3G Microcell Activation

I don't know what a "prepaid service"  is so I should probably point that out to the admin and maybe have them clarify that.  But yes, only an active postpaid VOICE plan is able to access the MicroCell system. You can always return the MicroCell if you bought it from a corporate store.

Would be nice to know what they mean by pre-paid service.

I would assume GoPhone.

Agreed. But it does specificially say postpaid voice plans, which would include cell phones.

It's unfortunate that the wording isn't as clear as it could be, but it does say postpaid voice plans or prepaid 3G or 4G service are required for Mcell use.  It does not say prepaid voice plans, so no GoPhones.

AT&T is referring to products like their DataConnect Pass plan, where you can purchase prepaid data service for tablets, laptops, hotspots and other 3G or 4G wireless devices (like the Mcell).  Smartphones won't work with DataConnect Pass as it doesn't include calling minutes.

 Edit - You can also find Activation and Troubleshooting content in our Microcell Thread

So you're saying if I had this service on a tablet or a laptop

DataConnect Pass

this? 

https://buyasession.att.com/sbd/Common/ShopRatePlans.action

I could then activate my MicroCell? o.O

@Avedis53- like  your new avatar

Avedis is correct. You could use the MicroCell for your "other" devices if cellular (3G) coverage is spotty in your home. At least you could use data but still no voice. But, as long as you have a WiFi connection at home.......

Keep in mind that even if you activate your MicroCell with another device, you still won't be able to use your prepaid phone (GoPhone).

I don't understand why you would need this for 3G data given it needs to be connected to the internet to work...

That would mean, most likely Wi-Fi would be available at the location as well.

Ok. The MicroCell is for folks who don't have adequate signal strength in their homes for celluar voice. It is designed to handle voice as well as 3G data transfers. The data transfer is pretty much limited to about 3Mbps, but the point of the MicroCell is for voice calls. Most people leave their WiFi on so that any data is carried by their WiFi connection (which doesn't impact their cellular data plan) and calls are handled by the MicroCell. There used to be a sticky at the top which explained what the MicroCell does, and why, but the new forum has done away with that.

You don't need a Mcell for smartphone 3G data transmission as users would utilize a home network's WiFi for much better bandwidth.  I wouldn't buy a DataConnect Pass for this purpose.  I believe that the DCP is for people who are not at home and need internet access for their 3G/4G compatible device. 

The Mcell is for cellphone use in a home where there is insufficient signal strength to maintain a connection to the nearest celltower.

@ Otto - I've had that avatar for several years.  Use it just about everywhere else.  It's one of the cybermen from the Dr. Who TV series.

I'm not trying to sound rude but I completely understand what the Microcell does.

Providing it to people with these DataConnect Pass plans doesn't make sense given the MC requires an internet connection to start with.

Providing documentation stating prepaid wireless customers can register the MC but they really can't isn't right.

It clearly states:

• AT&T postpaid voice plan or prepaid service using a 3G or 4G wireless device.

OR not AND it's OR 

prepaid service would include prepaid wireless service ie; gophone