JP
The USBConnect 881 is definitely ahead of its time or rather ahead of schedule since none of AT&T’s markets support HSUPA. That doesn’t stop us from wanting to take a first look at the device as well and test how well it performs under the current network – HSDPA.
The unit is sturdy and well built. The USB part of the connector neatly folds up when not in use. You just need to be extra careful when it’s plugged in and you happen to be using your laptop on your lap. There’s a big chance you may accidentally bang it on something if you move around. I’m pretty careless, so there’s a big chance I’m going to whack it on something and break it off. Therefore, from a design point of view, I prefer the internal ExpressCard EX720 by Novatel.
I was very surprised to that the USBConnect 881 featured a removable battery. This is a good thing since 3G is really greedy on battery power, especially if it’s connected to the laptop while not plugged into a power source.
As far as speed goes (see results below), AT&T’s HSDPA is on par with Sprint’s EVDO Rev. A. I have no complaints there. However, when HSUPA comes online, that will be a different story. It will be interesting to see how Sprint WiMAX compares to HSUPA when it rolls out mid next year. Make sure to check back later when these new networks are online for a full review.
I want to thank Sierra Wireless and AT&T for arranging the speedy shipment of the USBConnect!
17 Responses to “USBConnect 881 from AT&T quick look”
xel November 16, 2007
that speedtest screenshot shows myvzw.com as isp. you sure you used right pic?
NeutralWayne November 16, 2007
Great non-review…you never told your readers what the thing does. It looks like you plug it into the USB port of a laptop…to do what? Presumably to connect with something? Is this a form of WiFi or a celluar connection? What platforms does it work with? And a ‘related product’ is a “Hands Free Dryer”. Too confusing.
-4Baron November 16, 2007
Like the article said, it is used to connect to HSDPA (high-speed downlink packet access). It said check back for review later, this is not a review Wayne.
NeutralWayne November 16, 2007
To Baron,
NeutralNot to put too fine a point on all of this, but the reviewer said “Check back for a FULL review”. This implies that we are, in fact, reading a review, it’s just not a ‘full’ review.
Vincent Nguyen November 16, 2007
[quote comment="31196"]that speedtest screenshot shows myvzw.com as isp. you sure you used right pic?[/quote]
The speedtest is right. It just happened to use Verizon’s network. For the Sprint EVDO Rev. A, it actually used Sprint’s network. Click on the link to the image gallery to view the rest of the images/results from the network speed test for Sprint and Cox.
Neutralsteve November 26, 2007
The At&t card can not use Verizon’s network…so still not sure on that screen shot. They use two different technologies, one based on GSM and the other on CDMA. This is the same exact card (design wise) that Sprint has been selling for most of 07 – the 595U. I agree with you on the EX720…less chance to break something…. here is a Video that shows how to make the EX720 into a USB so you can use it in any computer: http://moremobileinternet.com/.....radlepoint
NeutralLarry December 6, 2007
WILL THE USBConnect 881 work also on a Desktop PC?
+1Titus Pullo December 6, 2007
yes……..it works on a regular desktop. I picked it up this evening and having it running on my desktop. I’m used to leeching wi-fi signals, but due to security reasons, I decided to shell out the big bucks on this fine piece of equipment.
There is one thing I will mention though. There are some streaming video sites that AT&T is blocking. I will have to check Sprint’s mobile broadband to see if that’s the case also.
+2sldevlin January 11, 2008
I purchased the usb881. it worked fine in laptop but when i connected it to my desk top the desk top just kept rebooting itself…any suggestions
NeutralJeffery A. Smith January 26, 2008
Could I use this or something similar to replace my cable internet service at home?
– Would there be a way to share this connection with a router? Maybe like with windows Internet Connection sharing?
I pay $60 per month for cable internet, but I could kill that, and have a home/road internet solution instead.
THANKS!
Jeff “Yooper” Smith
Neutralhttp://www.yoopersmith.com
Woody May 13, 2008
I am looking for a pc card for my hp pavilion that has a 54g 802.11b/gWLAN. Is there an air card that uses this slot or will I have to use a USB connection. Thank you.
NeutralChutes June 1, 2008
Does this work in Europe?
NeutralKelly Huffman June 11, 2008
i got this usb connect 881 from AT&T and its a big turd.takes forever for it to connect and when it does it drops it.
+1Jeff W. June 11, 2008
To get over the possibility of knocking the unit out of your USB slot, why not use a USB extension/dongle?
NeutralYou can keep it on a table, your lap (road travelers), or if you do not mind some velcro on your machine, attach it to the lid of your laptop.
They make lenghts ranging from 3″ to 25′.
Best,
Mark August 9, 2008
This thing is a big piece of junk. I can only stay online for minutes at a time. The pages keep giving me the http 400 error. Can anyone give me some help with this thing, for 60 bucks a month this thing is a rip off. I have to constantly disconnect and reconnect with the manager. Uhhhhhhhhhhhhh!
NeutralSteve September 30, 2008
If you work in a corporate setting, it is very difficult to hop on to an external wi-fi signal. Despite the security obstacles from within my facility, the wi-fi cannot pick up a strong signal from the neighboring university or nearby retail store.
Be very cautious not to use the GSM Tab….OMG….it’s an insane rate and there are not warning signs that you are over a limit or that your bill is adding up to the 700 billion dollar package the government is trying to pass.
I’m not joking!
Neutral