This post is my recommendation for gadgets or equipment which people can best take advantage of when they have access to reliable and fast broadband internet. Trinidad and Tobago has recently seen the introduction of new internet service providers and as competition becomes more fierce the offerings are more appealing. You can get a decent package for approx $200TTD per month. Many more people have access to broadband and many even have multiple options. Technology globally has reached a level where a high level of computing power is now affordable to many people. Many quality devices can even be purchased second hand. This is amazing.
My definition of broadband internet is a connection at least 5 Mbps download and 512 Kbps upload. Multiple users on this level of connection would see major degradation in service as more users are added and online simultaneously.
1. Wireless router - a fast connection can be easily broadcast throughout your home to your multiple devices with a relatively inexpensive wireless router. Some internet providers supply these devices for free or for a fee and some no not offer it at all. Be sure to choose a strong password for your wireless network. A capable device can be purchased for under $300TTD at a local computer store. You should aim for one that is 802.11ac capable, gigabit ports and external antennas such as the TP-LINK Archer C5 AC1200.
2. Tablet (PC) - A small tablet PC is very convenient for the consumption of online content. A tablet is not very good to do a lot of inputting (typing, editing, creating) content as typing, selecting and modifying content is difficult on a touch screen. For most people a 7 inch tablet would be quite sufficient. You can easily browse Facebook, stream movies, chat on Skype, etc. Note that these are not very heavy on inputting data into the device. I recommend aiming for a quad core device with an IPS display panel and front camera for under $100usd. Get a case also since a fall is likely for a portable device. If you already have a smart phone this may be sufficient if the phone has enough horsepower and a decent screen and speakers.
3. Laptop - Laptops should be purchased if you do a lot of typing or editing and creating content. A full size physical keyboard and mouse are much easier to use than a touch screen on a tablet. Yes, I know you can connect a full size keyboard and mouse to tablets but I am considering using the tablet on its own. A capable laptop can be purchased for under $500usd online. You also have the option of upgrading an existing laptop by putting in more RAM and a solid state hard drive to revive it. You need to research if your laptop has a SATA connector and the model of RAM required.
4. Surveillance cameras - Security is a major issue in the country and camera systems are more affordable then ever. It is even possible to install these systems yourself. After it is properly configured you can view the cameras from anywhere on the internet any time you wish or even have alerts coming to you when an alarm is triggered.
5. Smart TV - I recommend shopping around for a decent non-smart TV since the price difference to step up to a smart one can be large. You have the option to make a non-smart TV (not CRT) smart using a smart device such as a Roku or Chromecast dongle. The big name plug in dongle devices would typically have a longer support life for bug and security fixes than a TV. The Roku would plug into an HDMI port on your TV and can be controlled remotely via your phone or an included remote. Note that a large amount of content is restricted in our region and you may not always have the latest and greatest shows. These dongle devices can be purchased used for under $50usd online. Now that you have a smart TV you will need a way to interact with it like a wireless keyboard and mouse. An excellent choice is the Logitech k400 plus keyboard and mouse combo. Also consider a line conditioner or uninterruptable power supply (UPS) to ptotect your expensive devices.
6. DECT 6 cordless phone - some cordless phones use the same frequency range as WiFi devices. This means the devices can unintentionally cause interference to each other. A symptom of this problem can be that your wireless connection drops when your phone rings or you make a call. A DECT 6 phone uses a completely separate range of frequencies so there will not be any interference. Calls are also clearer and have more range than the older systems. You can now have multiple handsets and charger bases throughout your home and not have to run any wires since the range from the main base station is increased.
7. VPN - this would not be an option to most people, but know that broadband now enables you to do this if you were allowed to. With broadband you can check your work emails, access server files and be productive while out of the office. This would have to be configured by your workplace.
You can also remote control your PC from outside your home once it is set up properly.
Related to this is you can also play games online with people in other parts of the globe.
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Updated 15th May 2016
Topics
Best router for Flow
Good deal laptop computer
Is smart tv worth it
What can broadband do for me
Should I take digicel fibre internet
Smart tv in trinidad
Security cameras in Trinidad and Tobago
Tablet computer on wifi
If you like this post please support the blog by clicking on ads. You support this blog by clicking through the amazon links above.
Updated 15th May 2016
Topics
Best router for Flow
Good deal laptop computer
Is smart tv worth it
What can broadband do for me
Should I take digicel fibre internet
Smart tv in trinidad
Security cameras in Trinidad and Tobago
Tablet computer on wifi
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