> * I am think they are living in a black spot, they use moblie phones so that >seams unlikely
Not really, being able to talk on a mobile phone and being able to use 3G are completely different issues. In my experience if you have anything less than 50% signal strength your ability to use 3G can be seriously compromised, or non-existent. I have an Optus PAYG SIM that I use in a USB 3G modem (Huawei E160E) and also inserted directly into my Eee PC. The Huawei gives a LED indication of when 3G is active (Blue) or if it has had to downtrain to GPRS due to poor signal strength/bandwith. At home, it's very rare to get full 3G connection and speed during busy times - after 3.30PM on weekdays and on Sunday afternoon, that sort of thing. At other times it can be blindingly fast if I do manage to get a 3G connection such as at 2AM. So, my ability to use the Optus 3G network can vary from completely unusable (similar to what you are seeing) to blindingly fast. Fortunately I got the 3G wireless to get internet while traveling and have a wired connection for home use which keeps the frustration to a minimum. The Optus 3G seems to work very well in most towns I go to. To test the 3G modem you need to take it to a place where there's excellent signal strength. If it works there (and it should) but not at your friend's place then you have a 3G coverage issue. You should be able to get your money back on the spend is the product is not suitable for the intended location. Chris -- ubuntu-au mailing list [email protected] https://lists.ubuntu.com/mailman/listinfo/ubuntu-au
