I have a Verizon wireless CDM 9500 phone. I bought a cable and software through the Verizon Wireless store that uses a usb connection to my laptop. Verizon has a couple of plans. You can use the highspeed access for an extra charge or you can connect using the quick2net connection while slower is free (it only is charged regular minutes like you were talking) I have the Americas Choice plan though. So after 9:00 PM Local time to 5:59 AM Local time and Weekends I have unlimited minutes so I virtually have unlimited internet minutes between those times. You can also set up your ISP pop3 mail server so you can access your email, and you can also dial your ISP and connect directly. I have 700 regular min, 2000 mobile to mobile, unlimited nights and weekends for 65 dollars. I believe the cheapest rate with verizon is about 35 dollars and you still get unlimited minutes.
Mark James