Sierra Wireless just broke the mold with the USB 598. The wireless broadband access USB modem is meant for Verizon Wireless, but thanks to the carrier’s open network policies, the modem can be purchased from retailers other than VZW. This means, our contract hating or poor credit friends, you can buy this modem for a decent price of $199 directly from Sierra Wireless instead of dealing with rebates and blood oaths directly from the carrier.
Once purchased, just dial up Verizon to activate the modem with one of their wireless broadband plans. All this is done without locking into a long term contract that is stronger than many marriage oaths. What more can you want? $199, EV-DO, and no contract. Nice.
Sierra Wireless USB 598 now available for use on the Verizon Wireless network
Compact, eye-catching USB stick provides fast, reliable Internet access on the Verizon Wireless network after going through Verizon Wireless’ open development programApril 1, 2009
LAS VEGAS, Nevada – Sierra Wireless (NASDAQ: SWIR – TSX: SW) today announced that the Sierra Wireless USB 598 is compatible with the Verizon Wireless network after going through the wireless leader’s open development program. The Sierra Wireless USB 598 is now available for purchase through Brightpoint, Brightstar, and www.sierrawireless.com/estore.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™ 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.
“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.”
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.
Sierra Wireless USB 598
- Potential data speeds of 3.1 Mbps on the downlink and 1.8 Mbps on the uplink.
- TRU-Install™ 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™ 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™ – Sierra Wireless’s patent-pending design that maximizes data performance for the fastest speed, strongest signal and most stable connection possible.
- Sierra Wireless Watcher™ connection manager installs directly from the device and offers an intuitive dashboard that provides status, performance, and network information.
Where to Purchase
Brightpoint and Brightstar are the official distribution partners for the Sierra Wireless USB 598 modem. For more information on the Sierra Wireless USB 598 modem, contact:
- Brightpoint at 800-952-2355 or visit online at www.brightpoint.com
- Brightstar at 877-7BRIGHT or visit online at www.brightstarcorp.com
Enterprise customers interested in purchasing the Sierra Wireless USB 598 modem, please contact your Sierra Wireless sales representative, visit www.sierrawireless.com, or contact the Sierra Wireless Sales Desk by phone at (604) 232-1488 or by email at sales@sierrawireless.com. Individual purchases can also be processed through the Sierra Wireless eStore atwww.sierrawireless.com/estore.
A demonstration of the Sierra Wireless USB 598 modem will be available this week at CTIA Wireless 2009, held April 1 to 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. To learn more about the availability of the Sierra Wireless USB 598 and the Verizon Wireless Open Development Program, please drop by to visit at #6015 or stop by the Sierra Wireless booth at #6538 in Central Hall 4.