I'd love to try Sprint Rev A. But they still are not shipping an ExpressCard, and Verizon is. This baffles me, as the newest, best laptops use ExpressCard, not PCCard, and the owners of those seem to be amongst most likely to be the buyers of mobile broadband.

Anything imminent on the ExpressCard for Sprint front ?

I've been baffled by the lack of ExpressCards, too. Sprint's solution: The Novatel U730 USB dongle, which they say covers the widest possible range of laptops, including laptops with no card slot at all. It's on sale now. I'll test it soon.

Our company is looking into purchasing some of the broadband cards for our employees on the road. Do you have any suggestions for reviews of the cards? I've had a hard time finding any good sites that review a wide range of the cards from all providers.

Any recommendations for services or cards? Sprint hadn't been on my list for consideration, but this certainly sweetens the deal...

Lani, I review many of the cards at www.pcmag.com. I've reviewed cards from Verizon, Sprint and Cingular, and reviewed the networks against each other. My review of Sprint's Rev A network and the first two cards will be going up this week, and I'm adding another card and the U730 dongle by the end of the month. I want PCMag.com to be a leader in covering cellular broadband.

If you want my personal suggestion, the Sierra Wireless 595 is the way to go on Sprint, and the Kyocera KPC650 on Verizon.

Is this service available to current EVDO hardware, or is new hardware required? Thanks.

Thanks Sascha, I took a look on pcmag.com before I posted actually. What're the magic words I should use for the search?

Are there differences as far as reliability? Any other things to consider for deploying to users? Is the software user friendly? I know Verizon's used to be a nightmare, but has improved.

I like the idea of Rev A speeds, but we currently have phone contracts with Verizon. Is it worth waiting until their rollout? Our users primarily want these for airports, but travel all over the country for assessments, so wide coverage is certainly a plus.

Sorry to grill you, this is just a tough topic to get good answers about... It's nice to get advice from someone who has used the hardware!

Get Rev A from Sprint now. Don't wait on Verizon. They have made no announcements as to when they will have Rev A. I have used Sprint's Rev 0 for a year and starting using Rev A last week in LA before they announced it. It works great and is well worth getting now.

I upgraded to Sprint's BlackBerry 8703e, it functions as modem thru USB to my laptop, Sprint is faster than my work T1 line, unbelievable. It works with the new Rev A, but even before the Rev A it provided the FASTEST Internet connection I have ever used. I have been waiting for this kind of 'FREEDOM' for a long time...it's so good, & flawless that it's scary...worth it? Absolutely!

Sascha writes "Sierra Wireless 595 is the way to go."

Why? I have been puzzled by the number of different wireless cards Sprint offers and no one there seems to be able to tell me the difference. I actually own one (a UTStarcom PC-5740) and the service is GREAT, but I want to upgrade to a unit with an external antenna port.

I test multiple cards on the same laptop, in the same location, in immediate sequence, doing uploads and downloads from a variety of sites. There is a difference, though usually a slight one, in terms of reception and speed. Both of the Sprint Rev A cards I tested so far, the Sierra Wireless 595 and the Novatel 720, are good - and both are measurably better (in terms of faster) than the previous generation of cards. But the 595 got slightly faster download speeds when I tested it, so if you have to pick one, I'll pick that one. Both have antenna jacks.

Lani, touche. Sometimes I forget how hard our site is to browse. For cellular cards, try:

http://www.pcmag.com/category2/0,1874,1055639,00.asp

and for networks try:

http://www.pcmag.com/category2/0,1874,4768,00.asp

Oh - and Verizon is rumored to be rolling out their Rev A network early next year, if not sooner. So if you're very happy with Verizon's coverage and service, hang on for a month or so before deciding.

No Sprint does not currently have an ExpressCard. The number of devices we would be selling is quite small at this time. For the time being our investment was better served by launching a USB card that serves all laptops currently on the market, including the machines with ExpressCard, as well as conventional PC's which do not support ether PCMCIA or ExpressCard. BUT we WILL offer an EvDO revA ExpressCard in Q1 of 2007.

PS: for a truly granular street level coverage map of Sprint EVDO services go to http://coverage.sprintpcs.com/IMPACT.jsp

Arrow one click to the right under Network Devices. Very cool device - works great, inexpensive. http://powervision.sprint.com/mobilebroadband/devices/index_network.html?id12=BUSINESSUHP_ConnectionCard_120306
Keith

Here's the link to Sprint's Novatel Ovation U720. http://powervision.sprint.com/mobilebroadband/devices/novatelU720.html
You can plug it directly into the USB port or use a short cable with it. Note the model # is U720. Keith

They are actually working on an express card solution, but in the meantime, the USB works pretty well. I've personally used it, and the speeds are VERY comparable to the PCMCIA versions.

Sprint now has a USB card as an alternative to the express slot. Express card not due until '07

I have been using Sprint's Rev O card (Sierra Wireless) and absolutely LOVE it!! I have had great results and have driven in quite a few states and no problems!! Can't wait to get their Rev A card!!

I will be happy to answer questions for anyone as I am an expert and a user of the Mobile Broadband technology. I have used cards from multiple companies and can provide an easy comparison. Feel free to send me an email.

Joshua.X.Imhoff@Sprint.com

Release date January 07 is what I've heard.

I work in Business Sales for Sprint & have rec'd great feedback from clients. We're running a promotion on the Pantech (MSRP $200) where you get it FREE w/ a 2-yr agreement after $49.99 rebate. We offer a 30-day Sprint Experience to try it out risk-free. Any questions call or e-mail me. 1-800-750-9087 or ryan.l.conrad@sprint.com

If you can't use a PCMCIA card with your laptop, you don't need to wait on the Express card; use the Novatel USB device (U720) which is only $50 and available right now.

Well in responce to ron up there, the option of an express card, was passed up due to the fact that a demand for a usb style card was more in demand. you can use that on any computer, not just laptops w/ pcmi card slots.

I'm a account manager for Sprint in Florida. If anyone is interested give me a call 561-714-7777. Thanks..

okay, last comment, for those wanting a card at a good price, with an external intennae port, definately go with the Pantech 500. One, its free right now w/ sprint stores w/ a contract, and two its Rev A Capapble. For those asking if Rev A is backwards compatable, sadly it is not, but upgrades are available. For the Express card people, the Novatel USB "Card" obliterates the need for that, as well as making sprints service a prime choice for many home computers.

I think one question that dropped through the cracks during this dialogue is: Why are there several choices in aircards? Besides obviously serving different types of devices needs (USB, PCMIA sized, Express card sized),and providing different connection speed capabilities(1Xrtt,Rev0, RevA)as the primary features these devices often have a list of included features that varies in some respects...such as data roaming capability for example. If you want to ensure you can use your card in locations a provider doesn't support yet, then you need to be looking at the device capability to data roam both domestically and internationally as well, depending on your needs. Not all aircard models support roaming domestically or internationally,or have external antenna jacks and that is primarily where you will find the products differentiate themselves. The USB model U720 from Sprint is also purported to work better in fringe or low signal areas when using the provided dongle due to higher power input (when using both USB connectors), and the distance from computer reduces signal interference from the PC/laptop as well...giving it advantages over the standard slot- type modem cards. That is also why you see the variance in pricing amongst different cards...more capabilities=$$.

Yes and no, Carl. The biggest difference in my experience between cards of the same generation is that antenna design is a black art rather than a science, and everybody thinks they have an edge on antenna design. External antenna jacks are definitely another question. With EVDO cards, at least, data roaming is a red herring, as that's restricted by carrier business arrangements rather than card technology. It's a bigger question on the GSM side.

Anyway, I wanted to say the Sprint Rev A review is now up - first two card reviews coming tomorrow!

http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1895,2072191,00.asp

I haven't reviewed the Pantech card yet but I'm wary of it. Maybe I'll eat my words when I write the review, but I'd go with Sierra or Novatel for solid performance and high speeds.

while I may be biased in part because I'm a Store Manager with Sprint in South Portland ME; the overall response from customer purchasing the new cards has been exciting. Sprint is committing alot to improving the performance of its network and Rev A is another great example. Sprint continues to improve its coverage in Maine and the good news for most customers is the new sites are being installed with EVDO. The new u720 cards have also just arrived in retail locations so customers will have the opportunity to actually see what they are purchasing before tendering the sale. Unlike the other types of cards the U720 will protrude out from the laptop more so it is something to look out for. I would recommend highly that customers consider the service and repair program that Sprint offers for this particular product if they have the tendency to bump their laptops. I would be glad to help offer answers to questions if you have people interested and can be reached either by email or phone. email address is jefferson.herrman@sprint.com or 1-866-744-0513. while we may not be local to some of your readers, we are able to ship to many locations and have been involved in account management for companies outside of Maine.

stay tunes...720u will give options to the users who only have an express slot...2007 will usher in new options

I work for Sprint and recently obtained the Pantech card. Works great in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. No experience yet beyond DFW. Install was a breeze. Insert card and power up. Card was recognized by XP. No problems.

Sprint Business Rep in Sounthern OC. Please contact with any questions.

chris.wietzke@sprint.com

714-865-0654

The Novatel U720 USB is an excellent choice. I use mine with a USB extension that keeps the U720 away from my laptop. It works better that way when in a taxi as well. You can position it closer to the window, for example. Or, when at home just move it away from other electronic devices. It's the only one on the market that provides these features because it's a USB device. The previous guy said you might bump it, but that's only if you don't use the extension USB. I have a couple different lengths I use, from 3 inches to a few feet. It's the only way to go, plus I can move it to my desktop!!!

My customer have been reporting great things about the U720. There are also a variety of other cards. Which one is best suited for you.

I will help you sort through the details!

IMHOFFJS@sprintpcs.com

Geez.. why no mention of coverage plans for New Orleans?!! If anyone needs it it's us. Any rumors of when we might get this?
I'm currently on Verizon but it really sucks - the software is flaky and my coverage for highspeed is very spotty. I'd luv a better alternative!
Appreciate your article - very timely and relevant.

BTW: For those who have the Novatel PCMCIA or USB version, I would recommend flipping the antenna to the vertical position. You should gain a slight increase in dbi signal strength, as the cell carrier signal is vertical, not horizontal. Get bored and goto device settings & look at the signal difference between having the antenna up and flat.

Yeah, Sprint is coming out with a PCI-Express card, but personally, I would get the USB for flexibility, and the ability to extend it away from the laptop using the USB cord for better reception.

Personally, I can't wait till Sprint comes out with a EvDO RevA + HSDPA/GPRS card for international traveling.

Verizon sux.

I'm using sprint rev 0 ev-do and it works great on Windows getting 100-200 kbs performance. Linux and Mac is erratic and limited to 30 kbs

One poster asked if rev a works on rev o equipment, no it doesn't you need to get pc card or usb dongle. Its my understanding that Sprint will be offering Motorola phones with the rev a spec. I don't have an update on that can't stand to use a cheap flimsy Asian electronic device designed by brainwashed slaves. The Samsung phone as a modem doesn't route power from usb port to phone when used as modem. I wish more people would demand U.S. made equipment something that always works as my Motorola's always did even when thrown out the window at 65 mph twice and landing on the street.

Thank for the great service Sprint way better than
the socialist T-mobile from German dirtball criminals but please use U.S. made or at least designed equipment I need something I can count on for politcal/legal meetings.

Does the USB dongle work on MACs? Will the speed be slower or the same?

Right now, there's no official Mac support, but if you Google, you'll find some people have gotten it working with an interesting hack involving loading Verizon's software and drivers to use the Sprint dongle. Sprint says they intend to have Mac support in the future.

The operating system used shouldn't affect the speed.

In San Francisco, Cingular sales people talk about their "3G" data services.

Does anyone know what this is?

Cingular's service cannot match Sprint's for speed or coverage. Their network is very slow comparably. Check out these reviews:

Wireless Broadband Still Expensive, Service Still Spotty
Sprint Tops Our Test, Cingular Still Trying to Get Into the Race
http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/11/wireless_comparison.html

Verizon Limits Its "Unlimited" Wireless Broadband Service
http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/07/verizon_unlimited.html

Any questions or to try Sprint's connection cards risk-free for 60 days call or e-mail me!

1-800-750-9087

Sprints Express card due to be release mid feb.

I am a Business Rep.for Sprint and I can tell you that U720 will be a hit especially for people who dont have access to high speed internet,if I can help please e-mail james.rooker@sprint.com

Thank You
Jim

anything thats no from sprint sucks.......i've had them all and sprints the best!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I work for Sprint in Houston, TX. If you need information or assistance on mobile broadband give me a call at 713-398-7458 or email: stuart.rosen@sprint.com

We have some great offers for business!

I'm trying to get my verizon UTStarcom PC5740 pccard to work with linux. Is there anybody out there who could help with this? Maybe a linux driver or something? I am using the card on my gateway laptop, and was able to get linux installed but getting the card working is another story.