-Link version, it doesn't need drivers (according to Huawei), or at least it don't install a dashboard on the computer. I works from internal Web page, establishing connection is made by clicking a button on the Web page. I can't say about Vodafone implementation.
Hummercellc
Expert Member
I have used both on Cell C and it works? I used AT commands on the E173 to see what frequencie the modem was on with Cell C and it showed UMTS900?... E303 is nicer because it auto connects and installs as a network adapter...
Just my experience
Just my experience
In which store did you buy E173 (MTN, 8ta...)? What command did you use to display frequency, you say it was tuned to UMTS900?
Is any marking next to the model number E173? It could be inside SIM cover. Report positive results in this thread: http://mybroadband.co.za/vb/showthread.php/264355-Modems-to-use-with-Cell-C-UMTS-HSPA
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what bullocks , i use the e173 with my cellc and get great speed and connection ? albeit i did do a software upgrade for it which i found somewhere in the vast desserts of the internets !
no socket for external connection ? no problem ! do the DIY CANtenna or 3 way antenna
Marking on the modem, please as per above post. Purchased from VC, MTN or 8ta store?
BTW, CANtenna original project ends with cable/connector. Where do you plug it in? ?)
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it was from the telkom direct store in pinetown. has the 8ta marking on it, bought it in june 2012. i have a 1.5m long usb extension running up the wall from pc to the window sill, the can as a hole in it with the usb dongle in it pointing towards the tower which im currently testing out at home but the 3 way antenna made from foil works a bit better, still need to test more.
you can also try the DIY 3 way antenna made from foil , there is a thread about it somewhere here just give it a search
cheerio
I asked this question, as CANtenna is a wave-guide design, it needs precise dimensions, just putting modem inside won't work. Besides, the original design was for WiFi frequencies 2.4GHz.So in other words, no wonder you have more luck with reflector type design. You can put modem inside, no problem.