Communications, electronics

Between the big 3 or 4 major carriers you should be able to get decent service in most places.

I use my Cell Phone as Hotspot and almost never have any issues.
really don't want to make this into ATT v Sprint v TMobile v Verizon Debate.


I would suggest finding a Company that has APUs in their Trucks.

 

I have a mifi modem but also use my cell phone as a hot spot sometimes.

 

Balakov is right, go with a company that has APU's & you don't have to idle the truck.

 

Should still get power without the truck running or the key on atleast in the bunk acc outlets atleast that's been my experience in the trucks I have drove

 

As long as the batteries are charged you can use a small inverter to power your laptop.
The engine does not have to run except to charge the batteries, so use interior lights sparingly. (the Volvo overhead cab light can drain the batteries fairly quickly, for some reason)

I use a Verizon MiFi for internet. I've only NOT had service maybe 2 days out of nearly 2 years, so that is rarely a problem.
Slow connections can sometimes be a problem if you do things like stream Netflix.
My plan is $120 per month with a 20GB data limit.

 

It doesn't take much power to charge your laptop. I often use mine when the truck is not idling. I can be on my laptop for hours and not drain the truck batteries. You can also charge your laptop while drivng down the road, too. Just buy a Cobra 400 watt inverter that plugs into any cigarette outlet and you can run your laptop and printer without having to direct wire to the batteries. The inverter costs about $40. I have owned a couple of them. They will last for several years. I have a Sprint air card that costs me about $65/month with tax. Most truck stops have WiFi that you can subscribe, but you only have internet at that particular truck stop chain, such as TA or Flying J. You can use an air card anywhere you have a cell phone signal, since they use the same towers.