The latest Verizon Wireless UM175 modem, manufactured by Pantech, is priced at $239.99 and is an expensive way to log on to the Verizon Wireless 3G networks. If you take it on contract, the modem is offered free and provides excellent speeds. The UM175 is nothing but a white USB modem. It weighs a mere 1.1 ounces and measures 2.8 by 1.1 by 0.6 inches. The device can be oriented in a flat shape and also in an L shape for improved reception. The device comprises a USB plug that is hidden behind a little sliding door. The modem houses a single LED light that turns on to display power and reception of signal. The modem also houses a jack for external antennas but lacks a microSD card reader on itself.
As the features, the UM175 is capable of working with both Windows XP (also Vista) and Mac running OS 10.5.6. You need to download Verizon’s free drivers and the VZAccess Manager in order to get the modem to work on your computer. Once you are through with the download, the UM175 will connect to the net with lightening speed. The purpose of the VZAccess Manager is that it lets you track your internet connection speed and your data usage. You might find its initial download a little time consuming, but will later realize that it is an excellent addition to your internet surfing package.
The modem gives excellent interned speeds. It offers average download speeds of 893 kilobits per second and offers average upload speeds of 413 kilobits per second on Verizon’s EV-DO Rev A network. The company has offered the Verizon Wireless UM175 modem free of cost but it has added the clause of a contract. The UM175 modem is based on the Qualcomm MSM6800 chipset like its competitor, Novatel Ovation U727 modem. The Verizon Wireless UM175 modem aims to be an excellent modem. But if you cannot afford its expensive price, you can try out a few other cheap models in the market.
