“Verizon Wireless is committed to encouraging innovation and expanding the choices for mobile broadband customers,” said Tony Lewis, vice president of open development at Verizon Wireless. “Adding the Sierra Wireless USB 598 to the wide range of devices that are compatible with the Verizon Wireless network provides a new option for accessing the most reliable wireless 3G data network in the country.”

Sierra Wireless USB 598 features

• Potential data speeds of 3.1 Mbps on the downlink and 1.8 Mbps on the uplink.
• TRU-Install software installation technology steps first-time users through quick installation of the drivers and full software client directly from the modem, with no CD required.
• microSD slot allows for convenient storage and transfer of photos and other information between your laptop and your phone or another computer.

With enhanced GPS support, 598U customers enjoy simultaneous access to navigation and location applications, as well as additional information such as movie and restaurant reviews to help enrich their GPS experience. The 598U also includes a microSD expansion slot supporting memory cards up to 32 GB for convenient back up storage or file transfer, so users can carry high resolution images, large music files, presentations and other necessary documents with them wherever they go and share them as needed.

The Compass 597 USB modem by Sierra Wireless features automatic installation of Sprint SmartView software and one-touch activation on the Sprint Mobile Broadband Network for both Mac and PC users. Wherever EV-DO Rev. A network coverage is available, download speeds average between 600 kilobits per second (kbps) and 1.4 megabits per second (Mbps) and upload speeds average 350 to 500 kbps. This device is also backwards compatible to EV-DO Rev. 0 and 1XRTT technology in areas where EV-DO Rev. A is not yet available.

In addition to e-mail and Internet access, the Compass 597 USB modem by Sierra Wireless offers GPS support, enabling the use of location search and common navigational software tools on a notebook computer via Sprint SmartView. Users can find nearby restaurants, gas stations, banks and more without entering their current location, as the GPS capabilities of the Compass chart your current location automatically. The Compass 597 also includes a microSD expansion slot for supplemental storage or file transfers and supports memory cards up to 32 GB.

The new Compass 597 by Sierra Wireless is expected to be available later this month for $49.99 with a two-year service agreement and $50 mail-in-rebate. Service plan options include $39.99 for 40 MB a month or $59.99 for unlimited use with a two-year service contract.