Mount Pleasant DC Forum

[Oatmeal Prince]

Hi folks,

I just recently moved to Mt. Pleasant. Currently, I use a DSL service provided by NewConnect (http://www.newconnect.us/); the apartment building I'm in has a deal with them, so I just pay $20 each month with my rent for Internet access. You get what you pay for, though--at times I'll have up/down speeds around 5mbps, which is pretty good and generally sufficient for my browsing needs, but it's almost always well below that, with speeds around evening (like now) usually slowing to 56kbps, rendering many modern websites borderline unworkable.

From what I gather, I have two alternatives: Comcast cable or Clear WiMax. They both have almost universally negative reviews on Yelp, but I'd be interested to hear about others' experiences with them. Or if anyone knows of other options, I'd love to hear them!

Thank you.

[dsachdev]

I used to have Speakeasy DSL here, but it eventually was too slow. I have Comcast now, and also had a Clearwire puck for a while and it worked well. I just switched over to a Verizon MyFi, but the switch from Clear to Verizon was due to no Clear signal where my business partner needed it. It was really pretty good for me here.

There is also the Internet Coop that just got started in MtP. I would consider first contacting them.

[jkaiser]

Does anyone have a web site or contact info for the Mt. P Internet coop?

[dsachdev]

Here is the contact info - plus a little more info:

BTW - this was from 8 months ago, and they do have a network up and running. I don't know the extent of it though. There is an email address on the bottom:

Are you interested in helping Mt. Pleasant build its own wireless network?
A wireless network can help you communicate with your neighbors and share the cost of an Internet connection. Building one requires cooperation with your neighbors. You can support this effort by offering any of these things: roof space and electricity to host a wireless router, bandwidth, technical or handy-work skill, and local organizing to name a few. It will take the support of many community members, so please bring your dedication to Mt. Pleasant with you.

With a community-owned and run wireless network, the potential benefits for our community include:

faster Internet access
lower phone bills
health information
neighborhood safety
environmental justice
local news and education
many applications we cannot yet imagine.

If you are interested in supporting this project further with your time and skills, or if you want
more information, please email [email address removed - log in to view] and join us at the meeting!