Mar 18, 2011 17:41 GMT  ·  By

Starting with March 20th, Sprint customers would be able to purchase a new device from the wireless carrier to benefit from access to the company's 3G or 4G networks, namely the Overdrive Pro 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot by Sierra Wireless. This is the second generation Overdrive, offering users the possibility to connect to a mobile broadband network a number of up to 8 Wi-Fi capable devices at the same time, including laptops, tablets, eReaders, gaming devices, cameras and even smartphones.

The new device can connect to the carrier's 4G network as well, so as to offer download speeds that are up to 10 times faster than on a 3G network.

Through Overdrive Pro, users can create a connection between the Sprint 4G network and any other Wi-Fi-enabled electronics device out there.

Some of the main features of the new device would include:

- Connects up to eight Wi-Fi enabled devices - Provides all the information you need to connect and monitor your connection through a simple user interface with integrated LCD screen - Offers up to 150 foot range for Wi-Fi connections, providing flexibility in device placement and freedom of movement for users - Supports 802.11n for wider compatibility with new Wi-Fi devices - Shared microSD storage, GPS support and location-based services available to all connected devices - Integrated security out-of-the-box requires no additional setup and provides peace of mind when working in public areas. - External antenna ports, to be used with the separately sold docking station, coming soon The new Overdrive Pro 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot will become available for purchase exclusively through Sprint on March 20th, featuring a price tag of $49.99 (excluding taxes) after a $50 mail-in-rebate with a two-year service agreement.

Users interested in the purchase of this device, along with the signing up for a 3G/4G plan on the carrier's network should head over to the company's retail stores around the country for that. They can also go to Sprint's website or make the purchase through business sales.

The new device comes with a series of enhancements over its predecessor, including a 35 percent improvement in power-up and power-down times, or 45 percent larger integrated LCD screen, packed in a smaller and lighter device.

The new Overdrive Pro 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot by Sierra Wireless is available with the activation of a Sprint 3G/4G Mobile Broadband Plan that starts at $49.99 per month.

“There are endless possibilities for how our customers can take advantage of the easy wireless connection to Sprint 4G through this small device,” said Fared Adib, vice president-Product Development, Sprint.

“Teams can travel and share access on-the-go, families can be connected in one household with tablets, game consoles and televisions, and shuttle buses can provide Internet access to their customers while en route to a destination. With Overdrive Pro, customers no longer have to look for mobile hotspots because they always have one with them.”