Cricket’s latest modem, the UM100 is an economically priced device that aims to bring no-contract, wireless Internet access to people. As a user, if you like to do a bit of light web surfing everyday, check e-mails on daily basis, then this device is the ultimate tool for you. But if you have heavy web browsing needs like accessing Web based video services, then device might not suit you. Cricket is a small wireless carrier famous for its great broadband offers. Usually broadband carriers make it requisite for you to sign a contract. Cricket sells unlimited use, no-contract voice plans in many cities and it does not make it mandatory for its users to sign up for long-term contracts.
The UM100 is a solid compact device. The device measures 2.9 by 1.4 by 0.6 inches. It weighs a mere 1.2 ounces which means that the device is not bulky and can be carried around easily if need be. The UM100 is a USB modem. It comprises an external antenna jack in the side that helps in better reception than that provided by its internal antenna. The best part about the device is that it works with Macs, using Apple’s own dial up networking software. But the device is provided with Windows software.
The performance of the UM100 is pretty decent for users of decent web needs. The average download speed offered by the device comes out to be around 532 kilobits per second. The average upload speed offered by the device comes out to be around 110 kilobits per second. This speed is much faster than dial-up but slower than wired broadband. You can use the device for decent web needs but if you want to stream videos from sites like YouTube, you will be disappointed. Cricket has plans for upgrading its networks from EV-DO Rev 0 to the faster EV-DO Rev A system. This way, it will be able to deliver much higher speeds.
The company offers the device at a decent price $40 per month. All in all, the UM100 modem is a terrific solution for light Internet users.
