We recently completed testing of TruConnect's cellular data service. The TruConnect data service costs only $4.99/month + $0.039 per MB of usage with no contracts or other fees. TruConnect uses the Sprint data network so coverage is excellent. We estimate a gateway + 10 sensors set to 5 minute sensing interval would cost a total of about $10/month. Compared to the typical $50/month for other cellular carrier's data plans it is a huge savings. We have done extensive testing and found the hardware and data service to be very reliable and simple to set up.

We have tested and recommend the CradlePoint CTR35 router (about $37 from Amazon) and you have to use the TruConnect USB modem (about $80 at TruConnect).

Gateway with Cradlepoint Router

Once you have the hardware, follow these simple steps to get your gateway online:

CAUTION The Cradlepoint's power supply and the gateway's power supply have the SAME plug size BUT the cradlepoint's supply voltage is 12 Volts and WILL permanently fry your gateway since the gateway is designed for a 3.3 Volt power supply. We strongly recommend you LABEL the cradlepoint power supply and gateway power supply so they can NEVER be swapped. Use color coded tape or similar. We have heard of several customer's gateways that have been cooked by the cradlepoint power supply.