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General discussion

how can i get online with the psp ?

Dec 11, 2006 4:32AM PST

I'm thinking about getting a psp and i haven't been paying attion to it since it came out and i want to know how can i get online with the psp do i have to buy anything or pay a service can somebody help me please

Discussion is locked

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Internet access on the PSP...
Dec 11, 2006 6:19AM PST

The PSP includes integrated WiFi (802.11b) support, so there is nothing for you to buy. Access to the internet however, requires you to be within range of a wireless network or a 'Hotspot' (a public location where WiFi is offered). Some places charge you a base fee or an hourly fee to access the hotspot, some offer it free to paying customers, and some let anyone passing by to use it. Thus, whether or not you have to pay for the service depends on where you are. Just keep in mind that it won't work everywhere...you must be within range of one of those designated locations. To find out where some of those locations are click here.

Hope this helps,
John

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how close do i have to be to a hotspot
Dec 11, 2006 7:47AM PST

how close do i have to be to a hotspot

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The distance can vary...
Dec 11, 2006 8:25AM PST

The exact distance varies greatly depending on the strength of the receiver as well as what objects are between you and the receiver. A series of walls, for instance, would drastically reduce the distance from which you could pick up a signal. In addition, the closer you get the stronger the signal would be, resulting in fewer dropped connections and an increase in speed. Generally, though, you would want to be within 150 feet or so of the source.

John

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so 1.1 miles would be to far
Dec 11, 2006 12:34PM PST

so would 1.1 miles be to far because thats closes i know of

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Depends...
Dec 11, 2006 1:51PM PST

For a home network or the local coffee shop you would be way too far out of range. However, some places, such as airports, major companies, and colleges, with a large land area to cover use high-gain external antennas that can be used from a couple miles away. Chances are that that is not the case around you, and even if it were it would almost definitely be restricted for authorized use only. There are a few cities that are being blanketed in WiFi, such as Google's 'home town,' but aside from that you must be relatively close to the source.

John

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is it still worth geting
Dec 12, 2006 6:50AM PST

thanks john is it still worth geting

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Yes...
Dec 12, 2006 7:19AM PST

You may not be able to use the internet capabilities of the PSP unless you are within range, but it is still one of the best handheld gaming devices available, and it has the ability to play movies as well. While it may be nice to have and use, wireless networking is not and make-or-break point in this device.

John

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i don't want to sound dumb
Dec 18, 2006 7:45AM PST

i don't want to sound dumb because i don't know but can you buy something to make it work outside a hotspot and i don't mean buy something for my home to make it work because at home i could just use my computer i mean for the psp to make it work anywhere

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No...
Dec 18, 2006 1:37PM PST

Such does exist for laptops, PDAs, and more through the usage of your cell phone provider's data plan (which can be expensive considering the monthly and/or usage fees), but unfortunately it is not an option for the PSP. Unless you're within range of a hotspot you're simply out of luck. Based on this thread, perhaps you would be more interested in a device such as the T-Mobile Sidekick or Sony Mylo? They are both combinations of a cell phone and multimedia device, and while gaming is not as much of a strength as them is for the PSP they do have the ability to access the internet from just about anywhere. They might be worth a look.

Hope this helps,
John


P.S. Never forgo asking a question because you fear 'sounding stupid.' Asking questions is the way we all learn, so the worst thing you can do is go on forevering wondering but never knowing.

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thanks alot
Dec 18, 2006 3:53PM PST

thanks john you've been a real big help and i mean it. the psp is still pretty cool so i think I'll get it. thanks for the info and advice that's was real cool of you and I'll try to start asking more questions and i hope you have a marry christmas bye