A mobile broadband card from Sierra Wireless

Oct 9, 2009 06:56 GMT  ·  By

Mobile phone operator Verizon Wireless announced on Thursday that Sierra Wireless' AirCard 402 2-in-1 mobile broadband card had received approval to be used on the wireless operator's network, through Verizon's open development program. The program is aimed at enabling customers to use wireless devices, software and applications that are not available on the carrier's nationwide network. The new card from Sierra Wireless joins the USB 598, approved by the open development program earlier in 2009.

“The Sierra Wireless AirCard 402 2-in-1 mobile broadband card provides the most popular features of our USB devices in a card form factor that can conveniently be left inserted and set to connect automatically, saving valuable time for busy mobile professionals,” said Dan Schieler, senior vice president of Worldwide Sales for Sierra Wireless. “The AirCard 402 is ideal for customers who want the flexibility of switching between the PC Card and ExpressCard form factor, either to have the option of using it with multiple computers or to be prepared for a planned notebook upgrade. We are pleased to now make it available through Verizon Wireless’ open development program.”

The new AirCard 402 2-in-1 mobile broadband card comes in a compact form factor and offer ease of use with Sierra Wireless TRU-Install automatic software installation, through which the Sierra Wireless Watcher connection manager software is installed as soon as the user has inserted the card into a notebook. The card can be stored inside a PC Card slot or ExpressCard slot, which also enables fast Internet access while on the go, and it can be also set to reconnect automatically as soon as the computer is turned back on.

The Sierra Wireless AirCard 402 2-in-1 mobile broadband card can deliver download speeds of around 600 kilobits per second (kbps) and upload speeds of around 500-800 kbps. Moreover, the top download speeds it can offer on EV-DO Rev. A networks reach 1.4 megabits per second. According to Verizon, the card can enable users to download 1MB in about 8 seconds and upload it in around 13 seconds.

“With automatic reconnection and the ability to store the card in the notebook’s card slot, the Sierra Wireless AirCard 402 data card is a great option for mobile professionals looking for a reliable, full-featured wireless solution that helps them make the most efficient use of their time while on the road,” said Anthony A. Lewis, vice president of open development at Verizon Wireless. “With access to the best 3G network in the country, the AirCard 402 data card is another example of a great device approved through our open development program.”