USBConnect Mercury Makes 3G Easier

AT&T's newest HSPDA card plugs into a USB port and delivers speeds of up to 1.7 Mbps, with software pre-installed onboard for easier setup.

Aiming to simplify the wireless connection process for customers who just need a plug-and-surf solution, AT&T on Tuesday introduced the USBConnect Mercury, an easy-to-use HSDPA broadband modem. By plugging into a common USB port and offering all the necessary setup software onboard, the Mercury aims to make tapping into AT&T’s 3G network as painless as possible.

Sierra Wireless manufactured the device with AT&T Communication Manager for PCs and Sierra Watcher for Macs preinstalled, meaning users won’t have to carry around an install CD to use the modem on most Windows or Mac machines. It also has a built-in microSD slot to double as a card reader for the type of storage most frequently used with mobile phones.

Using AT&T’s LaptopConnect service, the company claims the Mercury should deliver download speeds of between 700 Kbps and 1.7 Mbps, along with upload speeds between 500 Kbps and 1.2 Mbps. Currently, AT&T offers 3G coverage in 350 U.S. cities, and the card will also interface with 3G networks in another 60 countries.

AT&T will offer the card at no cost for customers who subscribe to a two-year DataConnect plan of $60 or more, which delivers 5GB monthly.