new to this- WiFi v. Bluetooth

[Clie User44]

I am only recently learning about this wireless technology available thru a PDA- so pardon my naive understanding. Am I correct in saying that WiFi is generally faster than bluetooth, but that bluetooth is more versatile?

This makes me think I should go for the TG-50 model since I am interested in being able to access the net on the go, not just in specific locations. However, if WiFi is going to become more widespread I wonder if it is still the best way to go. Especially if the hospital I work in will set up a network WiFi.

Any help or input in deciding which to use is greatly appreciated. I want to make sure I am spending money on something I will be able to use.

[Eddy]

Originally posted by Clie User44
Especially if the hospital I work in will set up a network WiFi.
I think your decision should be based on whether your Clie will be used mainly for personal purposes or for work at the hospital? Since the TG has built-in BT, (yet lacks the WiFi), you'd be stuck with BT only, unless you're willing to pay for the extra bluetooth Memory Stick. :)
If size isn't a problem for you, then why not have both? eg. the NZ with built-in bluetooth as well as the external WiFi adapter?

Since you're still in the mist of deciding which CLIE you'd like to purchase, you might perhaps like to hold off for another 2 weeks for the NX73 with the Bluetooth built-in? (But that's the UK model only)

[Eddy]

unless you're willing to pay for the extra bluetooth Memory Stick.
ah... sorry for the typo. just got out of bed, my head is spinning.

[Clie User44]

Thanks for the help/info. My main goal is flexibility in access anywhere, not necessarily only at work. From your tone, I guess I am then correct in saying that the connection with WiFi is usually better than for BT.

How much would it cost to get WiFi set up at my house in case I follow this path?

[Clie User44]

Oh, also...the 73 model will not be an option since I am in the US and though the NZ is ideal in having both capabilities, it is more than I am willing to shell out at this point :)

[Eddy]

well, I've an NX so obviously I don't use Bluetooth. :) But would be nice if I had the function. Neither do I have the cash to burn for the BT stick.
The disadvantage with WiFi is that you'd have to look for Hot-Spots (eg. StarBucks) to connect your Clie to the internet. But if you were talking about setting up a wireless network just so you can use your CLIE wireless at home. That's quite some money you're talking about there. :)
With BlueTooth, you can also create a bluetooth environemt at home just as well (same applies with money). But you can have a bluetooth phone with data-line access and as I see you want to be able to retrieve data on the go so that might be a better option for you. Hope this helps.

[Clie User44]

Thanks Eddy. This is a help. I am leaning more toward the TG-50, though I do like the Word editing feature of the NX70. I guess BT is my best option, so looks like I'll be giving T-mobile a call this AM. Thanks again.:)

One last question, is there a BT stick which can be used on the NX70? Sounds like it might be cost limiting, but I have not come across such a stick yet.

Thanks.

[gazzab]

I too wanted to move into the wireless world and just added a bluetooth memorystick to my NR70v.

Very disappointed! I found the range very limited and very slow. Web browsing is a pain as the trial browser i use is 320,320 and looks awful. the only fullscreen browser i can find keeps reseting my machine.

I also need to be within a couple of meters from my pc to browse the web or to use VNC/winhand, what's the point!!?? I might as well use the PC itself.

My phone is not BT and anyhow the bills would be so high(UK). Now wifi sounds abetter bet.....server running upstairs and sitting downstairs and I can 'remote control' it using vnc. I can fetch my email while my wife does her designer thing on the mac.Great!!

So should I upgrade my NR70v + BT memory stick for an NX + wifi card????

I like the look of the smaller TC with 400mhz and 64mb and wifi....

[n2ifp]

Think of Bluetooth as more like wireless USB or Infrared. Although both cost money, I believe the WiFi 802.11b is a bit cheaper to setup. There is some crossover, but no one size fits all. For my usage, the wireless WLAN was better.

[gazzab]

I have to think that wifi would suit me too as I have wlan already.

Can you increase the range of BT around the home by using a class 1 dongle in the PC/Mac and still have it all work with the Clie class 2 BT card?

[Unregistered]

Blue tooth Sucks ******* BLUE TOOTH BLOWS COCK AND SUCKS NUTS AND LICKS ****IN ****---- Thank you!!

[soybomb]

T-Mobile USA, if you haven't heard, now offers unlimited GPRS Internet for $20 (actually, I was told it's their ONLY Internet plan now). I don't know if T-Mobile in Europe is doing the same... Made my purchase of the BT MS that much sweeter...

[Ezikial Anta]

(Wow unregistered... <---Moron) I like my WiFi better- cause my school doesnt have a bluetooth access point but has a WiFi
www.homestarrunner.com
^^^^Useless (funny) Flash Animations

[cosFFM]

Well,

I have a WIFI setup at home and unfortunately can't use it with my TG50. I've thought about getting a NX w/wireless card but in my case the bluetooth connection with my mobile phone and a GPRS plan makes more sense. Excluding my home I know only of a few other WIFI-spots (starbucks, airport, trainstation) here in frankfurt where I live.

With the bluetooth connection I can check and send emails always whereever I am. My GPRS plan is quite affordable with 5 MB transfer for about 10 USD a month.

Here at home I connected a USB bluetooth dongle to my desktop computer to piggyback my DSL connection and do the email thing or instant messaging on my balcony with the clie. this is nice and I would prefer to do that over my WIFI of course eliminating the need to have the computer running if I just want to do a quick email check. That's why I am eagerly awaiting the arrival of a WIFI memorystick - whenever that happens). This would be my perfect setup. Well, even better would be integrated WIFI and bluetooth for my needs.

[Eddy]

off topic
Frankfurt, quiet and lovely place, been there twice. But over at the Mainz area. :)

[cosFFM]

;-) glad you liked it.