See Part 1 of my review where I unbox and go over the setup - ruclips.net/video/JY95JpQxIPY/видео.html See the full review blog post - www.loveyourrv.com/winegard-connect-2-0-installation-and-review-wifi-extender-4g-lte/
Yes, we have been using it all summer and its worked great for bringing in WiFi. Looking forward to using the 4G part of it this winter snowbird season as we travel in the US southwest. I'm not sure what you mean by "seen photo of your video"?
I have not commented before but I have to say that I love the nice quiet way you present your videos. My wife and I will be going full time in a Class A in 6 months when we both retire when we can still get out and enjoy life and are so looking forward to enjoy nature, the outdoors and the quiet life like you do. Your videos have really helped me with the wait as I enjoy each and every journey you share with us. The how to and informational videos are some of the best out there. Have a lot of fun and safe adventures out there. I look forward to the day we just might cross paths. Kevin and Kari Eide
Thanks for the video! We have an Winnebago Era 170 A and we are having some upgrades done by the dealer. I think the factory outputs on these units assume only highway driving directly to a RV resort park because the ride is very rough on any other surface so we are having new shocks, springs, sway-bar and two 6v batteries installed as well as the Winegard ConnectT 2.0. I told the dealer our choice was based on your review but I also wanted you to have the credit for our choice . We got it at Mike Thompson RV in Fountain Valley, CA.
I'd really like a system that gets me hard wire a few of my devices in. Specifically my Apple TV and Dish Walley box. They both have wireless capability, so I might be just a little OCD about it. My current neighbors have one, ad like it. They're big fans of yours, also.
I love your channel. You are very informative. I’m just getting into the rv world and I’ve learned a lot from watching your channel. Thanks for all the good info.
You must be thinking of a new model they recently came out with, this one didn't have a built in TV antenna back then. This one is a model WF2-435, the AM/FM/TV model is a WF2-95B , see here - winegard.com/products/wifi/extenders I haven't tested one of the the new models. Cheers, Ray
Where in the Vancouver area would you pick one up? And I guess when down south you still require a cell plan for your phone/s for voice and texting. I like your video and description of the unit. I have looked at these in Camping World in Washington!
Yes still need a cell for phone stuff, data only. Here is a page where you can locate dealers in BC - www.winegard.com/find-a-dealer Much cheaper in the states I would imagine, though. Cheers! Ray
Ray, If you determine that the 4G/LTE performance meets your requirements, will you use the Winegard exclusively and retire the weBoost 4G-X-RV? Or maybe the more appropriate question is, since you have the weBoost installed already, for the rest of us mulling a decision on what to install, does the Winegard that you have meet all the requirements you would have for wifi and cell data so that you would not have to purchase both systems?
No, they are sort of apples and oranges. The Winegard is simply a single cell data hotspot, it can't amplify any other device you may have like, for instance, our phones or my Verizon MiFi Hotspot. The weBoost amplifies all types of cell signals and can do multiple at the same time. I've used the Winegard as simply another cell data option and it has worked well. Having said that the last trip I did to the US for 6 months we only used the weBoost system 3 times. I'm finding cell coverage is improving to rural areas each year making the booster less and less needed. The biggest pain point I encounter now is crowded, slow cell towers when that happens speeds slow and disconnects happen, no booster can solve that. That's why having multiple data devices and carrier options helps as many times one carrier is slow and another is fast. Cheers, Ray
@@LoveYourRV Thanks Ray for your quick response. My wife and I do not full time, but we do get out for some extended trips of 1 to 2 months. Our Family Plan with Verizon has Unlimited Data as part of it, but you can't use your phone as a hotspot as they slow the data transmission way down. I was interested in the Winegard for the cellular hotspot capability, as well as wifi. As you say, in our travels, there have been very few instances of no cell coverage. By the way, you have a great channel. I've been following you for years.
I'm looking at this unit and one thing that I want to know is what is it's range for picking up WiFi? I saw another video that said it was only half a mile, but another place said it had a range of 1.5 miles. That's a pretty wide margin there.
If long range is important I'd pass on this unit and go for something that has an antenna you can point with. With this anything outside a half mile usually has a weak signal strength reading below 50% and the admin screens says for best results connect to a signal over 50%. I do connect to one WiFi hotspot that is over a mile away at least but it is a city hotpot with a large and powerful antenna to cover a big area so I guess the source you are connecting to makes a difference, but generally I feel this units range is not that great. Having it all enclosed and simple to use has its trade offs. Cheers, Ray
@@LoveYourRV Thank you for the reply. Distance is important, but not THAT important. For me it was just the wide range of values that I saw that made me question what the actual distance would be. I just wanted a more definitive number, which you have provided.
@@LoveYourRV Thx , I am having to replace mine because it will not load . BEWARE , DO NOT LOSE YOUR RECEIPT ! They will not give you a new replacement, Only a REFURBISHED one . And only if your SN qualifys you for that . If not you will get nothing from them . Even if you register it . Registering your unit means nothing. Exact words from the tech support. Also the support ticket number ? Means nothing Again from the tech support. So right now I am waiting for my REFURBISHED unit . Also had to give them my credit card number in case I don't send their broken unit back . I will never buy a WINEGARD AGAIN .
Thanks. Yes, they do different jobs The weBoost can amplify signals for all your cellular devices at the same time. The Winegard boost WiFi only and the as an add-on can receive cell data on one carrier and plan at a time. The sim needs to be physically switched to change carriers and plans. They have their own Winegard plans pay as you go for 1 month. Cheers, Ray
Love Your RV thanks Ray! I guess the weboost would "boost" the wingaurd signal from the Sim card? You said that wingaurd had its own plan. Do they provide their own sim card? Do you know what cell network they use? I assume they rebrand attached or Verizon based on the coverage.
No, the weBoost is a separate thing. I don't know which carrier the Winegard is using - at the bottom of this page it shows the plan pricing options. www.winegard.com/connect/rv The Winegard sim is included and installed in the ConnecT, I tried it this summer in Canada and it worked pretty well. Going to try it this winter in the US and see how it works.
Great video as always Ray! I’m really interested to see how the 4G/LTE coverage works when you make your way south again. Having a multi carrier card would be awesome and the price point in your previous video seemed really fair, especially since you can stop and start service when you like. Happy camping ⛺️
My roof is EDPM rubber glued to underlying boarding, so hesitate to use VHB tape as it will stick well to the rubber but the rubber could pull away from the underlying board. VHB is good for smooth metal or fiberglass but I don't trust it on the glued down rubber roof. Cheers, Ray
thx for the reply. Enjoy your mellow tones/unbiased reviews. As many have probably mentioned, anxiously awaiting your purchase decisions on a new truck. I am guessing that the timeline for such is probably just prior to heading south. A little birdie told me that by the middle of sept. unseasonably cold weather will be hitting the eastern side of the island this year. Weather usually not expected til December will settle in for the rest of the year;)
Hey Ray- Are you still having good luck with this Winegard Connect? I'm hoping to buy one, but am seeing very mixed reviews, especially in the last month or two. Pretty much 50/50 good/bad. 2nd question: Does it come with Winegard's Sim card in the box? Thanks and keep up the good work here! We are from Milwaukee and are heading for the Southwest in 1 week.
Yes, has been performing well for us. It came with a Winegard sim installed, I've been using the cell data during our trip near 3 months now to test it out and so far it's had good connections and coverage pretty well everywhere. Trip map - www.travellerspoint.com/map/#/trip/1164671 Here is a recent review update I put out in mid-December ruclips.net/video/k9esJJZ6OW4/видео.html Right now I'm down in the boonies ar Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument and its working here too. Cheers, Ray
I still use a booster on occasion. The Winegard only serves it's one cell data service. It seems to me boosted somewhat as it usually gets a strong signal, I'm sure being mounted on the rooftop helps. My other devices like my Verizon MiFi and our two cell phones can't use it so a separate booster is required for fringe reception areas. My weBoost 4G-X amp can handle multiple signals and carriers are the same time - www.loveyourrv.com/weboost-drive-4g-x-rv-cellular-booster-kit-review/ Every year though I find less and less need for a booster as the cell coverage improves. Cheers, Ray
Thank you Ray. Been waiting for this review. How about the fact that the Winegard sim connecting one to the internet is 20$ per gig. Twice the going rate. If you use the sim provided by your carrier set up is problematic and you have to add another devise and data plan. What are you doing?
You're welcome. It's 20 per gig if you only buy 1 gig, as you buy more it drops, most cell data plans are like that. Right now Winegard has a 30-day plan on for $65 for 10 gigs for US only customers. The US and Canada rates are 1 gig - $20 or 3 gigs - $35 or 10 gigs - $80 or 20 gigs - $150
No, the Winegard only delivers one data connection whereas the weBoost can simultaneously boost multiple cell connections either data or phone. So they are sort of apples and oranges.
No, still haggling with car dealers, looking to get a factory build unit so will be a few months anyway. Want to get our exact preferred options and no more. All the good towing things and light on the bells and whistles and trim packages. :)
That's what I did. I got a tradesman with the ANSN trans, fifth wheel pkg, Rear air bags 4x4 diesel. I added the big radio and the upgraded gauges, and off road front bumper with 12000lb winch and now it's just how I wanted it.
I just bought the first one for $650 or whatever it was, I’m upset that this one allows you to change the LTE provider so you don’t have to pay the outrageous Winegard data fees but I have to say what stopped me from replacing mine with the new one like you did was the internal router/box.. I have a switch with wired devices hooked to the Lan port and the new one not having Ethernet is a no go for me
I guess that's why they are continuing to sell the first ConnecT system, also it has the 5GHZ option, this only is 2.4GHZ. I agree they should open it up to other carriers. Cheers, Ray
Yup, winegard.com/products/cellular/4g-lte-hotspots/connect-4g-mobile/connect-2-4g2 Cellular Data Carrier Options - The ConnecT 2.0 4G2 is compatible with Winegard, AT&T, and Verizon cellular Internet service providers. Swap SIM cards to add to new or existing data plans from other carriers. The ConnecT 2.0 4G2 comes ready for use out of the box, preinstalled with a unique Winegard SIM card. If you choose to use your own 4G LTE plan, easily swap out the existing SIM card with an approved SIM card supplied by your cellular provider. Winegard FreedomGo Data Plans - Always stay connected with prepaid 30-day data plans. No contract, no commitments, no activation fees! Data plans range from 1GB to 20GB.
It can be done with any device that can run a web browser so yes can use a smartphone, tablet, laptop, desktop computer, etc You just connect to the Winegard ConnecT 2 network open a web browser ie. Chrome, Safari, FireFox and enter 10.11.12.1 in the address bar and log in to the settings/admin panel.
Yes, I've used my smartphone many times. You just open a web browser like you were going to surf the web and enter that address 10.11.12.1/ Here is a link to the instruction manual - www.winegard.com/help/images/e/e8/2452399.pdf
Thank you for sharing. Am getting this unit, but have to have LazyDays install it, my husband is not handy like you. 👍🏻 So sorry to hear about Big Blue. How is the new truck hunt going? Safe travels.
Did you see long long honeymoons video on bulletproof? You could keep old blue and have a new truck at the same time. If I remember it was a U.S. 10,000 but don't quote me on that? Some people love their vehicles so much they'd do anything to keep the familiarity going. Still love your videos, I'm Alabama bound in about 4 weeks.
That is a Ford Powerstroke motor from the mid or late 2000s This is a non-Powerstroke from 1994, a dinosaur, vastly less power and tow capacity and of course way older. ruclips.net/video/8o2LGuzl0go/видео.html Cheers, Ray
No, it won't. For that, you would need something like the weBoost system - www.loveyourrv.com/weboost-drive-4g-x-rv-cellular-booster-kit-review/ Cheers, Ray
Yes, for 4G cell data reception either use the Winegard's plan or insert one of your own sim cards from a compatible cell carrier. I think ATT and Verizon work, not sure about others, you'd have to contact Winegard But it doesn't boost cell phone calls and it only does one sim at a time. They have to be physically inserted in the box on the roof. You can also by the Winegard WiFi booster without the 4G data capability, it's much cheaper. Right now $199 versus $349 - amzn.to/2OKGaHL
It sort of apple and oranges. weBoost boosts all cell signals (data and phone) at the same time to multiple devices and doesn't do WiFi. The Winegard is a WiFi booster and has an optional model that receives one cell data signal. I have done a review on the weBoost system - www.loveyourrv.com/weboost-drive-4g-x-rv-cellular-booster-kit-review/
Dumb question... is the bottom of the Winegard Connect flat? I know some people use VHB tape to install their solar panels. I wonder if that might work for this device?
I am sorry if I sound repetitive in possibly asking the same question once again, but, still a little confused and am ready to purchase right away. I will have 1 cell phone, and, if I understand correctly, I will want to tether the computer to it (still not completely understanding tethering, but, I will get it I am sure when I have the equipment) so I can boost my abilities to watch RUclips from the road. So, do I want to install the Winegard or the Weboost? Am I correct in thinking it is Wingard? As far as viewing TV, I will probably go with a DTV dish on the roof so I can view movies and my Texans football. Thank you for your patience with me Ray!
For a cell phone, I would get a weBoost cellular booster since it also boosts the signal for phone calls. The Winegard is for WiFi and cell data only. You should be able to make the phone a hotspot and then tether to the computer for internet on the computer. But check with your carrier as some plans don't allow tethering.
Can you do a video on "Tips and Tricks for soldering wires? I prefer to do that but if I'm not on a bench I usually fail miserably. Your background tells me you have it figured out. Thanks for posting your knowledge.
I'll add that to the list. But too big tips are clean surfaces and high heat. If the surfaces aren't clean you get a bad solder connection and if the iron temp is to low it causes the solder to blob and not stick right. If the surface is nice and clean and the iron hot enough the solder will flow quickly and smoothly around the joint. People think a hotter iron will damage things but the opposite is true. An iron that is not hot enough means you have to have it on the joint far longer to melt the solder and get it to flow leading to overheating it. I also make sure that I have a mechanical connection with the wires first before soldering them by twisting them or wrapping or hooking them together. Cheers, Ray
I have a cheap iron and it seems the wire gets too hot and the wire casing melts before the solder melts. I'll wait for the instructional video, thanks.
You completely missed how to connect to the winegard on part 1. You went straight to the software not showing how you connected to the device. Was it a wifi setup connection? Otherwise good video.
Yes, the owners manual tells you which WiFi broadcast signal to connect to. A default factory one that you can then customize in the admin panel to your own liking. See my original ConnecT version one installation post and video where I went over all the setup - Post - www.loveyourrv.com/installing-winegard-connect-rv/ Video - ruclips.net/video/Dk4hulUy0g0/видео.html Cheers, Ray
Too bad it requires its own data plan, otherwise this would be at the top of our list. It looks like we will have to stick with our other options of cell and WiFi boosters. Thanks for the review though.
You can swap the sim and not use the Winegard plan but your own. At this time only ATT and Version is supported as far as I know but others might work. Of course is just for data and you have to go to the roof to change the sim. See page 7 for more info - www.winegard.com/help/images/e/e8/2452399.pdf Cheers, Ray
Yes, this is about the Winegard ConnecT 2.0 - winegard.com/products/wifi/extenders/connect-4g-mobile/connect-2-4g2 It boosts WiFi and also has a 4G LTE hotspot, but it doesn't have a TV or AM/FM antenna like the 360. However, the newly released winegard.com/products/wifi/extenders/connect-2-plus/connect-2-4g2-plus does. Cheers, Ray
This is what most people want simple easy and priced right. Just don't be recommending no wifiranger over-priced and poor implemented. On top of that, their web page is all flash and no substance.
We've been using it for over a year now, not much to complain about, the 4G connection was good when we had it down south and in the summer we use the WiFi part of it all the time. Cheers, Ray
@@LoveYourRV So you kept the sim and continued using Winegard's provider? In this case, just like a/c in houses, the equipment costs have gone down but it's the electricity where the real cost is. Although choosing a provider of electricity is much less complicated than choosing a Cell provider especially when it comes to data.
Yes, its pay as you go and works in both Canada and the USA, so was convenient to buy a month of data when I needed it. They had one plan that was 65$ for 10 gigs.
Strange because that's what is listed in the manual for the ConnecT 2.0 model WF2-435 on the Winegard website winegard.com/products/cellular/4g-lte-hotspots/connect-4g-mobile/connect-2-4g2 Are you sure you have this model?
See Part 1 of my review where I unbox and go over the setup - ruclips.net/video/JY95JpQxIPY/видео.html See the full review blog post - www.loveyourrv.com/winegard-connect-2-0-installation-and-review-wifi-extender-4g-lte/
So did you end-up like-ing the winegard connect 2.0 at the end? Why I ask because I have seen the photo of your video.
Yes, we have been using it all summer and its worked great for bringing in WiFi. Looking forward to using the 4G part of it this winter snowbird season as we travel in the US southwest. I'm not sure what you mean by "seen photo of your video"?
@@LoveYourRV I meant your thumbnail photo of this video
@@LoveYourRV and if you don't know what I mean. Then I don't know what to say about it I guess
Conrad And Friends Oh, OK so you're asking because you have seen the thumbnail. I didn't understand.
I have not commented before but I have to say that I love the nice quiet way you present your videos. My wife and I will be going full time in a Class A in 6 months when we both retire when we can still get out and enjoy life and are so looking forward to enjoy nature, the outdoors and the quiet life like you do. Your videos have really helped me with the wait as I enjoy each and every journey you share with us. The how to and informational videos are some of the best out there. Have a lot of fun and safe adventures out there. I look forward to the day we just might cross paths. Kevin and Kari Eide
Thanks for the comment, appreciate the kind words. :)
Cheers! Ray
Thanks for the video! We have an Winnebago Era 170 A and we are having some upgrades done by the dealer. I think the factory outputs on these units assume only highway driving directly to a RV resort park because the ride is very rough on any other surface so we are having new shocks, springs, sway-bar and two 6v batteries installed as well as the Winegard ConnectT 2.0. I told the dealer our choice was based on your review but I also wanted you to have the credit for our choice . We got it at Mike Thompson RV in Fountain Valley, CA.
Cool, glad the review helped. Enjoy the improvements, hope they help out the ride. Happy trails! Ray
Nice review Ray, always like your low key but complete reviews.
I'd really like a system that gets me hard wire a few of my devices in. Specifically my Apple TV and Dish Walley box. They both have wireless capability, so I might be just a little OCD about it. My current neighbors have one, ad like it. They're big fans of yours, also.
Count me in. Thanks for the review!
Gotta LOVE that eternabond tape! Nice install Ray.
I love your channel. You are very informative. I’m just getting into the rv world and I’ve learned a lot from watching your channel. Thanks for all the good info.
Cool! Glad the vids are of use. Cheers! Ray
Hey Ray;
Bill Speer Here from South Carolina, Yes I have one as well and glad I watched your Video. Thanks for all the Awesome Videos!!! Safe Travels!
You're welcome Bill, we have been using the Winegard 4G plan for the last few weeks and it's been a pretty good connection. Cheers, Ray
Curious why you didn’t use it for your rooftop television antenna. Have you had any experience with the TV antenna aspect?
You must be thinking of a new model they recently came out with, this one didn't have a built in TV antenna back then. This one is a model WF2-435, the AM/FM/TV model is a WF2-95B , see here - winegard.com/products/wifi/extenders I haven't tested one of the the new models. Cheers, Ray
We are looking for a new system. Thank you for sharing!
You bet. :)
Where in the Vancouver area would you pick one up? And I guess when down south you still require a cell plan for your phone/s for voice and texting. I like your video and description of the unit. I have looked at these in Camping World in Washington!
Yes still need a cell for phone stuff, data only. Here is a page where you can locate dealers in BC - www.winegard.com/find-a-dealer Much cheaper in the states I would imagine, though. Cheers! Ray
Ray, If you determine that the 4G/LTE performance meets your requirements, will you use the Winegard exclusively and retire the weBoost 4G-X-RV? Or maybe the more appropriate question is, since you have the weBoost installed already, for the rest of us mulling a decision on what to install, does the Winegard that you have meet all the requirements you would have for wifi and cell data so that you would not have to purchase both systems?
No, they are sort of apples and oranges. The Winegard is simply a single cell data hotspot, it can't amplify any other device you may have like, for instance, our phones or my Verizon MiFi Hotspot. The weBoost amplifies all types of cell signals and can do multiple at the same time. I've used the Winegard as simply another cell data option and it has worked well.
Having said that the last trip I did to the US for 6 months we only used the weBoost system 3 times. I'm finding cell coverage is improving to rural areas each year making the booster less and less needed. The biggest pain point I encounter now is crowded, slow cell towers when that happens speeds slow and disconnects happen, no booster can solve that. That's why having multiple data devices and carrier options helps as many times one carrier is slow and another is fast. Cheers, Ray
@@LoveYourRV Thanks Ray for your quick response. My wife and I do not full time, but we do get out for some extended trips of 1 to 2 months. Our Family Plan with Verizon has Unlimited Data as part of it, but you can't use your phone as a hotspot as they slow the data transmission way down. I was interested in the Winegard for the cellular hotspot capability, as well as wifi. As you say, in our travels, there have been very few instances of no cell coverage. By the way, you have a great channel. I've been following you for years.
I'm looking at this unit and one thing that I want to know is what is it's range for picking up WiFi? I saw another video that said it was only half a mile, but another place said it had a range of 1.5 miles. That's a pretty wide margin there.
If long range is important I'd pass on this unit and go for something that has an antenna you can point with. With this anything outside a half mile usually has a weak signal strength reading below 50% and the admin screens says for best results connect to a signal over 50%. I do connect to one WiFi hotspot that is over a mile away at least but it is a city hotpot with a large and powerful antenna to cover a big area so I guess the source you are connecting to makes a difference, but generally I feel this units range is not that great. Having it all enclosed and simple to use has its trade offs. Cheers, Ray
@@LoveYourRV
Thank you for the reply.
Distance is important, but not THAT important. For me it was just the wide range of values that I saw that made me question what the actual distance would be.
I just wanted a more definitive number, which you have provided.
The price's that they ask you can get the same far cheaper or you can actually build your own
Do you have to have a active sim card for the unit to work ? I am wanting to use it for open WIFI.
No, Wi-Fi works fine without activating the sim. Cheers, Ray
@@LoveYourRV Thx , I am having to replace mine because it will not load . BEWARE , DO NOT LOSE YOUR RECEIPT ! They will not give you a new replacement, Only a REFURBISHED one . And only if your SN qualifys you for that . If not you will get nothing from them . Even if you register it . Registering your unit means nothing. Exact words from the tech support. Also the support ticket number ? Means nothing Again from the tech support. So right now I am waiting for my REFURBISHED unit . Also had to give them my credit card number in case I don't send their broken unit back . I will never buy a WINEGARD AGAIN .
Sorry to hear that I've used one for years now and haven't had a problem, luckily its just worked. Thanks for the feedback.
Thanks for the great review Ray!
Question: Would you use BOTH this product and the weBoost?
Thanks. Yes, they do different jobs The weBoost can amplify signals for all your cellular devices at the same time. The Winegard boost WiFi only and the as an add-on can receive cell data on one carrier and plan at a time. The sim needs to be physically switched to change carriers and plans. They have their own Winegard plans pay as you go for 1 month. Cheers, Ray
Love Your RV thanks Ray! I guess the weboost would "boost" the wingaurd signal from the Sim card? You said that wingaurd had its own plan. Do they provide their own sim card? Do you know what cell network they use? I assume they rebrand attached or Verizon based on the coverage.
No, the weBoost is a separate thing. I don't know which carrier the Winegard is using - at the bottom of this page it shows the plan pricing options. www.winegard.com/connect/rv
The Winegard sim is included and installed in the ConnecT, I tried it this summer in Canada and it worked pretty well. Going to try it this winter in the US and see how it works.
Great video as always Ray!
I’m really interested to see how the 4G/LTE coverage works when you make your way south again. Having a multi carrier card would be awesome and the price point in your previous video seemed really fair, especially since you can stop and start service when you like.
Happy camping ⛺️
I would love your old one as I am only looking to boost wifi :)
Have you ever considered you teasing you VHB tape instead of drilling holes in your roof to attach stuff?
My roof is EDPM rubber glued to underlying boarding, so hesitate to use VHB tape as it will stick well to the rubber but the rubber could pull away from the underlying board. VHB is good for smooth metal or fiberglass but I don't trust it on the glued down rubber roof. Cheers, Ray
thx for the reply. Enjoy your mellow tones/unbiased reviews. As many have probably mentioned, anxiously awaiting your purchase decisions on a new truck. I am guessing that the timeline for such is probably just prior to heading south. A little birdie told me that by the middle of sept. unseasonably cold weather will be hitting the eastern side of the island this year. Weather usually not expected til December will settle in for the rest of the year;)
We are hoping to get out of here by mid-November. Hopefully, the temps will stay above freezing until then.
Hey Ray- Are you still having good luck with this Winegard Connect? I'm hoping to buy one, but am seeing very mixed reviews, especially in the last month or two. Pretty much 50/50 good/bad. 2nd question: Does it come with Winegard's Sim card in the box? Thanks and keep up the good work here! We are from Milwaukee and are heading for the Southwest in 1 week.
Yes, has been performing well for us. It came with a Winegard sim installed, I've been using the cell data during our trip near 3 months now to test it out and so far it's had good connections and coverage pretty well everywhere.
Trip map - www.travellerspoint.com/map/#/trip/1164671
Here is a recent review update I put out in mid-December ruclips.net/video/k9esJJZ6OW4/видео.html Right now I'm down in the boonies ar Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument and its working here too. Cheers, Ray
Great review as always. Thank you
Do you still use a booster for the 4G cell signal, Or does the Winegard have a built in booster for that as well ,
I still use a booster on occasion. The Winegard only serves it's one cell data service. It seems to me boosted somewhat as it usually gets a strong signal, I'm sure being mounted on the rooftop helps.
My other devices like my Verizon MiFi and our two cell phones can't use it so a separate booster is required for fringe reception areas. My weBoost 4G-X amp can handle multiple signals and carriers are the same time - www.loveyourrv.com/weboost-drive-4g-x-rv-cellular-booster-kit-review/ Every year though I find less and less need for a booster as the cell coverage improves. Cheers, Ray
Thank you so much for the informative video!
Thank you Ray. Been waiting for this review. How about the fact that the Winegard sim connecting one to the internet is 20$ per gig. Twice the going rate. If you use the sim provided by your carrier set up is problematic and you have to add another devise and data plan. What are you doing?
You're welcome. It's 20 per gig if you only buy 1 gig, as you buy more it drops, most cell data plans are like that.
Right now Winegard has a 30-day plan on for $65 for 10 gigs for US only customers.
The US and Canada rates are 1 gig - $20 or 3 gigs - $35 or 10 gigs - $80 or 20 gigs - $150
So will this replace your WeBoost system and get as good a signal when boondocking?
No, the Winegard only delivers one data connection whereas the weBoost can simultaneously boost multiple cell connections either data or phone. So they are sort of apples and oranges.
Looks like a "must have" item if you want to use the signal at most camp grounds. Hey Ray, have you replaced "ole Blue" yet?
No, still haggling with car dealers, looking to get a factory build unit so will be a few months anyway. Want to get our exact preferred options and no more. All the good towing things and light on the bells and whistles and trim packages. :)
That's what I did. I got a tradesman with the ANSN trans, fifth wheel pkg, Rear air bags 4x4 diesel. I added the big radio and the upgraded gauges, and off road front bumper with 12000lb winch and now it's just how I wanted it.
I just bought the first one for $650 or whatever it was, I’m upset that this one allows you to change the LTE provider so you don’t have to pay the outrageous Winegard data fees but I have to say what stopped me from replacing mine with the new one like you did was the internal router/box.. I have a switch with wired devices hooked to the Lan port and the new one not having Ethernet is a no go for me
I guess that's why they are continuing to sell the first ConnecT system, also it has the 5GHZ option, this only is 2.4GHZ. I agree they should open it up to other carriers. Cheers, Ray
Does a winegard sim card come installed with it.
Yup, winegard.com/products/cellular/4g-lte-hotspots/connect-4g-mobile/connect-2-4g2
Cellular Data Carrier Options - The ConnecT 2.0 4G2 is compatible with Winegard, AT&T, and Verizon cellular Internet service providers. Swap SIM cards to add to new or existing data plans from other carriers. The ConnecT 2.0 4G2 comes ready for use out of the box, preinstalled with a unique Winegard SIM card. If you choose to use your own 4G LTE plan, easily swap out the existing SIM card with an approved SIM card supplied by your cellular provider.
Winegard FreedomGo Data Plans - Always stay connected with prepaid 30-day data plans. No contract, no commitments, no activation fees! Data plans range from 1GB to 20GB.
When setting up, does it require a of or laptop? Can it be done with a tablet or phone? Thanks!
It can be done with any device that can run a web browser so yes can use a smartphone, tablet, laptop, desktop computer, etc
You just connect to the Winegard ConnecT 2 network open a web browser ie. Chrome, Safari, FireFox and enter 10.11.12.1 in the address bar and log in to the settings/admin panel.
Love Your RV just make sure, the setup can be done from a tablet or smart phone, right?
Yes, I've used my smartphone many times. You just open a web browser like you were going to surf the web and enter that address 10.11.12.1/ Here is a link to the instruction manual - www.winegard.com/help/images/e/e8/2452399.pdf
Love Your RV, thanks Ray. This is a big help!
Thank you for sharing. Am getting this unit, but have to have LazyDays install it, my husband is not handy like you. 👍🏻 So sorry to hear about Big Blue. How is the new truck hunt going? Safe travels.
Did you see long long honeymoons video on bulletproof? You could keep old blue and have a new truck at the same time. If I remember it was a U.S. 10,000 but don't quote me on that? Some people love their vehicles so much they'd do anything to keep the familiarity going. Still love your videos, I'm Alabama bound in about 4 weeks.
That is a Ford Powerstroke motor from the mid or late 2000s This is a non-Powerstroke from 1994, a dinosaur, vastly less power and tow capacity and of course way older. ruclips.net/video/8o2LGuzl0go/видео.html Cheers, Ray
So if you do not want to subscribe to anything will this work to boost your signal on your cell phone?
No, it won't. For that, you would need something like the weBoost system - www.loveyourrv.com/weboost-drive-4g-x-rv-cellular-booster-kit-review/ Cheers, Ray
Darn... so with this you would have to have a paid subscription to make any use out of it?
Yes, for 4G cell data reception either use the Winegard's plan or insert one of your own sim cards from a compatible cell carrier. I think ATT and Verizon work, not sure about others, you'd have to contact Winegard But it doesn't boost cell phone calls and it only does one sim at a time. They have to be physically inserted in the box on the roof.
You can also by the Winegard WiFi booster without the 4G data capability, it's much cheaper. Right now $199 versus $349 - amzn.to/2OKGaHL
Love Your RV thanks Ray. I am checking on two items from my Dealer. Dish TV and Winegard 2.0 for now. We are not full timers.
Great review, thanks for the details.
You're welcome. :)
Thanks for the education Ray. Have you had any experience with the WeBoost brand and how they might compare? Slim
It sort of apple and oranges. weBoost boosts all cell signals (data and phone) at the same time to multiple devices and doesn't do WiFi. The Winegard is a WiFi booster and has an optional model that receives one cell data signal.
I have done a review on the weBoost system - www.loveyourrv.com/weboost-drive-4g-x-rv-cellular-booster-kit-review/
Dumb question... is the bottom of the Winegard Connect flat? I know some people use VHB tape to install their solar panels. I wonder if that might work for this device?
Yeah, its pretty flat. I don't have footage of the bottom but here is a look inside to get an idea - ruclips.net/video/3OENPwABGW8/видео.html
funciona en otros países ?
Good Morning. Thank you. Jack
You're welcome. CHeers! Ray
I am sorry if I sound repetitive in possibly asking the same question once again, but, still a little confused and am ready to purchase right away. I will have 1 cell phone, and, if I understand correctly, I will want to tether the computer to it (still not completely understanding tethering, but, I will get it I am sure when I have the equipment) so I can boost my abilities to watch RUclips from the road. So, do I want to install the Winegard or the Weboost? Am I correct in thinking it is Wingard? As far as viewing TV, I will probably go with a DTV dish on the roof so I can view movies and my Texans football. Thank you for your patience with me Ray!
For a cell phone, I would get a weBoost cellular booster since it also boosts the signal for phone calls. The Winegard is for WiFi and cell data only. You should be able to make the phone a hotspot and then tether to the computer for internet on the computer.
But check with your carrier as some plans don't allow tethering.
Thank you Ray. Will make my order!
Can you do a video on "Tips and Tricks for soldering wires? I prefer to do that but if I'm not on a bench I usually fail miserably. Your background tells me you have it figured out. Thanks for posting your knowledge.
I'll add that to the list. But too big tips are clean surfaces and high heat. If the surfaces aren't clean you get a bad solder connection and if the iron temp is to low it causes the solder to blob and not stick right.
If the surface is nice and clean and the iron hot enough the solder will flow quickly and smoothly around the joint.
People think a hotter iron will damage things but the opposite is true. An iron that is not hot enough means you have to have it on the joint far longer to melt the solder and get it to flow leading to overheating it.
I also make sure that I have a mechanical connection with the wires first before soldering them by twisting them or wrapping or hooking them together. Cheers, Ray
I have a cheap iron and it seems the wire gets too hot and the wire casing melts before the solder melts. I'll wait for the instructional video, thanks.
redroofretriever things have to be clean. Use a wee bit of flux and things will flow quicker. Clean off any residue as it tends to be corrosive
You completely missed how to connect to the winegard on part 1. You went straight to the software not showing how you connected to the device. Was it a wifi setup connection? Otherwise good video.
Yes, the owners manual tells you which WiFi broadcast signal to connect to. A default factory one that you can then customize in the admin panel to your own liking. See my original ConnecT version one installation post and video where I went over all the setup - Post - www.loveyourrv.com/installing-winegard-connect-rv/ Video - ruclips.net/video/Dk4hulUy0g0/видео.html Cheers, Ray
Too bad it requires its own data plan, otherwise this would be at the top of our list. It looks like we will have to stick with our other options of cell and WiFi boosters.
Thanks for the review though.
You can swap the sim and not use the Winegard plan but your own. At this time only ATT and Version is supported as far as I know but others might work. Of course is just for data and you have to go to the roof to change the sim.
See page 7 for more info - www.winegard.com/help/images/e/e8/2452399.pdf
Cheers, Ray
Love Your RV thanks for taking the time to reply!
Wish I could have won that old system
I have the 360 not the 360+ BUT YOUR TALKING ABOUT A WINEGARD 2 ? ...
Yes, this is about the Winegard ConnecT 2.0 - winegard.com/products/wifi/extenders/connect-4g-mobile/connect-2-4g2 It boosts WiFi and also has a 4G LTE hotspot, but it doesn't have a TV or AM/FM antenna like the 360. However, the newly released winegard.com/products/wifi/extenders/connect-2-plus/connect-2-4g2-plus does. Cheers, Ray
This is what most people want simple easy and priced right. Just don't be recommending no wifiranger over-priced and poor implemented. On top of that, their web page is all flash and no substance.
We've been using it for over a year now, not much to complain about, the 4G connection was good when we had it down south and in the summer we use the WiFi part of it all the time. Cheers, Ray
@@LoveYourRV So you kept the sim and continued using Winegard's provider? In this case, just like a/c in houses, the equipment costs have gone down but it's the electricity where the real cost is. Although choosing a provider of electricity is much less complicated than choosing a Cell provider especially when it comes to data.
Yes, its pay as you go and works in both Canada and the USA, so was convenient to buy a month of data when I needed it. They had one plan that was 65$ for 10 gigs.
10.11.12.1 doesn't work anymore.
Strange because that's what is listed in the manual for the ConnecT 2.0 model WF2-435 on the Winegard website winegard.com/products/cellular/4g-lte-hotspots/connect-4g-mobile/connect-2-4g2 Are you sure you have this model?