Internet Access

Group Member

Apr 5, 2009 9:18:07 AM

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Unlimited data plans have become common for Smartphones, especially in the real estate industry. Access to MLS, updating Supra eKey function for lock-box operation, email service, all have a great part in our business.

General browsing the web, however, is seriously limited by the Smartphone (keyboard, screen size, etc.). Most phone companies have a monthly fee for use of a Smartphone as a modem for Internet access on your laptop. That fee is in addition to the fee for the smartphone data plan. I believe Sprint is an exception.

I have been using PdaNet software for almost a year, and it is one of the best buys in technology. My TREO 755 on Alltel provides a wireless Internet connection for my laptop almost anywhere. Right now I am in Broken Bow, OK where there does not seem to be any free or subscriber wifi service. There is wifi available in Idabel, OK (12 to 15 miles south).

My TREO is running fine, and I have Internet access even here. Speed is good most areas, and adequate in more rural areas. PdaNet costs about $30 as a one-time cost, and is now available for Windows Mobile and some non-Palm non-Windows smartphones. I will be buying PdaNet software for my daughter soon. She is in college and has a Blackberry Curve with a data plan.

Check it out. http://www.junefabrics.com/palmnet/

Matt Peters, Albuquerque-Rio Rancho, NM Matt@REALTOR.com
(505) 269-4791 . . . . Your Direct Line to RESULTS
www.IdealNM.com www.Relocation2Albuquerque.com

Chris Head

Group Member

Apr 5, 2009 11:42:16 AM

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I'll second Matt's endorsement. This is the best business investment I've made in a long time. Seldom do you purchase a software application that works so flawlessly. No hiccups, no kluges. I only wish I could talk on the phone while being on line with my laptop!

Kat Gardner

Group Member

Apr 5, 2009 5:46:05 PM

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Does anyone know if the PDaNet software will work with a Mac? I am running parallels, so I have windows software too.

Also, does anyone use a Mac for their real estate business? I just got mine and would appreciate any tips anyone may have!

Thanks!

Christine Sparks

Group Member

Apr 6, 2009 6:02:44 AM

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I use my Mac exclusively and would never switch back. You can email me with questions or advice at christinesparks@me.com

Brian Lange

Group Member

Apr 6, 2009 9:45:07 AM

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Quoting Kat Gardner:

Does anyone know if the PDaNet software will work with a Mac? I am running parallels, so I have windows software too.

Also, does anyone use a Mac for their real estate business? I just got mine and would appreciate any tips anyone may have!

Thanks!

Hi Kat,

Just wanted to let you know that there's an active Mac group on RealTown where you can get answers to your Mac questions.
http://www.realtown.com/ronaldgorman/groups/mac-group

Edited by Brian Lange on Apr 6, 2009 9:45:32 AM

Dick

Group Organizer

Apr 6, 2009 1:03:13 PM

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Kat,

Great news for everybody but you, sorry. PDA Net which is a great program I have hawked for years does not work with Mac. Great news they now support not only Palm, Windows but have added the iPhone and currently the Blackberry Storm. According to PDA Net they expect to expand the product full line of Blackberry.

Check it out www.JuneFabrics.com

Dick

Kat Gardner

Group Member

Apr 6, 2009 7:39:33 PM

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Okay, so I can't use PDAnet with my MAC. Is there a similar set up that will work with a MAC? One of the reasons for this machine is it's light weight. I travel a fair amount and my old PC weighs a ton! I really liked the idea of being able to access the internet just about anywhere by using my Treo and PDAnet. I also really love all the creative things I can do with a MAC. Any suggestions?

Dick

Group Organizer

Apr 7, 2009 4:19:05 PM

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Kat,

This is the problem so many of us have, we want it all! We deserve it all, but can't have it all. So now you need to decide what's most important to you. In my world I would not give up PDA Net. In the future I might get an aircard which then I can say goodbye to PDA Net. Right now $720 more a year just can't bring myself to justify that expense.

Look at the bright side, heavy laptop means less gym time!

Dick

Chris Parks

Guest

Apr 8, 2009 2:45:40 AM

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A little poking around on the web and I found a possible solution for Mac owners.

http://www.engadget.com/2005/01/18/how-to-use-your-cdma-cellphone-as-a-usb-modem/

They also describe a do-it-yourself method for PC users. Scroll down for the Mac version which seems easier.

Enjoy

Chris Parks - ABR, e-Pro, GRI - Accelerated

Broker

CParksGo@Gmail.com

Kat Gardner

Group Member

Apr 8, 2009 10:05:43 AM

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Hi, Dick!

Here is a bit (I hope!) of good news for Mac users. I am also using Boot Camp on my Mac so I have access to PC stuff. I contacted the support department at PDAnet to ask if they have anything Mac compatible and was told "no". HOWEVER, if anyone is running parallels or bootcamp on their Mac, it should work just fine while in that mode. I have not tried it yet, but I plan to. I will let you know if it does indeed work. Another step toward the best of both worlds!

Kat

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