ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A $1,200 SPEED DEMON+ BUNDLE FROM MobileMustHave! www.thervgeeks.com/rv-internet-solutions-2021/ SAVE 5% ON RV INTERNET TECH AT MobileMustHave WITH DISCOUNT CODE "THERVGEEKS2021" bit.ly/mmh-discount-thervgeeks2021
What I have to buy something to enter the giveaway??? I am on a budget I just bought a great generator for my RV, I wouldn’t be able to bay anything for a while, I don’t see where to enter the giveaway,
@@TomMack530 Hey Tom. No purchase is necessary to enter. You can enter the giveaway using the widget in the post on our website. Go here: www.thervgeeks.com/rv-internet-solutions-2021/ and you'll find the entry form near the bottom of the post. Good luck!!!
Whether your home is in a fixed location or moving on a boat or RV, having all the various systems organized & tidy must enhance quality of life. I understood about half of this presentation; however, you are definitely proud and confident with each component and have a great understanding of each.
John - Incredibly well-presented step-through of your rather complicated connectivity solution! Your explanations were clear and concise and serve as terrific tutorial for internet access possibilities in any RV. The best thing about your multi-layered solutions is the ability to glean and extract information about any one access strategy and utilize it for less demanding connectivity environments. Kudos!
Amazing video John! This was just the walk through I was looking for as to what options are available for RV internet. Now just have to get an RV :) . Cheers, hope you and Peter are doing great and congratulations to your continued success.
This is an absolute must-watch video!! I have two questions: 1- How did you get the wires from the Parsec Antenna to the cabinet? 2- This set-up is great for you (and others who full-time), but what do you recommend for those of us that just getaway for the weekend or a week?
Thanks Michael! The wires from all of our roof antennas come down through a conduit from the roof (the conduit is accessible inside that small junction box on the roof that the wires can be seen going into). Our rig came from the factory with a conduit to another spot on the roof, but we added a new one, closer to the tech cabinet, by drilling a new hole in the roof! We'd recommend that a JetPack type hotspot device works well in enough situations that many people never need any more than that, especially if they don't travel to extremely remote areas. Any actually, using your cell phone as a hotspot may even be enough, depending on your needs.
Great job, guys! I really dig your channel, you both are the Godfathers of RV RUclips channels. I've been watching for many years to date, keep up with the great content!!
Power savings aside, I presume that power panel is also super convenient when you need to power cycle devices to fix broken connections. Thanks for all of the great info. I learn so much from you guys.
Peter and John, Just came across your channel via RUclips. I must say your experience and professionalism makes watching the videos a great learning experience. I just retired from work literally today. Tonight I will fly from San Diego to pick-up my first new RV: a Newmar Mountain Aire similar to yours. At 72 years old and virtually no experience as a handyman, how could I find the right company or individual to undertake the Solar panel installation you demonstrated as well as the internet solutions you found helpful. I live in Carlsbad, Ca. and would travel to any expert you recommend. Again, any referral would be appreciated. Keep up the good work.
Hi Scott! Sorry for the delayed reply. Welcome, and congratulations on your retirement and your new rig! We sure do love our MA, and trust that you will too. AM Solar is one of the most reputable solar suppliers we know of, and they happen to be on the West coast, in Springfield, OR. We don’t believe they do installations of their gear, but they do have a list of authorized and recommended installers on their website, including in California. We’ve done our own solar installations, so have no personal experience with them, but they have a very good reputation. Their website it amsolar.com. As far as internet solutions, we totally trust Mobile Must Have as a supplier, which is why we offer a discount on their gear. Visit www.thervgeeks.com/discounts/ for details on discounts. We’re not sure that Mobile Must Have has details about qualified installers, but they are the best people to check with. You can visit their website and contact them here: mobilemusthave.com Hope this helps a bit. Safe travels!
Greetings! I am stuck in time and need your help. I watched a video where you had WiFi Ranger for your WiFi. I have upgraded that system twice since getting it. I have their last version I believe, the Elite AC with the Go2. How did you move from WiFi Ranger to the Pepwave? It is not mentioned here.
I use the Pepwave as well but learned early on (the hard way) not to run all my other cellular devices through it. If I, for example, put my phone on the RV’s WiFI then both use the cellular data allocated to the Pepwave and it runs out much sooner, while the phon’e allocation does not get used. I only use the Pepwave for devices without cellular data, unless i happen to be somewhere that I can run a cable modem into the WAN port.
That's a good point if your data plan in your Pepwave is limited, Bruce. Managing your data usage between devices is important. In our case, our AT&T plan in the Pepwave has a 500GB/month data cap... not something we'd ever come close to hitting. So we skew our data usage to that at all times possible, so our secondary data plan(s) are saved for use away from the RV and/or in situations where we don't have AT&T coverage (which is more rare out West). But everyone needs to balance their system in the way that works best for them!
Great video with real life practical examples and recommendations that made it easier for me to select the right gear from the get go. I was able to get the %5 RV Geeks discount on top of MMH's ongoing sale for a 5G Speed Demon bundle. Looking forward to testing the system in a couple of weeks. Thank you & safe travels!!!
Hi Ed! We bought that pre-cut galvanized steel plate (2’ x 2’) at a home improvement store (Home Depot or Lowe’s). The tape is Eternabond. A little pricey, but amazing stuff and comes in super handy. It’s worth every penny and we never travel without it! Here’s where you can get it: amzn.to/2V3Bu7D
Hey Mark! Great to hear from you. Hope you and Gaby are doing well. We’re in BC for the summer, but heading South soon. Where do you two call “home” these days? Cheers - Peter & John
This is fantastic, Thanks for the excellent detail! looking forward to the next five year update guessing the power switches will be replaced with mostly 5 volt (USB) and 12 with just a couple of 120s
Great video. Did you have any problems getting a good signal from the external antenna inside the rig? I wonder if you used an access point inside to enhance the signal. Thanks
Hey John S. We did, indeed, have some issues with getting strong enough WiFi signal inside the rig (particularly back in the bedroom at night with all the doors closed). Since we don't really ever need to connect to an external WiFi signal for our internet connection (i.e using WiFi-as-WAN to connect to an RV park's wifi signal), we just disconnected the cables for the Husky roof WiFi antennas and put the Pepwave's little whip antennas back. Worked like a charm and we instantly had stronger WiFi signal inside. In the RARE instances where we need to connect to an external WiFi network we just plug one of the two WiFi antennas for the Husky back in, and leave one of the whip antennas for internal signal. Again, works great. Though PepWave does sell an access point that you could connect and mount somewhere inside to provide a stronger network signal.
Quick question. What are you using for a ventilation fan for your tech cabinet? Is it a 12 volt fan? I am setting up a tech cabinet a lot like yours which is why I'm asking about the fan. I'm trying to run everything possible on 12 volt so that I don't have the inefficiency of inverting to 120 volt (Victron Multiplus 3000watt) and then converting back to 12 volt. I'm using the Pepwave Maxtransit Duo router and also have a Weeboost that will be permanently installed. Setting the tech cabinet up for a NAS later on. I almost exclusively boondook and need the most efficient use of my Battleborn 400ah 24v battery bank and 2100 watt solar system. Love your techie videos!! I learn a lot.
Hi Beth! Sounds like you’ve got a great setup planned. You’re right that sticking with 12v is best for Boondocking. As we showed in the video, we did that with the Pepwave & weBoost. Ashamedly, we ordered a 120V fan (this one: amzn.to/3iaosOP but they do have a USB-powered version, too) that hasn’t arrived yet. And even more embarrassing, the reason we went 120v was to take advantage of the switches on the surge protector. 🤫 Told you that was my favorite part of the upgrade! 😂 But, seriously, it’s also because our typical travel has us Boondocking in cooler weather. So even if we’re running the Pepwave & weBoost, the cabinet doesn’t get too hot. And in the summer, when it’s hottest out, we’re not Boondocking, so have the power to run the fan on 120.
Nice setup! Other than the second router, our tech cabinets are the same with different brands of NAS and eithernet switch. Went with the 5-n-1 pointing antenna which is good for our needs and the MAX BR1. Also I have a 12 VDC distribution switch installed to run the pepwave and weboost. Scary resemblance...lol
If you are able to divulge. What type of work are you performing (data requirements) in order to complete your daily work tasks? I work with 3D point clouds for instance, collected with a mobile scanner (Leica P2), and am looking into building a system that will allow me to work on the road with a solid internet connection/speed.
Sorry for the delayed reply…. we just saw your comment! While we absolutely have to have reliable connectivity, our data requirements aren’t necessarily that high. A heavy month for us might be 100 GB. Not sure how large the types of files are you’re working with, as we’re not familiar with 3-D point clouds. The biggest thing to be aware of with large data requirements is the “unlimited“ plans that throttle you back to absurdly low levels after a certain amount of data is used. Here’s a link to plans that might work for you: www.mobilemusthave.com/Cellular-Data-Plans_c_12.html?AffId=15
I noticed that you used the galvanized steel base plate for the magnetic mount of your Parsec Husky antenna. Where did you purchase the base plate and what are the dimensions?
Wow what a install! May i ask who did ir entire install? Is there somewhere i can go to have the work done to my unit? Thanks for all the videos. Godspeed!
Well thanks, Sir Charles! We did the install entirely ourselves. We're not sure where you could find a professional installer to do something similar for you... you might try contacting the folks over at MobileMustHave.com to see if they have any recommendations in your area.
Absolutely brilliant! Thanks for the thorough description. I wish my IT consultant had actually watched it as I told her I would pay her to do so that I could have saved $250 on wasted equipment because she didn't understand how the Pepwave worked. As a newbie FT RVer who needs to work from the road, I learn so much from your videos. I watched it two months ago when first posted, but watched it again now and learned even more. How much difference do you think the galvanized steel plate below the Parsec antenna makes? We recently installed a Poynting 7in1 MIMO antenna to our Pepware Max Transit Duo 12 (Bought as a package), but have no ground plane. Thank you.
Hey Paul. Thanks so much for the kind words... and sorry to hear that the "expert" you hired wasted your money! GAH! That always stinks! As for the ground plane, we honestly can't say how much it has/hasn't helped... since we've always had it in place. Both the Parsec and Poynting antennas say that you DON'T need a ground plane, as the antennas are designed to function fine without it. We just went with it in our case because it offered a simple way to mount the antenna... since it had the option of the magnetic mounting base.
That’s a good question! We wish we had a more comprehensive solution for it… what we have is a bit of a patchwork. We’d love to have a simple sync-to-the-cloud option, but because of the size of the files we’re often dealing with (and the slower upload speeds we may have), we can’t. So we assume some risk, try to keep extra small drives with copies, backup what we can to the cloud, and update offsite drives when we have the chance. Not ideal, but we do what we can.
Apparently, Ken, you can: support.mobilemusthave.com/support/solutions/articles/67000587726-setting-custom-ttl-on-peplink-devices And the A/C units are far enough away from the antennas they haven't seemed to pose any issue. The front A/C unit is about 8 feet behind the antenna.... and the rear A/C is about 35 feet back.
Good information! I have the Max Transit DUO but not using it at all right now because I'm stationary for the next 12-18 months (I've got my own broadband service locally). I do have a question. If you have such great equipment as you do with the Pepwave and its external antenna and you are only running an AT&T data card in it, what does the weBoost Drive Reach RV do? Is it pulling in the AT&T signal better than the Parsec 7-1 and the Pepwave grabs that stronger signal? It says it works with ALL carriers, so do you have someone other than AT&T for your cell phones that you are using this for (in case AT&T is too weak to connect with at all)? How are you then using the weBoost to then give internet access to your computers? Using phones as a hot spot? Lots of questions, I know. But I'm interested in knowing more as to how and what for you "have to use" the weBoost. Maybe you have another video dedicated to all of that. I'd be interested. Thanks!
Hi Randy. There’s a lot of questions here, so we’re not sure we’ve answered them all… But we use the weBoost to boost signal any time it’s low. Sometimes that’s when we’re in such a remote location that even the Pepwave with the Parsec antenna can’t get signal, and then we’ll disconnect one or more of the Parsec antenna cables and reattach the whip antennas to the Pepwave, and use the WeBoost to boost the Pepwave. Other times, if we’re in an area for a short period of time and the AT&T signal is be bad, we’ll use the WeBoost to boost signal on our cell phone… and hotspot our laptops and other equipment off the phone for that time. No one solution works 100% of the time, so it’s good to have options.
I’m new to your channel I really enjoy your videos you take the time to explain all your tips and information so it’s easy to understand and make it fun thank you so much for all your help. I have a 2020 Laredo fifth wheel I’m working on getting set up hope to see you guys out on the road sending positive energy 🙏🏼❤️🤙🏼✌🏼
Thanks so much, Mark. You just made our day! Congrats on your new fifth wheel... hope you get everything all set to your liking and get out and enjoy life on the road!
Hi Julius. Sorry we're away from the RV visiting family for the holidays, so we can't get up on the roof to see if there's a size marking or part number on it. But what we did was buy a variety pack of glands (having a supplyu on board comes in handy!). We bought this pack on Amazon, and it included the one we used: amzn.to/3E4ZNmi If we had to take a guess, we think it was a PG21, but might have been a PG25.
@@RVgeeks Thank you for the quick response & tip on the part! I just clicked the link and ordered the pack. It will come in handy for sure. Happy Holidays!
Oscillation issues with your current antenna placement aside, is it possible to use the Weboost to boost the Pepwave when it needs some extra help with signal? It might help you further reduce falling back to your phone hotspot option.
Hi Marv. Yes! We can alway re-attach the stubby antennas to the Pepwave… and either move it (and the interior weBoost antenna) down to the floor (to avoid oscillation). Or we can use a trick Tom Morton (Mortons on the Move) has used, where he wraps the stubby Pepwave antenna to the weBoost one with aluminum foil.
Great info, thank you! Maybe a dumb question... do you use the WeBoost to boost the signal of the Pepwave+Parsec? Looking to get a 7-1 myself, and connect it straight to the Nighthawk I have (for now, want to test that this antenna does help in some of the places we frequent before jumping full on into a setup like you all have).
No, not usually. We typically use the Parsec with the Pepwave… and about 90% of the time (in our travels, with AT&T), that works for us. The other 9% of the time, we can get by with a secondary plan (Verizon) on our phone… and boost that with the weBoost. Then, maybe 1% of the time, we need to disconnect 1 or 2 of the parsec cellular antennas, reattach a stubby/whip antenna to the Pepwave, and use the weBoost to boost that (either moving the combo to the floor or wrapping the whip antenna/weBoost antenna combo in aluminum foil to prevent oscillation with the roof antenna. Or… we just suck it up without data and plan to move the next day). 😉
Testing the Parsec with a Nighthawk will be interesting… though you’ll have some (very minor) signal loss with the adapters you’ll need between the two.
@@RVgeeks HA! Yeah... I've hot that wall a few times myself! We have GoogleFi in the Nighthawk and Verizon in our phones also. Most places we go, we are surrounded by trees and its a weak signal through either one. Have tried a couple different antennas... but nothing great. Hoping the Parsec solves some of it... but was interested in boosting that signal as well (seeing we are almost always in trees in the PNW).
@@RVgeeks True... just was hoping to get a better signal with the Parsec. If that doesn't solve our problem... maybe we are just mean not to work in the woods. 🙃
Another great video! Thanks! ...now, about that fan you are/have replaced... I'm looking for a quiet fan to cool my tech cabinet and some power generation equipment. Do you happen to have a recommendation and/or link? :-)
We’re actually still looking. This is the one we’re looking at, but haven’t placed our order, and of course we can’t comment on how well it works yet. amzn.to/3buUZez Hopefully we’ll decide, order, and get this one in soon. Please feel free to check back in a few weeks, and we should have it in place.
Hi Tony. We used about a 5" square waterproof box (like this one: amzn.to/3xmpnjO ) and a PG21 gland for the antenna cable. We could've gotten a pack of just PG21 glands, but since when we ordered them we weren't 100% sure the size we'd need, we got an assortment pack (this one from Amazon: amzn.to/3iGWj2q ). At least now we'll have our choice of size for the next project! LOL!
Maybe I missed it. Does the WeBoost connect to the Road Warrior / Pepwave? I just used your discount code and ordered the Road Warrior system that y'all all have. I already have the WeBoost, but not the same WeBoost you have. Just curious if they'll work together. Thank you in advance for your help!!
Hi Doug. The two devices (WeBoost & Pepwave) don't directly connect, but you CAN use them together. You can use the WeBoost's internal antenna to boost one or more of the Pepwave's whip-style antennas (that come with the PepWave). You'd have to disconnect the Parsec antenna's cable(s) to do it, though. Or leave one Parsec antenna cable connected, and attach the whip to the secondary port on the PepWave and boost that. You'll have to be careful that doing that doesn't cause the WeBoost to oscillate... which is the cellular equivalent of feedback between a speaker & microphone. Tom Morton of Mortons on the Move has done that with his system by wrapping the Weboost internal antenna to the Pepwave whip antenna using aluminum foil (check out their post & video about their setup here: mortonsonthemove.com/rv-internet/ ). We haven't done that with our setup, though. We usually use the WeBoost to boost a secondary data plan in our iPhone. So if we're in a spot where the Pepwave isn't able to get us online, it's usually because the AT&T signal (the plan we have in our PepWave) is weak anyway. So we boost the phone, turn on its hotspot, and connect the Pepwave to it via WiFi (so all our other devices stay connected to the Pepwave network and we don't have to switch them to the phone's hotspot network). Hope that all makes sense! 😉
@@RVgeeks Wow. Great answer. Thank you! Really enjoy following you for the past three years. You helped us out a lot. Hopefully my family and I will get to meet you on the road one day. Keep up the great work!
Great video and thanks to you and your discount code I bought a wifi bundle from MobileMustHave. I do have a question. I bought the same Parsec magnetic antenna that you installed so I can take advantage of the steel ground plane. Have you had any problems with it coming loose or moving, that is assuming you leave in in place full time. I have a 2019 London Aire and they have the domed ceiling in the rear bath. It will set on top of that raised portion perfectly which it enables it to just clear the Girard awnings without being the tallest thing on the roof. Thanks and love your channel.
Hey Scott. Thanks so much for the kind words! We do leave our Parsec antenna in place 100% of the time and it hasn't budget an inch since we set it onto that galvanized steel plate. It's right up front on our coach and has withstood driving at 65+mph into headwinds (so add more to that) and it's going strong. You should be fine on your London Aire as long as that curved/raised section allows you to mount the steel plate so that it's flat... if it was curved/bent it might not allow the magnets on the Parsec base to get a complete grip.
@@RVgeeks Is there a magic size needed for the steel plate with your parsec? I haven't yet installed my parsec w/magnetic mount onto our Dutch Star and need to purchase the steel plate.
We picked up a pre-cut 2’ x 2’ piece at either Lowes or Home Depot, and it’s perfect. It seems a little larger than necessary, but that extra surface area acts as a ground plane, strengthening the cell signal.
Hi Jerry. Good question. We need the weBoost to boost our cell phone and tablet, which each have their own cellular data plans. And if we need to make calls on the phone, but are remote, the weBoost improves connectivity on the phone for calls, too. We did all of this installation ourselves, and aren't sure who to recommend you contact regarding a custom install. You could try contacting the folks over at MobileMustHave.com to see if they could recommend someone in your area.
Hi Jeff. The CAT18 model that's in the giveaway is a single-modem version, not a dual like ours. The only ramification is that it only supports 2 SIM cards instead of 4 like our dual modem. Considering that we've only ever run a single SIM in a single slot for a single modem, we don't think you'll have any issue with the single-modem version. Having the ABILITY to have all that data available in a dual modem is neat, but honestly we don't have need of that much. We think the single is likely the best choice for 90-95% of people.
@@RVgeeks Thanks for the reply. I ended up getting the Ultimate Road Warrior set up. My wife Zooms for a living now and we find ourselves in areas where the signal fails often and the duo fail safe 4 sims combo is seems to be a good choice...at least for now. I'll try to figure it out as far as installation goes. Your pepwave in run through the weBoost, yes?
@@jeffpayne2261 That's awesome. The Ultimate Road Warrior package is great... we really love ours (even though we're not taking advantage of all its capabilities). The hardest part is routing the cabling for the Parsec antenna. We had an easy route because of where our "tech cabinet" is (there was already a conduit for satellite TV cabling), but lots of people use the vent stack for their RV refrigerator, so that might work for you. Also, we don't use the WeBoost with the Pepwave, though you could if you keep one or two of the whip-style antennas attached (i.e. not connect the cables for those antennas from the Parsec). That way you could put the internal antenna for the WeBoost right next to the whip antennas to boost them... as long as that keeps sufficient separation (vertically and/or horizontally) between the outside and inside antennas for the WeBoost. Or... you could wrap aluminum foil around the WeBoost internal antenna and the Pepwave whip antenna, keeping them close together AND shield from oscillation with the roof antenna (Tom Morton does that... he talks about it near the end of this post: mortonsonthemove.com/rv-internet/ ). But it all depends on how remote you go in your travels. If you're close enough to the cell towers, the Pepwave/Parsec combo will likely be your best bet. Hope that helps!
Hi You mention that you use your plan data both in Canada and in the USA. Is it this package is available to everyone on the MobileMustHave site. Is the data as unlimited (500Gb) in Canada and with the same speed as in the USA? Thank you
Hi Scott! We love our new set up, and the only change we’ve made since we shot the video was to install that cooling fan we talked about. It’s absolutely perfect for the job: amzn.to/3sALT78
Hi Claudia! Sorry we didn’t include that here, or make a dedicated video about it, but it’s super easy, with almost no tools required. We purchased a 2 ft. square piece of galvanized steel at a home improvement center, which come pre-cut to size and are not expensive. Then we squirted some rows of Dicor NON-leveling lap sealant all over the back of it and pressed it down onto the roof. We finished it off by using the term bond tape around the edges, which you can see the very last moment of in the video.
Hey BP Traveler. Good question. The one we have (gotten through MobileMustHave.com) has been stable for us for the past year. They did change from being "totally unlimited" to having a 500GB/month data cap, but we're fine with that. We don't typically use ANYWHERE near that amount of data in a month. But we know what you mean... depending upon the reseller, you can end up being stranded if they get flagged by the carrier(s) for excessive use. That's why it can be so important to try to find someone reputable. Doesn't mean it CAN'T happen to them, but (hopefully) it's LESS likely to occur... and, with any luck, you'll at least have some advance notice.
Quick question about your TV, do you guys use an RV TV or a residential model, the one that came with our new trailer has terrible picture quality and the dealer says its normal, so we were going to buy a new one, they mentioned we should get an RV specific model, but I'm not sure thats necessary, especially with the huge added cost for the "rugged" models.
Hi @samus989 - good question. Our RV originally came with a standard, household TV. And that's what we replaced it with (the current Vizio TV we actually picked up at our local Costco... for ridiculously cheap considering the quality & size of the picture). We know they sell "ruggedized" TVs designed for RVs... but we're not sure that aspect is all that important. More helpful is that RV-specific TVs run off of 12V power directly, instead of requiring 120V from shore/generator/inverter, which saves power (fewer conversions). So you may want to stick with an RV-specific TV for that reason (especially if you don't have access to 120V where your TV is installed and/or boondock a lot and don't want to run the genny or use the inverter). For what it's worth, our first Sony LED TV worked flawlessly for over 14 years and was still working when we upgraded it (keeping in mind we do have a diesel pusher which likely has a smoother ride than a travel trailer does due to air suspension).
Hello, I have installed the Pepwave, Parsec, and Lynksys systems. I can't get the Lynksys to pick up the Pepwave. I linked the two through the cable provided by Linksys to the LAN on the Pep to the Internet on the Lynksys But it can't see the RV park's signal on the pepwave. It's real confusing. Any suggestions? Jeff
Hi Jeff. First, sorry to hear you're having trouble. Without being there to see how things are configured, it's a little tough to troubleshoot. We'd start by just working with the Pepwave. Connect your laptop to it and access it's admin panel so you can manage it. You need to go to the main dashboard of the Pepwave and configure it so that it is using the WiFi as a source of internet... and you need to tell the Pepwave to connect to the RV park's WiFi signal to use it as an internet source. Once that's done, your laptop should be able to access the internet through the Pepwave's connection to the park's WiFi. If that works, then connect the Linksys using the Ethernet cable. Go from the WAN/Internet port on the Linksys to the LAN port on the Pepwave. Connect your laptop/device to the Linksys' network (WiFi) and it should still have a connection out to the internet. And, connected that way, you should still be able to access the Pepwave's admin panel so you can configure it at will, even though you're device is connecting to the Linksys. If all of that sounds like too much, did you buy from MobileMustHave? If so, we'd suggest connecting with them as they have superb tech support. And, if what you need exceeds their normal level of customer support, they offer a $99 configuration service to get things working and to provide training so you can manage it moving forward. But, of course, that relies on you having bought from them. Hope that helps!
Yes...but Dishy will need an unobstructed line of sight to the sky. Starlink will not be an option if you camp in a forested area; in that case, you will still need to rely on a cellular signal. I suspect John and Peter may ADD Starlink for use in open sky environments, but for other (more obstructed) sites, they will need to keep their cellular capabilities.
@@COORS5766 I think the logical way to respond to your question is: given that one is in a forested area, Starlink definately WILL NOT work but you MAY be able to receive a cellular signal. We have dry camped in Vermont's Green Mountain State parks with a dense tree canopies, but have been able to pull-in a decent LTE signal. I think the proximity of the cell tower affects signal strength more than the vegetation may tend to hinder it.
@@theomatthias9804 As more and more satellites are launched for Starlink, the smaller the "hole in the forest" you will need to have full coverage. Right now with only 1300 satellites you do need a decent view of the sky but this will change rapidly. The cost is also significantly less than having multiple Unlimited cells data plans.
The "elephant-in-the-room" is the Data Plan - I work remotely, and require enough of a data limit to allow me to download source code, documents, videos, etc. (PLUS streaming entertainment); AT&T offered a plan with 100Gb data cap, so I paid for a month's worth (just to see how long it would last)... I was tapped out after SIX days!!! What is the best option for anybody that works remote - ie, NOT connected by a physical [fiber/cable] connection - and requires descent upload AND download speeds/capacity??? Thank you for the information
The video was excellent. Lots of information and ideas. The $1200 giveaway on the other hand really soured me. I really have issues giving out credit card information in order to enter.
Thanks for the comment, Jeff. But not sure what you saw on the giveaway, as credit card information is absolutely NOT required to enter. There isn't even anywhere to enter that.
@@RVgeeks When I clicked on the link in the description. It took me to a site that requested I become a customer for “free”. I needed to put in my email address and create a password. Then it went to a form to fill out including my personal information and credit card information. I opted out at that point. Really not sure what happened as based on your response I went back to the video, clicked on the link in the description, and it took me to your website to register for the drawing by providing my name and email address. My apologies. Jeff B
WOW that was a lot of information and well put together... kudos. Great video!!! can you guys set me up with all that tech and install it for me? LOL ;-)
Great video, I'm in the midst of upgrading my 2005 Country Coach AV and internet connectivity using some prosumer grade equipment as you have done...Update for you guys..With your Smart TV in place you could've added a VPN (IPVanish, NordVPN etc) to that device or your streaming box (AppleTV) to satisfy your Netflix USA or other VPN needs for streaming services. Would simplify your setup there....
That's great, Chris. Good luck with your upgrades! As for the VPN... we don't know of any way to "add a VPN" to our Smart TV or Apple TV other than using custom DNS. We tried using some of those popular services using DNS only... and the various streaming apps (Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, etc) didn't work (some better than others, depending on the service). Using the dedicated router with ExpressVPN installed has eliminated all of that for us. Set it and forget it... and when we're back down south in the US, we just disable the VPN connection and everything works (without the added VPN overhead).
@@RVgeeks I agree the set it and forget it Router VPN makes sense, especially being able to pit every device behind that wall...though can be more difficult to change your VPN location..Most SmartTVs are Android based and so you can sideload VPNs to them...not up on the AppleTV stuff since we are not Apple centric minus the ladies iPhone....Our TVs are luckily FireTVs and so for us is super easy to sideload install and manage any VPN we may want...In thinking about your setup I have a separate question about your QNAP device....How do you keep it up and running on drive days? We also use a QNAP device for our business storage and a Plex Server but it stays at the house...It is a PITA to restart Plex after the power goes out...impossible to doing not on the same LAN
Sideloading is definitely not an option for apple products, but we opted not to go that route with our smart TV. We didn’t want to have to self-manage a connectivity solution like that. The ExpressVPN router allows you to designate which devices are routed through the VPN tunnel and which aren’t in a very easy to use UI. Admittedly, it’s expensive, but it was worth it to us for the simplicity of management. As far as the QNAP goes, we shut ours down whenever we’re on the road. We don’t use ours for any primary data storage, it’s all back ups so it isn’t critical for us to have access and we can wait the amount of time it takes for it to reboot when we get to our new destination. Unless you opt for SSDs in your QNAP (💰💸💵🤑), we don’t think you’ll be able to leave the QNAP powered up when driving.
LOL! John has an amazing memory for this technical stuff, doesn't he?! (Peter here). Don't know how I'd manage all of it without him. He really puts the "geek" in RVgeeks!
Good question, Scott. We don't use as much cloud backup as we should because the size of our files (huge 4k high bitrate video files) pose a bit of an obstacle. We try to maintain secondary backups to smaller external drives. And use some cloud backup (Amazon S3) for smaller files.
Hi Carpenter Family. The StarLink system is definitely interesting... it's just going to be a while before it's ready for prime time. They're still beta testing it right now, and haven't finalized their plans/equipment for mobile applications. Initial reports from beta testers have been really good... but only in stationary applications for now. And only time will tell if the system will be able to maintain the speed & throughput that users are seeing during the beta. But we're keeping our eye on it, because it sure would be a great option!
Hey guys. How have you been? I hope you've been well. I so agree with you with regards internet connection. Wherever you happen to be, whatever you use your RV and internet for, it's imperative that you're able to keep contact with clients and with family and friends.
Hey Jason! We're doing great, thanks. Hope you're good, too! And we're totally simpatico with you about staying connected. Even if we didn't have clients, we'd want to be connected at all times... we have family and friends we want (and need) to stay in touch with, so not having a connection would mean we'd be stressed out, not relaxed! 😉
@@RVgeeks I also got vaccinated (vaxxed) in April, so I should be able to get together with family and friends, maskless, provided they've also been vaxxed. :)
@@RVgeeks What's that word mean "simpatico" mean? You said that you're totally *"simpatico"* with me about staying connected with family, friends, and us, RVers and RV enthusiasts. What does that word mean? I've seen the word before, but I've never known what it meant.
@@RVgeeks I looked up that word, *"simpatico",* and it said basically the same thing, *"like-minded".* If only I could find someone simpatico towards motorhomes and of road trips as I am. :)
Estimate of cost and ongoing costs would be nice. I'm guessing the equipment is at least 1200, but the services probably run over 100 a month for even your single provider set up?
Hi @Dougitis. We didn't include costs because they change so rapidly. Cellular data plans come and go almost as quickly as the weather changes, so we didn't want people to ignore the information because prices had changed. But you're right... the equipment (Pepwave router & Parsec antenna) run about $1,200. The AT&T plan we're on (which we're grandfathered into... it's already been changed/terminated after about a year) runs $150/month for a 500GB/month data cap. But, of course, you can use the equipment with less-expensive, lower data cap plans, too... if you don't need that level of data available.
I'm interested in internet access for my RV when my wife and I go full time, however, my brain (and my budget) cannot keep up with this kind of thing....
We hear you, Andy. But don't despair... there are less expensive ways to accomplish the same thing, especially if you don't HAVE to be online (like we do) and can tolerate being in some places where the signal isn't strong enough for your devices to pick up. It also depends on your planned travel... if you're going to be mainly in developed areas, and don't need a whole lot of data, you can even get away with just using your smartphone as a hotspot for other devices to connect to. And, over time, you can upgrade or adapt your setup as your needs (and budget) allow!
How do I get in on the giveaway?? I am disabled and I am living full time in my RV trailer I am on a budget and I beat kidney cancer I sure could use that system you are giving away
Hey Tom. You can enter the giveaway using the widget in the post on our website. Go here: www.thervgeeks.com/rv-internet-solutions-2021/ and you'll find the entry form near the bottom of the post. Good luck!!!
Pardon me for coming back to the well once again. I took your advice and contacted AM Solar in Oregon. They promised a proposal by next week. However, I have another request: a referral in San Diego County or Arizona for someone that can design and install a cellular/internet/wifi system for our new 4180 Mountain Aire. The coach came with a wifi ranger which isn't the best solution. Will be living in the coach full time and boondocking while working. Any help with a recommendation would be appreciated.
Hi Scott! Congrats on your new Mountain Aire! Sorry we don’t know anyone in that area who does any sorts of installations, but we do have a recommendation on someone who might know where to start. We suggest contacting mobile must have to let them know what you’re interested in. They have in-depth knowledge of the types of systems you’re looking for, and sell the best equipment on the market. So they may have an idea who an installer in your area might be. A link to their website, and a coupon for 5% off anything you buy from them can be found on our discounts page: www.thervgeeks.com/discounts/
Not. A ground plane does not reflect signals back into the antenna. It creates the opposite side of the antenna that was dropped by the manufacturer when they chose that type of antenna.
We may not have been 100% technically accurate about exactly how a ground plane operates, but the effect is the same, which is it improves the signal. Check out this article and many others like it: www.electronics-notes.com/articles/antennas-propagation/grounding-earthing/antenna-ground-plane-theory-design.php
ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A $1,200 SPEED DEMON+ BUNDLE FROM MobileMustHave!
www.thervgeeks.com/rv-internet-solutions-2021/
SAVE 5% ON RV INTERNET TECH AT MobileMustHave WITH DISCOUNT CODE "THERVGEEKS2021"
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What I have to buy something to enter the giveaway??? I am on a budget I just bought a great generator for my RV, I wouldn’t be able to bay anything for a while, I don’t see where to enter the giveaway,
@@TomMack530 Hey Tom. No purchase is necessary to enter. You can enter the giveaway using the widget in the post on our website. Go here: www.thervgeeks.com/rv-internet-solutions-2021/ and you'll find the entry form near the bottom of the post. Good luck!!!
This episode is outstanding, you have beyond any doubt justified the name RVgeeks. 👏
Thanks so much, Joe!
Whether your home is in a fixed location or moving on a boat or RV, having all the various systems organized & tidy must enhance quality of life. I understood about half of this presentation; however, you are definitely proud and confident with each component and have a great understanding of each.
Thanks, Don!
John - Incredibly well-presented step-through of your rather complicated connectivity solution! Your explanations were clear and concise and serve as terrific tutorial for internet access possibilities in any RV. The best thing about your multi-layered solutions is the ability to glean and extract information about any one access strategy and utilize it for less demanding connectivity environments. Kudos!
Thank you so much for the comments, Theo! You just made our day. ☺️
Excellent episode about mobile Internet service. Very thorough. You've packed a lot of functionality into a small space, impressive.
Thanks Tom!
I understood about 5 minutes of this and my eyes were glazed over for the rest. Thanks. Love the show too!
Don’t feel too bad, Gary. I (Peter) had a little of that, too! 😂 Great to hear you like the show! ❤️
Amazing video John! This was just the walk through I was looking for as to what options are available for RV internet. Now just have to get an RV :) . Cheers, hope you and Peter are doing great and congratulations to your continued success.
Thank you so much, Claudio! Glad we could help. Happy RV shopping! 😉
Another great video. I always enjoy the videos about all the tech you guys have on your rig
Thanks!
@@RVgeeks your welcome! Keep up the excellent content.
Oh you guys are going to love when the starlink setup when it comes out for rvs.
Very nicely done, I think I may have changed a few things out. But I still envy the setup you have!
As always, just the best and most informative RV videos! Thank you guys!
Thank you so much, Curt! You just made our day. ☺️
This is an absolute must-watch video!!
I have two questions:
1- How did you get the wires from the Parsec Antenna to the cabinet?
2- This set-up is great for you (and others who full-time), but what do you recommend for those of us that just getaway for the weekend or a week?
Thanks Michael! The wires from all of our roof antennas come down through a conduit from the roof (the conduit is accessible inside that small junction box on the roof that the wires can be seen going into). Our rig came from the factory with a conduit to another spot on the roof, but we added a new one, closer to the tech cabinet, by drilling a new hole in the roof! We'd recommend that a JetPack type hotspot device works well in enough situations that many people never need any more than that, especially if they don't travel to extremely remote areas. Any actually, using your cell phone as a hotspot may even be enough, depending on your needs.
The C-band 5G will be a game changer in the RV side of the house. It will allow much faster nationwide broadband coverage.
Great job, guys! I really dig your channel, you both are the Godfathers of RV RUclips channels. I've been watching for many years to date, keep up with the great content!!
Awesome! Thanks so much, @John Mantey!
Power savings aside, I presume that power panel is also super convenient when you need to power cycle devices to fix broken connections. Thanks for all of the great info. I learn so much from you guys.
Absolutely!
Nice job John...you make a fairly complex issue easier to understand!
Thanks so much, Ken! I appreciate the kind words!
Peter and John, Just came across your channel via RUclips. I must say your experience and professionalism makes watching the videos a great learning experience. I just retired from work literally today. Tonight I will fly from San Diego to pick-up my first new RV: a Newmar Mountain Aire similar to yours. At 72 years old and virtually no experience as a handyman, how could I find the right company or individual to undertake the Solar panel installation you demonstrated as well as the internet solutions you found helpful. I live in Carlsbad, Ca. and would travel to any expert you recommend. Again, any referral would be appreciated. Keep up the good work.
Hi Scott! Sorry for the delayed reply. Welcome, and congratulations on your retirement and your new rig! We sure do love our MA, and trust that you will too. AM Solar is one of the most reputable solar suppliers we know of, and they happen to be on the West coast, in Springfield, OR. We don’t believe they do installations of their gear, but they do have a list of authorized and recommended installers on their website, including in California. We’ve done our own solar installations, so have no personal experience with them, but they have a very good reputation. Their website it amsolar.com.
As far as internet solutions, we totally trust Mobile Must Have as a supplier, which is why we offer a discount on their gear. Visit www.thervgeeks.com/discounts/ for details on discounts. We’re not sure that Mobile Must Have has details about qualified installers, but they are the best people to check with. You can visit their website and contact them here: mobilemusthave.com
Hope this helps a bit. Safe travels!
Greetings! I am stuck in time and need your help. I watched a video where you had WiFi Ranger for your WiFi. I have upgraded that system twice since getting it. I have their last version I believe, the Elite AC with the Go2. How did you move from WiFi Ranger to the Pepwave? It is not mentioned here.
I use the Pepwave as well but learned early on (the hard way) not to run all my other cellular devices through it. If I, for example, put my phone on the RV’s WiFI then both use the cellular data allocated to the Pepwave and it runs out much sooner, while the phon’e allocation does not get used. I only use the Pepwave for devices without cellular data, unless i happen to be somewhere that I can run a cable modem into the WAN port.
That's a good point if your data plan in your Pepwave is limited, Bruce. Managing your data usage between devices is important. In our case, our AT&T plan in the Pepwave has a 500GB/month data cap... not something we'd ever come close to hitting. So we skew our data usage to that at all times possible, so our secondary data plan(s) are saved for use away from the RV and/or in situations where we don't have AT&T coverage (which is more rare out West). But everyone needs to balance their system in the way that works best for them!
Great video with real life practical examples and recommendations that made it easier for me to select the right gear from the get go. I was able to get the %5 RV Geeks discount on top of MMH's ongoing sale for a 5G Speed Demon bundle. Looking forward to testing the system in a couple of weeks. Thank you & safe travels!!!
Thanks so much, Julius! So glad it was helpful.
Thank you ! now I have to save my money to apply 💙
Excellent video. Now I know my skill level in back in the 2 cans and a string era. 😁
😂
@Timothy Mckee How about a 55gallon oil drum? 🤣
Great video with really good explanations and camera work. Thank you.
Thanks so much!
Extremely helpful! A question. Where can I get a metal plate to mount the roof antenna to, like you have? And what kind of tape did you use ? TY!
Hi Ed! We bought that pre-cut galvanized steel plate (2’ x 2’) at a home improvement store (Home Depot or Lowe’s). The tape is Eternabond. A little pricey, but amazing stuff and comes in super handy. It’s worth every penny and we never travel without it! Here’s where you can get it: amzn.to/2V3Bu7D
It’s been some time, you guys!! Hope you’re well! Sending love from the Cudas!
Hey Mark! Great to hear from you. Hope you and Gaby are doing well. We’re in BC for the summer, but heading South soon. Where do you two call “home” these days? Cheers - Peter & John
This is fantastic, Thanks for the excellent detail!
looking forward to the next five year update
guessing the power switches will be replaced with mostly 5 volt (USB) and 12 with just a couple of 120s
Thumbs up, I like it. Very organized and clean. Thanks for posting!
Thanks Adam!
Great video. Did you have any problems getting a good signal from the external antenna inside the rig? I wonder if you used an access point inside to enhance the signal. Thanks
Hey John S. We did, indeed, have some issues with getting strong enough WiFi signal inside the rig (particularly back in the bedroom at night with all the doors closed). Since we don't really ever need to connect to an external WiFi signal for our internet connection (i.e using WiFi-as-WAN to connect to an RV park's wifi signal), we just disconnected the cables for the Husky roof WiFi antennas and put the Pepwave's little whip antennas back. Worked like a charm and we instantly had stronger WiFi signal inside. In the RARE instances where we need to connect to an external WiFi network we just plug one of the two WiFi antennas for the Husky back in, and leave one of the whip antennas for internal signal. Again, works great. Though PepWave does sell an access point that you could connect and mount somewhere inside to provide a stronger network signal.
@@RVgeeks Thanks. This is very helpful.
Thanks for sharing. This is one thing we're struggling with.
Quick question. What are you using for a ventilation fan for your tech cabinet? Is it a 12 volt fan? I am setting up a tech cabinet a lot like yours which is why I'm asking about the fan. I'm trying to run everything possible on 12 volt so that I don't have the inefficiency of inverting to 120 volt (Victron Multiplus 3000watt) and then converting back to 12 volt. I'm using the Pepwave Maxtransit Duo router and also have a Weeboost that will be permanently installed. Setting the tech cabinet up for a NAS later on. I almost exclusively boondook and need the most efficient use of my Battleborn 400ah 24v battery bank and 2100 watt solar system. Love your techie videos!! I learn a lot.
Hi Beth! Sounds like you’ve got a great setup planned. You’re right that sticking with 12v is best for Boondocking. As we showed in the video, we did that with the Pepwave & weBoost. Ashamedly, we ordered a 120V fan (this one: amzn.to/3iaosOP but they do have a USB-powered version, too) that hasn’t arrived yet. And even more embarrassing, the reason we went 120v was to take advantage of the switches on the surge protector. 🤫 Told you that was my favorite part of the upgrade! 😂 But, seriously, it’s also because our typical travel has us Boondocking in cooler weather. So even if we’re running the Pepwave & weBoost, the cabinet doesn’t get too hot. And in the summer, when it’s hottest out, we’re not Boondocking, so have the power to run the fan on 120.
Nice setup!
Other than the second router, our tech cabinets are the same with different brands of NAS and eithernet switch. Went with the 5-n-1 pointing antenna which is good for our needs and the MAX BR1. Also I have a 12 VDC distribution switch installed to run the pepwave and weboost. Scary resemblance...lol
LOL! Great minds think alike! 😉
If you are able to divulge. What type of work are you performing (data requirements) in order to complete your daily work tasks? I work with 3D point clouds for instance, collected with a mobile scanner (Leica P2), and am looking into building a system that will allow me to work on the road with a solid internet connection/speed.
Sorry for the delayed reply…. we just saw your comment! While we absolutely have to have reliable connectivity, our data requirements aren’t necessarily that high. A heavy month for us might be 100 GB. Not sure how large the types of files are you’re working with, as we’re not familiar with 3-D point clouds. The biggest thing to be aware of with large data requirements is the “unlimited“ plans that throttle you back to absurdly low levels after a certain amount of data is used. Here’s a link to plans that might work for you: www.mobilemusthave.com/Cellular-Data-Plans_c_12.html?AffId=15
@@RVgeeks Thank you so much for your reply. That is very helpful info👍🏼
I noticed that you used the galvanized steel base plate for the magnetic mount of your Parsec Husky antenna. Where did you purchase the base plate and what are the dimensions?
We bought that pre-cut at either Home Depot or Lowe’s, and it’s 24 in. square. Still works great!
Wow what a install!
May i ask who did ir entire install?
Is there somewhere i can go to have the work done to my unit?
Thanks for all the videos.
Godspeed!
Well thanks, Sir Charles! We did the install entirely ourselves. We're not sure where you could find a professional installer to do something similar for you... you might try contacting the folks over at MobileMustHave.com to see if they have any recommendations in your area.
Hope to see you guys again soon. Stay well!
Thanks Joe! You too!
Absolutely brilliant! Thanks for the thorough description. I wish my IT consultant had actually watched it as I told her I would pay her to do so that I could have saved $250 on wasted equipment because she didn't understand how the Pepwave worked. As a newbie FT RVer who needs to work from the road, I learn so much from your videos. I watched it two months ago when first posted, but watched it again now and learned even more. How much difference do you think the galvanized steel plate below the Parsec antenna makes? We recently installed a Poynting 7in1 MIMO antenna to our Pepware Max Transit Duo 12 (Bought as a package), but have no ground plane. Thank you.
Hey Paul. Thanks so much for the kind words... and sorry to hear that the "expert" you hired wasted your money! GAH! That always stinks! As for the ground plane, we honestly can't say how much it has/hasn't helped... since we've always had it in place. Both the Parsec and Poynting antennas say that you DON'T need a ground plane, as the antennas are designed to function fine without it. We just went with it in our case because it offered a simple way to mount the antenna... since it had the option of the magnetic mounting base.
I learned a lot off of this channel thanks for the great video Debbie from the mountains of New Hampshire
Given your attention to detail, I assume you have a disaster recovery plan. How do you handle off-site backup of your NAS?
That’s a good question! We wish we had a more comprehensive solution for it… what we have is a bit of a patchwork. We’d love to have a simple sync-to-the-cloud option, but because of the size of the files we’re often dealing with (and the slower upload speeds we may have), we can’t. So we assume some risk, try to keep extra small drives with copies, backup what we can to the cloud, and update offsite drives when we have the chance. Not ideal, but we do what we can.
Can I change the TTL settings on the Pepway? Also will the A/C units on the roof block this new antenna?
Apparently, Ken, you can: support.mobilemusthave.com/support/solutions/articles/67000587726-setting-custom-ttl-on-peplink-devices
And the A/C units are far enough away from the antennas they haven't seemed to pose any issue. The front A/C unit is about 8 feet behind the antenna.... and the rear A/C is about 35 feet back.
You guys are some VERY well-connected folks!!!
LOL! At least in the cellular internet kind of way, yes! 😉
Good information! I have the Max Transit DUO but not using it at all right now because I'm stationary for the next 12-18 months (I've got my own broadband service locally). I do have a question. If you have such great equipment as you do with the Pepwave and its external antenna and you are only running an AT&T data card in it, what does the weBoost Drive Reach RV do? Is it pulling in the AT&T signal better than the Parsec 7-1 and the Pepwave grabs that stronger signal? It says it works with ALL carriers, so do you have someone other than AT&T for your cell phones that you are using this for (in case AT&T is too weak to connect with at all)? How are you then using the weBoost to then give internet access to your computers? Using phones as a hot spot? Lots of questions, I know. But I'm interested in knowing more as to how and what for you "have to use" the weBoost. Maybe you have another video dedicated to all of that. I'd be interested. Thanks!
Hi Randy. There’s a lot of questions here, so we’re not sure we’ve answered them all… But we use the weBoost to boost signal any time it’s low. Sometimes that’s when we’re in such a remote location that even the Pepwave with the Parsec antenna can’t get signal, and then we’ll disconnect one or more of the Parsec antenna cables and reattach the whip antennas to the Pepwave, and use the WeBoost to boost the Pepwave. Other times, if we’re in an area for a short period of time and the AT&T signal is be bad, we’ll use the WeBoost to boost signal on our cell phone… and hotspot our laptops and other equipment off the phone for that time. No one solution works 100% of the time, so it’s good to have options.
I’m new to your channel I really enjoy your videos you take the time to explain all your tips and information so it’s easy to understand and make it fun thank you so much for all your help.
I have a 2020 Laredo fifth wheel I’m working on getting set up hope to see you guys out on the road sending positive energy 🙏🏼❤️🤙🏼✌🏼
Thanks so much, Mark. You just made our day! Congrats on your new fifth wheel... hope you get everything all set to your liking and get out and enjoy life on the road!
Nice video. Just curious, did you have that cabinet built or did you use existing?
Thanks David! That cabinet was there when we bought the RV. we just “modernized” it. 😁
What size cable gland / part number did you use to bunch up all the Parsec Husky antenna cables through the roof access port?
Hi Julius. Sorry we're away from the RV visiting family for the holidays, so we can't get up on the roof to see if there's a size marking or part number on it. But what we did was buy a variety pack of glands (having a supplyu on board comes in handy!). We bought this pack on Amazon, and it included the one we used: amzn.to/3E4ZNmi If we had to take a guess, we think it was a PG21, but might have been a PG25.
@@RVgeeks Thank you for the quick response & tip on the part! I just clicked the link and ordered the pack. It will come in handy for sure. Happy Holidays!
Oscillation issues with your current antenna placement aside, is it possible to use the Weboost to boost the Pepwave when it needs some extra help with signal? It might help you further reduce falling back to your phone hotspot option.
Hi Marv. Yes! We can alway re-attach the stubby antennas to the Pepwave… and either move it (and the interior weBoost antenna) down to the floor (to avoid oscillation). Or we can use a trick Tom Morton (Mortons on the Move) has used, where he wraps the stubby Pepwave antenna to the weBoost one with aluminum foil.
Outstanding video! Except extremely complicated!!!!!
Great video, so much great information! Thanks for sharing! Safe travels! Zoe and Ramón
Great info, thank you! Maybe a dumb question... do you use the WeBoost to boost the signal of the Pepwave+Parsec? Looking to get a 7-1 myself, and connect it straight to the Nighthawk I have (for now, want to test that this antenna does help in some of the places we frequent before jumping full on into a setup like you all have).
No, not usually. We typically use the Parsec with the Pepwave… and about 90% of the time (in our travels, with AT&T), that works for us. The other 9% of the time, we can get by with a secondary plan (Verizon) on our phone… and boost that with the weBoost. Then, maybe 1% of the time, we need to disconnect 1 or 2 of the parsec cellular antennas, reattach a stubby/whip antenna to the Pepwave, and use the weBoost to boost that (either moving the combo to the floor or wrapping the whip antenna/weBoost antenna combo in aluminum foil to prevent oscillation with the roof antenna. Or… we just suck it up without data and plan to move the next day). 😉
Testing the Parsec with a Nighthawk will be interesting… though you’ll have some (very minor) signal loss with the adapters you’ll need between the two.
@@RVgeeks HA! Yeah... I've hot that wall a few times myself! We have GoogleFi in the Nighthawk and Verizon in our phones also. Most places we go, we are surrounded by trees and its a weak signal through either one. Have tried a couple different antennas... but nothing great. Hoping the Parsec solves some of it... but was interested in boosting that signal as well (seeing we are almost always in trees in the PNW).
@@RVgeeks True... just was hoping to get a better signal with the Parsec. If that doesn't solve our problem... maybe we are just mean not to work in the woods. 🙃
Another great video! Thanks! ...now, about that fan you are/have replaced... I'm looking for a quiet fan to cool my tech cabinet and some power generation equipment. Do you happen to have a recommendation and/or link? :-)
We’re actually still looking. This is the one we’re looking at, but haven’t placed our order, and of course we can’t comment on how well it works yet.
amzn.to/3buUZez
Hopefully we’ll decide, order, and get this one in soon. Please feel free to check back in a few weeks, and we should have it in place.
What size junction box and cable gland are you using for the Parsec Huskey Pro 7 antenna installation?
Hi Tony. We used about a 5" square waterproof box (like this one: amzn.to/3xmpnjO ) and a PG21 gland for the antenna cable. We could've gotten a pack of just PG21 glands, but since when we ordered them we weren't 100% sure the size we'd need, we got an assortment pack (this one from Amazon: amzn.to/3iGWj2q ). At least now we'll have our choice of size for the next project! LOL!
@@RVgeeks Thanks for the information. Great video!!!!
Maybe I missed it. Does the WeBoost connect to the Road Warrior / Pepwave? I just used your discount code and ordered the Road Warrior system that y'all all have. I already have the WeBoost, but not the same WeBoost you have. Just curious if they'll work together. Thank you in advance for your help!!
Hi Doug. The two devices (WeBoost & Pepwave) don't directly connect, but you CAN use them together. You can use the WeBoost's internal antenna to boost one or more of the Pepwave's whip-style antennas (that come with the PepWave). You'd have to disconnect the Parsec antenna's cable(s) to do it, though. Or leave one Parsec antenna cable connected, and attach the whip to the secondary port on the PepWave and boost that.
You'll have to be careful that doing that doesn't cause the WeBoost to oscillate... which is the cellular equivalent of feedback between a speaker & microphone. Tom Morton of Mortons on the Move has done that with his system by wrapping the Weboost internal antenna to the Pepwave whip antenna using aluminum foil (check out their post & video about their setup here: mortonsonthemove.com/rv-internet/ ).
We haven't done that with our setup, though. We usually use the WeBoost to boost a secondary data plan in our iPhone. So if we're in a spot where the Pepwave isn't able to get us online, it's usually because the AT&T signal (the plan we have in our PepWave) is weak anyway. So we boost the phone, turn on its hotspot, and connect the Pepwave to it via WiFi (so all our other devices stay connected to the Pepwave network and we don't have to switch them to the phone's hotspot network).
Hope that all makes sense! 😉
@@RVgeeks Wow. Great answer. Thank you! Really enjoy following you for the past three years. You helped us out a lot. Hopefully my family and I will get to meet you on the road one day. Keep up the great work!
@@livinginfl Thanks so much! Safe travels, and maybe we'll see you down the road.
Thanks for the info. I’m ready to update my system.
Awesome!
Great video and thanks to you and your discount code I bought a wifi bundle from MobileMustHave. I do have a question. I bought the same Parsec magnetic antenna that you installed so I can take advantage of the steel ground plane. Have you had any problems with it coming loose or moving, that is assuming you leave in in place full time. I have a 2019 London Aire and they have the domed ceiling in the rear bath. It will set on top of that raised portion perfectly which it enables it to just clear the Girard awnings without being the tallest thing on the roof. Thanks and love your channel.
Hey Scott. Thanks so much for the kind words! We do leave our Parsec antenna in place 100% of the time and it hasn't budget an inch since we set it onto that galvanized steel plate. It's right up front on our coach and has withstood driving at 65+mph into headwinds (so add more to that) and it's going strong. You should be fine on your London Aire as long as that curved/raised section allows you to mount the steel plate so that it's flat... if it was curved/bent it might not allow the magnets on the Parsec base to get a complete grip.
@@RVgeeks Is there a magic size needed for the steel plate with your parsec? I haven't yet installed my parsec w/magnetic mount onto our Dutch Star and need to purchase the steel plate.
We picked up a pre-cut 2’ x 2’ piece at either Lowes or Home Depot, and it’s perfect. It seems a little larger than necessary, but that extra surface area acts as a ground plane, strengthening the cell signal.
Why do you need the weboost if you have the peplink? Also do you know anybody that can install this equipment?
Hi Jerry. Good question. We need the weBoost to boost our cell phone and tablet, which each have their own cellular data plans. And if we need to make calls on the phone, but are remote, the weBoost improves connectivity on the phone for calls, too.
We did all of this installation ourselves, and aren't sure who to recommend you contact regarding a custom install. You could try contacting the folks over at MobileMustHave.com to see if they could recommend someone in your area.
Great video. Is the CAT 18 a duo modem or a single and what might the ramifications be with just a single? Thanks.
Hi Jeff. The CAT18 model that's in the giveaway is a single-modem version, not a dual like ours. The only ramification is that it only supports 2 SIM cards instead of 4 like our dual modem. Considering that we've only ever run a single SIM in a single slot for a single modem, we don't think you'll have any issue with the single-modem version. Having the ABILITY to have all that data available in a dual modem is neat, but honestly we don't have need of that much. We think the single is likely the best choice for 90-95% of people.
@@RVgeeks Thanks for the reply. I ended up getting the Ultimate Road Warrior set up. My wife Zooms for a living now and we find ourselves in areas where the signal fails often and the duo fail safe 4 sims combo is seems to be a good choice...at least for now. I'll try to figure it out as far as installation goes. Your pepwave in run through the weBoost, yes?
@@jeffpayne2261 That's awesome. The Ultimate Road Warrior package is great... we really love ours (even though we're not taking advantage of all its capabilities). The hardest part is routing the cabling for the Parsec antenna. We had an easy route because of where our "tech cabinet" is (there was already a conduit for satellite TV cabling), but lots of people use the vent stack for their RV refrigerator, so that might work for you.
Also, we don't use the WeBoost with the Pepwave, though you could if you keep one or two of the whip-style antennas attached (i.e. not connect the cables for those antennas from the Parsec). That way you could put the internal antenna for the WeBoost right next to the whip antennas to boost them... as long as that keeps sufficient separation (vertically and/or horizontally) between the outside and inside antennas for the WeBoost. Or... you could wrap aluminum foil around the WeBoost internal antenna and the Pepwave whip antenna, keeping them close together AND shield from oscillation with the roof antenna (Tom Morton does that... he talks about it near the end of this post: mortonsonthemove.com/rv-internet/ ).
But it all depends on how remote you go in your travels. If you're close enough to the cell towers, the Pepwave/Parsec combo will likely be your best bet.
Hope that helps!
@@RVgeeks Another question I had was where did you find your WeBoost antenna mount?
We made it! ruclips.net/video/APHIlkTdWLo/видео.html
Hi
You mention that you use your plan data both in Canada and in the USA. Is it this package is available to everyone on the MobileMustHave site. Is the data as unlimited (500Gb) in Canada and with the same speed as in the USA?
Thank you
Unfortunately we’re on a grandfathered plan that’s now been changed to US only.
GREAT post. Any changes or upgrades since this post?
Hi Scott! We love our new set up, and the only change we’ve made since we shot the video was to install that cooling fan we talked about. It’s absolutely perfect for the job: amzn.to/3sALT78
Great video! I was wondering if you have any information on the magnet plate and install. I haven't been able to find it. Thx
Hi Claudia! Sorry we didn’t include that here, or make a dedicated video about it, but it’s super easy, with almost no tools required. We purchased a 2 ft. square piece of galvanized steel at a home improvement center, which come pre-cut to size and are not expensive. Then we squirted some rows of Dicor NON-leveling lap sealant all over the back of it and pressed it down onto the roof. We finished it off by using the term bond tape around the edges, which you can see the very last moment of in the video.
@@RVgeeks what thickness did you get for the steel?
Not sure, but I think they’re fairly standard and it shouldn’t matter. We just bought the one they had at Lowe’s!
@@RVgeeks thx so much for all your help I really appreciate it 😁
Excellent video. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks Bob!
With the Business Data Plans have you had problems with them being discontinued without notice?
Hey BP Traveler. Good question. The one we have (gotten through MobileMustHave.com) has been stable for us for the past year. They did change from being "totally unlimited" to having a 500GB/month data cap, but we're fine with that. We don't typically use ANYWHERE near that amount of data in a month. But we know what you mean... depending upon the reseller, you can end up being stranded if they get flagged by the carrier(s) for excessive use. That's why it can be so important to try to find someone reputable. Doesn't mean it CAN'T happen to them, but (hopefully) it's LESS likely to occur... and, with any luck, you'll at least have some advance notice.
@@RVgeeks Thanks for your reply. Really great systems you have there.
@@bptraveler6608 Thanks... we're really happy with them, especially having everything all neat and tidy again! ;)
Quick question about your TV, do you guys use an RV TV or a residential model, the one that came with our new trailer has terrible picture quality and the dealer says its normal, so we were going to buy a new one, they mentioned we should get an RV specific model, but I'm not sure thats necessary, especially with the huge added cost for the "rugged" models.
Hi @samus989 - good question. Our RV originally came with a standard, household TV. And that's what we replaced it with (the current Vizio TV we actually picked up at our local Costco... for ridiculously cheap considering the quality & size of the picture). We know they sell "ruggedized" TVs designed for RVs... but we're not sure that aspect is all that important. More helpful is that RV-specific TVs run off of 12V power directly, instead of requiring 120V from shore/generator/inverter, which saves power (fewer conversions). So you may want to stick with an RV-specific TV for that reason (especially if you don't have access to 120V where your TV is installed and/or boondock a lot and don't want to run the genny or use the inverter).
For what it's worth, our first Sony LED TV worked flawlessly for over 14 years and was still working when we upgraded it (keeping in mind we do have a diesel pusher which likely has a smoother ride than a travel trailer does due to air suspension).
@@RVgeeks great, thank you for the info! Our current one is not a 12V tv nor is there a hook up for it near there, so that makes my decision easier.
Totally! Regular household TV! Less expensive and better picture.
Hello,
I have installed the Pepwave, Parsec, and Lynksys systems. I can't get the Lynksys to pick up the Pepwave.
I linked the two through the cable provided by Linksys to the LAN on the Pep to the Internet on the Lynksys
But it can't see the RV park's signal on the pepwave.
It's real confusing. Any suggestions?
Jeff
Hi Jeff. First, sorry to hear you're having trouble. Without being there to see how things are configured, it's a little tough to troubleshoot. We'd start by just working with the Pepwave. Connect your laptop to it and access it's admin panel so you can manage it. You need to go to the main dashboard of the Pepwave and configure it so that it is using the WiFi as a source of internet... and you need to tell the Pepwave to connect to the RV park's WiFi signal to use it as an internet source. Once that's done, your laptop should be able to access the internet through the Pepwave's connection to the park's WiFi. If that works, then connect the Linksys using the Ethernet cable. Go from the WAN/Internet port on the Linksys to the LAN port on the Pepwave. Connect your laptop/device to the Linksys' network (WiFi) and it should still have a connection out to the internet. And, connected that way, you should still be able to access the Pepwave's admin panel so you can configure it at will, even though you're device is connecting to the Linksys.
If all of that sounds like too much, did you buy from MobileMustHave? If so, we'd suggest connecting with them as they have superb tech support. And, if what you need exceeds their normal level of customer support, they offer a $99 configuration service to get things working and to provide training so you can manage it moving forward. But, of course, that relies on you having bought from them.
Hope that helps!
I’m waiting for Elon Musk and Starlink! He’s making a huge announcement soon for RVers!
Yes...but Dishy will need an unobstructed line of sight to the sky. Starlink will not be an option if you camp in a forested area; in that case, you will still need to rely on a cellular signal. I suspect John and Peter may ADD Starlink for use in open sky environments, but for other (more obstructed) sites, they will need to keep their cellular capabilities.
@@theomatthias9804 That being said.. Are you sure that cellular will work in a forested area or an area Starlink doesn’t work?
@@COORS5766 I think the logical way to respond to your question is: given that one is in a forested area, Starlink definately WILL NOT work but you MAY be able to receive a cellular signal. We have dry camped in Vermont's Green Mountain State parks with a dense tree canopies, but have been able to pull-in a decent LTE signal. I think the proximity of the cell tower affects signal strength more than the vegetation may tend to hinder it.
@Timothy Mckee 👍 🎈📡
@@theomatthias9804 As more and more satellites are launched for Starlink, the smaller the "hole in the forest" you will need to have full coverage. Right now with only 1300 satellites you do need a decent view of the sky but this will change rapidly. The cost is also significantly less than having multiple Unlimited cells data plans.
Yay!!! Thx & new sub here.... Great video!👍😎😁
Awesome! Thank you, Terri!
The "elephant-in-the-room" is the Data Plan - I work remotely, and require enough of a data limit to allow me to download source code, documents, videos, etc. (PLUS streaming entertainment); AT&T offered a plan with 100Gb data cap, so I paid for a month's worth (just to see how long it would last)... I was tapped out after SIX days!!!
What is the best option for anybody that works remote - ie, NOT connected by a physical [fiber/cable] connection - and requires descent upload AND download speeds/capacity???
Thank you for the information
Thank you very much, this has been extremely helpful; your videos are some of the best :-)
Thanks so much!
Another well done and informative video.
Thanks! ☺️
The video was excellent. Lots of information and ideas. The $1200 giveaway on the other hand really soured me. I really have issues giving out credit card information in order to enter.
Thanks for the comment, Jeff. But not sure what you saw on the giveaway, as credit card information is absolutely NOT required to enter. There isn't even anywhere to enter that.
@@RVgeeks When I clicked on the link in the description. It took me to a site that requested I become a customer for “free”.
I needed to put in my email address and create a password.
Then it went to a form to fill out including my personal information and credit card information. I opted out at that point.
Really not sure what happened as based on your response I went back to the video, clicked on the link in the description, and it took me to your website to register for the drawing by providing my name and email address.
My apologies.
Jeff B
No worries Jeff! So happy you got the link (and that it's working OK)! Best of luck in the giveaway, and safe travels!
WOW that was a lot of information and well put together... kudos. Great video!!! can you guys set me up with all that tech and install it for me? LOL ;-)
Sure thing Hector! 😂
Great video, I'm in the midst of upgrading my 2005 Country Coach AV and internet connectivity using some prosumer grade equipment as you have done...Update for you guys..With your Smart TV in place you could've added a VPN (IPVanish, NordVPN etc) to that device or your streaming box (AppleTV) to satisfy your Netflix USA or other VPN needs for streaming services. Would simplify your setup there....
That's great, Chris. Good luck with your upgrades! As for the VPN... we don't know of any way to "add a VPN" to our Smart TV or Apple TV other than using custom DNS. We tried using some of those popular services using DNS only... and the various streaming apps (Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, etc) didn't work (some better than others, depending on the service). Using the dedicated router with ExpressVPN installed has eliminated all of that for us. Set it and forget it... and when we're back down south in the US, we just disable the VPN connection and everything works (without the added VPN overhead).
@@RVgeeks I agree the set it and forget it Router VPN makes sense, especially being able to pit every device behind that wall...though can be more difficult to change your VPN location..Most SmartTVs are Android based and so you can sideload VPNs to them...not up on the AppleTV stuff since we are not Apple centric minus the ladies iPhone....Our TVs are luckily FireTVs and so for us is super easy to sideload install and manage any VPN we may want...In thinking about your setup I have a separate question about your QNAP device....How do you keep it up and running on drive days? We also use a QNAP device for our business storage and a Plex Server but it stays at the house...It is a PITA to restart Plex after the power goes out...impossible to doing not on the same LAN
Sideloading is definitely not an option for apple products, but we opted not to go that route with our smart TV. We didn’t want to have to self-manage a connectivity solution like that. The ExpressVPN router allows you to designate which devices are routed through the VPN tunnel and which aren’t in a very easy to use UI. Admittedly, it’s expensive, but it was worth it to us for the simplicity of management. As far as the QNAP goes, we shut ours down whenever we’re on the road. We don’t use ours for any primary data storage, it’s all back ups so it isn’t critical for us to have access and we can wait the amount of time it takes for it to reboot when we get to our new destination. Unless you opt for SSDs in your QNAP (💰💸💵🤑), we don’t think you’ll be able to leave the QNAP powered up when driving.
Hehehe WOW, a lot of stuff. I couldn’t tell you what I had for Dinner last week. How do you remember all this stuff.
LOL! John has an amazing memory for this technical stuff, doesn't he?! (Peter here). Don't know how I'd manage all of it without him. He really puts the "geek" in RVgeeks!
Do you also use cloud backup?
Good question, Scott. We don't use as much cloud backup as we should because the size of our files (huge 4k high bitrate video files) pose a bit of an obstacle. We try to maintain secondary backups to smaller external drives. And use some cloud backup (Amazon S3) for smaller files.
Thank you very helpful
Great video ~ eager to hear your thoughts on Elon Musks’ Star Link
I heard there’d be a mobile version for RV’ers.
Hi Carpenter Family. The StarLink system is definitely interesting... it's just going to be a while before it's ready for prime time. They're still beta testing it right now, and haven't finalized their plans/equipment for mobile applications. Initial reports from beta testers have been really good... but only in stationary applications for now. And only time will tell if the system will be able to maintain the speed & throughput that users are seeing during the beta. But we're keeping our eye on it, because it sure would be a great option!
We need a simpler more basic video on this subject. This is your challenge.
great video guys!!
Thanks so much, Joey!
John needs to more videos
Why not go with Starlink from SpaceX?
you cant be mobile with Starlink yet, the gov hasnt approved.
things look good for next year tho.
That will probably be included in our NEXT update a couple of years from now when it's ready for prime time!
This info is way ver my pay grade
Hey guys. How have you been? I hope you've been well. I so agree with you with regards internet connection. Wherever you happen to be, whatever you use your RV and internet for, it's imperative that you're able to keep contact with clients and with family and friends.
Hey Jason! We're doing great, thanks. Hope you're good, too! And we're totally simpatico with you about staying connected. Even if we didn't have clients, we'd want to be connected at all times... we have family and friends we want (and need) to stay in touch with, so not having a connection would mean we'd be stressed out, not relaxed! 😉
@@RVgeeks I also got vaccinated (vaxxed) in April, so I should be able to get together with family and friends, maskless, provided they've also been vaxxed. :)
@@RVgeeks What's that word mean "simpatico" mean? You said that you're totally *"simpatico"* with me about staying connected with family, friends, and us, RVers and RV enthusiasts. What does that word mean? I've seen the word before, but I've never known what it meant.
Basically means “like-minded”
@@RVgeeks I looked up that word, *"simpatico",* and it said basically the same thing, *"like-minded".* If only I could find someone simpatico towards motorhomes and of road trips as I am. :)
Estimate of cost and ongoing costs would be nice. I'm guessing the equipment is at least 1200, but the services probably run over 100 a month for even your single provider set up?
Hi @Dougitis. We didn't include costs because they change so rapidly. Cellular data plans come and go almost as quickly as the weather changes, so we didn't want people to ignore the information because prices had changed. But you're right... the equipment (Pepwave router & Parsec antenna) run about $1,200. The AT&T plan we're on (which we're grandfathered into... it's already been changed/terminated after about a year) runs $150/month for a 500GB/month data cap. But, of course, you can use the equipment with less-expensive, lower data cap plans, too... if you don't need that level of data available.
Thank you for answering, this was my question as well.
Nice job guys
I'm interested in internet access for my RV when my wife and I go full time, however, my brain (and my budget) cannot keep up with this kind of thing....
We hear you, Andy. But don't despair... there are less expensive ways to accomplish the same thing, especially if you don't HAVE to be online (like we do) and can tolerate being in some places where the signal isn't strong enough for your devices to pick up. It also depends on your planned travel... if you're going to be mainly in developed areas, and don't need a whole lot of data, you can even get away with just using your smartphone as a hotspot for other devices to connect to. And, over time, you can upgrade or adapt your setup as your needs (and budget) allow!
How do I get in on the giveaway?? I am disabled and I am living full time in my RV trailer I am on a budget and I beat kidney cancer I sure could use that system you are giving away
Hey Tom. You can enter the giveaway using the widget in the post on our website. Go here: www.thervgeeks.com/rv-internet-solutions-2021/ and you'll find the entry form near the bottom of the post. Good luck!!!
Pardon me for coming back to the well once again. I took your advice and contacted AM Solar in Oregon. They promised a proposal by next week. However, I have another request: a referral in San Diego County or Arizona for someone that can design and install a cellular/internet/wifi system for our new 4180 Mountain Aire. The coach came with a wifi ranger which isn't the best solution. Will be living in the coach full time and boondocking while working. Any help with a recommendation would be appreciated.
Hi Scott! Congrats on your new Mountain Aire! Sorry we don’t know anyone in that area who does any sorts of installations, but we do have a recommendation on someone who might know where to start. We suggest contacting mobile must have to let them know what you’re interested in. They have in-depth knowledge of the types of systems you’re looking for, and sell the best equipment on the market. So they may have an idea who an installer in your area might be. A link to their website, and a coupon for 5% off anything you buy from them can be found on our discounts page: www.thervgeeks.com/discounts/
I thought hackers get into people's accounts using WiFi ???
Not. A ground plane does not reflect signals back into the antenna. It creates the opposite side of the antenna that was dropped by the manufacturer when they chose that type of antenna.
We may not have been 100% technically accurate about exactly how a ground plane operates, but the effect is the same, which is it improves the signal. Check out this article and many others like it:
www.electronics-notes.com/articles/antennas-propagation/grounding-earthing/antenna-ground-plane-theory-design.php
Extremely confusing!
I’m with you Hugh! (This is Peter) This is why I leave this stuff to John!