eReader Connectivity : Computer Hardware Buyers’ Glossary

Introduction

There are three ways to get eBooks into an eBook reader). Typically a given Kindle, Kobo, Nook, Sony model will support only one or two of these possible methods USB (Universal Serial Bus), WiFi (Wireless Fidelity) and 3G:

USB

You plug your Kindle in to a USB port on your computer which in turn has an Internet connection.

• Rock steady
• Does not require a WiFi router.
• Works anywhere in the world there is any kind of Internet access.

• Requires an extra cable with delicate connections. It is easy to misplace or damage the cable.
• Does not work travelling unless your laptop has Internet access. You can read eBooks, just not import/buy new ones.

WiFi

You must be in the proximity of a WiFi router. This may be at home or in an Internet café. You then logon to the local WiFi network using a password.

• No cable required.
• Very fast.

• Requires you to have a WiFi router installed. That may mean upgrading your perfectly good non-WiFi router.
• If you use your Kindle in a friend’s house, they must divulge the password of their local WiFi network.
• Does not work while travelling. You can read eBooks, just not import/buy new ones.

3G Cell Phone Network

• No cable required.
• Does not require a WiFi router or computer ever.
• Works anywhere in North America there is 3G cell phone coverage.
• Works while travelling. Does not need a computer nearby.

• It requires paying a cell phone company a monthly access fee and roaming fees. Amazon bundles this into the purchase price. This is why Kindle 3G models are so much more expensive.
• Does not work where there is no 3G cellphone coverage. You can read eBooks, just not import/buy new ones.

The trend is away from USB and 3G toward WiFi.