Verizon gets Sierra Wireless USB 598 modem

[Alexxx]

Looking for an alternative modem option for the Verizon network? Here it is Sierra Wireless has announced that its USB 598 modem is now available for use on the Verizon Wireless network, as it has passed through the provider's open development program. The 598 is said to be the smallest available modem that taps into Verizon's EVDO Rev. A network, for download speeds up to 3.1Mbps, and upload speeds as fast as 1.8Mbps.

The Sierra Wireless USB 598 incorporates a compact, eye-catching lighted design and serves as a practical alternative to hotspots for digital nomads who need quick Internet access to download a presentation from the backseat of a taxi or to send photos from a park. Using the Verizon Wireless network, customers can download a 1 MB file in approximately eight seconds, or upload it in less than 13 seconds.

The Sierra Wireless USB 598 supports EV-DO Rev. A technology, providing average download speeds of 600 kilobits per second (kbps) to 1.4 megabits per second and average upload speeds of 500-800 kbps. With an expandable microSD(TM) memory slot, the Sierra Wireless USB 598 can also serve as a backup storage device for important files, and a convenient tool to transfer and share photos

The modem itself comes with a few software features like TRU-Install, which makes installing a breeze and Sierra Wireless Watcher, which gives you updates on your status and the network’s performance. It also has an extension cable and a clip for attaching to your display, so as to receive a better signal.

"Verizon Wireless is committed to encouraging innovation and expanding the choices for mobile broadband customers," said Tony Lewis, vice president of open development at Verizon Wireless. "Adding the Sierra Wireless USB 598 to the wide range of devices that are compatible with the Verizon Wireless network provides a new option for accessing the most reliable wireless 3G data network in the country."

"We are pleased that the Sierra Wireless USB 598 is compatible with the Verizon Wireless network after going through the Verizon Wireless open development program," said Dan Schieler, senior vice president, Worldwide Sales for Sierra Wireless. "The Sierra Wireless USB 598 offers fast, reliable wireless connectivity from a notebook computer to simplify life on-the-go for mobile professionals and digital nomads."

A microSD card slot is also included. You can get the USB 598 now for $199.

[Flux]

Verizon Wireless' open development program is designed to offer businesses and consumers the ability to use wireless devices, software, and applications not offered by the company on its nationwide wireless network.

It is driven by the company's desire to encourage innovation, give customers new wireless choices, and quickly address opportunities to expand the wireless market.

Lets have some highlights of Sierra Wireless USB 598

• Potential data speeds of 3.1 Mbps on the downlink and 1.8 Mbps on the uplink.
  
  
• TRU-Install(TM) software installation technology steps first-time users through quick installation of the drivers and full software client directly from the modem, with no CD required.
  
  
• microSD(TM) slot allows for convenient storage and transfer of photos and other information between your laptop and your phone or another computer.
  
  
• Convenient, flexible usage options, including a laptop clip and an extension cable to allow the modem to be clipped to the notebook display.
  
  
• TRU-Diversity(TM) - Sierra Wireless's patent-pending design that maximizes data performance for the fastest speed, strongest signal and most stable connection possible.
  
  
• Sierra Wireless Watcher(TM) connection manager installs directly from the device and offers an intuitive dashboard that provides status,performance, and network information.

[Orlando]

You can purchase 598 modem at Brightpoint and Brightstar. They are the official distribution partners for the Sierra Wireless USB 598 modem.

[Faint]

Very nice for Verizon..