Sierra Wireless AC595U

If you are planning to travel the world with your cell phone or laptop in hand, you may want to consider using the GSM network; however, if you are interested in faster data rates while you are in the United States, the only real solution for you is to take advantage of the Verizon's EVDO network. However, in order to access this ultra fast data network, you will need a computer card such as the Sierra Wireless AC595U.

The Sierra Wireless AC595U computer card is designed to offer high speed Internet access for your computer wherever you can access the Verizon Wireless cellular network - which means in most places throughout the United States. Noting the growing popularity of Apple laptops, the Sierra Wireless AC595U computer card is both PC and Mac compatible and even uses a USB 2.0 slot so that it can work perfectly in laptops that lack a dedicated PC Card slot (such as the Apple MacBook and other highly portable notebooks).

Using the Sierra Wireless AC595U computer card on the EVDO network, your Internet connection can reach speeds up to 3.1 Mbits and upload speeds of up to 1.8 Mbits. Furthermore, for true portability, there is no need for any external power source and it can be set up on the fly on practically any computer you use it on, provided that computer is running Windows 2000 or later, or OS X 10.4 or later.

Finally, the Sierra Wireless AC595U computer card is extremely easy to use. While installation requires the use of an added CD, it only requires four steps for proper setup. Furthermore, there is a built in LED on the computer card itself to show network traffic for easy troubleshooting should a network connection problem arise.

Pros

• Fast Internet connectivity in many places throughout America
• Windows and Mac OS X compatible
• Connects via USB
• Small, light, easily portable

Cons

• Requires a contract with Verizon
• Only takes advantage of CDMA (EV-DO for data) network

Overall

The Sierra Wireless AC595U computer card is an excellent device to purchase if you already have an account with Verizon Wireless and you want to take advantage of their impressive download and upload speeds. However, although the fast speeds are nice, it's not worth switching your wireless carrier to Verizon simply for the Sierra Wireless AC595U.