NetComm says it ‘raises the bar’ with its prototype 21Mbps mobile broadband router

Staff Writers
Monday, 23 February 2009 08:00

IT Industry - Market

NetComm, an Australian developer and supplier of high performance broadband communications devices, says it is preparing to launch what it claims is “the world’s first 21Mbps embedded 3G router with all the bells and whistles” with the looming launch of 21Mbps networks worldwide.

Showcasing the design of its prototype 21Mbps HSPA+ wireless router (3G21W) at the GSMA Mobile World Congress in Barcelona last week, NetComm says that with the imminent launch of 21Mbps networks, it is working with partner company, Sierra Wireless, to launch its prototype 211mpbs mobile broadband router.

NetComm’s Managing Director, David Stewart, claimed that “when launched, it will be the first embedded router of its kind to operate at 21Mbps using the HSPA+ (evolved high speed packet access) standard, as well as being a fully-functioning 11n wireless router with four ethernet ports.

“With this capability, the 3G21W will finally enable the true potential of this new mobile network
standard, offering possible data speeds equivalent to those of conventional ADSL2+ connections.”

According to Stewart, for carriers currently offering or planning mobile broadband delivery via a 21Mbps network, routers such as the new NetComm device will open the way for maximising the customer experience.

Stewart said the NetComm 3G21W router was being designed around a powerful Sierra Wireless HSPA+ module capable of delivering 21Mbps speeds along with reliable and high quality mobile broadband performance, and the combination of high bandwidth and low latency provided by 21Mbps HSPA+ would be targeted by the 3G21W, with the intention of facilitating high performance VPN pass-through connectivity.

“Carriers that are investing in the 21Mbps network are relying on devices that will keep them ahead of the rest and deliver the best possible speeds. The development of the 3G21W demonstrates NetComm’s leadership in this technology and we are committed to delivering the best possible solutions to carriers and their customers,” Stewart said.

NetComm’s commercial director, Robert Linsdell said that the new device would enable carriers to offer their customers ADSL2+ speeds over their mobile networks, and business users, people in rural areas and those who required mobility in their service would all benefit from the capabilities of the router to access 21Mbps networks.

“The phenomenal wireless upload speed will pave the way for bandwidth thirsty Internet services never before considered possible on a wireless broadband connection,” Linsdell claimed.

Lindsell said the device was scheduled for commercial release later in 2009.