WiFi, MiFi and Connectify – Why am I mysti-Fi-ed?

The CaseViewNet (CVNet) APP is in development and close to being released.   Stenograph has also reduced the software license for CVNet from $595 to $295 so entry into the wireless realtime market for reporters is more affordable.  Additionally, STAR member receive a discount.  If you have upgraded to e-key, the license is now tied to the e-key and not the computer.  Now I’m getting really excited.

Years ago when Stenograph first offered CVNet, a software license came with a Linksys or Cradlepoint WiFi router.  This allowed you to send realtime wirelessly in a secured, controlled WiFi environment.  The biggest benefit to offering CVNet wirelessly versus a serial connection is that it gave you RapidRefresh.  For example, say you’ve been writing for a half hour and you finally get a spelling for something that happened on Page 5.  Make the correction in  CaseCatalyst and counsel will get the benefit of that change on his computer.  Another benefit is if counsel arrives to the deposition late, he can hook up and receive the entire transcript as soon as he makes a connection.  In addition, you are no longer reliant on an Internet connection at counsel’s office and you have no unsightly wires crisscrossing the table like you would with traditional serial connections.  Carrying the router is additional equipment but at least you know you’ll always be able to make a CVNet connection.  Plus it’s simple and easy to use.

Of course, if a law firm has WiFi/network that you can log onto, you have the same functionality as mentioned above.

As time has passed, advancements have been made in wireless technology.  We can now connect to counsel using Connectify.  When using Connectify, your computer is now a virtual router or “hotspot.”  No more carrying around the router.  You need Windows 7 and a specific WiFi card chipset in your computer to make it work.  To find out if you have it or not, download the FREE version of Connectify and give it a try.  If you don’t have it, a simple purchase of an Intellinet® Wireless 150N USB mini adapter is needed. 

But what about Internet access?  If I am using a router, Cradlepoint or Connectify, do I automatically have access to the Internet?  The answer is no!  In order to have access to the Internet, you need an Internet source.  If you are in a location that has an Ethernet cable and you are allowed to plug the Ethernet cable into your router or Cradlepoint or even your computer, you and your clients have access to the Internet. 

Another solution is MiFi a/k/a “My WiFi.”  MiFi is a personal network that gives you access to the Internet and allows you to share it with other people.  It’s about the size of a credit card that combines functions of a modem, router, and access point.  The MiFi is sold with a monthly service contract from your telephone provider.

Why use MiFi?  Say that you’re at a client’s office and they don’t have Internet access.    Hook  up your MiFi.  How is this secure?  As with the Linksys and Cradlepoint routers, you need to name your MiFi network and create a password.  Only those with your password have access to your MiFi.   By sharing the connection, you are giving counsel access to the Internet and making it possible for them to connect with CVNet.

STAR is going to have a seminar on this technology at its October 4-6 convention in New Orleans.  Learn more about CaseCatalyst and court reporter technology/marketing and earn CEU credits at the same time.

Special thanks to Vickie Main from Stenograph for her patience with me in explaining this technology.  

By Linda S. Fifield, Doris O. Wong Associates

Published in StarDotStar, Vol. 17, No.2 Spring 2012 edition