Testing and Mapping a Cellular Data Network?

bgsneeze writes "In order to resolve an ongoing issue with a vendor, I have been trying to find a way to test different 3G data devices empirically. I would like to be able to chart signal strength, latency, and bandwidth. I would also like to create a map of the coverage area. I have a test 3G card from three different providers. I would like to be able to travel with the setup to several different locations and run tests. What software or techniques would Slashdotters use to test the different devices? Are there any free or open source software packages that will do this?"

Comments

Are you kidding?

[Anonymous Coward]

Obviously this can only be used for terrorism.

Re:hack something in perl

[WrongSizeGlass]

Why do it yourself when you can just wait for Google to announce they did it accidentally ;-)

One idea

[TubeSteak]

What software or techniques would Slashdotters use to test the different devices? Are there any free or open source software packages that will do this?

I would suggest the "grad student technique".
Find a nearby university and convince a professor to lend some (under)grad students to your cause.
It helps if you have friends that can refer you to professors/students who'd be interested in the challenge.

P.S. The only thing better than the "grad student technique" is the "summer intern technique"

Re:One idea

[stoborrobots]

P.S. The only thing better than the "grad student technique" is the "summer intern technique"

Especially if she's hot...

Obligatory reference:

[zill]

Can you ping me yet?







How about now?

Re:Good Luck With That

[BobMcD]

I'd tell you stories, but my therapist says I'm close to recovery...