Novatel Wireless seem to be pushing out more new HSDPA modems than there are USB ports for, but their latest has a couple of handy extras in addition to its 7.2Mbps downlink abilities (network depending, of course). There’s a GPS chip in there, as well as a microSD slot to add memory cards; that way, one single device can be a file store, a way to transfer photos from your camera or phone, and a way to navigate home. Oh, and a high-speed modem, of course!

There are two versions of the modem: the MC990D, which supports the 900 & 2100MHz bands used in Europe, the Middle East, Asia and Africa, and the MC992D, which supports the 850 & 1900MHz bands used in North America. Both are backward compatible with EDGE and GPRS networks, have their drivers and relevent software stored in internal memory, and come with a monitor clip and USB extension cord.

They’ll be available in Q3 via HSDPA carriers.

Press Release:

Novatel Wireless Launches Ovation MC990D & MC992D USB Modems with File Storage for Worldwide HSPA Networks

High-Speed Data Modems Provide Global Internet Access and Integrate MicroSD File Storage to Deliver the Ultimate USB Devices for World Travelers

LAS VEGAS (CTIA, Booth # 2515, Hall C3) – April 1, 2008 – Novatel Wireless, Inc., (Nasdaq: NVTL), a leading provider of wireless broadband solutions, today announced the Ovation™ MC990D and MC992D HSPA modems. These high-speed, USB data modems are capable of providing global Internet connectivity virtually anywhere in the world, with multiple frequency band operation on HSPA, WCDMA, EDGE and GPRS networks.

• The MC990D is a global modem, with receiver diversity optimized for HSPA networks in Europe, Middle East, Asia and Africa (900 & 2100 MHz bands)
• The MC992D is a global modem, with receiver diversity optimized for HSPA networks in the North America (850 & 1900 MHz bands)

The Ovation MC990D and MC992D are global modems designed to provide peak download speeds of 7.2 Mbps and upload speeds up to 5.76 Mbps uplink speeds. Featuring an extremely streamlined form factor (89 x 25 x 13.5 mm), the modems fit comfortably in any pocket, enabling the user to securely check email, download rich multimedia content and remain connected to their family and coworkers.

“Modern business travelers are demanding modems that will provide them with reliable Internet connectivity anywhere in the world where they can access a cellular data network,” said Brad Weinert, president of Novatel Wireless. “These latest additions to the Ovation product line were developed with these global travelers in mind, providing a variety of unique features such as an integrated antenna with receiver diversity and equalizer support to improve performance when on the fringe of a network.”

The MC990D and MC992D ship with Mobilink™ Lite Connection Manager Software preinstalled on the modem’s on-board memory, as well as a quick install 3G driver package for Mac users. The modems’ GPS capability enables users to retrieve location data from GPS satellites and utilize GPS navigation and location-based applications. A notebook monitor clip with USB extension cord is provided to protect a computer’s USB ports and ensure compatibility with sub-compact notebooks with recessed USB ports, such as the MacBook Air.

The Ovation MC990D and MC992D will be available in Q3 through a variety of Novatel Wireless’s tier-one operator customers.

ABOUT NOVATEL WIRELESS
Novatel Wireless, Inc. is revolutionizing wireless communications. The company is a leader in the design and development of innovative wireless broadband access solutions based on 3G WCDMA (HSDPA & UMTS), CDMA and GSM technologies. Novatel Wireless’ MerlinTM PC Cards and ExpressCards, Expedite® Embedded Modules, MobiLink™ Communications Software Suite, Ovation™ Fixed Mobile Convergence Products and Conversa™ Software Suite enable high-speed wireless access. The company delivers innovative 3G solutions to operators, distributors and vertical markets worldwide. Headquartered in San Diego, California, Novatel Wireless is listed on NASDAQ: NVTL. For more information please visit www.novatelwireless.com