Technical problem, or just VodaFail?

[Livessenkrad]

I've had Vodacom 3G for about 5 years now. I started out with the E220 modem, which was alright. Despite the usual uselessness I've become accustomed to (for example the software deciding to close my connection, random 'bumps' of slow internet after hours of workable constant speed) I've now encountered another 'bump'. This one just seems pretty %$&#ing permanent. I've now upgraded to K3772-Z modem, which I thought would actually be an upgrade. The software, firstly, is useless. I don't even use it to connect anymore because the memory it uses is then a waste.

Secondly: My connection is worse than ever. I live in the Muldersdrift area (outskirts of Krugersdorp, about 5kms from the N14 Zwartkop/Randburg offramp). It takes me about 2-3 minutes to load any webpages. It was working fine for most of the time until I came back from a vacation in Thailand, about 2 weeks ago. Now it's just a nightmare, it does not connect to 3G anymore, as it used to, but connects to HSUPA instead (from my understanding it's slower? I stand corrected), but in any case, it is NOT what I'm paying for. 8ta seems to be a much fairer consideration because I'd rather pay R200 a month for 10GB internet which isn't guaranteed to be fast, than pay R500 for 3GB and barely being able to use it.

tl;dr, VodaFail or technical problem that happened in the past 3 weeks?

 

[Keeper]

First of all, changing a modem is not going to improve speed really, unless you have a 3.6Mbs modem and a upgraded 14Mbs tower next to you. don't waste money on "new modems"
(My E272 works better than a newer modem I got last year)
Secondly, I believe HSUPA is indeed faster than 3G, iirc.

PS: If you prefer 8ta, the 60+60GB deal will give you 70 extra Gigs for the same price you are paying now.

 

[Ockie]

EDGE
3G
HSPA
HSPA+

Slowest to fastest

Have you logged a fault with 082155?

 

[sajunky]

E220 is a good modem, just make sure to use Y-cable which was supplied with modem and check whether firmware is upgraged to 7.2Mbps. It does the following as well as K3772-Z:
- GPRS/EDGE if on 2G network
- 3G (basic connection when idle)
- HSPA or HSDPA/HSUPA (during transfering data)

If you have purchased K3772-Z less than one week ago, I suggest to return it complaining what you wrote (useless bloatware, doesn't work well on your computer). You can dial connection without Vodafone dashboard, but it is sufficient reason for return.

You don't report what is your signal strenght. With signal less than perfect you can improve your connection by installing external antenna with inductive coupler (for E220). But maybe look for a modem with external antenna connector like E367. E352, E353. Available at MTN, 8ta, last saw the cheapest at Edgars stores (MTN section). These modems come with more affordable dashboard.

 

[Mr.CookieMonster]

Sounds like VodaFail. The 3G in my area is so unstable. 0.34Mbps Down, 0.25Mbps Up. I have to pray to get Facebook to open on my Nokia 5800. MTN's network is perfect as well as 8ta.