Evdo Rev Usb
A look at what is currently available on eBay
What router do I need?!?! USB or EVDO?
I bought the Huawei Ec228 (USB CARD!) wireless card from alltel and want to use it with 3 desktops can I just get a regular router with a USB port or do I need a $500 EVDO pc card router? It connects REV A if that matters please help!
I want to share the internet not files on the computer!
Option 1:
Purchase a $249 router from http://3gstore.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=35
I'd recommend the "Cradlepoint MBR1000" because your Data card is USB. Not all EVDO routers have working USB ports.
Option 2:
Check with Alltel which type of PCMCIA Data Cards are compatible with their service. Looks like only the Huawei EC360..but maybe they support others.
Go to http://www.airlink101.com/products/ar360w3g.html nad verify that one of those cards are listed (NOTE: the AR360W suports more cards then the manufacturer has tested) Email and see if the Huawei EC360 Alltel lists will work.
Buy a used PCMCIA slot Data Card off eBay, ensuring it doesn't currently have service or a is reported stolen (by asking the seller). People get rid of them all the time because they change service or move somewhere else. etc.
I got a Sprint Merlin S720 for $25
Call Alltel and give them the ESN number on the back of the card and switch your service to that card. You can only use 1 card at a time.. so they don't care how many you own.
They should not charge you an activation fee or extend your contract because you paid for the extra card yourself.
Purchase an Airlink 101 AR360W 3G router for $79.99 (I got mine on sale for $39.99 - if you have a Fry's electronics near you (California only) then wait and see if they go on sale.)
Plug the data card into the slot on the router.
Walk thru the wizard and setup the 3G connection.
For Sprint.. the connection string is just #777, Alltel might be different.
NOTE: Even if you spend $249 on a Linksys / D-Link or Cradlepoint router, you'd still need to know the connection string to initate the modem.
Check the EVDO Forums for more info. http://www.evdoforums.com/
My Father-in-law is on a Merlin S720 and Airlink AR360W which Airlink 101 doesn't even LIST on their site as working. I've notified them that it works but they won't list it until they do their OWN testing.