Using Vodacom 3G on Acer Aspire One Linux

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Enigma_2k4

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Hi all,

I recently purchased my SO an Acer Aspire One and am very ahppy with it. however, it only comes with Linux not Xp (which isn't necessarily a problem;) ).

We have a Vodacom 3G USB modem (Huawei K3520 I think). Now I have never in my life used linux before and have no idea where to even begin, is there an easy and simple thread I can follow to get the 3G card working on her netbook? I've googled like mad and been thru a zillion threads on here but still do not have a solution?

If setting up an ICS is easier then perhaps I could try that too....? I have the 3G modem connected to my main PC, that's connected to my wireless router which streams interwebs (and media) to my media PC in my lounge and if it could do the same to the netbook that'd be great!

Again, any suggestions here?
 
Wow, that's all quite intimidating for someone that's never used Linux before! I don;t even know what kind of linux is bundled with the Aspire One....
 
You need to read first how to install !

Try the aspire one user forum,lots of help on there !
 
https://help.ubuntu.com/community/AspireOne

http://www.aspireoneuser.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=28

InstallationFromUSBStick:

https://help.ubuntu.com/community/Installation/FromUSBStick

lots of reading.........

need help shout !


Ubuntu Netbook Remix
Ubuntu Netbook Remix is a 'remix' of the standard Ubuntu Desktop release to enable it to work better on devices with small screens, such as Netbooks (sub-notebooks), although these packages will work on any 8.04 (Hardy) or 8.10 (Intrepid) installation.

https://wiki.ubuntu.com/UNR <------------------------- easy stuff !
 
Last edited:
Phew, been trying this. Eventually found that Acer have software i can download (Macles, commonly known as mobile partner) and use directly on the Aspire which I have done, but for some strange reason after I put in the details it cannot connect, it just sits saying "connecting" indefinately.

I downloaded it here:
http://www.acer.com/aspireone/support/files/connect.html

The data I need is:

Give your profile a name: I preume this can be anything I like
Is the APN static or Dynamic?
In the APN box: Internet
Access Number: *99***2#
User Name: ???
Password: ???
Authentication Protocol: CHAP or PAP?
 
This worked for me

METHOD WHICH WORKED FOR ME (gleaned from all over the net). THANKS everyone for posting your info ;)

1) Download Macles / Mobile Partner from Acer site. http://www.acer.com/aspireone/support/files/connect.html#003
(You would need an up and running internet connection on another machine to do this!)

2) Transfer the download onto the netbook: save in My Documents/AspireOne folder
Unzip the download in the same folder. I think I might have missed the next step, because what you downloaded must now be installed. I CANNOT remember what happened here… I reckon you might have to click on something like setup.exe) I think it might have been done at the Voda Support centre, where I went before tackling the problem myself. :confused: (See comments)

3) Open Mobile Partner (Under Connect section). Click Tools, Options, New. Type in a name for the profile (like voda… or whatever). Select “Static” APN. In APN box type: internet
Click on Set as default. Save.
Access number was already filled in = *99#
No Username or password
Authentication Protocol Settings was CHAP

4) Click OK.

5) Click connect. Ta – daahhhh! :p:p:p

COMMENTS:
I know ZERO about Linux – just bought the netbook because I need one for VERY occasional, very basic use. I thought it was a case of plug in data card & use - like it was on my PC with Windows XP.

The lady at Vodacom service centre Menlyn was very sweet and tried her best to fiddle for a while, but the shop was closing and I felt obliged to leave. She gave me Firmware Version 11.117.09.04.00 on my data card.

The salesman at the not so incredible connection said “Ja.. you can just plug in your data card”. <*Surprise*> It didn’t work. I called the next day – the technician said bring it in. “Right now I don’t have a clue. We’ll troubleshoot…” OMG!:sick:

Vodacom data helpline said “We don’t support Linux”. Pass the razor blades! :eek: They wanted me to call some company in JoBurg and I did. And no, they don’t answer after hours and there isn’t telephonic support. And their email addresses all return bounced mail! They wanted me to bring the thing in and pay them money. Lots of it. Thanks Voda!:mad:
 
The guide looks very simple and straight to the point. Hope all problems with Vodafone USB modems will be solved. I just wonder if this setup also works for cell phone connections. Example using a cell phone with serial cable to connect.
 
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