Smartphone with remote antenna option

[Storyline]

I use an HTC Touch and Internet Connection Sharing to access the web on my laptop whilst on the boat.

Sailing on the West Coast of Scotland means that the connection is iffy and the phone is often dangled in precarious positions on a long usb lead.

Does anyone know of a smartphone that has a connection for a remote antenna which I can mount on the pushpit?

I do not think I can use a usb dongle modem as my cheapo unlimited O2 connection does not permit unlimited use with a modem under their fair use policy. They accept internet connection sharing with a smartphone.

 

[charles_reed]

Why not use bluetooth

and site the phone in the optimum position for receiving and the PC within 10m?

 

[PembrokeshirePromise]

I used one of these:

http://www.3g.co.uk/PR/March07/4468.htm

On the W coast of Scotland last summer for 3 months - normally added about 2 bars. Not cheap - but does the job (need to make sure you get EU version).

One of the attachment methods is a velcro pad onto the back of your existing phone. Seemed to work for voice and GPRS - but i think 3G is a different frequency - not that there is much on W coast !

 

[saltwater_gypsy]

Mast steps might work!!