Wi-Fi and computers

[travis_jones]

I have a few questions about how you all use your computer other than
mapping-- I would certainly appreciate any sort of discussion you could give me on this topic since I am writing an informational article on truckers and computers
1. how did you first get interested in computers?

2. Have you received any formal training on computers--if so, can you
describe?

3. Do you have internet access? Wi-Fi is all the rage--have you tried it?

4. About how many hours a week do you spend on your computer?


5. What do you love about the computer and what do you "hate" about it?


6. Would you recommend that other O/O get a lap top for their cab? Why or why not?

7. Lastly, your favorite pasttime on the computer???

Please feel free to run with this...no need to answer every question in the order that it appears--...Thanks for your input! ps. you can either respond to this message or send me an email.

tjones

 

[Glen Rice]

At the company I was leased to FedEx Custom Critical, the computer was needed for information data downloading from our refrigerated freight box for customer quality assurance. So we went and purchased our first laptop, printer and scanner. The internet was a natural move next for information and communication to freinds and family. The down side was the addiction that followed. Checking Emails before going to bed and the like! Pretty crazy huh? We used Verizon internet wireless connection. It worked very well and had very few "dead" spots. We also used yahoo Efax service and had intermitent luck with that service. As far as training goes, we learned from other contractors more than from the "experts" at the computer stores. Of course today, we would not be without our computer. Hope other readers give there input as well.

 

[davekc]

We generally use it for internet, card games ect. Also, our statements and company info is readily available. Wi-Fi seems to have worked well for us. Spend the extra dollars for a good antenna.
We have two computers, a Gateway and a Toshiba. We bought the Toshiba at Bestbuy because you can walk in any store and get basic service. Anything major, has to be sent out.
Hope that helps.
Davekc

 

[chetjester]

I am an ex-network administrator and programmer and an Oracle Certified Database Administrator. Now, I'm an expeditor. I'm a lot happier.

I first got on the road using my Sprint PCS connected to my laptop, which works, but is too slow for me. I signed up for Wi-FI in Shreveport, and now, Flying J is my favorite place to stop (also, my truck only holds 75 gallons of diesel, so I like Flying J because they give me "1/2 Shower" coupons.)

I tried connectiing at the TA in Monroe, MI, but didn't have any luck. I'll be there tomorrow, and may try connecting again. Depends on the cost. Also, I've used Idle-Aire with their internet connection, but haven't tried their Wi-FI yet.

I could talk to you about computers for a long time as I have been installing and programming software since 1987. I run really hard, so I'm not online as much as I would like, but get on often enough.

 

[ATeam]

>I am an ex-network administrator and programmer and an
>Oracle Certified Database Administrator.

Impressive!

Now, I'm an expeditor. I'm a lot happier.

Even more impressive! Way to go!

My wife and I use an AirCard on a cell phone company plan. Unlimited access for $80 a month. Works hundreds of miles away from truck stops. Does not work in all areas. One of us is often able to sit in the sleeper and surf as the other one drives.






>
>I first got on the road using my Sprint PCS connected to my
>laptop, which works, but is too slow for me. I signed up
>for Wi-FI in Shreveport, and now, Flying J is my favorite
>place to stop (also, my truck only holds 75 gallons of
>diesel, so I like Flying J because they give me "1/2 Shower"
>coupons.)
>
>I tried connectiing at the TA in Monroe, MI, but didn't have
>any luck. I'll be there tomorrow, and may try connecting
>again. Depends on the cost. Also, I've used Idle-Aire with
>their internet connection, but haven't tried their Wi-FI
>yet.
>
>I could talk to you about computers for a long time as I
>have been installing and programming software since 1987. I
>run really hard, so I'm not online as much as I would like,
>but get on often enough.