When do we get this? [Option GlobeSurfer ICON USB Modem]

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Prometheus

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Huawei E220

Now the Huawei E220 thread

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Option N.V. has introduced the GlobeSurfer ICON, offering DSL comparable data speed and zero-installation. The device connects, and is powered, through any Desktop or Laptop USB port.

According to Option, the GlobeSurfer ICON opens up the potential for Option's mobile network operator customers to enter the fixed wireless convergence market. In many countries fixed line Internet services are restricted to slow 56K dial-up, slightly faster but expensive ISDN services, or very limited ADSL availability.

The GlobeSurfer ICON is plug 'n play with zero user intervention, This requiring no user install, no application or driver CD. Available for mobile operators to supply 'off-the-shelf', GlobeSurfer ICON can be tailored with pre-configured network settings providing virtually instantaneous broadband access to Internet, email, instant messaging and video conferencing applications.

GlobeSurfer ICON supports numerous features to enable multiple service offerings such as network lock, cell lock, and home-zoning. Over an HSDPA network, GlobeSurfer ICON enables connection to the Internet at data speeds of up to 1.8 Mbps (megabits per second). In areas where HSDPA service is not available icon can connect over 3G UMTS at up to 384 kbps (kilobits per second), or quad-band EDGE/GPRS at up to 247 kbps.
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Couldn't get any pricing info but it's confirmed that Vodafone Germany is getting it for their customers.
It's a bit dull looking but if the price was reasonable I would take one.
 
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Looks good but I wonder if the USB interface will have any effect on maximum throughput in the future?
 
Highflyer_GP said:
Looks good but I wonder if the USB interface will have any effect on maximum throughput in the future?
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The device itself can only go up to 1.8 Mbps. But USB1.1 can reach 12Mbps and USB2.0 can go up to 480 Mbps. Not likely that any future models will reach that as the roadmap for HSDPA stops at 28Mbps.
 
vodacom3g - the Huawei is all good and well. But with no WLAN. Have a look at this Option Globetrotter. Correct me if I'm wrong because I don't know if anyone else has enquired about this Option router in the forums.

This is not a usb device (only ethernet as far as I can see) but this looks like a piece of networking genius. And hopefully it shouldn't be network locked. Unless vodacom get hold of it and locks it. That all said that's if they (or any other network) will consider this device.

Option GlobeSurfer HSDPA/3G/GPRS/WLAN Wireless Broadband Router :
http://www.expansys.co.nz/product.asp?code=137460&tab=0

If anybody knows anything more about the availabilty and price of this card please advise.

debug
 
I'm more interested in the USB devices however. It just looks like less hassles to set up and use and they look a bit nicer as well. What would be the advantages with the ethernet one anyway?

Vodacom3g: Any news on these yet and what the price will be? Hope they won't be network locked as that is supposed to be illegal anyways.
 
V3g, are these available yet somewhere and at what price? I'm getting rather anxious now. :D
 
vodacom3g said:
I assume it'll be Vodafone branded.
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And network locked?

[OnTopic] I'd rather have a modem than I can easily edit settings and use different providers than one that just plugs in and works [/OnTopic]
 
Rikkelz said:
And network locked?

[OnTopic] I'd rather have a modem than I can easily edit settings and use different providers than one that just plugs in and works [/OnTopic]
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Most devices have drivers that can be configured. Like your graphics card for instance. It's fully plug 'n play and you don't need to install any drivers to use it, but you can if you want to. Probably the same here.
 
Im happy with my Globetrotter PCCARD, thank you. 75% of the card is securely fixed inside the PC, offering little chance of accidental damage. Those USB dongles are worrying as far as PHARKING up your PC is concerned. There 75% of the device protrudes in harms way outside of the PC, just waiting to be snapped in half or should I say three-quarters and a quarter. ;)
 
I still want one. ;) My previous Bluetooth Device died of abuse after it didn't want to work and I kept on hitting it and not accidentally. :D
 
Here we go again....:rolleyes: What question am I avoiding?

I've answered the locking question: The current policy is to lock cards, mainly to ensure these very scares cards are used on Vodafone networks.

We've also put a statement out on which rpm did an myADSL front-page article a week or so ago.

However, we're trying to see what we can do about it. As I've said, as soon as I've got more info, you guys will be the first to know.
 
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