3 mobile introduces 3G WiFi router with 3G access

Stuart Corner
Wednesday, 29 October 2008 10:06

Your IT - Home IT

3 has followed Telstra and Optus by introducing a router that enable multiple devices to get broadband access over its HSPA network, either via WiFi or ethernet cable connections. However it differs from the Telstra offering in one significant feature.

The Telstra Turbo wireless 3G gateway, sourced from NetComm, is a stand-alone device with its own SIM card and 3G modem. The 3 product has neither of these: you have to have one of 3's USB 3G modems and plug this into it.

This, of course, has the advantage that, with a single account, you have access on the go from your laptop and can share your 3 broadband account with other members of your household, or your office, when you don't need access on the road.

Optus also has a 3G WiFi router, sourced from Huawei, that sits somewhere between the Telstra and 3 products. It has its own SIM card and you can plug it into a power point and have WiFi and ethernet cable access to share the 3G broadband service or you can plug it into the USB port of the computer and use it as a USB 3G modem, powered from the computer.

It costs $300, or $10 per month on 24 month wireless broadband plans. Telstra's Turbo gateway costs $299 on a 24 month plan. The 3 product costs $129, but of course you have to have the USB modem as well. The Optus and Telstra products operate at up to 7.2Mbps downstream. 3's USB modem is a 3.6Mbps device, which could become an issue if multiple users are sharing it.

Plans for the 3 product are those for the USB modem: $15 (1GB), $29 (3GB), $39 (6GB) or $49 (7GB), all over 24 months and with hefty data charges if you venture outside 3's network coverage area.