Alltel Finally turned on EVDO revA about a year ago (Jul 09) and have received 2 "bars" of "RA" service since. Produces reliable service for use of "computer tethering" producing a typical speed of 768kbps. However, phone calls are frequently dropped (probably due to competing 1x service from other towers like Verizon and their service agreements). Still no word on merger finalization with Verizon / ATT for this area. In Tyndall, SD Alltel and Verizon are your only options for "new" service as ATT, Sprint / Nextel, T-Mobile and even "Long Lines" does not offer contracts in this area. Bottom line, at least Verizon is a stable provider, Alltel's future has ended, just waiting for the funeral of absorption.

Internet Air Cards or Smartphone Tethering (HTC-6800): 1X service only, No EVDO rev0 or revA unless east of CR-25. Nearest Tower located NW of Tyndall, SD but has been "waiting for parts" since at least 10 / 2007. Suspect will not improve due to Alltel / Verizon merger. If you can wait for a cellphone, suggest waiting till after merger is finalised to see who will "own" this market area possably US Celluar or AT&T (both are GSM not CDMA).

Can make and recieve calls with occasional dropped calls. Signal remains marginal in Tyndall, SD proper even though a "new" (2006?) tower NW of Tyndall.

AT&T claims no service contracts for this area. A friend of mine came from Washington State and had fair service. He was able to make and recieve phone calls better than with Verizon. His "Wireless Boadband" card although had good signal did not work very well.

If outdoors can sometimes become average but typically about 2 bars for service which is enough (most of the time) to make a call. Service improves dramatically heading towards Yankton or Parkston / Mitchell.

On rare occassion I briefly got reception but it was only momentary. Works well just Parkston and north or about Tabor and East towards Yankton. Fantastic service in Yankton.