Connect up to five Wi-Fi-enabled devices simultaneously–including laptops, gaming devices, cameras and even smartphones from other carriers–through a single connection using the Sierra Wireless Overdrive 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot from Sprint. Offering the next generation of ultra-fast WiMAX 4G wireless connectivity, the Overdrive delivers the best of both worlds with its compatibility with Sprint’s current 3G network. Compact, portable, and easy to carry, the Overdrive also supports memory cards up to 16 GB of shared storage via its microSD slot and has built-in Wi-Fi GPS capability.

Enjoy both 3G/4G wireless broadband connectivity with this mobile hotspot serving up to 5 devices simultaneously.

The dual-mode Overdrive 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot can be used on both the Sprint 4G network and Sprint’s dependable 3G Mobile Broadband Network. This flexibility allows enjoy to enjoy 4G performance in any Sprint 4G market or to use Sprint’s reliable 3G mobile broadband network when outside a 4G area. Sprint 4G is already available in 27 markets and continues to expand to new cities, bringing wireless speeds up to 10 times faster than today’s 3G from any other national wireless carrier.

It’s a great broadband wireless option for just about everybody:

In the Home
Through a single connection, you can bypass your cable provider and stream HD movies from content distribution providers (such as Netflix, Amazon and Blockbuster) right to your TV; connect your Xbox 360 and game real-time with someone located across the globe; move pictures wirelessly from your camera to a digital picture frame and surf the Web on your laptop while streaming Pandora.

In the Dorm
Connect virtually anywhere on a campus with 4G coverage at 4G speeds: Turn your iPod Touch with Skype into a voice phone and make a call, or stream a live movie from Hulu or Netflix to your laptop.

On-the-Go
Whether you’re on a long trip or running a busy day of errands, use Overdrive to keep passengers entertained in the car. Stream your favorite TV show from Hulu to your netbook; use a PSP gaming device to access multiple games and content; download music to your Zune HD; and turn your 3G iPhone into a 4G device. It’s all very simple with Overdrive.

Mobile Office
Join a video conference, download large files, conduct a virtual home tour and stay in constant contact with your office via unified communications.

Key Features

• Universal Wi-Fi capability: up to 5 Wi-Fi enabled device sharing one connection
• Compatible with universal Wi-Fi devices: works with all operating systems
• MicroSD slot for shared storage up to 5 connected devices with support for memory cards up to 16 GB.
• LCD screen communicates device information such as Internet connection status, number of people sharing and battery life.
• GPS capable: built-in Wi-Fi GPS capability (on 3G) allows you to pinpoint and map your location
• Easy to use: compact, portable device requires no connector, activation or installation, enabling easy re-deployment
• Extended Wi-Fi range up to 150 feet
• 4G data speeds (WiMAX): Peak download speeds of more than 10 Mbps; peak upload speeds of 4 Mbps; average download speeds of 3-6 Mbps.
• 3G data speeds (EVDO Rev A.): Peak download speeds of up to 3.1 Mbps; peak upload speeds of 1.8 Mbps; average download speeds of 600 kbps-1.4 Mbps.
• Backwards compatible to the EVDO Rev. 0 and 1xRTT Networks
• Seamlessly transitions from 4G to 3G and vice versa
• Device can be tethered via USB extension cable (included) to a computer in order to charge the battery, connect to the network as well as share up to 5 devices/users
• Dimensions: 3.14 x 3.14 x 0.61 inches (HxWxD)
• Weight: 4.51 ounces
• Frequency: 1xEVDO Rev. A, Rev. 0 and 1X (850/1900 MHz); WiMAX 2500 MHz and GPS MHz
• Display size: 1.4-inch LCD (128 x 228 pixels)
• Battery: 1830 mAh with access time of 3 hours of use and 36 hours standby time

What’s in the Box
Sierra Overdrive hotspot modem, battery, back cover for modem, AC charger, USB to USB micro cable, quick start guide

Features

• Enjoy wireless broadband connectivity via both Sprint's 3G Mobile Broadband network and its 4G WiMAX network
• Connect up to five Wi-Fi-enabled devices simultaneously--including laptops, gaming devices, cameras and
• MicroSD slot for use with cards up to 16 GB in size. can be tethered via USB extension cable
• Up to 3 hours of use, up to 36 hours (1.5 days) of standby time
• What's in the Box: hotspot modem, battery, back cover for modem, AC charger, USB to USB micro cable, quick start guide

User Reviews

I manage a sizable Sprint enterprise account, and we've had numerous problems with these devices. They'll power on, but you'll tap the power button to wake the LCD, and it powers off. Multiple devices will reboot at will. The battery will drain when "powered off," and must be charged to 10% in order to power on--this makes it impractical for on-the-go use, as you might have to wait 15+ minutes to power it on when you need it.

These are not unit-specific issues, but issues we've encountered with a significant percentage of our Overdrive devices.

When they're working, they're great. But getting them to work can be frustrating, particularly for non-technical users.

Buy a USB-connected wireless data device, or purchase a similar device from another carrier. This one needs to be taken back to the design room.

NOTE: We *have* updated the firmware on every device. Doesn't matter. -- Poor design and build quality

This ad is very sneaky, there is no mention of the monthly charges for this thing. I'm sure it is because the monthly charges are outrageous! How about you be honest and up front and put the actual charges in the ad. -- Why Don't You Mention Monthly Price?

I made a huge mistake and threw away my Verizon USB data modem for this thing based on a friend's recommendation. It's a good idea and when it works well, it's close to great after you get past the interminable boot and connect sequence.

Unfortunately, the single button interface is badly done. I can't power it on or off unless it's unplugged from power. Even then, it often hangs trying to power off and I have to yank the battery. It often won't drop back to 3G if it can't connect to 4G. It takes forever to boot. Basically, don't get this thing. And let's not forget how incredibly slow and difficult to use Sprint's web pages are for managing your account.

Nope, definitely not a good way to spend money. I am already counting the days (523) until my two year contract runs out.

-- Sometimes good, often useless, always frustrating

I just "upgraded" to this device from a Novatel U727 USB adapter. I used to use that with a Cradlepoint router, and was always happy with the combo. I switched to the Overdrive to try to go to a smaller form factor, and I HATE it.

First, it takes forever to boot. With the U727 connected directly to my computer, I could get a connection up and running in 5-10 seconds: start the app, click connect, and I'm online. Great for when you need something fast. With the cradlepoint I had an extra device, but it wasn't much longer. The Overdrive seems to take 30-60 seconds to become usable, and sometimes I have to reconnect once or twice to get completely online. Not good.

Second, the battery charging mechanism is just ridiculous. It seems to take forever to charge, its "off" (must be a "sleep") mode drains the battery in a day or two, and it refuses to run once it gets below 10%, until you charge it to above at least 10%.

Based on a true story: I'm traveling somewhere, but it's been a week since I used the adapter. I turn it on, only to discover that it has just 26% battery left. Then I grit my teeth as I watch it waste precious battery life just booting itself up. I can't help wondering: is it making me a cup of tea or something?

I finally get online, and do what I need to do. Oops, I guess I used it too long. The battery is flat. Fine, I'll plug it in - not cool, but at least there's an outlet not far away. What's it doing now? Oh, it won't turn on until it hits 10%. And it takes like half an hour to go from 5% to 10%... so I give up.

I should have kept my U727 and Cradlepoint. -- A step down

I drive truck over the road and have broke a number of "air cards" and /USB cards by my laptop taking a fall in a moving vehicle. All were my fault I must admit. I would leave the laptop unsecure and it would fall. This device allowed me to be completely free and "wireless" and not have to worry about something sticking out of my laptop. I have had very few issues with mine. From the # of bad reviews I feel lucky (for once) and maybe I got a good one. It does get VERY hot and I have unplugged it and put it in my fridge a few times to cool it down or directly over the a/c vent in my 18 wheeler. I don't really know much about speeds and technical data, but if I can pull up a youtube video and the red line goes way ahead of the play bar I feel like I am at 4G speeds!!! haha 3G has worked fine for my use with an occasional WTF when things are really slow. I gave it 5 stars and the only issue I had was overheating a few time... but after all... it is a HOT spot. BATTERY LIFE is OK with the 1800mAh battery. I have read with my EVO phone that the hot spot feature KILLS the battery on my phone (1500mAh) fairly quick so I expect there is not a lot that can be done other than keep it plugged in most of the time like I do anyway. I just turned on my hot spot feature on my phone and I am doing away with the Overdrive as my phone can do the same thing cheaper. I was grandfathered in and had unlimited 3G on the overdrive. I have never been capped on my usage. I am using my laptop and hot spotting off my EVO phone as I type this review. It does pause my internet when I get a call, but I am saving $40 a month so I will deal with it. After my great experience with the Overdrive I was surprised to read all the bad reviews and people saying it should be recalled. I like it. -- "HOTTEST" HOT SPOT