Pantech UML290 4G USB Modem Speed Test and Review

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  Setup and Install

  The setup and install of the Pantech UML290 was a really easy and simple process.  The device comes with an installation cd to install the VZ Access Manager on your computer.  The installation wizard guides you right through installing it.

  Networks

  After you install and open the VZ Access Manager, you will be presented with all the available 3G/4G and wireless networks in range to connect to.  Just select the network and click connect at the bottom of the window.

  

  Speed Tests

  I ran all my speed tests on SpeedTest.net.  My first speed test of the Pantech UML290 was done on the 3G network.  I am just out of range of 4G.  There is outter range 4G in my city, but there is no 4G in my yard.  It’s kind of weird.

  

  On 3G, I was able to get 2.10 Mb/s down and .56 Mb/s up.

  >

  Last week I was in the Baltimore, MD 4G network area.  I did a speed test while I was there and got absolutely fantastic speed results!  I was able to get an astounding 32.82 Mb/s down and 5.02 Mb/s up.

  

  I had never ever seen Internet that fast! It was amazing to see.  Web pages didn’t load.  They just popped up.  It makes me want to move into Ravens Stadium.

  Conclusion

  I was very impressed with the 4G speeds of the Pantech UML290.  Verizon claims 4G is 10 times faster than 3G; however, I was able to get about 15 times.  The monthly data fee of $50 for 5GB or $80 for 10GB is the same as for the Samsung Galaxy Tab, Motorola Xoom, or iPad 2. (the 1 and 3GB plan options are not available)  It is also comparable to Verizon’s Internet and FIOS packages.  This device is great for people who need a fast Internet connection on the go.  Verizon’s 4G is currently available in 38 markets and over 60 airports.  Verizon plans to expand to cover the existing nationwide 3G footprint with 4G LTE by the end of 2013.  To see if 4G is available, check the coverage map.  Since this device is backwards compatible with 3G, you can use 3G if 4G is not available in your area yet.  There are a couple things to consider before purchasing this 4G modem.  One, the modem can only be used by one device.  There is no mobile hotspot feature with this device.  Lastly, this device is for Windows computers only.  Mac and Linux are not supported.

  I have to get one of these when 4G is fully available where I am.

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  You can find all of Verizon Wireless 4G devices at http://www.verizonwireless.com/4glte-devices.shtml.

  

  
  
  March 12th, 2011 | Joe Steiger | 2 Comments | Tags: 4G, modem, pantech, review, speed, test, usb, verizon, wireless

About The Author

Joe Steiger

The owner and chief editor of JoeSteiger.com. Ubuntu user, android fanatic, tech enthusiast, Baltimore Ravens fan,...