The Evo 4G is an Android powered smartphone produced by HTC and available for use on Sprint's 4G cellular network. To take advantage of the high-speed data transfer capabilities of the 4G network, you can attach your Evo smartphone to your laptop computer. This procedure, often called tethering, allows your computer to access the Internet anywhere you can receive a cellular signal on your phone.
What Is Tethering?
In its simplest form, tethering is the act of connecting a cellphone to a computer so the computer can take advantage of the phone's data capabilities to connect to the Internet. The connection can be via a USB cable, Bluetooth, local network connection or some other method. As cellular network data speeds increase, tethering becomes more practical. With today's 4G cellular networks, cellular data transmission rates are often faster than those offered by many Internet service providers. Additionally, you can access the Internet from virtually anywhere, as long as your phone can get a signal.
Software
The Android operating system, which the HTC Evo uses, is equipped with features that make tethering possible. Some carriers disable these features on the phones they sell. If your provider has done this, you'll need to install one of the many available third-party applications that facilitate tethering. One of these apps is PdaNet, though others are also available. You need the PdaNet Android app, available in the Android Market, as well as the PdaNet program for your computer, which is available for free at the PdaNet Website. Once you have both of these installed, you're ready to tether.
Procedure
To begin tethering, activate the USB Debugging feature on the Evo. Navigate to the applications menu, tap "Development," check the box next to USB Debugging and then click "OK" when the confirmation window appears. Connect the phone to the computer using the USB data cable. Start the PdaNet app on the phone and tap "Enable USB Tether" when the app begins. Start the PdaNet program on the computer, right-click its icon in the system tray and click "Connect." When the connection is established, you're ready to surf the Internet.
Cellular Providers' Stance
Most cellular providers aren't big proponents of tethering. Using the cellular network to surf the Internet and download large files can put a strain on an already overworked network, causing slowdowns. Many providers offer tethering capabilities as an additional premium service, which can generate substantial revenue for the company. With this money maker being offered, they certainly don't want you going about it yourself. Carriers use a variety of methods to prevent you from tethering your phone and may even charge you additional fees or cancel your service if they believe you're doing so, though it isn't easy for them to find out as long as you don't overdo things.
Tags: cellular network, your phone, access Internet, PdaNet program, Start PdaNet, surf Internet, take advantage
