EV-DO has come a long way since I first started using it back in January 2006, we are now on Rev. A and the size and functionality of the EV-DO modems has improved quite a bit. I recently picked-up the tiny Sierra Wireless Compass 597 USB EV-DO modem using the Sprint network. It comes with GPS, has a slot for a microSD card and a port to connect an external antenna. Best of all, it is small enough to work on a MacBook Air without using an extension cable.
The software has evolved quite a bit as well, especially on the Mac side of things. The modem ships with Sierra Wireless’ TRU-Install software, which automatically loads up when you insert it into the USB slot, then when launched installs the drivers and Sprint’s SmartView software, all without the use of a CD. Activation was super easy and once complete getting online is a simple as hitting “connect”.
SmartView also comes with a speed test app and as you can see I’ll getting some really good speeds here in the SOMA neighborhood of San Francisco.
Sprint’s “unlimited” plan (5GB/month limit starting in July) is $60/month and I bought it through the Sprint website, so with the instant rebate, the modem was only $50.
For more info, check out EVDOinfo.com’s review of the Sprint Compass 597 EV-DO.
UPDATE: I’ve also bought a Cradlepoint CTR500 Personal Wi-Fi Hotspot Mobile EV-DO Router to use with my Sprint Compass 597.
See Previously:
– Kyocera KR1 Mobile EV-DO Router
– Verizon Novatel V640 EV-DO ExpressCard Has Arrived
photo by Scott Beale
