EVDO and 3G Routers

EVDO stands for Evolution Data Only/Evolution Data Optimized. It is a 3G mobile broadband technology used by some cell phone providers. The EVDO modem is made to plug right in to your computer via USB port or card slot. You do not have to be next to a “hot spot” or within a certain distance to get a connection. A really nice feature is that it allows you to share the connection with other users using a 3G router. You can share the connection in the same way you share a connection at home with a router. You do not need a separate EVDO modem for each computer. Just plug the modem into a 3G router and you can quickly and easily share a secure connection. Another great feature about an EVDO router is that they have the ability to support cellular modems to connect to the internet. If you have an EVDO capable cell phone you can plug it right in to the 3G router and create your own Wi-Fi network. If you are in an area and have a low connection speed, you may need to get an antenna or amplifier. Most available modems feature an external antenna port to add an antenna or amplifier to boost your performance.

What speeds can be reached?

EVDO is always on and can provide speeds of 600-1400kbps (kilobits per second) with bursts up to 3.1 mbps download and 500-800kbps upload wirelessly. This speed is much faster than a standard 56kbps dial up connection and is comparable to cable and DSL speeds. This is great because it allows you to connect to the internet at any time anywhere, no matter where you are and keep a fast connection. You can download and watch video clips in real time! What a great way to stay connected when you are on the go.

Do they require a separate subscription to a phone service?

The modem by itself does not provide you with access. There is a separate subscription fee to be able to use the connection from an EVDO provider much like there is a monthly subscription fee for your cell phone. You may have a cell phone, but without a subscription plan it will not work.

Who would use them?

There are many reasons to use one. For business users, you can access your corporate VPN (virtual private network) as long as you can get a cellular signal through a secure encrypted signal. When traveling on business you can stay connected and even finish a presentation or document and upload it without waiting a long time for it to upload. You can even use it to share information securely between people in your work group while attending a convention. Another business use would be to set up a secure connection for your customers or passengers to check email or log in to their favorite networking site to stay up to date with their friends. For personal travel, you can access the internet while in your car or RV to help pass the time or search for a restaurant, hotel, directions, or a fun place to visit. Traveling with kids? Use the internet to find games for the kids to play. This will give you a little more room in the car so you do not have to pack a bunch of extra games to keep the kids busy.