Sprint releases EVDO/WiMAX hybrid USB modem
updated 07:50 am EST, Wed December 17, 2008
Sprint 3G 4G USB Modem
Sprint today claimed to be the first US carrier to offer a device with both 3G and 4G Internet access. The USB Modem U300 gives access to Sprint's recently launched WiMAX network for full 4G access but also carries support for the broader, original-spec EVDO network. The option lets users connect between 2Mbps and 4Mbps in the current 4G coverage area but still get roughly 600Kbps to 1.4Mbps elsewhere.
The Franklin-made USB stick also supports GPS mapping data on 3G portions of the network and comes bundled with software that will auto-detect the fastest available connection. It currently only works with Windows 2000 and later PCs and will ship on December 21st to Baltimore, the official first WiMAX coverage area. The company plans to offer the device for $150 after including a two-year contract and rebate and requires an $80 monthly plan to use both the 3G and 4G networks.
