Switching between 3G and GPRS

[LandyMan]

Hi all,

I checked the FAQ, but couldn't see anything in there.

When connected via 3G, and the connection deteriorates to a level where 3G reception is 'gone' so to speak, does it automatically switch to GPRS, and if so, does the data transferred via GPRS then come off your allocated 1/2/3 Gb, or do you get billed seperately for the GPRS usage?

Thanks

 

[vodacom3g]

Short answer is yes.

The data bundle and access speed are actually two different issues.

1) Firstly, you buy an amount of 'data', say 1Gb.

This is calculated in both the downstream and upstream links. So if you use something like Kazaa or eDonkey all data coming down or going up counts towards your cap. Watch out for this as well as all these automatic updates (MS, Virus programs, etc.). These can kill your cap very quickly if left unmanaged.

2) Secondly, you connect at whatever is the best possible speed available in your area, 3G or GPRS (even EDGE, if in your area).

3) Thirdly, you can manage the switchover by creating different profiles on the VMC dashboard. '3G Preferred' will automatically switch while '3G Only' will stay on 3G and eventually disconnect if the signal level drops to low.

I, personally' use the 3G Only profile as it stops the 'hunting' process if your in a low level area. I've successfully connected at 1 (or even 0!) bars using the 3G Only Profile.

Hope this helps.

 

[LandyMan]

Short answer is yes.

The data bundle and access speed are actually two different issues.

1) Firstly, you buy an amount of 'data', say 1Gb.

This is calculated in both the downstream and upstream links. So if you use something like Kazaa or eDonkey all data coming down or going up counts towards your cap. Watch out for this as well as all these automatic updates (MS, Virus programs, etc.). These can kill your cap very quickly if left unmanaged.

2) Secondly, you connect at whatever is the best possible speed available in your area, 3G or GPRS (even EDGE, if in your area).

3) Thirdly, you can manage the switchover by creating different profiles on the VMC dashboard. '3G Preferred' will automatically switch while '3G Only' will stay on 3G and eventually disconnect if the signal level drops to low.

I, personally' use the 3G Only profile as it stops the 'hunting' process if your in a low level area. I've successfully connected at 1 (or even 0!) bars using the 3G Only Profile.

Hope this helps.

Thanks v3g ... it does answer my question.

A bit o/t for this thread ... is it worth waiting for HSDPA, rather than getting 3G now?

 

[vodacom3g]

HSDPA is about 6 months away, depending on availability of the data cards, so it's a function of what you need by when.

Also depends if your an early adoptor or not

If you're going to be a heavy user, get a data card now. Not so heavy, maybe use a 3G phone as a 3G modem.