Sprint Compass 597 USB EVDO Modem Review

Posted by John P. on August 19th, 2008 Comments Printer-Friendly

We’ve reviewed a fair share of EVDO modems over the years, from USB to PCMCIA versions. Most of them have been improved and redesigned to be more portable and compact, and that’s not stopping Sprint with the new Compass 597 USB EVDO modem.

Measuring in at only 1.2″ x 2.4″ x .4″ and weighing in at only .7 ounces, the Compass 597 modem is the smallest and lightest modem available, and it also includes the ability to store files on a microSD card, so it doubles as a USB flash drive. The Compass 597 supports both EV-DO Rev. 0 and Rev. A where available, so you always get the fastest speeds. For those EVDO nerds, there is also an antenna port for boosting your signal through the use of an external antenna (such as those from 3Gstore.com).

Personally, I’ve always loved EVDO modems, especially in places without ubiquitous Wi-Fi hotspots. Just pop it in and you’re good to go. Most of the latest EVDO modems also offer GPS functionality in addition to internet and email accessibility. No need to download drivers either, they’re built into the modem for both OS X and Windows operating systems, one of the coolest features by far.

We tested the Compass 597 modem in the Sacramento and San Francisco Bay Area here in California, and received speeds ranging from around 800kbps to 1000kbps down and 500 to 750kbps up depending on our area and signal level.

The Sprint Compass 597 by Sierra Wireless is available from Sprint for $49.99 with $150 instant savings and a $50 internet rebate (with a 2-year agreement).

Pros