Sierra Wireless Compass 597 Modem

The Compass 597 USB EV-DO Rev.A modem from Sierra Wireless might look simple from the outside, but it is very different from its rivals thanks to the inclusion of a GPS receiver and the ability to connect an external antenna in order to boost reception in poor reception areas. Features include a microSD memory card slot that makes it a snap when adding memory, turning it into an instant portable storage device as well. The Compass 597 will be launched in Q2 2008, with theoretical figures of 3.1Mbps and 1.8Mbps for download and upload speeds respectively being bandied about. There is no word on network availability nor pricing as at press time.