Expanding the number of computers that can access its most advanced 3G networks, AT&T today launched its simply-titled USBConnect 881 adapter. The external device made by Sierra Wireless plugs into most computers and provides them with access to AT&T's newly opened HSUPA network, which promises both faster download speeds and a greatly improved upload speed. As with the earlier PC Card, AT&T expects real-world downloads between 600Kbps and 1.4Mbps and uploads from 500Kbps to 800Kbps. It can also access this and slower HSDPA on any one of three bands for true roaming, AT&T says. Fall-back support allows it to run on quad-band EDGE or GPRS when 3G service is no longer available.

The device is intended to make cellular broadband easy and, for Windows users, automatically installs drivers just by connecting the device to a USB port. Mac users can download a free client for iBooks, MacBooks, and MacBook Pros running Mac OS X Tiger and Leopard, the company adds. Sales of the USBConnect start today and set the price at $50 when bought along with a two-year data plan worth $60 or more.