AT&T AirCards & Broadband Cards
The Option USBConnect Velocity is the 1st GPS-enabled broadband card from AT&T. Since its got the ability for voice guided turn-by-turn directions, it could save you cash on an extra device.
It also comes packing with a microSD slot (up to 32 GB), the capability to handle 7.2 Mbps downloads (scheduled for the end of 2010 via AT&T) and support for XP, Vista, Windows 7 & Mac OS X 10.4 (or higher).
Stuff You Should Know (Good & Bad)
Design & Aesthetics
Unlike the USBConnect Turbo or Lightning, the Velocity lacks a swivel USB port. If plugged into a laptop, it’ll jut out horizontally for potential damage or bumps in confined spaces.
(Nothing to worry about if you don’t move too much though).
Thankfully, the USBConnect Velocity comes with a screen clip and USB Extension cable. This will simultaneously allow you to angle it at the top of your laptop screen (or nearby ledge) for better signal and the device’s own safety.
As per standard broadband card practice, the SIM card is hidden from view. Having easy access to it may come in handy if travel to different countries and need to switch to a local SIM for cheaper prepaid rates. In addition to the SIM card (though not visible), there’s also a microSD slot that supports up to 32 GB of extra storage
When not in use, the USB port is stored in a sleek fashion to avoid any potential damage that could lead to breaking your broadband card.
Features
Summary:
USB connection in an ultra-flexible, custom designed articulating hinge- Integrated microSD card slot (up to 32 GB)
- Weight 1.3 ounces
- Dimension: 2.9″ L X 1.1″ W x 0.61″ H
- The AT&T USBConnect Velocity is compatible with the following operating systems:
- Microsoft Windows 7, Vista, and XP
- Mac OS X version 10.4 or later
- Designed to work both in the US and internationally.
- Frequency Bands
- WCDMA (UMTS, HSPA)
- 850/1900/2100 MHz
- GSM/GPRS/EDGE
- 850/900//1800/1900 MHz
- Technology
- UMTS w/HSDPA (typical download speeds 700 Kbps – 1.7 Mbps max.)
- UMTS w/HSUPA (typical upload speeds 500 Kbps – 1.2 Mbps max.)
- EDGE/GPRS – 135 kbps downlink max
- EDGE/GPRS – 80 kbps uplink max
- GPS
Click ‘Play’ for an Interactive Getting Started Guide that’ll walk you through just about anything on the USBConnect Velocity (opens in a new window).
What’s Speed & Coverage Like?
The LG USBConnect Turbo runs on the ‘nation’s fastest 3G network’. Unfortunately, they don’t have the largest mobile broadband network. In an indirect way, you trade 3G speed for 3G coverage.
For the most part, urban areas are covered. However, if you’re a road warrior, you may need to look at Sprint or Verizon:
| Mobile Broadband Provider |  |
| Speed |  |
| Advertised Download Speed | 700 Kbps – 1.7 Mbps |
| Real (Tested) Download Speed | 900 Kbps – 2 Mbps |
| Advertised Upload Speed | 500 Kbps – 1.2 Mbps |
| Real (Tested) Upload Speed | 550 Kbps – 1.1 Mbps |
| Coverage |  |
| Regional or National? | National Check Coverage |
| Full Review Available? | AT&T Wireless Broadband Review |
If you’ll be using AT&T’s 3G network, you’ll definitely want to read “How Much is 5GB & Is It Enough” to avoid $51.20/GB overage charges.
AT&T’s Communication Manager shows you how much data you use per session to help keep track (and avoid overage fees.
In addition to keeping track of how much data you use, the connection manager has a WiFi locator to help conserve your 3G data along with the days remaining before your data cap resets.
In the same way that cell phones are becoming our MP3 players, organizers & internet browsers that happen to make phone calls, the USBConnect Velocity does a lot more than just connect to the internet.
It can triple as a flash drive with up to 32 GB of storage, a Voice-Guided GPS navigation system and 3G broadband card.
It’s only setback is the non-swivel USB form factor. However, if you’re not in cramped locations, there’s a chance you might not notice.
With all that being said, the Option USBConnect Velocity is free on the spot and a good deal.
If you’re still not sure about it, compare it to other cards in the Broadband Card Comparison or just other AT&T Broadband Cards.
Related:
2010 AT&T AirCards & Broadband Cards
2010 Broadband Card Comparison