Windows Phone Thoughts: Just Mobile's SDIO 802.11g Wireless LAN Card

Zero Configuration Means Zero Configuration
Using the Just Mobile SDIO WiFi 802.11b/g card is a bit hard to explain because there is almost nothing to do—just install the driver, insert the card, and find a hotspot. It is really that simple! It worked flawlessly for me every time I used it.


Figure 3: The software driver install screen.

The CAB file for your device does not install any new application or modify the user interface on Pocket PC 2003 and newer devices, nor does it need to; you can configure the card and connect to networks using the Wireless Zero Configuration utility built into Windows Mobile. We all know that the “Zero Configuration” from Microsoft isn’t perfect, but it is pretty close to it.

If the wireless network you are connecting to requires specific information to be assigned to the card such as an IP address or DNS servers, this can be easily accomplished. Simply tap Start>Settings>Connections>Network Cards and you will see the listing for the SDIO 802.11g Adapter. Tap-and-hold the SDIO listing and you will be brought to the advanced configuration screens for the card. From here you can give the card the specific information required for whatever network you are attempting to connect to.

The Just Mobile 802.11g SD card supports open networks and networks protected with WEP, WPA1 or WPA2 security. I was able to use WPA successfully on my Treo 700W. I didn’t try WPA2, but I have no reason to believe it wouldn’t work just fine.

A Versatile First
Remember that this card is either the first, or one of the first, SDIO solutions available to handle 802.11g. It does its job in such a small form factor. As I mentioned earlier, one of the big advantages to the Just Mobile card is its size. It extends only 5mm from the top of the device. This will lessen your chances of breaking off the card with the bumps and dings of everyday mobile life.


Figure 4: The card in a Dell Axim.

While I am connected to Verizon Wireless’ EVDO network nearly all day and, in my area, there are very few areas where the reception is not strong enough to surf the web with ease, I can see that there will be times when I am thankful for the Just Mobile card. Whether I was at home or at the office, I often experienced speeds that were in excess of those available to me with the Verizon network. In addition it will allow me to share files with other devices easily.

I can also see folks using this device that might even have WiFi built-in to their device. Today’s devices have 802.11b built-in and you might want to take advantage of the faster speeds afforded by 802.11g.

Conclusions
Admittedly for me, having WiFi built into my device is less critical than it was only a few short years ago. With 3G on the verge of blasting off in the U.S. and EVDO networks available almost everywhere, built-in WiFi or an SDIO solution like the Just Mobile card are simply not as useful as they once were. Still, having a solution like this that supports 802.11g can certainly come in handy from time to time. At the price point offered, the Just Mobile card is a solution that makes sense for almost everyone. Small, light, and easy to use, the Just Mobile SDIO 802.11G card offers a convenient solution that won’t wring out your wallet.

Len Egan is a pension consultant residing in Gales Ferry, CT. He has been a mobile enthusiast since he first used the Sharp Wizard 18 years ago. In addition to his love of bright, shiny objects, Len also enjoys baseball, college basketball, and spending time with his family.