CNET editors' review
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CNET editors' rating:
stars
Good
Detailed editors' rating
- Reviewed on: 06/13/2006
- Released on: 12/15/2005
Cellular routers are still mainly used by mobile work teams, emergency response units, and corporate commute vehicles that need to provide a connection to the Internet while on the move. But with prices dropping, these devices are likely to become more popular among consumers who simply want to set up hot spots without being tied to a single location. On top of what you will pay for the router itself, keep in mind that you'll also need a monthly service plan with a cellular provider, such as Sprint or Verizon--this will run you anywhere from $40 to $80 per month. Like the Junxion Box and the 3G Phoebus, the KR1 takes EV-DO PC Cards (specifically, the Kyocera KPC650, the Sierra APC850, and the Novatel Wireless V620). But the KR1 goes one step further--it's also compatible with a few 1xEV-DO USB phones: the Kyocera KX18, the Samsung SCH-A890, and the Audiovox CDM-8940.
Of the three 3G cellular routers we've seen, the KR1 looks the most like a standard router. The slate-gray, plastic case is about the size of medium paperback book and feels solidly constructed. The flat body lends itself to stacking and packing, which is a boon for gear-laden mobile teams that need to be efficient with space. The front panel features a standard row of status lights that shows power and network activity (WAN, WLAN, and LAN). The rear of the unit houses the detachable antenna, the power port, the phone-in USB port, a 10/100 switch with four Ethernet ports for hardwired connections, and the PC Card slot. (There's also a second, unlabeled USB port that the included installation manual makes sure to warn users against using. Apparently, it's for the manufacturer to monitor internal diagnostics.)
Setting up the Kyocera KR1 couldn't be easier: insert an activated EV-DO card into the PC Card slot and plug in the router to a power outlet. Once the status lights indicate that the router is broadcasting, simply find the wireless network called KR1. (Alternatively, you can connect the router to a laptop via Ethernet cable prior to powering on the router.) When you've established the connection, point your browser to the provided IP address to access the Web-based management tool. A wizard will take you through the steps of configuring the router. Security options include WEP (64-bit and 128-bit), WPA-PSK with preshared keys, NAT with DHCP, a VPN pass-through, and MAC filtering. After configuring the router, you'll have to reboot it, which can take a few minutes.
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