With Option’s Zero-CD Plug’n Play Technology, users simply insert the device into a computer, install the software and are instantly connected to the Internet. This makes it an ideal solution for working remotely, studying off campus, connecting online at home or anything else that requires a fast and functional solution for broadband connectivity on the move. A built-in Micro-SD slot allows the iCON 452 to double up as a portable storage solution, capable of holding several gigabytes of memory.

Jan Callewaert, CEO at Option, comments: “The new iCON 505 is a good example of Option delivering highly sophisticated wireless technology in a very fast, compact, simple to use and reliable product. The new iCON 505 meets the evolving needs of our customers in a timely way. ”

iCON 505 features include:

• Download speeds of up to 10.2Mbps and upload speeds of up to 5.76Mbps
• Upgradeable to higher download speeds.
• Compact (6cm) and ultra light (29g) design
• Easy installation with Option’s Plug ‘n’ Play technology
• Functional easy-grip finish
• Multimode HSUPA/HSDPA/UMTS/EDGE/GPRS/GSM compatibility
• Multiple communication ports for simultaneous data call and network coverage reports
• USB 2.0, backward compatible to USB 1.1

Depending on the network being accessed, the GlobeTrotter Express 441 can deliver super-fast ADSL speeds with uploads at up to 5.76Mbps and downloads at up to 7.2Mbps.

Ease-of-use has also been designed in. Option’s plug ‘n’ play Zero-CD technology automatically installs all necessary software the first time the ExpressCard is inserted. When the Traveller Antenna is pulled-out, the device powers up and connects to the Internet automatically. When the antenna is stowed, the connection stops. A front access SIM holder has been incorporated for added convenience.

When no USB Modem is inserted into the Globesurfer X.1, the device will still establish a LAN (Local Area Network), and allow computerssupporting Wi-Fi to access the networking features of the device. Clients without Wi-Fi can also connect viathe Ethernet ports on the rear of the device.

The GlobeSurfer X.1 wireless router can be seen on the Option stand in Hall 1, stand 1C 43 at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona (February 16-19).

Business users will, for example, be able to edit documents and update spreadsheets using applications such as Open Office or keep up-to-date with their emails. Consumers will be able to enjoy simple one-click access to chat or Twitter services or any of their favourite social networks.

“uCAN transforms a wireless broadband USB modem into a virtual PC capable of supporting an almost infinite range of useful, and for the operators revenue-generating, applications and services. This is really the Internet in your pocket,” said Jan Callewaert, CEO of Option. “uCAN also marks a new chapter in Option’s evolution – opening up new software licensing revenues to complement our existing mobile broadband hardware business.”

Shipments of uCAN-enabled iCON USB devices are scheduled for the first half of 2009. Over time, the technology is likely to be offered across Option’s range of iCON USB modems as media players, instant messaging and web 2.0 applications open up consumer market segments.

Option is demonstrating uCAN in Hall 1, stand 1C 43 at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona (February 16-19).

A USB interface turns the GlobeSurfer III into a central hub: connecting an external hard disk drive via the device’s USB interface allows users to share or back-up important files to a central storage system; multimedia files such as MP3’s or AVI’s can be streamed across the Wi-Fi network; a central printer can be shared by all members of the household or business. Basic and advanced functionality is all managed from the device’s intuitive user interface incorporating a vibrant colour display indicating functions, events and device activities.

Based on the Qualcomm 7225 chipset, this device offers HSUPA upload speeds up to 5.76 Mbps and download speeds up to 7.2 Mbps, as well as AWS support for US markets – making it a front-runner in the market.

Option’s iCON 431 can download at speeds of up to 7.2 Mbps and upload at up to 5.7 Mbps. Tri-band HSPA in the 900, 1900 & 2100 MHz bands ensures iCON 431 users can obtain mobile broadband connections in countries all over the world. The sleek and compact device measures just 76 x 27 x13 mm when the USB connector is retracted within its body. An innovative Micro-SD slot can accommodate an 8 GB card making the iCON 431 a versatile data storage device.

The AT&T USBConnect Quicksilver is the first USB mobile broadband device worldwide to use the Icera Livanto chipset, providing the latest features in one of the world’s smallest HSPA USB devices that weighs just 1.2 ounces. It is now available from today.

Specifications:

• Dimensions: 2.6 x 1.0 x 0.7 inches
• Weight: 1.2 ounces
• Technology: GSM/GPRS/EDGE/UMTS/HSDPA/HSUPA
• Frequency: 850/900/1800/1900 MHz (GSM/GPRS/EDGE); 850/1900/2100 MHz (UMTS/HSDPA/HSUPA)
• Data Transmission: Edge/GPRS Class 12 (typically 70-135 Kbps download / 60-80 Kbps uplink); HSPA typically 700 Kbps-1.7 Mbps download / 500 Kbps-1.2 Mbps uplink
• Operation System: Microsoft Windows Vista, XP, 2000 (Plug-and-play); Apple Mac OS X version 10.4 or later (support through download from option.com/support)
• Antenna: Internal Antenna
• Power consumption: 5.0V
• USB 2.0 connectivity
• Multicolor LED status indicator built into swivel

The ExpressCard also supports HSDPA and HSUPA in the 900 MHz band. This extra band satisfies a growing need among mobile operators, especially in Europe and Australia, who are using the band to upgrade their legacy 2G networks to 3G in order to improve mobile broadband coverage in buildings and to extend the reach of their broadband offerings in rural areas.