Mobile Modems

Mobile Internet, with access to the World Wide Web through cellular networks, is becoming more widespread as technologies develop and become cheaper. Moreover, in order to use such services, it is not necessary to purchase a smartphone or tablet with a 3G module - you can buy a 3G modem as a separate device and connect it, for example, to a laptop. There are also Wi-Fi modems that can distribute mobile Internet to nearby devices using the Wi-Fi standard.

If you need to choose a 3G modem, first of all, you need to consider that this name is not entirely correct: many of these devices also support other generations of communication. True, there are practically no “clean” modems of the 2nd generation, this feature is usually combined with more advanced standards; but the 4th generation connection may not be supplemented by earlier options.

It is also worth bearing in mind that one communication generation can include different types of networks and support different data transmission technologies. Therefore, for successful operation, the modem must support not only the appropriate generation, but also a certain type of network.

So, 3G communication can be based on UMTS (W-CDMA) or CDMA networks. The first option can support HSUPA, HSDPA and HSPA+ data transfer technologies and provides communication speeds from 2 to 70 Mbps. The second uses the EV-DO standard and operates at speeds up to 14.7 Mbps. It should be noted that when talking about 3G communications in Ukraine, “real 3G” usually means UMTS. This standard is an add-on to the popular second-generation GSM networks, and it is it that is positioned as a technology not only for data transmission, but also for mobile communications (including video calls). Its mass implementation began only in 2015. At the same time, EV-DO appeared earlier and is more widespread, but it is mainly used for Internet access.

Under the term 4G, in most cases, LTE technology is hidden. Its speed limit is 173 Mbps. Another 4G technology - WiMAX - is not particularly popular, although it is found, in particular, as an alternative to wired Internet in the private sector.

The choice of a 3G modem is greatly facilitated by the fact that compatible mobile operators are often directly indicated in the specifications. At the same time, it should be noted that EV-DO models can be sold already flashed for a specific operator, and connecting to another network will require reconfiguration.

Note that models without Wi-Fi capabilities are connected only via USB, and they receive power through the same connector. But a Wi-Fi router in a modem is often combined with battery power.