Sierra Wireless today introduced new additions to the company’s product portfolio for HSUPA networks - the AirCard 880U and AirCard 881U USB modems. Commercial shipments are expected to begin in September.

The new AirCard HSUPA USB modems offer tri-band connectivity to mobile broadband networks worldwide and increased data speeds in a ubiquitous, simple-to-use USB interface that makes them a practical choice for customers sharing a single wireless account between computers or using their wireless service with a desktop.

With Sierra Wireless AirCard 880U and 881U USB modems operating on an HSUPA network, mobile data customers will be able to send email attachments, upload information, and transmit data from portable devices at speeds more than five times faster than on current HSDPA networks, up to a theoretical maximum speed of 2 megabits per second (Mbps).

For use in areas where HSUPA networks are not yet available, the AirCard 880U and 881U USB modems are fully compatible with HSDPA, UMTS, EDGE, GPRS, and GSM network technologies on all frequencies currently used worldwide. The AirCard 880U is optimized for Europe and Asia, while the AirCard 881U is optimized for North America.