Verizon Wireless USB760 modem
Manufacturer: Verizon Wireless Part number: USB760 Modem
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- The Verizon Wireless USB760 modem offers great connection speeds and coverage, and it doubles as a storage device. However, its rigid, nonswivel design makes it difficult to use in tight situations.
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CNET editors' review
Verizon Wireless USB760 modem price range: $106.99
- Reviewed by: Bonnie Cha
- Reviewed on: 05/07/2009
The good: The Verizon Wireless USB760 modem offers EV-DO Rev. A data speeds through Verizon's network. It also works with Mac and Linux systems and offers up to 8GB of storage.
The bad: No built-in GPS.
The bottom line: The Verizon Wireless USB760 modem offers great connection speeds and coverage, and it doubles as a storage device. However, its rigid, nonswivel design makes it difficult to use in tight situations.
Back in April, we took a look at the T-Mobile WebConnect USB Laptop Stick. It was T-Mobile's first 3G cellular modem, but these devices aren't new. In fact, T-Mobile's the last of the major carriers as AT&T, Sprint, and Verizon Wireless have had mobile broadband products for some time now, but we thought for the sake of comparison, we'd take a look at the offerings from the other service providers, starting with the Verizon Wireless USB760.
The Verizon Wireless USB760 modem is available for $49.99 with a two-year contract and after rebates and discounts. The price for its service plan is the same as T-Mobile's and customers can select from one- or two-year BroadBandAccess plans: 5GB for $59.99 per month or 50MB for $39.99 per month. While we thought T-Mobile's pricing was too high, Verizon has a little more argument in that it offers the largest 3G network in the U.S. (in case their commercials haven't drilled that into your head yet) and reaches 281 million people (with the Alltel acquisition).
Developed by Novatel Wireless, the Verizon Wireless USB760 measures 2.2 inches tall by 0.9 inch wide by 0.4 inch deep and weighs 0.6 ounces. It looks like a regular flash drive with no moving parts, so unlike the T-Mobile WebConnect USB Laptop Stick, which has a swivel design, you can't neatly tuck it to your laptop's side.
On the front of the device is a small LED that blinks green when connected. On its right side you'll find an external antenna connector. The Verizon Wireless USB760 doubles as a storage device, so on the bottom of the modem, there's a microSD expansion slot that can accept up to 8GB cards. The USB760 ships with a small plastic cap to protect the USB connector (though it was missing on our review unit) as well as a neck lanyard and reference material.
There's no software CD as it's all included on the modem. The Verizon Wireless USB760 works with any system running Windows (Windows 2000 Professional, XP, and Vista), Mac (Mac OS X 10.4.0 or higher) or Linux with a Type-A USB port. We tested the device on our Lenovo T61, and as soon as we plugged the USB760 into our laptop, the VZAccess Manager client automatically launched and guided us through the installation process, which was quick and easy. The desktop client's user interface looks a bit dated, but it's intuitive and allows you do a number of things in addition to connecting to the Web via Verizon BroadbandAccess or NationalAccess (Verizon's wireless Internet service). You can also check your usage and session log, send and receive text messages, as well as launch and manage applications. Like the T-Mobile WebConnect, there is no built-in GPS.
The USB760 works on Verizon's EV-DO Rev. A network, which averages download speeds of 600kbps up to 1.4Mbps and upload speeds of 500kpbs to 800kbps. It also features NovaSpeed software, which is designed to make simultaneous uploads and downloads faster. We tested the modem throughout San Francisco and based on six tests using Speedtest.net, we averaged 1.48Mbps for download speeds and 590kbps for upload speeds. The fastest speeds we clocked were 1.83Mbps for downloads and 590kbps for uploads. For comparison's sake, the T-Mobile WebConnect's averaged 670Kbps and 310Kbps and the difference between the USB760 and the T-Mobile WebConnect was quite noticeable.
With a signal strength of about -58dbm, it took about 8 seconds for a 1MB picture to upload and 1 minute, 4 seconds to download a 7MB e-mail attachment. CNET's Web site fully loaded in 12 seconds, while The New York Times came up in 20 seconds, CNN in 10 seconds, and ESPN in 8 seconds. We'll continue to test the modem in different environments and cities and compare them with similar products, but we'd have to say the Verizon Wireless USB760 is a fine portable modem that provided consistent coverage and swift data speeds.
User reviews
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For my use this wireless modem exceeds my expectations.
by Milrose13 on May 14, 2009
Pros: Compact size, light in weight, easy and convenient to use, connections are trouble free and quite fast for my uses and areas I use it in, works well in my desktops and notebooks/laptops, and setup was a "no-brainer."
Cons: No serious "Cons" but you need to exercise care in that like any other dongle device, the modem is ridgid, not hinged, and could be subject to damage if you bump or drop your notebook; and the plastic, protective USB Connector Cap is easilly lost.
Summary: I like the size and the fact that I always get a good connection in places I use it--the Central Coast of California, Northern and Southern Callifornia, Central Oregon, Paramus ...
Summary: I like the size and the fact that I always get a good connection in places I use it--the Central Coast of California, Northern and Southern Callifornia, Central Oregon, Paramus New Jersey, and other East Coast locations. I use this device for email with attachments, some downloading of mostly text, anti virus and driver updates, occasional photos (send and receive), and research using the net. I am not a "gamer" nor do I download movies or music using this device--for that I prefer a hardwired DSL modem.
Verizon Broadband Wireless is the best choice where I live and work in California and I have had better than expected service and support from them. I also did not want a 2-year agreement for this modem. My local Verizon store met the on-line vendor's quote for a 12-month contract and no activation fee and that turned out to be the "closer," plus Verizon offers a 30-day return.
I made this purchase based on the features, reviews I read, input from friends who use this modem, and my vendor support experiences. I am debating on whether or not to epoxy a line or tether (a la a camera lens cap keeper) on the plastic USB Connector Protector--I do use the supplied neck lanyard for the modem as I do not want to have a "senior moment" and lose it. Perhaps Novatel will make a newer generation device with a slider for the connector like some of the flash drives currently on the market.
The software is imbedded in the USB device makes setup very automatic. It is compatible with PC and Mac and most operating systems. However, if you have Vista the current device instructional manual (a few pages) does not explain that you must go into Options, on the opening screen of VZAccess Manager, and select Activation. Otherwise, it will not function properly or make any connections. The Activation took about 15 to 20 seconds to complete and that was it. Now, when I plug the Modem into the USB port it opens automatically with a choice on whether I want to connect with the modem or my home wireless device. There is also a tracking feature in the VZAccess that will track usage using the USB modem or an other wireless device. The Novatel supplied instructions did suggest that the modem may not work properly on a mini notebook having a screen size of 10" or less (my laptop is a fairly new HP with a 13.3" screen).
There is no additional USB cable supplied (for connecting using two USB ports) and none was needed. The device also will accept an 8 GB micro SD card, not included, of which I may try--someday. It also will accept an auxillary antenna device but I don't see a need for it.
In the past I had experimented with another wireless modem but that was before Broadband highspeed was available in my area. The connection speed was slower than "dialup." So I put off buying a wireless modem until my area became "high speed." Well, it's here, I splurgged on the Novatel USB 760, and I am more than pleased.5 out of 6 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Not a good product nor good support
by lwmlnew on August 18, 2010
Pros: It will install nicely. That is all that can be said about it.
Cons: works perfectly until you have to reinstall it. then in big trouble. install will stop at the phone number and will go no further .no support from verizon either. they dont know about problem nor respond .wont reinstall
Summary: this device is a high priced piece of -that will install only once in any os i have tried to use it on . Either verizon didnt test it or they ...
Summary: this device is a high priced piece of -that will install only once in any os i have tried to use it on . Either verizon didnt test it or they just want your money.This device shows it is there and will not re-install if needed. Its overpriced in the first place and verizon seems to have no support for fix or doesnt care . trust me ,take your money elsewhere and buy a product that works. you only get one chance with this device.
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great, with flaws
by vlasktom on December 30, 2009
Pros: Wonderful connection speeds, easy to use, loads right away with windows 7. microSD slot makes putting stuff on my verizon phone easier.
Cons: Random disconnect. Cellular service difficult to find in my area. Unable to play online games due to usage limit
Summary: Well worth the money if you can afford it, but if you look at youtube videos or play online games you will burn your limit up fast
Summary: Well worth the money if you can afford it, but if you look at youtube videos or play online games you will burn your limit up fast
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Installed but wont access the Internet with Vista
by fdirk on December 25, 2009
Pros: I like this but it isn't working yet
Cons: I can't get it to work on my laptop with Vista
Summary: I was on the phone with Verizon for 2 hours and they said they couldn't do anything else for me. They said everything is hooked up and running and ...
Summary: I was on the phone with Verizon for 2 hours and they said they couldn't do anything else for me. They said everything is hooked up and running and it must be the configurations of the computer or my security that won't let me access the Internet. It shows it is connected but I cant get the browser to work. Does anyone have any suggestions or had this problem themselves??? Please advise on what I should do - Thanks
2 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Great device but don't move home.
by iokhahon on January 15, 2011
Pros: This device works very well in most areas, it also works out the box with the Linux Ubuntu 10.10 distribution. I was able to work uninterrupted from San Jose to LA down the 101.
Cons: When we moved home to an area where there was no signal Verizon refused to waive the early termination fee and we we stuck with no service and a $250 early termination fee for our cell phone and 3G contracts.
Summary: Verizon are motivated by greed and have no empathy with their customers. They just want as much of your money as they can get.
Summary: Verizon are motivated by greed and have no empathy with their customers. They just want as much of your money as they can get.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Poor design and poorly made
by cowboyup4tex on August 3, 2010
Pros: Works as advertised
Cons: Flimsy junk.
Summary: Simply a flimsy piece of junk. A slight breeze will damage it. If you are mobile, and lets face it, you wouldn't be looking at one of these if ...
Summary: Simply a flimsy piece of junk. A slight breeze will damage it. If you are mobile, and lets face it, you wouldn't be looking at one of these if you were not, look around. Not sure what the solution is, but this one actually broke within the first 60 days. LITERALLY broke the USB part off in the unit.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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Give me the old modem back!
by pyewacket293 on May 24, 2010
Pros: It's small.
Cons: Continue to experience disconnects & waning signal strength.....extremely frustrating & annoying. Can't flip it up. Does not fit securely into USB port, floppy...
Summary: Zero to 3 bars tops in most places I've tried to use it......well beyond frustrating & annoying.
Summary: Zero to 3 bars tops in most places I've tried to use it......well beyond frustrating & annoying.
1 out of 1 users found this user opinion helpful.
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The Best small 3G Modem on the Market
by 1ComputerPlayer on April 4, 2010
Pros: Very small and easy to carry around. Works everywhere. It's small than a memory stick. It's great for Students that need access to the Internet anytime anywhere.... The speed is also very good. No need for WIFI anymore.
Cons: Just gets a little warm after running a lot of hours.
Summary: If you are looking for a small modem that runs at a good speed, buy this modem. It's very easy to get up and running. I was up and ...
Summary: If you are looking for a small modem that runs at a good speed, buy this modem. It's very easy to get up and running. I was up and running in less than 5 minutes. Just answer a couple of questions and tell your Firewall, if you have one, it's OK and your done. It also has the capability to run using an external antenna. You have to purchase an adapter cable and your all set. This modem makes it possible to use the Internet almost anywhere. It has a built-in antenna that works great. I am 4 miles from the nearest Phone Tower. I have a 7 yard hi antenna. My signal strength is Excellent. So, go out and buy it and get going on the Web.....
1 out of 2 users found this user opinion helpful.
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maybe due to poor verizon service
by verizonsux1 on June 4, 2011
Pros: Doesn't take up much space
Cons: runs very hot - 135f. I brought this up to verizon within the first week of use - service rep didn't think it was a big deal. Freezes without warning, example, went dormant last eve in the middle of making a paypal payment. Happens frequently. On aver
Summary: The reviews indicate that my issue may be with my verizon and not this device since most seem to like this device. Of course Verizon doesn't profess to provide ...
Summary: The reviews indicate that my issue may be with my verizon and not this device since most seem to like this device. Of course Verizon doesn't profess to provide continuouos coverage service (this is clarified in the small print of your contract) they deny "throttling" customers, but refused to sell a contract to my neighbor telling him that this area was oversold. I can go from a transfer rate of 120kbps to 6kbps instantly, then to 0. It can be transferring at 120kbps and instantly go dormant and stay that way until I reboot it. I have the latest software updates and the same issue on each of my three computers, so I don't think it's a conflict with my hardware.
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Great coverage in my area, fast speeds while driving
by kentheteck on February 20, 2011
Pros: Holds microsd card, so I don't need to carry a thumb-drive too.
Automatically connects to my WiFi spots and disconnects from the 3GCons: Takes a while to connect sometimes.
Summary: Bottom line is it that it does what I bought it to do, although the prepaid option is pricey.
Summary: Bottom line is it that it does what I bought it to do, although the prepaid option is pricey.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Verizon Wireless
- Part number: USB760 Modem
- Description: With the smallest form factor in the market, the USB760 USB Modem with NovaSpeed provides high-speed access on 1 x /EV-DO network. No CD is required for installation! Just insert the device, allow the drivers to auto-install, and VZAccess Manager Installer automatically launches. The USB760 is compatible with computers that support a type A USB port and comes equipped with hot-swappable removal memory support. It also comes with a built-in, high-performance internal antenna with no external parts to break.
General
- Device Type Wireless cellular modem
- Enclosure Type External
- Width 1 in
- Depth 0.5 in
- Height 2.2 in
- Weight 0.7 oz
Modem
- Interface Type Hi-Speed USB
- Connectivity Technology Wireless
- Processor QUALCOMM QSC6085
- Max Transfer Rate 1.4 Mbps
- Cellular Enhancement Protocol CDMA 2000 1X EV-DO Rev. A
- Antenna Internal integrated
Audio
- Audio Input None
- Audio Output None
Networking
- Type None
- Features VPN support
Expansion / Connectivity
- Expansion Slot(s) 1 (total) / 1 (free) x microSD
- Interfaces 1 x Antenna,
1 x Hi-Speed USB - 4 pin USB Type A
Miscellaneous
- Service Provider Verizon Wireless
- Compliant Standards FCC
Power
- Power Device None
- Battery - None
Software / System Requirements
- Software Included Verizon VZAccess Manager
- OS Required Microsoft Windows 2000 SP4,
Microsoft Windows Vista,
Microsoft Windows XP SP2 or later,
Linux,
Apple MacOS X 10.4 or later - Min Processor Type 166 MHz
- System Requirements Details - HD 14 MB
Environmental Parameters
- Min Operating Temperature 32 °F
- Max Operating Temperature 113 °F
- Humidity Range Operating 5 - 90%
Manufacturer Warranty
- Service & Support 1 year warranty
- Service & Support Details Limited warranty - 1 year
Manufacturer info
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Verizon Wireless products on Shopper.com
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- Manufacturer:Verizon Wireless
- Address:
P.O Box 96082, Bellevue, WA 98009 - Phone: 888-466-4646
