Recent gripes regarding the iPhone's so-called “grip of death” that covered the antenna and blocked signals may have brought the issue of cellular reception into public focus, but the problem has existed for as long as cellular technology has. What we think of as a broad and comforting blanket of coverage is at best threadbare and at worst, a collection of tatters and patches. We like to think that...

Apple doesn’t build 3G into their laptops. AT&T doesn’t allow tethering on the iPhone and iPad. What do Mac owners do when they want Internet access while traveling? There are a few mobile Internet connections available for Mac users that want to use their iPad while on the go. One is the Novatel MiFi line of Mobile Intelligent HotSpots. There are a few versions of the device, including a Verizon MiFi 2200 and the unlocked...

AT&T’s coverage area has been the subject of much ridicule from competitors. What are AT&T users to do when looking for a signal while traveling? The Wilson Sleek is a portable device that that is a nice small unit with a cradle, charger and antenna. The Wilson Electronics Sleek works for iPhones and AT&T users. The iPhone includes a signal strength tester so you can see where there are weak spots in the network. The...

Novatel Wireless has given the MiFi a lift. It’s added more media sharing and backup features. The device works by using your 3G connection of your data card and putting it in the MiFi device. The MiFi acts as DLNA server on an microSDHC and will play it to any app or device that recognizes the sharing format. Devices that can now connect to the Novatel MiFi include Playstation 3, along with the iPhone, iPod Touch and the iPad....

Dear Booster Bob, My wife and I have iPhones and need better reception in fringe areas. What do you have for this? I need it for my car or camper. John, I recommend the Wilson 801212 – it’s a mobile cell signal amplifier that’s perfect for campers and vehicles. It comes with an exterior antenna that needs to be mounted outside the car using the magnetic mounts that’s included in the kit. It’s a plug in and...