CLEAR Rolls Out New 4G/3G Mac Compatible USB Modem
We just returned from a CLEAR Wimax Dealer’s briefing on the new 4G+ USB modem (4G/3G combo) that will be available in the San Antonio, Austin and nationwide markets effective July 1st. We learned about the new modem that is Mac Compatible! Yay! My wife will be very happy as soon as she gets one of these, cause, as our readers are aware, my wife is a Mac Consultant (www.MacAnswers.com).
This disc shaped USB modem can swivel 180 degrees, making it easier to fit more computer’s USB port configurations. The swivel is metal, not plastic, which should help in both durablity and heat disipation. But see that little cover on the right edge of this photo? That’s for an external antenna connection.
Yep, you can connect an external antenna for about $20 (according to Sierra Wireless Rep) to increase your signal by about 50%.
The Sierra Wireless Rep showed how she velcroed her external antenna to the upper lid of her laptop, so when it was opened, the antenna would be sticking up in the air more. One might even assume that you could connect to a really external antenna, stuck up higher in the air, over in a nearby window, or some other place where you can pull down a better / stronger signal. At this time, we don’t know if the CLEAR dealers can sell those antennas with the modem, or if you will need to visit www.SierraWireless.com to purchase direct from them.
CLEAR is releasing 3 new devices to the nationwide market, which explains why they discounted the (old) current CLEAR Spot router from $139 down to only $49. They had been test marketing in limited areas (read that “need more inventory so we don’t sell out like certain cell phone companies have done lately) since June 1st, but they are ready to roll out the new toys on July 1st. Sprint has announced they will be carrying the new Mac compatible 4G/3G USB modem as well, under their brand name, but it won’t be in their stores until mid to late July due to inventory issues. Guess CLEAR bought out Sierra Wireless’ inventory first?
We’ll post more as soon as we get our hands on one to play with. Contact us direct at 210-771-7075 or send email to lee@wimaxsatx.com. You can always post comments on our website as well, but we do moderate to prevent spam. We are now selling and serving in the San Antonio, New Braunfels, San Marcos and Austin metro areas for CLEAR.
