Cradlepoint CTR500- the real internet in your pocket
I have long used a travel WiFi router on trips so that I can tap into hotel networks and create my own hotspot in the room. This method allows me to use my mobile PCs and PDAs with full WiFi convenience even if the hotel connectivity is a wired connection. I’ve often thought how much more useful if my router also accepted my EVDO modem which would provide a complete mobile router solution no matter what kind of access was provided by the hotel.
The folks at Cradlepoint have been thinking about that too and have recently announced the CTR500 pocket router. The CTR500 can connect to a network via a wired WAN/LAN connection or it can connect to a 3G network via a USB or ExpressCard slot so all bases are covered. It then creates an 802.11b/g hotspot for sharing that connectivity, and all in a gadget that fits in your pocket and weighs only 4 oz. The CTR500 should be available June 1 and will set you back $180, a cheap price to pay for connectivity almost anywhere, anytime.
If you have a windows mobile 5or6 device with wifi http://www.wmwifirouter.com/consumer/ this might save you carrying yet another device.
I have their PHS300 router, works great on the road creating a wifi hotspot for up to 16 pcs on my usb727. I dont waste my time looking for public hotspots anymore, this works flawlessly.
I would say that if you don’t need ExpressCard slot for WWAN, then get the CTR350. It’s a bit smaller and can do the same thing otherwise.
Check out a “sneak peek” video of the not-yet-released Cradlepoint CTR500: http://www.EVDOinfo.com/CTR500
Gotta love the MBR1000. Probably one of the best all around routers on the market. Cradlepoint also makes a couple of smaller, more portable ones as well…the size of a deck of cards!
Just FYI, there is new firmware for the CTR500 and MBR1000 that provides new LOAD BALANCING feature that many have longed for in a 3G router! Check out: http://www.EVDOinfo.com/LB
Best place in Canada (ImpactWireless.ca) to purchase the CTR-500, best to call instant rebates
Can’t go wrong with these guys, they shipped to my rual address where we live on a farm within 3 business days. These guys are pioneering the Canadian market.
http://www.impactwireless.ca/accessorydetails.aspx?id=1430