3g external dongle for android tablet

Types of 3G External Dongles

A 3G external dongle for Android tablet is a small device that connects to a tablet via a USB port or other interface. It enables 3G network connectivity by plugging in a SIM card. These dongles are popular among users who need internet access on the go or in areas without Wi-Fi because they provide a convenient way to stay connected to the web. The fact that one can connect them directly into their Android tablets makes them extremely portable and easy to use.

An external 3G dongle can come in different types, which include;

• Unlocked Dongle: An unlocked 3G dongle is a mobile broadband modem not tied to a particular phone network or mobile service provider. These devices offer great flexibility and freedom, allowing users to select and use any network provider's SIM card, regardless of the brand or network affiliation. Unlocked 3G dongles can be used with different network operators, giving users the option to choose the best mobile data plan or SIM card for their needs in any country.
• Locked Dongle: On the other hand, locked 3G dongles are network confinement devices that are usually subjected to a specific mobile operator or network provider. Typically, these lockings prevent users from inserting a SIM card belonging to a different network provider, thus, restricting the use of locked dongles to one specified brand. This can be advantageous for users who intend only to use the 3G dongle within a region covered by the network provider it is locked to. Nevertheless, locked 3G dongles can be frustrating when trying to use them with various networks or when traveling internationally, as they may limit connectivity options.
• Pay-as-you-go (PAYG) Dongle: PAYG 3G dongles are prepaid mobile broadband devices that use a pay-as-you-go billing system. With these dongles, users pay for their data upfront, purchasing a predetermined amount of data that can be used without incurring further charges. This makes the PAYG model ideal for people who need occasional or variable data usage, as one only pays for what they require.
• Contract Dongle: Contract 3G dongles, on the other hand, are typically tied to a long-term contract with a mobile network provider. Users must agree to a contract period, often ranging from 12 to 24 months, during which they receive a specified amount of data each month. Contracts usually come with subsidized hardware, making the upfront cost of the dongle much lower than PAYG alternatives.

Functions and Features

• SIM Card Support: Many 3g external dongles for android tablets require a SIM card to function, much like mobile phones. They often have either a full-size or a mini SIM card slot, allowing the installation of a data SIM card to provide internet connectivity. This enables the tablet to access the cellular network through the dongle for internet service anywhere a mobile signal is available.
• Driver Installation: For many Android tablets, user-friendly driver installation is needed for the dongle to work. This usually involves simply plugging the dongle into the tablet's USB port, after which the necessary drivers can be automatically installed or manually downloaded if required. This makes it relatively easy for users to get the dongle up and running on their tablet for internet access with minimal setup procedures.
• Network Connectivity: The primary purpose of 3G dongles for tablets is to provide internet access through cellular networks when WiFi is unavailable or unreliable. Dongles use mobile networks, such as EDGE, GPRS, GSM, 3G, or HSPA+, to allow users to stay connected online for activities like web browsing, emailing, or downloading while on the go. This ensures that users can have internet access anywhere for their tablet, even without a WiFi connection.
• Portability: 3G dongles are renowned for their portability and convenience. They are relatively small, lightweight, and easy to carry, making them suitable to slip into a pocket or bag. Their design and features also allow them to connect to mobile networks to provide internet access anytime, anywhere. This allows users to stay connected online, regardless of their location, with minimal effort.
• Reliability: One of the key advantages of using a 3G Internet dongle for a tablet is reliability. Dongles connect to dedicated mobile networks to offer consistent internet access. This helps prevent common issues like spotty WiFi signal strength or connection problems that can arise when sharing a phone's hotspot. With a 3G dongle, users can obtain dependable online connectivity for their tablet, especially in areas where mobile phone tethering may be less stable.
• Instant Use: 3G dongles are designed for a straightforward setup process, allowing users to get connected quickly and easily. They typically plug directly into the USB port of the tablet, and within moments, internet access through the dongle is available. This convenience enables users to obtain online connectivity instantly whenever required, providing a seamless user experience.

Usage scenario of 3G external dongle for Android tablet

Three main uses for Android tablet 3G dongles include adding connectivity to an uncellular tablet, creating portable Wi-Fi, and boosting signal strength.

• Adding connectivity to an uncellular tablet: A 3G dongle for an Android tablet can make an unc cellular Android tablet capable of 3G network access. This is useful for users who want Internet service for their Android tablet while on the go or in places with no Wi-Fi. Prior to using the dongle, users need to check for compatibility with their Android tablet and ensure that the tablet supports tethering or data sharing from the dongle.
• Creating portable Wi-Fi: After connecting the 3G dongle to the Android tablet successfully, users can share the 3G mobile Internet from the dongle as tethering or hotspot, Users can create a portable Wi-Fi network in order to connect other devices like smartphones, laptops, gaming consoles, or other Wi-Fi only tablets to enable access to the 3G network.
• Boosting signal strength: 3G dongles are external devices whose antennas may have better reception compared to the built-in antenna of a mobile tethering device. This makes the dongle capable of receiving a 3G signal better than an internally tethering device. Users who experience poor data connectivity or want to make use of 3G data in areas with bad coverage can benefit from the better reception ability of a 3G external dongle for an Android tablet. A 3G dongle generally offers better reception than a mobile hotspot with built-in 3G because of its ability to move the antenna outside or to a different location.

How to choose a 3G external dongle for an Android tablet

Purchasing a 3G dongle tablet requires careful consideration of several factors to meet connectivity requirements. Here are some crucial aspects to assess when selecting a 3G dongle for an Android tablet.

• Compatibility

  The compatibility of the Android tablet 3G dongle with the tablet must be verified as it is a primary requirement of a 3G dongle. This information can be obtained from the manufacturer or supplier. In addition, confirm whether the Android tablet can support dongles through USB OTG. OTG allows devices like tablets to connect to other peripherals such as flash drives or mice. Check if the tablet has a USB port or a micro USB/micro USB type-c port. If it has a micro USB/micro USB type-c port, a dongle with adapters or a USB type-c dongle will be suitable.

• Network

  Assess the 3G dongle's network coverage to ensure it can connect to the preferred mobile network. For optimal internet access, examine its capacity to connect with other mobile networks.

  In rural or remote locations, ensure the dongle provides consistent coverage. Consider reviewing customer evaluations to understand the experience of other users concerning the 3G dongle's network coverage and reliability.

• Plan Costs

  Evaluating the 3G dongle's internet plan costs is essential long-term. Consider the data allocation in various internet plans and determine if it meets the customer's mobile usage. If the intended use is primarily to access emails or social media, select a plan catering to that purpose. Alternatively, if streaming videos or downloading large files is to be done, an internet plan with higher data allocation should be chosen.

• Performance and dongle speed

  To understand the 3G dongle tablet performance, seek insights regarding its functionality and ascertain that it can deliver sufficient speed for planned online activities. For instance, if it is necessary to stream videos, work online, or download large files, ensure the dongle can provide adequate speed for those tasks.

• Availability and support

  The reliability of customer support and its accessibility are critical factors to examine. Consider assessing the feedback from other users concerning the responsiveness and support quality. Ensure assistance can be received conveniently whenever help is required.

  Finally, ensure that a 3G external dongle for the Android tablet can be acquired quickly, particularly when additional dongles are required in the future.

Q&A

Q1: Can a 3G external dongle be connected to an Android tablet?

A1: If the Android tablet has USB Host/OTG support, then a 3G dongle can be connected.

Q2: What version of Android is required for a 3G dongle to work?

A2: Android 4.1 Jelly Bean or a later version is required ideally, but some dongles may need specific drivers that are only supported by older Android versions.

Q3: Is it possible to tether a mobile phone's hotspot to the tablet instead of using a dongle 3G?

A3: Yes, many modern mobile phones support tethering and creating a Wi-Fi hotspot that tablets can connect to.

Q4: Can voice calls be made using 3G dongles on Android tablets?

A4: Voice calling features depend on the apps used and mobile network compatibility. Apps like Skype or WhatsApp enable calls over data networks.

Q5: Where can 3G dongles be purchased if they are not included with the Android tablet?

A5: Dongles are often available at electronics retailers, online marketplaces, and some telecommunications provider stores. Based on specific needs, they can also be bought from known brands or manufacturers online.