Verizon Wireless USB760 modem

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 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.