Originally posted on June 10, 2011 @ 9:00 am
Having a laptop means mobility, to be sure. However, more and more, having a laptop is not enough. The need to be connected is of paramount importance as well. This is where wireless connectivity comes into the picture. While we could still get lots done on a laptop without the Internet, the convenience of being able to connect while on the go cannot be beaten.
While it is true that more and more, Wi-Fi hotspots are available – especially in developed countries – it is still better not to be dependent on locations that offer Wi-Fi. I guess that is why USB sticks that function as modems are becoming one of the most popular accessories today.
T-Mobile, one of the biggest telecommunications provider in the United States, sees this market and is not hesitating to grab the opportunity. They now have the T-Mobile Rocket 3.0 4G Laptop Stick, which is currently the only way to make use of the company’s newly launched HSPA+ 42 network. The number 42 might mean something else to you ((42)), but in this case, 42 stands for 42Mbps. This is an astounding figure for mobile broadband connections, but the sad fact is that it seems T-Mobile is yet unable to deliver fully.
Still, the laptop stick does hold some promise. It is a medium-sized stick measuring in at 1.1 x 3.4 x .5 inches. It weighs a mere 1.1 ounce. For those who are particular about looks, the stick has interchangeable faceplates, and you can choose from black, blue, and purple.
You can get the T-Mobile Rocket 3.0 4G Laptop Stick for $99 with a two-year contract. Here are the specs:
- Cellular technology: GPRS, EDGE, UMTS, Other, HSDPA 1.8, HSDPA 3.6, HSPA+ 21, HSPA+ 42
- Bands: 850, 900, 1800, 1900, 2100, 1700
- Mac Compatible
More info on performance at PCMag.