a comparative review of four offline mobile media distribution devices

Offline Mobile Media

Distribution Devices

What Do Offline Mobile Media Distribution

Devices Do?• Each of the reviewed devices can

create a WiFi “hotspot” that any WiFi enabled device (phone, tablet, computer) within range can connect to

• Once connected those devices are NOT connected to the internet but they CAN access and download whatever files/media you choose to make available through the device

Use Cases• Providing access to files/media in

rural areas with poor internet access or high internet data costs

• Providing access to files/media in situations where internet access is monitored by security services, etc.

• Providing access to files/media at a conference without using up/needing internet access

Pros1)Inexpensive ($40 for device, $10 for 16GB flash drive)

2)Very portable/pocketable (manufacturers typically recommend keeping WiFi devices like these 8 inches/20cm away from the body due to concerns with signal radiation. Determine your comfort level with pocketing one similarly to how comfortable you are keeping a computer on your lap, etc.)

3)6000mAh battery can be used to charge a typical smartphone 2-3x

HooToo Tripmate Wireless N Portable Travel Router with 6000mAh Battery

Cons1)Users need to download and install an app in order to access the media (deal breaker)

2)Users need to know the username and password in order to access the media- this is a barrier to use for them and also makes securing your files/device next to impossible


Assessment

While unsuitable for offline media distribution this is an excellent combination of 1) portable battery charger, 2) “personal cloud” device which allows you to store files and media you want to be able to access on your tablet or mobile without clogging those devices’ memory and also leaving them “clean” of potentially compromising ministry materials, 3) Internet router for situations where you only have one hard line to the internet- this will create a WiFi signal many devices can connect to the internet with.


PirateBox (with TP-LINK TL-MR3020 3G/4G Wireless N150 Portable Router)

Pros1)The TL-MR3020 router used in building this version of the PirateBox has excellent range- 258 feet/78.6 meters2)While difficult, it is possible to edit the landing page viewers see upon accessing the PirateBox3)The PirateBox community is pretty large and has forums for usage and Q&A.


Cons1)The set-up instructions are a bit challenging for the less technically literate2)The TL-MR3020 router, while cheap ($34) requires an external battery which reduces portability/pocketability3)Requires some work to secure it.


AssessmentUsing the PirateBox directions (http://piratebox.cc/openwrt:diy) with a different router (the TP Link TL-MR3040) the PirateBox provides a decent offline media distribution device with the benefit of landing page customizability at the expense of a more challenging build experience.

http://piratebox.cc/openwrt:diy

BibleBox (with TP Link TL-MR3040 Portable Router)

Pros1)The DIY build is the most inexpensive offline mobile media distribution device tested ($45- $35 for the router, $10 for a 16GB SanDisk Cruzer Fit flash drive)2)The device is fairly portable/pocketable as it is about the size of a mobile phone and is self contained once the tiny thumb drive is inserted.3)While not having as great a range as some, 217 feet/66.1 meters range will meet most needs.4)The possibility of having one made for you is a blessing for those without time or technical ability (120 Australian dollars/108 US dollars plus shipping from Australia)


Cons1)Customizing the home page/landing page requires some coding skills/ability.

2)The pre-made version is somewhat expensive compared to the DIY ($108 to $45). The expense is understandable as this is the maker’s side-ministry to a full-time job.


AssessmentThe combination of the inexpensive, all-in-one router and easier to follow instructions (http://biblebox.org/make-your-own) make this a great tool for offline media distribution. Its availability as a pre-made product is also a big, although somewhat costly, benefit to the ministry world.

http://biblebox.org/make-your-own

Renew Outreach LightStream

Pros1)Can do everything the others can ++

a. Incredible landing page customizabilityb. Greater range (298 feet/90.8 meters)c. Bluetooth broadcastingd. Four port microSD card duplicatore. Ready to use out of the box


Cons1)Quite costly ($360 without battery, $540 for the device with a high-end/high capacity battery)2)Not as pocketable as the others (especially using the supplied battery)


AssessmentIf you can afford it the LightStream is the way to go in all ways except pocketability. With the additional functions of Bluetooth broadcasting, microSD card duplication and battery charging as well as extreme landing page customizability this device rocks!