What's an "air card"?

I have Win98 SE, dialup... No faster hardwire connection available here in the jungle... but I've been advised that an "air card" will solve the problem. I think there's another generic term which applies to all ISPs and their equivalent "air card". (I do get great cellphone service here...)

I'm describing the hardware which plugs into the USB port to provide wireless access via cellphone packages.

From comparing, there are huge differences in the prices of the "cards", depending on the Provider and the package costs. My main question (besides the clarification on the Name of this device!) is, Do I have to acquire such a device from the Provider?

Or can I find a third party device, maybe with a router to use at home -- where I can get economically-sound deals and save money? Even the insurance costs on these devices, thru the ISP, are almost "exorbitant"!

Thanks.

 

I have not seen 3rd party cards, you usually get the from the wireless provider (Verizon or Sprint) I'd wonder if the even have Win98 drivers now days. But I have heard of an 'air card' router:
http://www.evdoinfo.com/content/view/264/63/
Round here aircards run $50 a month *unlimited* access.

*unlimited* means EXCLUDING downloading videos & streaming music. As the provider tells us it is meant to be a "business network."

 

I found Verizon and Alltel have $60/mo, with Verizon "giving" you the first card (don't lose it, the 2nd one is expensive!); Alltel sells you the card for $100 after rebate; both require 2-yr contracts.

A local ISP (the phone company) has $30/mo but wants $150 for the card, on a 2-yr contact.

None of them mentioned incompatibility with OS's. You'd think with the large number of OS's out there, they'd make it as attractive as possible to lure customers!

Thanks for the comment about 3rd-party cards.

:cool