Telstra Pre-Paid Wireless Broadband USB Modem (MF626)
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With a competitive purchase price with no bills or contracts and the ability to recharge the service at your computer, Telstra's Pre-Paid Wireless Broadband service is promising. Telstra's Pre-Paid Wireless Broadband modem, the MF626 only has a theoretical maximum download speed of 3.6 megabits per second (Mbps) utilising the Next G network, the service we experienced during testing has been fast stable and reliable.
The MF626's Pre-Paid Wireless Broadband modem is a 3.6Mbps-capable device, but much faster speeds are achievable on the Next G network If you really need the extra speed try the . Telstra claims the MF626 will provide typical speeds of between 550 kilobits per second (Kbps) and 3.0Mbps. As with all mobile Internet devices, the actual speed achieved will depend on the usual number of factors such as your location and equipment, and network usage and coverage.
The software required to use the Telstra service is installed on the USB device itself. This allows much more flexibility in terms of using the unit on multiple computers as you wont need to carry an installation CD around with you. The modem also doubles as a USB flash drive: a microSD card slot is located on the left side, neatly concealed by a plastic flap, which is a nice touch. Memory cards of up to 4GB micro sdhc are supported.
The MF626 does not have a port to plug in an external antenna but there is an inductive coupling patch lead available to connect up an external antenna for improved coverage and reception while maintaining data speeds.
The Telstra Pre-Paid Wireless Broadband service is compatible with both Windows and Mac OS X, and it is simple to set up. Simply plug the modem into a spare USB port on your notebook or PC and install the software. The Telstra Turbo Connection Manager software has a straightforward interface and allows users to recharge the prepaid service from their PC.
We have found the MF626 to be a solid performer, regularly providing around 1.5Mbps download speeds. Upload speeds are around 340Kbps with no problems with web surfing, watching videos and downloading files.
Currently the MF626 Telstra Pre-Paid Wireless Broadband pack retails for $99 and includes a USB Modem and $10 credit (equivalent to 75MB).
MF626 Mobile Broadband USB Modem Technical Specifications:
Device Specifications
HSDPA/HSUPA/UMTS 850/1900/2100 MHz
GSM/GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900 MHz
HSDPA 3.6Mbps
UMTS DL/UL 384Kbps
USB 2.0 Interface
Microsoft Windows and MAC OS compatible
Compact size 69 x 26.5 x 12 mm
Weight 28g
Idle current approx 100mA, Max 450mA
Maximum Emitted Power 250mW in 3G, 2W in GSM
Note: Specifications and pricing are subject to change without notice. While every attempt has been made by Campad Electronics in the production of these specifications, possible errors or omissions may still occur. Campad Electronics neither assumes legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of any product specifications and pricing supplied.
Antennas
