Re: Internet Speed

BBVI is faster. than 1MB. Maybe 3? Current Hughesnet satellite speeds run as high as 5MB. About $100/m. gets you 2MB down.

Sloop

Sloop,

Thanks for the heads up. I guess 3 would work for now. $100/month seems a bit steep for 2MB download. In Indian I'm paying $34/month for 11MB download and 15 MB upload, so this will definitely be a change I have to get used to, but at least there is something decent available.

Thanks Again.

Raj H.

First thing you have to do is STOP comparing what you get in the USVI to what you had in the US. It's not helpful and will drive you crazy.

Hello Linda,

I know what you mean. This is not my first relocation. I am currently living in India and adjusting to the differences here as compared to what I used to get in the Dominican Republic was a bit tough and adjusting to what I got in the Contiguous US as compared to what I was getting in the Dominican Republic when I moved there was kind of tough too.

I guess I am getting used to the changes I will be encountering from this move, but I still had to ask because my business and school do depend on a reliable internet connection. But thank you again for reminding me that just because I'm moving to a U.S. territory doesn't mean it will be like the United States. It's something to keep in mind.

Have a wonderful day.

Raj H.

1meg is your median average speed around here. Innovative DSL only goes 1meg. BBVI cap is 1.5megs (BBVI is also wireless DSL). Choice cap is 3meg. I don't know of any satellite options--satellite tends to be very high latency (very bad for gaming).

But one thing to be careful of, is what's supported where. BBVI has a very strict "direct line-of-sight" requirement to their tower, this includes lack of foliage. I was unable to get BBVI due to excessive trees, even though I'm practically facing a tower of theirs. Choice is very, very hit or miss. When it's a hit, speeds are super fast, and runs well (aside from higher latency -- it's WiMAX, high latency prone). When it's a miss, no method of jury-rigging will make it work. I was a miss.

That left me with Innovative. It works, and for the most part pretty well. It's not super fast (I'm at 1meg down), but gets the job done and gaming isn't too affected. The connection, in general, is stable -- even if it's too shaky for gaming, I can still use the general internet.

Outside of satellite, those are your options. Innovative may be the only "more-guaranteed" option, simply because they are the standard wired DSL, using your existing phone line. So, if you can get a phone line, you can get Innovative. The same can't be said for the other two.

1meg is your median average speed around here. Innovative DSL only goes 1meg. BBVI cap is 1.5megs (BBVI is also wireless DSL). Choice cap is 3meg. I don't know of any satellite options--satellite tends to be very high latency (very bad for gaming).

But one thing to be careful of, is what's supported where. BBVI has a very strict "direct line-of-sight" requirement to their tower, this includes lack of foliage. I was unable to get BBVI due to excessive trees, even though I'm practically facing a tower of theirs. Choice is very, very hit or miss. When it's a hit, speeds are super fast, and runs well (aside from higher latency -- it's WiMAX, high latency prone). When it's a miss, no method of jury-rigging will make it work. I was a miss.

That left me with Innovative. It works, and for the most part pretty well. It's not super fast (I'm at 1meg down), but gets the job done and gaming isn't too affected. The connection, in general, is stable -- even if it's too shaky for gaming, I can still use the general internet.

Outside of satellite, those are your options. Innovative may be the only "more-guaranteed" option, simply because they are the standard wired DSL, using your existing phone line. So, if you can get a phone line, you can get Innovative. The same can't be said for the other two.

Quice- you strike me as a gamer with your references to online gaming. Do you play xbox live at all and if so how does your connection fare there?I myself play it with mostly shooter games that need a good connection to succeed.

Thank you in advance for your input.

PS I will be on STJ near Mongoose Junction assuming this information is important based on the factors you mentioned.

How to rig a better signal for WiFi

I understand you can also use things like a beer can or a pringles can or a coffee can. Search for other videos using google and something like "boost wifi signal".

Quice,

I appreciate the advice. I was just checking out Choice today. Their website had me convinced for a minute, but then I stopped and thought about the fact that I've switched my internet connection here in India at least five times in the last five years because I got sucked in by these really convincing ads that end up with poor internet speed as the payoff. The one I'm using now reminds me of Choice. I am paying for 15 Mbps, and when it works, it works well, but when it doesn't work, it doesn't work at all... It drives me crazy.

It looks like I will keep my eye out for Innovative when I arrive. Thanks again for your help.

Raj H.

noOne,

Great video. I love Jerry Rigging stuff...

Raj H.

Quice- you strike me as a gamer with your references to online gaming. Do you play xbox live at all and if so how does your connection fare there?I myself play it with mostly shooter games that need a good connection to succeed.

Thank you in advance for your input.

PS I will be on STJ near Mongoose Junction assuming this information is important based on the factors you mentioned.

It's with a 'G' by the way> 🙂

I play mostly online PC games, MMOs (WoW, Rift), and never really got into XBox online gaming. My ping ratings, to google, while on Innovative, can be vastly sporadic. Recently, I think there's something going on in the US -- a lot of fellow US gamers are having the same issues I'm having: really high-high latency and ping rating to the servers. We're talking averaging over 500ms! (sometimes a good 1k+ for and hour or so). And I'm not the only one. I've been unable to determine where the issue lies, but it's definitely not Innovative (pings to innovative / default gateway are good)... Sucks.

However, before all that (basically, before Irene -- I think that's causing a lot of after effects), I was averaging a 50s to 70s ping to Google, making online MMOs very playable, but probably still iffy on FPSs. However, FPS servers differ from MMOs servers, so you may get better ratings.

... and when it works, it works well, but when it doesn't work, it doesn't work at all... It drives me crazy.

Ah, then you will fit right in Raj! My internet service is usually very, very nice. But then there are those days when it stops. You call them on Friday and they say no one can look at it 'til Monday. Ha, ha. I didn't want that stinky old internet anyway.:D

It's with a 'G' by the way> 🙂

I play mostly online PC games, MMOs (WoW, Rift), and never really got into XBox online gaming. My ping ratings, to google, while on Innovative, can be vastly sporadic. Recently, I think there's something going on in the US -- a lot of fellow US gamers are having the same issues I'm having: really high-high latency and ping rating to the servers. We're talking averaging over 500ms! (sometimes a good 1k+ for and hour or so). And I'm not the only one. I've been unable to determine where the issue lies, but it's definitely not Innovative (pings to innovative / default gateway are good)... Sucks.

However, before all that (basically, before Irene -- I think that's causing a lot of after effects), I was averaging a 50s to 70s ping to Google, making online MMOs very playable, but probably still iffy on FPSs. However, FPS servers differ from MMOs servers, so you may get better ratings.

Ah my bad Guice 🙂

Alright cool, yea, Im not really getting my hopes up, I plan on buying a bunch of RPG's to keep me entertained on the rainy nights. Also, do you know who all delivers to STJ? I know Best Buy will because they use USPS but Amazon refuses due to the PO Box. Know of any others I could use for my video game (and I have to order a TV) needs?

Thanks

Alright cool, yea, Im not really getting my hopes up, I plan on buying a bunch of RPG's to keep me entertained on the rainy nights. Also, do you know who all delivers to STJ? I know Best Buy will because they use USPS but Amazon refuses due to the PO Box. Know of any others I could use for my video game (and I have to order a TV) needs?

Thanks

I frequently play FPS games on PSN & XBox Live using my Innovative DSL connection. My pings are usually excellent (60-70ms to MIA test servers) other than peak usage times of 6-10PM. My Choice WiMAX connection can adequately be used for FPS games with borderline moderate latency (120-170ms to MIA test servers), once again except for peak usage times.

FYI, Amazon will ship to a P.O. Box. Some 3rd party suppliers that sell via Amazon may not, but Amazon itself will. Best Buy sometimes gets silly with shipping games & software to the V.I., citing export restrictions. WalMart.com is an OK source for games & software with decent delivery times via USPS Priority Mail. Finding a reputable seller on eBay, IMO, is a valuable source. Or, patronize the local FYE in the mall. They carry most PS3 & XBox 360 games & usually have them available on release day. You will pay a higher price, though with shipping it usually balances out, & having the game on release day may be worth it on occasion.

You guys have been real helpful. Thanks for all the advice.

Raj H.

... and when it works, it works well, but when it doesn't work, it doesn't work at all... It drives me crazy.

Ah, then you will fit right in Raj! My internet service is usually very, very nice. But then there are those days when it stops. You call them on Friday and they say no one can look at it 'til Monday. Ha, ha. I didn't want that stinky old internet anyway.:D

East Ender,

Thanks for the heads up, even though that sounds like it bites, but hey, when you move, you have to expect changes right. Does those little 3G or 4G USB sticks work at all?

I'll be back to @#$%& to you when I move there and I have a weekendless internet waiting for the dude to arrive on Monday!!!

Raj H.

I frequently play FPS games on PSN & XBox Live using my Innovative DSL connection. My pings are usually excellent (60-70ms to MIA test servers) other than peak usage times of 6-10PM. My Choice WiMAX connection can adequately be used for FPS games with borderline moderate latency (120-170ms to MIA test servers), once again except for peak usage times.

FYI, Amazon will ship to a P.O. Box. Some 3rd party suppliers that sell via Amazon may not, but Amazon itself will. Best Buy sometimes gets silly with shipping games & software to the V.I., citing export restrictions. WalMart.com is an OK source for games & software with decent delivery times via USPS Priority Mail. Finding a reputable seller on eBay, IMO, is a valuable source. Or, patronize the local FYE in the mall. They carry most PS3 & XBox 360 games & usually have them available on release day. You will pay a higher price, though with shipping it usually balances out, & having the game on release day may be worth it on occasion.

Ok cool, glad to hear there are other xbox players on island. And fortunately I will be working during peak hours so its not much of a concern. Granted I am not sure which internet I will have because it will be included in my utilities. But I will be on STJ in Cruz Bay. Any one want to offer their opinion on what they think the internet provider will be for an apartment there? I guess i should hope for Innovative from what you posted 🙂

As for FYE, I am guessing that is on STT? So I def wouldnt be in for day of releases haha but I am glad to hear there is a videogame store on island for those games i want urgently 🙂

Thank you

Ah my bad Guice 🙂

Alright cool, yea, Im not really getting my hopes up, I plan on buying a bunch of RPG's to keep me entertained on the rainy nights. Also, do you know who all delivers to STJ? I know Best Buy will because they use USPS but Amazon refuses due to the PO Box. Know of any others I could use for my video game (and I have to order a TV) needs?

Thanks

You can get a private mail box. Gives the illusion of a physical address, and everybody ships to there. I don't know of any places on STJ. On STT, I have a mail box at Barefoot Buddha, which accepts all packages. I just leave out the "PMB" part. 😉

As for FYE, I am guessing that is on STT? So I def wouldnt be in for day of releases haha but I am glad to hear there is a videogame store on island for those games i want urgently

Yeah. The one and only video / gaming store I know of on island. I go there for my games, and accessory needs. Or, I just order from Amazon. I don't have issues with most things from them.

Guice-

How would I go about getting the PMB once I am there and how does it work?

Also, just to check I had been trying to use my works address as a shipping address for Amazon and it always says they cannot ship there because it is a PO Box? any Idea on how I would avoid having the po box part in the address? I DO know that it goes through Connections and that theyll hold the package but for some reason Amazon just refuses to acknowledge that it will send to that address.

Would I do like you say and just list Connections physical address as the mailing address ? (Instead of the Buddha place you use) And then they would put it in my box or hold it for me?

There is Mickey Mania game store downtown that sells all types of games for all systems. Don't know about their prices, but they say they have "Best Crazy Deals - Our prices will drive you crazy!"

Located on Store Tvaver Gade - street alongside The Greenhouse. The red buildings.

340-777-1800
1-800-4-MICKEY
krazyrick@hotmail.com

If you are talking about books, etc shipped directly from Amazon, I don't understand your problem. We've lived on STX for 8 years, always used a po box and I've had Amazon ship hundreds of things to the PO box with no problem.

Guice-

How would I go about getting the PMB once I am there and how does it work?

Also, just to check I had been trying to use my works address as a shipping address for Amazon and it always says they cannot ship there because it is a PO Box? any Idea on how I would avoid having the po box part in the address? I DO know that it goes through Connections and that theyll hold the package but for some reason Amazon just refuses to acknowledge that it will send to that address.

Would I do like you say and just list Connections physical address as the mailing address ? (Instead of the Buddha place you use) And then they would put it in my box or hold it for me?

When you get there, ask co-workers and friends where's a good place to get a mailbox. I don't know anything on STJ. But there are plenty of places here on STT -- so I'd imagine the same on STJ. And then all you'll need to two forms of government ID (DL/Passport), and fill out a form with whom ever it is. I'd recommend getting something close to where you work, or in a central area if you expect to change around work. Getting a private mailbox has to be done in person, btw. They are acting on behalf of the US Postal Services; there are restrictions, blah blah, to attend to.

If you're close to the docs, and plan to hit STT a lot, there's RedHook mail center (forget exact name) which does private mail boxes. It's right on the docs by the fairy going to STJ.

If you are talking about books, etc shipped directly from Amazon, I don't understand your problem. We've lived on STX for 8 years, always used a po box and I've had Amazon ship hundreds of things to the PO box with no problem.

There are some places / people that just won't ship to PO Boxes -- it all depends on the product, and who's selling it. I've ran across a few sites, and even some Amazon no-PO Box restrictions.

Getting a private mailbox has to be done in person, btw. They are acting on behalf of the US Postal Services; there are restrictions, blah blah, to attend to.

Just wanted to know if there is no house-to-house mailbox system there. It's not a big deal, I'm just curious.

By the way, thank you for all your useful info. Even though I'm not asking some of these questions, I'm getting a lot of useful feedback!!!

Raj H.

 

Just wanted to know if there is no house-to-house mailbox system there. It's not a big deal, I'm just curious.

By the way, thank you for all your useful info. Even though I'm not asking some of these questions, I'm getting a lot of useful feedback!!!

Raj H.

From what I've seen, houses, for the most part, do have mail delivered. But not all houses have actual mailboxes on their property. There are a lot of community mail boxes: a set of mailboxes located on the community / just before in which you check, like apartment complexes state-side. I hadn't figured out the package delivery caveats yet... I lived in a house that had a mailbox, but they didn't deliver packages to it. However, they deliver packages to my private mailbox at Barefoot Buddha.

I got a private mailbox cause I wanted a perm address, no matter where I lived/moved to on island. If I settle permanently here, then I may consider cancelling it.

"I hadn't figured out the package delivery caveats yet... I lived in a house that had a mailbox, but they didn't deliver packages to it."

If a package doesn't fit in your PO box or in your "cluster" mailbox (I don't know what they're called), the carrier will leave a Delivery Notice slip in your box, and you take the slip to the PO counter and claim your package. If you have a single mailbox in front of your house, I don't know what they do. Leave a slip, or ring your bell, or leave the package on your doorstep?