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Sierra Wireless AirCard 580 (Sprint PCS)Photo GalleryWe road-test Sprint's fast EV-DO cell data network with the Sierra Wireless AirCard 580. How fast is fast? Read our review to find out. |
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| By Becky Waring (JiWire) (Updated 10/3/08) |
To Roam or Not to Roam
The Sprint PCS-branded version of the Sierra AirCard 580 is initially set to work only on Sprint's 1900MHz CDMA 2000 network. While Sprint does not yet offer roaming to other carriers' CDMA networks, the AirCard does have 800MHz support built-in for when the time comes. A single indicator light flashes red or green depending on your connection status.
Busting Out All Over
Unlike most competing EV-DO cards, the AirCard 580 has a flip-up antenna, as well as a port for an external antenna. While we can't say for sure whether it gives better reception, it certainly can't hurt (unless you break it off, in which case the card won't work at all). Like all EV-DO cards, the Sierra also protrudes about 1.5 inches from the edge of the computer, meaning you'll likely need to take it out before putting your laptop in a case.
