Mobile broadband cranks it up: HSDPA data cards compared

By David Flynn on 20 November 2006

High-speed mobile broadband has arrived! We compare Telstra's BigPond Wireless Next G service, Vodafone's HSDPA-enhanced 3G network and 3's new NetConnect ExpressCard.

At first it was enough just to remain online while you were on the road. But the joy of go-anywhere convenience came with a caveat: even 3G failed to match the speed of the cheapest and slowest home ADSL line.

Now wireless broadband has hit its stride, with the mobile carriers leading their super-charged networks in a new race for the road warrior's business. Telstra and Vodafone are first off the starter's line, with real-world speeds that bend the needle past 1Mbps, while 3's new NetConnect card prepares the way for an even faster network upgrade.

So if you want downloads to hurtle rather than turtle over the airwaves and onto your laptop, read on to find the best mobile broadband bet.

3 NetConnect HSDPA ExpressCard 3 NetConnect HSDPA ExpressCard

It sprints along on 3's current 3G network and will kick into overdrive following the 3.6Mbps HSDPA network overhaul, and slips into notebook ExpessCard and PC Card slots. Top that off with exceptional pricing plans and 3's new NetConnect mobile broadband card is almost a no-brainer.

BigPond Next G Wireless Broadband Mobile Card BigPond Next G Wireless Broadband Mobile Card

Fancy a 1.3Mbps broadband pipeline direct to your notebook, without a cable in sight? The new BigPond wireless data card makes good on Telstra's lofty promises for its Next G network.

Vodafone Mobile Connect 3G HSDPA Card Vodafone Mobile Connect 3G HSDPA Card

Vodafone's enhanced notebook PC Card delivers what the mobile telco calls 'business class 3G broadband' -- but until more of the 3G network is upgraded with HSDPA, most users will remain stuck in economy seats.

Topics: bigpond, telstra, pc card, vodafone, wireless, mobile, broadband, next g, hsdpa, 3g, 3, three, netconnect, expresscard

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Comments (5)

  • lavendertech commented on 10/10/2008 19:39 Report abuse

    this is all very well but when will we get real choice outside the capital cities. I am forced to use BigPond which is poor service at too high a price but no other company has the coverage I need.

  • 3GSteve commented on 03/07/2007 18:32 Report abuse

    How do u unlock Linksys WRT54G3G wireless router so you're not stuck with Vodafone card ?? If you do this will router then work with the new GT Express Telstra Turbo Card. not asking for much really....

  • hdg commented on 26/05/2007 18:47 Report abuse

    When will you be doing a piece on wireless routers for the Next-G network?

  • DanielleG commented on 07/02/2007 09:44 Report abuse

    Anyone know of a usb modem with any carrier that is compatible with windows VISTA? I've just upgraded computers and was using MiniMax but went to install it last night and it wont load.

  • DDave commented on 22/11/2006 07:27 Report abuse

    In a mobile industry full of hype and tricks it's heartening to see some real engineering is still being done.
    Having tried Telstra's next G network for voice and data and TV channels in met and regional areas I've got to say this IS a real step forward!

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