Traveller D301 - HSDPA USB Modem

After testing several modems for HSDPA (High Speed Data Packet Access), I finally found an excellent USB version.

This modem was passed to me for testing by a fellow friend working with one of the local mobile operator.

I was sceptical at first, I am almost confident that I may experience another let down similar from the other devices that I tested. However, I was proven wrong on the first session itself. The traveller D301 is similar to the Huawei's E220 USB modem in its concept, it uses a matchbox sized modem with a flash memory containing installation softwae in it. With more devices as such, USB modems are getting more convenient, one can just carry the modem and install it on any PC operating device without the hassle of carrying supporting software CDs and without the fear of losing that CD after its timely usage.

Anyways, back to the modem. Its VERY SIMPLE in its outlook, one SIM insertion slot, one 5 Pin Data Cable connector and a USB cable.

Here are images of the modem.





In addition to the hardware, the software for the modem is also extremely simple and easy to use. On the first installation, the step-by-step configuration menu will assist you in setting up the appropriate data service from any local operater that has already been pre-configured (no need to remember the APNs and *99# numbers).

Here are some snapshots :






The software enables you to still be in touch when needed (although no simultaneous Voice Call support) through SMS incoming notifications or sending of SMS. In addition, it has a hot button that links directly to your e-mail client like Outlook for immediate electronic correspondences one connected and once a connection is successfully establish, it will prompt for the internet browser of your preference to launch automatically. Pretty convenient huh?

I am also impressed by the fact that the modem does not heat up as others do. It has a lukewarm feel to it after a prolonged use, but nothing as what you'd be worried about like how hot the other modem gets.

To test the endurance of the modem, I let it run for 4 consecutive days without heavy downloading done... I did not even once get disconnected... impressive... and the modem still stays lukewarm :-)

But there is one flaw with the modem, you need to have the proper method of connecting the device to your PC or notebook to ensure that the software connects to it without being confused and continuously searching for the device (which I believe is more of a Windows issue rather than the modem software). The trick is to load the application first and when it searches for the device, connect the modem... or else, you'd have to do several start/quit program before it actually establishes the connection.

Anyways, its the best HSDPA modem I got so far, I recommend this. On top of it all, I am told that its price is ranging between RM 450 - 600, way cheaper than the others at the moment of writing.

Ok then, I am off.. more things to download... I am doing two movies in 1 1/2 hours with HSDPA....