Novatel V640

The Novatel V640 PC card is one of the newest ways to get a broadband Internet connection when you are on the road. The Novatel V640 PC card simply slips into your notebook's ExpressCard slot and transmits and receives data through your mobile phone provider (in this case Verizon).

The speeds of the V640 PC Card are exceptional; I was easily able to receive data at speeds from 400 Kbps to 700 Kbps (The specs state that 2 Mbps bursts are available). The most convenient part about the Novatel V640 PC card is that you can receive a broadband Internet connection anywhere you receive mobile phone service. Since I generally travel in highly populated areas, I had no difficulties receiving a signal and using the card. In fact it worked seamlessly. The great part of the V640 PC card is that I no longer have to look for wifi hotspots. Where ever my phone has service, I now have a wifi hotspot.

The V640 PC Card works via CDMA technology (CDMA 1xEVDO). It easily connected to my laptop via the PCI slot. The card also supports USB 2.0. The V640 PC Card comes with management software, so I configured the device in a couple of minutes. For low signal areas, there is also an external antenna connector, so that you can add a larger antenna or amplifier, but since I never had any problems receiving a strong signal, I had no need for the external antenna connector. The Novatel V640 PC card worked fine with Microsoft XP; however, it also supports Mac OS X.

For those looking for a low cost broadband solution when on the road, this PC card is it. It only cost me $99 with a two year contract, there is also a one year contract available.

Pros

• A great way to have a broadband connection where ever you have a Verizon mobile phone signal
• No more searching for wifi hotspots
• Small card that fits easily into your notebook's PCI slot
• Very easy to set up
• Works on either Windows XP or Mac OS X
• Cost of the card is affordable at $99

Cons

• 2 year or 1 year contract to purchase the PC card at a discount price
• No other issues at this time

Overall

An easy and convenient way to have a broadband Internet connection anywhere you go. A great way to stop searching for wifi hotspots and use your mobile phone's provider to connect to the Internet.