14 DAY TRIAL // Sprint announced that it has expanded its offering of wireless connectivity products with the introduction of the Ovation U727 USB modem from Novatel Wireless. A modem stick to date, the Ovation U727 integrates a microSD slot, that allows the use of memory cards with a capacity of up to 4 GB.
The Ovation U727 is optimized for use with the Sprint Mobile Broadband Network, supporting EV-DO Rev. A technology. Users can expect average download speeds ranging from 600 kbps to 1.4 Mbps - with top speeds of 3.1 Mbps; and upload speeds between 350 and 500 Kbps - with top speeds of 1.8 Mbps. The modem also offers backwards compatibility with EV-DO Rev. 0 and 1XRTT technology in areas where EV-DO Rev. A technology is not available.
The Ovation U727 can be used with any device equipped with a Type A USB port, and running Windows Vista, XP, 2000, Mac OS X or Linux operating system. Despite the small form factor (2.76x0.98x0.47 inch), it includes advanced capabilities such as the integrated dual band diversity antennae system with flip-up antennae, to maximize data transfer speeds and improve network signal reception. The modem comes with the Sprint Mobile Broadband Lite Manager Software which simplifies the set-up of the device and eliminates the need to install drivers from a CD when using the Windows platform.
"Mobile professionals and consumers alike want to make the most out of whatever equipment they carry and Sprint customers get maximum value from the Ovation U727 which delivers both high-speed access via the Sprint Mobile Broadband Network and the ability to store and access documents and other critical information," said Danny Bowman, vice president of customer equipment for Sprint. "A smaller form factor, GPS locate-and-find capabilities and newly available support for the Linux platform truly help make this a next-generation connectivity device for our customers."
The U727 will go on sale next month for a retail price of $279.99, or $79.99 with a two-year subscription and mail-in-rebate.