A USB modem is practically the only way to get the Internet where there are only mobile operators from the providers. The article describes in detail the characteristics of the Megaphone modems.
Modem Megaphone 4G: Reviews and Features
Nowhere without the Internet. However, not everywhere there is a Wi-Fi network. And if there is, then it is far from free. What to do? And here the mobile Internet comes to our aid. Of course, in some parts of our country remote from the center, its speed leaves much to be desired. And this is to say the least. But as they say, fishlessness and cancer are fish. The mobile operator Megafon offers unlimited access to the network with a modem for a reasonable price.
Reviews about this device from the very first models have always been different: some scolded for unstable speed, others, on the contrary, rejoiced in compactness and cheapness. The main pros and cons of this modem, we will analyze a little lower.
Megaphone M100-4
The undisputed leader among all modems from this company is Megafon M100-4. The maximum speed of data transmission and reception is 100 Mbps. Not bad. However, this speed is difficult to achieve in practice. Unless in the center of Moscow, and then standing in one place. And yet this is the most “smart” modem “Megaphone”. What is a definite plus.
Together with the MegaFon 4G tariff plan, the M100-4 modem is capable of producing good data transfer speeds. In addition, it is “crammed” with a ton of settings, which greatly simplifies the life of users. To use, just connect it to the USB-output on the computer. Installation of the necessary drivers and software is automatic.
The modem supports microSD memory cards up to 32 GB. In principle, as in previous versions.
Installation and setup
How to connect a 4G MegaFon modem? Very simple. In order to install and configure the modem on a computer running Windows, just connect it to a USB port. Drivers will install automatically. In addition, you will be prompted to install additional “software” for the correct operation of the modem. We agree and install. Everything is ready, now you can start work.
Ubuntu setup
Oddly enough, the product from MegaFon also works successfully on computers running Linux. True, you need to spend some time setting up. One of the few modems running under Ubuntu is the 4G Megaphone modem. Reviews of "ubuntovod" about the quality of this device are mostly positive.
To configure a modem on Ubuntu, the following is required. First of all, we connect it to the computer. In the window that opens, select the desired country. From the list of operators, select "Megaphone". Now go to the APN settings. In the line of the access point we simply write internet. Everything, the modem is configured, you can work.
M100-3
The MegaFon M100-3 modem is, according to its filling, the Chinese device ZTE MF823. Unlike the M100-4, it is capable of supporting a data transfer rate of only 42 Mbps. Much less than his "brother." But otherwise everything is the same, there are no problems with installation and configuration. This is the average 4G Megaphone modem. Reviews about him are somewhat vague. Some people like him, while others complain about frequent “disconnects”. Although this may be caused by the very quality of communication or problems with software and computer drivers.
Both models (M100-4 and M100-3) are equipped with a special connector for connecting an external antenna. The antenna for the 4G-modem Megafon is purchased separately. It serves to improve the reception signal. Thanks to it, it will be possible to slightly increase the data transfer rate. But still, it will not be higher than the maximum available.
The Megaphone M100-3 modem works great on computers running Windows. But for Ubuntu users, the news is not very good. Theoretically, the M100-3 can be made to work in this OS through some "dancing with tambourines." But it will function badly. Many "ubuntovody" complain of constant "departures" and "disconnects." For the Linux family of OS this is not the best option.
M100-1
The USB-modem Megafon 4G 100-1 is the very first 4G-modem from this operator. As it should be "first in the family", the modem has an impressive size. Of the features of the case, it is worth noting the rotary mechanism of the USB connector, under which there is a micro-sim format SIM card slot. Very bad decision. Since the "microsims" from the "Megaphone" in the afternoon with fire you will not find. The absence of a standard slot for a memory card and a connector for connecting an external antenna hints to us that the model is “first”.
The data transfer rate is 24 Mbps. Weak, of course. Yes, and constant departures make themselves felt. Without an external antenna, using a modem is one torture. But the trouble is that you can’t connect the antenna to this "old man"! One hope for a good old reflector. He is at least slightly, but able to improve the quality of signal reception. This is exactly what the “first” MegaFon 4G modem looks like. Reviews about him are simply saturated with negativity. What can I say? The first pancake is always lumpy.
As for software and drivers, there are no problems for Windows users. And for users of other operating systems, the news is terrible. This "old man" cannot be forced to work under the same Ubuntu with any magic. If you have Ubuntu, then this modem is definitely not for you.
Software
The software of modems from Megafon includes the necessary driver packages and the branded Connect Manager. There is nothing to talk about drivers, but the manager should be discussed in more detail.
Of course, it does not shine with the beauty of the interface. However, functionality and information content are at their best. A pop-up window displays the current connection speed and the amount remaining on the balance. Very comfortably. In addition, the application has its own test for Internet connection speed. However, you should not rely on him. He often lies.
Of the useful features, it is worth noting the possibility of changing the 4G-3G mode on the fly. Disconnecting is now optional. The presence of the ability to send USSD commands is also a good plus of the application. And the “My Account” menu item will allow you to track your account balance in real time.
Availability
In general, MegaFon modems are available as part of the company's tariff plans for the Internet, and their cost will be 1 ruble. But in this case, it will be blocked for working only with SIM cards from Megafon. If this option does not suit you, you will have to "go broke" on the unlocked version.
For example, M100-1 modem "Megaphone" 4G. The price for it will be generally minimal. But you should think carefully about whether you need such an "old man." If you are already buying a modem, then it is better to stay on version M100-4. It meets the requirements of a modern Internet user. And his data transfer rate is the highest.
Antennas: home-made and factory
Separately, it is worth mentioning the various antennas. Coverage even in big cities sometimes leaves much to be desired, but outside the city the speed drops to a critical level. The reasons for this are the masses - the distance from the towers of the hundredth communication, the specific terrain, etc. This can be fixed using external antennas and reflectors. They are available in a wide price range, and if necessary, you can build such devices yourself, starting from elementary ones that do not require special knowledge, ending with professional ones that seriously increase the signal power.
Conclusion
4G modems from Megafon differ in their versions. And which one to choose is exclusively a matter of needs and finances. If you need a modern, modern device with support for all available functions, then you should pay attention to the "Megaphone" M100-4. If you need a modem with average parameters, then this is definitely an M100-3. Well, if all the same, if only there was Internet, then you can take the cheapest M100-1. The choice is yours.