Relying on free WiFi hotspots for Internet access - especially when you need to post a breaking news story - can be a big pain in the rear end. That's why I carry around my "must have" geek gadget, a Verizon Broadband Access Card. As long as there is Verizon Wireless reception (similar to if you had a cell phone), I can connect to the Internet.

So you can imagine how ecstatic I was to hear that Dell is now offering their Studio 15 laptops with built-in Verizon Wireless Broadband Access! That's right, 24/7 Internet access whenever you need it, no PC cards or hotspots required. So you'll still need to pay a monthly fee for the service, but Dell has a promotion happening right now where you can get a $125 mail-in rebate from Verizon with a 2-year Broadband Access activation (it expires November 4, 2008).

Dell's Studio 15 laptops come in seven different colors and pricing starts at $649.